Discover stunning lakes, majestic mountains, and thrilling activities in Nepal's second city
Nestled beside Phewa Lake and surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Here are the must-do activities for tourists:
Location: Lakeside, Pokhara
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake, the second largest lake in Nepal. Paddle to the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the middle of the lake, or simply enjoy the stunning reflections of the Annapurna range on the water.
Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours
Best Time: Early morning or sunset
Cost: Approximately 800-1200 NPR for a rowboat (1-2 people)
Location: Sarangkot Hill, 30 minutes from Pokhara
Experience the thrill of flying like a bird with paragliding from Sarangkot. Soar above the lake and mountains with experienced instructors. Tandem flights are available for beginners, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna range, Phewa Lake, and Pokhara Valley.
Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours (including transfer)
Best Time: October to April (clear skies)
Cost: Approximately 8,000-12,000 NPR for a tandem flight
Location: Anadu Hill, across Phewa Lake
The World Peace Pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist stupa overlooking Pokhara. Reach it by a short boat ride across the lake followed by a 45-minute hike, or drive most of the way. The pagoda offers panoramic views of Pokhara, the lake, and the Annapurna mountain range.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours
Best Time: Early morning to avoid crowds
Cost: Free (boat and taxi costs apply)
Location: Across from David's Fall, Pokhara
Discover this fascinating limestone cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. The cave features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and at its deepest point, you can see the underground waterfall from David's Fall. The spiritual atmosphere and natural formations make it a unique visit.
Recommended Duration: 1 hour
Best Time: Any time of day
Cost: Approximately 100 NPR for foreigners
Location: Sarangkot Hill, 30 minutes from Pokhara
Wake up early for a spectacular sunrise view from Sarangkot. Watch as the first light hits the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). This is one of Nepal's most famous viewpoints and worth the early start.
Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours (including transfer)
Best Time: October to March (clear mornings)
Cost: Approximately 500-1000 NPR for taxi or 100 NPR for local bus
Pokhara is known as Nepal's adventure capital, offering numerous thrilling activities:
| Activity | Location | Difficulty | Duration | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp | Annapurna Sanctuary | Moderate to Challenging | 7-12 days | Mar-May, Sep-Nov |
| Zip Flying | Sarangkot | Easy | 1-2 hours | Oct-Apr |
| Ultralight Flight | Pokhara Airport | Easy | 30-60 min flight | Oct-Apr |
| Bungee Jumping | Hemja (near Pokhara) | Moderate | 2-3 hours | Oct-Apr |
| Mountain Biking | Around Pokhara Valley | Easy to Challenging | 2-8 hours | Oct-Mar |
| White Water Rafting | Seti River | Moderate | Half day | Sep-Dec |
Beyond adventure sports, Pokhara offers rich cultural experiences and natural wonders:
| Attraction | Type | Highlights | Entry Fee | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Mountain Museum | Museum | History of Himalayan expeditions, culture of mountain people | 400 NPR | 2-3 hours |
| Bindhyabasini Temple | Religious Site | One of Pokhara's oldest temples, animal sacrifices on Saturdays | Free | 1 hour |
| David's Fall (Patale Chhango) | Waterfall | Underground waterfall, especially impressive during monsoon | 50 NPR | 1 hour |
| Begnas Lake | Natural Attraction | Less crowded alternative to Phewa Lake, fishing opportunities | Free | 2-3 hours |
| Old Bazaar | Cultural Market | Traditional market, Newari architecture, local products | Free | 1-2 hours |
Location: 80km from Pokhara (2-3 hours drive)
Visit this beautifully preserved Newari town with traditional architecture, cobbled streets, and rich culture. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas and explore ancient temples and caves.
Recommended Duration: Full day trip
Cost: Approximately 2000-3000 NPR for transportation
Location: 15km from Pokhara (30 minutes drive)
Explore these twin lakes less frequented by tourists. Enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings with beautiful mountain views.
Recommended Duration: Half day
Cost: Approximately 1000-1500 NPR for transportation
Location: Annapurna foothills (2-3 days from Pokhara)
Experience Gurung culture in this beautiful traditional village with stunning views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. The trek can be done in 2-3 days with overnight stays in teahouses.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 days
Cost: Approximately 3000-5000 NPR per day including accommodation and meals