Top Things to Do in Pokhara
9 Aug 2024 wstone
Looking for top things to do in Pokhara? Then you are going to find plenty.
Nestled in the heart of Nepal, Pokhara is celebrated as the country’s tourism capital. With its breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage, it promises a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.Located 200 kilometeres (120 miles) west of Kathmandu, this serene city graces the shores of Phewa Lake and sits at an elevation of about 822 meters. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to peaceful retreats, Pokhara offers something for everyone. There are so many awesome things to do in Pokhara that you should ideally spend at least 3 days in Pokhara to get a glimpse of the things. We as travel agency proudly assist you with customizable packages to fully enjoy your trip/tour hassle free. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top things to do in Pokhara, Nepal, to make the most of your visit.
1. Cruise Across Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake, the crown jewel of Pokhara, enchants visitors with its calm waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake, visit the picturesque Tal Barahi Temple located on an island, and soak in the tranquil beauty. The lake remains a vibrant hub, bustling with pilgrims and locals, especially at sunset. You can either hire an oarsman or rent a kayak or small boat to explore.
- Location: Phewa Tal, Pokhara
- Cost: NPR 570 for a one-hour guided boat ride; NPR 20 for a life jacket (compulsory)
- Opening Hours: 7 am – 5 pm (may vary seasonally)
2. Hike to Sarangkot for Sunrise and Sunset Views
Sarangkot offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Pokhara, providing panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges. Witness the sunrise casting a magical glow over the snow-capped peaks or enjoy a mesmerizing sunset. Located about 10 km from Pokhara, Sarangkot’s elevated position offers a dramatic backdrop of verdant valleys and towering mountains. The light show up here is incredible, as the peaks turns from bright pink, to orange, and finally white. We offer packages of Sarangkot from 2 days and more depending upon your requirements.
3. Explore Davis Waterfall
Located near Lakeside, Davis Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction where water cascades into a deep gorge. The blue stream originates from the Phewa Dam and flows towards the cave formations of Gupteshwar Mahadev. It’s a popular spot among locals and offers a fun and scenic experience. Domestic crowd will outnumbered the place compared from the foreigners.
4. Visit the World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)
A visit to the World Peace Pagoda is a must when in Pokhara. As one of 80 peace pagodas worldwide, it offers breathtaking views of Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna mountains. The pagoda sits at 3,608 feet, providing fantastic vistas of the lake, city, and mountains. You can reach it either by a forested walk or by road, with the latter being more convenient for those short on time.
5. Para-glide Among the Mountains
Pokhara is renowned for its paragliding opportunities, considered among the top five commercial tandem paragliding spots globally. Soar from Sarangkot and enjoy a thrilling 30-minute flight, offering spectacular views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna Range. Paragliding is an exhilarating way to experience the serene beauty of the region. We offer perfect a Day package for paragliding experience in Pokhara.
- Cost: Approximately $50 for a tandem flight
- Flight Times: 10:30 am, 12 pm, 2 pm (varies by season and weather)
- Includes: Transfer with hotel pick-up and drop-off, 30-minute flight with a professional pilot, photo and video coverage, insurance
6. Trek the Himalayas
Pokhara is a gateway to some of the most remarkable treks in the Annapurna region. These treks ranging from one day to multiple weeks and multiple altitudes up to the incredible Thorong La Pass at over 5200 meters or even some hardcore climbs over 7000m.
From short treks like the Poon Hill Trek, which offers stunning sunrise views, to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, known for its diverse landscapes and challenging altitudes, there is something for every trekker. The Poon Hill Trek is ideal for a 4-day adventure, the Annapurna Base Camp can be a 10-day journey through various climate zones with majestic scenery all around. If you are time-bound and cannot go for a long trek to ABC or EBC, then 5-day Mardi Himal trek can be the best alternative trekking journey for you.
7. Experience Bungee Jumping
For an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping from an 80-meter high tower located just 20 minutes from Pokhara. The jump features a thrilling 3-second free fall. Reviews of this experience is good regarding service, but the jump itself promises an exhilarating experience. We have perfect package for bungee experience.
8. Enjoy White Water Rafting
The Trishuli River is a prime spot for white water rafting, offering a convenient location for both day trips and extended excursions. Day trips run from both Kathmandu and Pokhara, but often convenient from Pokhara as you won’t have to waste time on heavy traffic. A half-day trip on the Upper Seti River provides a perfect dose of adventure, while a longer four-day journey on the Kali Gandaki River allows for a deeper exploration of the world’s deepest gorge.
9. Visit Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake
For a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Pokhara city, visit Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake. Often considered more serene than Phewa Lake, these lakes offer a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. A turnoff at Talchowk leads to these lakes, providing a tranquil retreat from the tourist crowds. For a peaceful alternative to staying in the city, we suggest you to consider booking a boutique or family-run hotels.
10. Get an Adrenaline Rush on the ZipFlyer Zip Line
The ZipFlyer Nepal is one of the longest and steepest zip lines in the world, offering an exhilarating ride with speeds reaching 85 miles per hour. Spanning 6,069 feet with a 56-degree incline and a vertical drop of 1,968 feet, this zip line provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. We will provide you the perfect package for this course including all the charges, transportion and make your experience hassle free.
11. Discover Local Life in Nagarkot
A trip to Nagarkot, located about 4 to 5 hours from Pokhara, offers a unique opportunity to experience rural Nepalese life. The scenic drive through valleys and meadows leads to remote villages where you can explore rustic homes and vibrant local culture. Customizable hiking packages are available to suit different interests and durations.
12. Learn About the Himalayas at the International Mountain Museum
For a deeper understanding of the Himalayan region, visit the International Mountain Museum. Located just east of Pokhara Airport, the museum provides valuable insights into the geology, culture, and history of the Himalayas. While the presentation may be traditional, the information is both educational and fascinating.
How to Get to Pokhara from Kathmandu
Pokhara is accessible by a short 30-minute flight from Kathmandu or by a long, 8 to 9-hour bus journey. For a more comfortable ride, consider booking a luxury sofa bus or a private cab, which can reduce travel time and enhance the experience.