Pokhara, Nepal is one of the most adventurous cities in the country. It serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region. It is a beautiful city with spectacular views of the snowy peaks of the Annapurna mountain ranges. Pokhara is also known as the “Jewel of the Himalayas,” as it is home to the Pokhara lakes Begnas, Rupa, and Phew. Pokhara Nepal dominates the skyline as it is the starting point for the Annapurna trekking adventures. It is home to very kind, warm, and engaging people. The largest Pokhara lake is the Fewa Tal in the valley. The area was initially the camping zone for trekkers but has now developed into a tourist hub. Many travel writers are fond of this beautiful and adventurous city. Many people are known to find their Shangri-La on their trekking journey along with the Annapurna ranges in Pokhara. Continue reading this article to find out more interesting things to do in Pokhara.
OVERVIEW
Location: Nepal
Nearest Airport: Kathmandu
How to reach: by air/road
Best time to visit: Mar to May/Sept to Nov
WHAT TO SEE
Pokhara Shanti Stupa, Phewa Lake
Barahi Temple, Bindhyabasini Temple
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Devi’s Fall
Pokhara Shanti Stupa: Visiting the Shanti Stupa in Pokhara Nepal is what tops out the list in the things every traveler must do. Witness the amazing view of the Pokhara valley and the Lake Phewa by hiking your way to the Peace Pagoda. Spend your day in leisure by enjoying the beautiful scenery and if you’re lucky enough you can also spot the snow-capped mountain ranges of the Annapurna. It is best if you visit this place around sunset before the afternoon, traveling by cab.
Phewa Lake: Phea lake is located in the heart of the city of Pokhara, Nepal. The views across the lake are simply gorgeous and the best thing to do is a simple stroll along the lake in the evenings.
Get a chance to go boating across the lake and parasailing as well. These are fun adventures that every traveler must experience. The lake is well maintained and a popular hangout spot for most travelers.
Bahari Temple: The Bahari temple is located in the middle of lake Phewa. The temple is dedicated to a goddess worshipped by both Nepali Buddhists and the Hindus. Enjoy your boat ride on the way and back from the temple. The views of the city from the temple are simply beautiful.
Bindhyabasini Temple: The Bindhyabasini Temple located in Pokhara Nepal is one of the oldest temples in this region and is dedicated to Goddess Bhagawati. Get the magnificent view of the Annapurna ranges while you visit this temple, situated on a small hillock.
Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave: The Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave is popular among the believers of Nepal. Irrespective of you being religious or not it a must thing to do in Pokhara for every traveler to visit the caves in Pokhara Nepal. The inside of the caves is formed by stalagmites that give way to a faint waterfall and a narrow stream that you can have a better experience of by traveling close by.
You can visit the Gupteshwar or Lord Shiva temple on your way out of the cave as well. The cave has been through recent renovations so that you can reach the ancient-looking caves as well.
Devi’s Fall: The Devi’s Fall is located not far away from the center of Pokhara Nepal. The waterfall leads to a tunnel paving the way to the cave formations of the Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave. The source of water for Devi’s Fall is from the Phew river. According to the legend, a couple from swiss had wondered to the tunnel and had died due to the sudden passage of water, which is quite disheartening.
This place is popular among the locals and is outnumbered by locals compared to the tourists even on weekends.
Trekking in the Annapurna from Pokhara – Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Trekking around the Annapurna base camp is one inspiring and challenging thing to do in Pokhara. Through the diverse climatic conditions trekking around the Annapurna mountain ranges is an incredible traveling experience in the Nepali hospitality. The highest point is Thorong La Pass where you can celebrate your success with your trekking friends or family. Enjoy sipping tea and basking in the sun at an 8000m high peak.
Visit Sarangkot for Sunrise & Sunset views: Sarangkot is home to one of the most beautiful sceneries of the Annapurna mountains without having to travel far to the Annapurna Circuit or the Poon Lake. Travel to Sarangkot to experience the wonderful views either by taxi or by hiring a scooter in Pokhara.
Paragliding: Pokhara is rated among the top 5 paragliding locations in the world. Floating in the sky above Phewa Lake, surrounding the Annapurna ranges is a wonderful experience. The paragliding is available at a 30 mins distance from Pokhara from Sarangkot. The best time to fly is around the afternoon when the thermals become active. Enjoy the epic views of this beautiful city by paragliding.
Where to stay in Pokhara
Pokhara is home to many high-end and experiential hotels. Tiger Mountain Pokhara hotel offers great services and food at affordable prices. Witness beautiful views of the city from the Fish Tail lodge as well.
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