Discover Pokhara: The Adventure Capital of Nepal
Pokhara, nestled at the foothills of the Annapurna range, is a city that perfectly combines natural beauty with modern amenities. Known as the gateway to some of Nepal’s best trekking routes, this city offers a blend of adventure and relaxation.
Experience the serene beauty and thrilling adventure activities in Pokhara, Nepal’s tourism gem. Discover the majestic mountains, tranquil lakes, and vibrant city life. Join pokhara tour package with hiking annapurna today.
Distance from Kathmandu
Approximately 200 kilometers west of the capital, Kathmandu, the journey to Pokhara can take anywhere from 6 to 7 hours by road and around 25 minutes by air.
History
The area of Pokhara was believed to have been inhabited since the prehistoric era, with evidence such as cave paintings and artifacts. The city, as we know it today, was founded in the 17th century by the King of Kaski, Kulmandhan Shah. Pokhara played a crucial role in the unification of modern Nepal, serving as a crucial trading route between India and China.
Festivals and Traditions
Pokhara, like the rest of Nepal, is rich in cultural festivals. The most famous is the festival of lights, or Tihar, celebrated over five days in autumn. Another important festival is Dashain, a 15-day celebration in autumn, marked by family gatherings, feasts, and flying kites.
The Newari community in Pokhara celebrates the Sikāli Jātrā, featuring a procession showcasing intricate masks and dances. The Magar community in Pokhara celebrates Udhauli and Ubhauli, marking the migration of birds, with traditional dances like the Maruni and Kaura.
Unique Experiences
Sunrise at Sarangkot: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the Annapurna range from Sarangkot is a popular activity. The first rays of the sun gradually illuminate the peaks, offering a breathtaking spectacle.
Visit a Tibetan Refugee Camp: The Tashi Ling village, one of the Tibetan refugee camps in Pokhara, provides insight into the lives and culture of Tibetans. You can visit the monastery, observe carpet weaving, and purchase Tibetan handicrafts.
Ultra-light Flight: For a unique perspective of Pokhara and its incredible landscape, you can take an ultra-light flight. These small aircraft offer an unparalleled panoramic view of the city, lakes, and mountains.
Yoga and Meditation Retreats: With its serene environment, Pokhara is a perfect place for yoga and meditation retreats. Many centers offer courses for beginners and advanced practitioners.
Pokhara is a city with a heart of adventure and a soul of immense tranquility. Its diversity in offering historical, cultural, and adventurous experiences makes it a unique travel destination.
Places to Visit
Phewa Lake: The second-largest lake in Nepal and one of the city’s main attractions. Enjoy boating or take a leisurely walk around the lake to soak in the beautiful scenery.
Sarangkot: The perfect spot for panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara city. It’s also a popular spot for paragliding.
World Peace Pagoda: This stunning white stupa offers panoramic views of the city, Phewa lake, and the Annapurna mountain range.
Davis Fall: A unique waterfall that directly goes into a deep and narrow canal with no end.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave: Located just opposite Davis Fall, this cave houses a Shiva Lingam and offers an adventure of its own.
Activities
Trekking: Pokhara serves as the starting point for popular treks such as the Annapurna Circuit and Ghorepani Poon Hill.
Paragliding: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscapes from the sky.
Boating: Rent a boat and enjoy a leisurely ride on Phewa lake.
Mountain Biking: Explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
Adventure Sports
Beyond trekking and paragliding, Pokhara offers a range of other adventure activities. White water rafting and kayaking are available on the Seti and Kali Gandaki rivers. There’s also canyoning, rock climbing, mountain biking, and bungee jumping in kushma. For the truly adventurous, there’s even an opportunity to go on a thrilling mountain flight to see the peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges up close.
Wellness Retreats
Pokhara is also a center for wellness and holistic healing practices. There are numerous yoga, meditation, and spa retreats throughout the city. Many of these retreats incorporate traditional Nepali healing practices, Ayurveda, and cater to a range of skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Retreats often include healthy meals, meditation and yoga sessions, spa treatments, and workshops on holistic living.
Art and Craft
Pokhara has a thriving arts scene, with several galleries and craft stores. Traditional Nepali crafts are on display, including intricately designed Thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), handmade paper products, silver jewelry, and bright, colorful Nepali fabrics. The city is also home to a few art studios and galleries where you can see the work of local artists.
Local Transport
One of the unique experiences in Pokhara is traveling around the city using local transport. Rickshaws, a type of human-powered transport, are a common sight, especially around the Lakeside area. They provide an eco-friendly way to explore the city at a leisurely pace.
No matter what your interests are, Pokhara has something to offer. From its rich history and culture to its breathtaking natural beauty and adventure sports, this city truly stands as a gem in the heart of Nepal.
Accommodations
The Pavilions Himalayas: A luxury eco-friendly resort offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Temple Tree Resort and Spa: A boutique hotel located close to Phewa Lake, offering a blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities.
Hotel Middle Path & Spa: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and easy access to the city’s attractions.
Places to Go from Pokhara
Chitwan National Park: About 145 km from Pokhara, you can enjoy a jungle safari and possibly spot the Royal Bengal Tiger or One-Horned Rhinoceros.
Lumbini: Known as the birthplace of Buddha, it’s about 210 km from Pokhara, offering a spiritual retreat.
Bandipur: A picturesque hilltop town, Bandipur is 80 km from Pokhara and is known for its preserved traditional architecture and 360-degree view of the Himalayan range.
Experience the blend of adventure and serenity that makes Pokhara a must-visit destination on your trip to Nepal.
Climate
Pokhara has a subtropical climate, but due to its elevation, temperatures are moderate – not too hot, and not too cold. It has five distinct seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from late September to early December, when the skies are clear, providing the best views of the Annapurna range.
Cuisine
Nepalese cuisine is a blend of flavors from its neighboring countries, Tibet and India. In Pokhara, you can enjoy traditional dishes like Dal Bhat (lentil soup served with rice and vegetables), Momo (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), Thukpa (noodle soup), and Gorkhali lamb. Besides, the city offers a wide range of international cuisines due to its cosmopolitan nature.
Shopping
Pokhara’s Lakeside area is a shopping hotspot. Here, you can find everything from traditional Nepalese handicrafts to pashmina shawls, Singing Bowls, Thangka Paintings, and Khukuri, the traditional Nepalese knife. Remember, bargaining is common in Nepal, so don’t be shy to negotiate the price!
Cultural Significance
Pokhara has a rich cultural heritage. The Old Bazaar, a 4 km stretch from the Lakeside, is a traditional market place where you can experience local life and culture. The Bindhyabasini Temple, located in the center of the market, is one of the oldest and most revered places in Pokhara. The Gurkha Museum is another interesting place that showcases the history of the Gurkha soldiers.
Nightlife
Pokhara has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and eateries located around the Lakeside area. Live music, especially the traditional Nepalese folk music, is common in these places.
Pokhara is not just a city, it’s an experience that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a peace seeker, or a culture enthusiast, Pokhara will not disappoint.
Highlights of Tour
A tour of Pokhara offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Here are some highlights that you should not miss:
- Phewa Lake: Start your tour at the second-largest lake in Nepal. You can rent a boat for a relaxing row on the lake or walk along its tranquil shores. Don’t miss the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the lake.
- Sarangkot: Wake up early for a sunrise view over the Himalayas from Sarangkot. This is also the spot for paragliding adventures.
- World Peace Pagoda: Trek up to this beautiful white stupa that provides a panoramic view of Pokhara, Phewa lake, and the Annapurna range.
- Davis Fall and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave: Visit the unique waterfall that disappears into a tunnel and explore the cave across the road that houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Tibetan Refugee Camp: Visit the Tashi Palkhiel camp to learn about the culture and lives of Tibetan refugees in Nepal. You can also buy Tibetan crafts as souvenirs.
- International Mountain Museum: Learn about the mountains, mountaineering history, and the people who live in the mountains.
- Old Bazaar and Bindhyabasini Temple: Explore Pokhara’s traditional market and visit the ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, a manifestation of Shakti.
- Bat Cave (Chameri Gufa): Located about 10 kilometers from Pokhara, the Bat Cave is an interesting spot for nature enthusiasts. As the name suggests, the cave is a habitat for a large number of bats – about 15,000 of them. The cave is composed of limestone and has a narrow entrance. A torch is a must when exploring this dark, damp cave.
- Mahendra Cave: One of the most visited tourist destinations in Pokhara, Mahendra Cave is a large limestone cave. Named after the late King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, this cave is known for its rock formations and the small shrine to Lord Shiva that lies within it. It’s advisable to carry a flashlight when navigating this cave, as it can get quite dark inside.
- Pumdikot: Pumdikot is a hill station that offers panoramic views of Pokhara city and Phewa Lake. At the top, there is a viewpoint tower and a statue of the Buddha. It’s a great place for photography, picnics, and short hikes. The sunrise and sunset views from here are particularly breathtaking.
- Begnas Lake: Less crowded than Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake is another beautiful lake located in the Pokhara Valley. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers splendid views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. You can take a peaceful boat ride on the lake or enjoy a leisurely walk around its perimeter. There are also some nice cafés and restaurants nearby where you can sample local cuisine while enjoying the view.
- Adventure Activities: Depending on your interest and fitness level, engage in activities like trekking, white water rafting, zip-lining, mountain biking, or an ultra-light flight.
- Evening at Lakeside: End your day at one of the many cafés or restaurants in the Lakeside area, enjoying the local cuisine, live music, and the evening view of the lake.
Remember to plan your tour based on the season and weather conditions. Some activities might not be available during the monsoon season. A tour of Pokhara can be a rewarding experience with its mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure.