Pokhara, known as the city of lakes, is a true paradise for nature lovers, home to the stunning 8 lakes of Pokhara, which are: Phewa, Begnas, Rupa, Dipang, Maidi, Khaste, Gunde, and Neureni.
Each of these 8 lakes of Pokhara holds its unique charm, from the vibrant and bustling shores of Phewa to the untouched tranquility of Neureni. Whether you seek adventure, serenity, or breathtaking landscapes, exploring the 8 lakes of Pokhara offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful escape.
In this guide, we take you on an exciting journey to discover all 8 lakes of Pokhara within a single day, ensuring you don’t miss out on their captivating beauty. From boating in Phewa to enjoying the calm waters of Begnas and Rupa, this experience allows you to embrace the diverse scenery and rich atmosphere of each lake.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in adventure or simply relax by the water, this one-day exploration of the 8 lakes of Pokhara promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
Start/End
Phewa Lake/Neureni Lake
Duration
6-10 hours
Distance Covered
40-50 km
Travel Via
Motorbike/Scooter/Car
Activity
Adventure/Tour/Travel
Start/End
Phewa Lake/Neureni Lake
Duration
6-10 hours
Distance Covered
40-50 km
Travel Via
Motorbike/Scooter/Car
Activity
Adventure/Tour/Travel
Distances Between Lakes
| In Between | Distance |
|---|---|
| Phewa Lake →Begnas Lake | ~15 km |
| Begnas Lake → Rupa Lake | ~3 km |
| Rupa Lake → Dipang Lake | ~5 km |
| Dipang Lake → Maidi Lake | ~5 km |
| Maidi Lake → Khaste Lake | ~4 km |
| Khaste Lake → Gunde Lake | ~2 km |
| Gunde Lake → Neureni Lake | ~3 km |
| Neureni Lake → Back to Pokhara city | ~10 km |
Exploring Pokhara’s 8 lakes soothes the soul, with gentle breezes, birdsong, and tranquil waters connecting you to nature’s serenity.
Lake Wise Itinerary
First Dest.
Starting from Phewa Lake
Second Dest.
Travelling from Phewa to Begnas
Third Dest.
Travelling from Begnas to Rupa
Fourth Dest.
Travelling from Rupa to Dipang
Fifth Dest.
Travelling from Dipang to Maidi
Sixth Dest.
Travelling from Maidi to Khaste
Seventh Dest
Travelling from Khaste to Gunde
Eight Dest.
Travelling from Gunde to Neureni
Return
Return back to Lakeside
It’s a good idea to have a backup lunch by packing energy bars, nuts, fruits, and water to stay energized and hydrated throughout the day. This way, you can keep going without worrying about finding food at every stop.
Lake-wise Itinerary Description
Dest. First: Start form Phewa Lake(Pokhara Central)
Starting Point
- Activity: Enjoy the early morning at Phewa Lake, take a boat ride to Tal Barahi Temple, and soak in the view of Machhapuchhre reflected in the water.
- Meal: Enjoy a healthy breakfast at a lakeside café, with options like Tibetan bread, honey pancakes, fruit bowls, or freshly brewed Nepali coffee.
Dest. Second: Travelling from Phewa to Begnas
30-40 minutes ride
- Activity: Drive to Begnas Lake, enjoy the tranquility of this lake and its surrounding hills. You can stop for a breakfast or coffee at one of the lakeside cafés. Experience a quiet canoe ride, enjoy a hillside view from Begnas View Tower, and observe local fishing culture.
- Meal: Have breakfast at a lakeside restaurant, where you can try local fish dishes, organic honey toast, or millet pancakes with a refreshing herbal tea.
Dest. Third: Travelling from Begnas to Rupa
10-15 minutes ride
- Activity: Continue to Rupa Lake, which is located just a short drive away. Take a peaceful walk around the lake and enjoy the quieter, less-visited atmosphere, birdwatch, and relax in a traditional bamboo hut while enjoying the scenic beauty.
- Meal: Light snacks such as boiled corn, roasted soybeans, or sel roti (Nepali rice doughnut) with a cup of local tea.
Dest. Fourth: Travelling from Rupa to Dipang
15 minutes ride
- Activity: Drive to Dipang Lake, a serene and lesser-known spot. Take a nature walk, where you can enjoy the surrounding birdlife, spring wildflowers (seasonal) and nature.
- Meal: Refreshing drinks like lemon honey tea, fresh coconut water, or lassi (yogurt drink).
Dest. Fifth: Travelling from Dipang to Maidi
15 minutes ride
- Activity: Visit Maidi Lake, known for its peaceful setting and natural beauty. Enjoy the tranquility of this untouched lake, interact with local villagers, and capture beautiful reflections of the hills.
- Meal: Enjoy a local village-style lunch, such as dhido (millet-based dish) with gundruk (fermented leafy greens) and fresh local vegetables.
Dest. Sixth: Travelling from Maidi to Khaste
10-15 minutes ride
- Activity: Head towards Khaste Lake, which is famous for birdwatching, and explore its scenic surroundings. Observe traditional fish farming, walk along the peaceful banks, and experience a quiet picnic spot.
- Meal: Try freshly grilled fish (for non-vegetarians) or a vegetarian thali with lentils, rice, and seasonal greens.
Dest. Seventh: Travelling from Khaste to Gunde
5-10 minutes ride
- Activity: Visit Gunde Lake, a peaceful, remote lake that’s perfect for a quiet moment. Spot migratory birds, take a short forest hike, and enjoy the picturesque green surroundings.
- Meal: Have a cup of organic Nepali tea with homemade biscuits or roasted peanuts at locals.
Dest. Eight: Travelling from Gunde to Neureni
10 minutes ride
- Activity: Finally, visit Neureni Lake, a lesser-known spot that offers the ultimate peace and beauty. Meditate by the secluded and untouched lake, listen to nature’s sounds, and capture beautiful sunset reflections.
Meal: Light evening snacks such as steamed momos (dumplings), corn on the cob, or a plate of spicy potato salad.
Dest. Ninth: Returning to Phewa Lake/Lakeside
25 minutes ride
- Activity: Head back to the city, where you can relax at a café with delighted meal and enjoy the evening sunset at Phewa Lake again
Packing List for Tour
| Essentials |
|---|
| Bodywear & Footwear |
|---|
| Food & Hydration |
|---|
| First Aid & Personal Care |
|---|
Cost for some Trip
| Cost Topic | Cost Approximate |
|---|---|
Renting Motorbike/ Scooter
|
NPR 2500–5,500 per day (~$18–$40) + fuel NPR 500-3000($4-$25) |
 Local Food and Drinks
|
NPR 1000–5,000 (~$8–$38) depending on choices and places. |
 Boating
|
NPR 500-3000($4-$25) life jacket(NPR10) |
Boating on the serene lakes of Pokhara, you’ll feel the gentle breeze, hear the calming ripples, and embrace a deep sense of peace in nature’s embrace.
Boating in Phewa Lake
Boating in Phewa Lake is a serene and refreshing experience, offering stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and lush green hills. The calm waters reflect the surrounding beauty, creating a picturesque setting.
Visitors can rent traditional wooden boats or paddle themselves while enjoying the peaceful ambiance. The iconic Tal Barahi Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake, adds a cultural touch to the journey.
Whether for relaxation or adventure, boating in Phewa Lake is a must-do activity in Pokhara.
| Boating Option | Cost per Hour | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rowboat with Boatman | NPR (500-800) $5-$10 | Ideal for a relaxed experience; the boatman handles rowing. |
| Self-Rowing Boat | NPR (400–450) $4-$5 | For those who prefer to paddle themselves. |
| Visit to Tal Barahi Temple | NPR 100 per person ($1-$3) | A short trip to the temple located on the lake's island |
| Round-Trip to World Peace Pagoda | Approximately NPR 1,200($10-$15) | A longer journey to the stupa offering panoramic views. |
Boating in Rupa Lake
| Boating Option | Cost per Hour | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rowboat with Boatman | NPR 500 ($5-$8) | Enjoy a guided experience with a boatman handling the rowing. |
| Self-Rowing Boat | NPR 400 ($4-$5) | For those who wish to paddle themselves and explore at their own pace. |
Life Jacket is compulsory while boating that costs NPR 10.
Boating in Begnas Lake
Begnas lake known for its peaceful environment and clean waters, Begnas Lake is a great spot for boating away from the crowds. Surrounded by lush hills, it offers a serene experience with breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. Visitors can rent wooden boats or paddle boats at affordable prices and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The lake is also famous for fishing and local fish dishes served in nearby restaurants.
| Boating Option | Cost per Hour | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rowboat with Boatman | NPR 500 ($5-$8) | Ideal for a relaxed experience; the boatman handles rowing. |
| Self-Rowing Boat | NPR 400 ($4-$5) | For those who prefer to paddle themselves. |
| Paddle Boat | NPR(1,500–4,500) $11-$33 | Suitable for a leisurely paddle; prices vary based on duration. |
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May):
Springtime brings pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and blooming flowers, making it the perfect season to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature. The vibrant colors, refreshing air, and peaceful surroundings create an enchanting atmosphere, ideal for exploration and relaxation.
Autum (October – November):
With comfortable temperatures and fewer chances of rain, this season offers crystal-clear mountain reflections on the water’s surface, making every moment feel like a dream.
Ready for 8 lakes of Pokhara?
Exploring the 8 lakes of Pokhara in a day is a journey through nature’s beauty, from the lively Phewa to the serene Neureni. Each of the 8 lakes of Pokhara offers a unique charm, with tranquil waters, stunning reflections, and peaceful landscapes. While covering everything in a day is possible, the real magic lies in pausing, embracing the serenity, and letting nature refresh your soul.
Every stop along the 8 lakes of Pokhara brings a new perspective and deeper connection to the peaceful surroundings. Whether for a day or longer, Pokhara’s lakes promise an unforgettable experience.
So set out, explore, and let the lakes leave their mark on your heart. They offer more than beauty; they offer peace and a sense of timelessness.
