Pokhara proudly boasts some of the best destinations in Nepal, with plenty to do activities available throughout the region.
With its scenic natural beauty, this city attracts thousands of tourists every year. Some famous places to visit in Pokhara are properly listed in this guide.
This blog aims to deliver comprehensive facts about some amazing places and things to do in Pokhara backed by research and personal experience.
Pokhara, Nepal
District: Kaski
Province: Gandaki Province
Elevation of Pokhara: 822 meters approx
Best time to visit Pokhara: March-May, late September-November
Places to visit in Pokhara
Pokhara is a real treasure in the world of adventure and scenic beauty. It offers both a calming hideaway and a thrill, catering to every visitor’s taste.
This city has a variety of attractions, from the quiet beaches of Fewa Lake to the heights of Sarangkot and Pumdikot.
1. Sarangkot
Location: Pokhara
Sarangkot is a village on a ridge that lies on the outskirts of Pokhara and is also the take-off point for paragliding in Pokhara.
The view of sunrise and sunset is spectacular as the golden rays of the sun hit the Annapurna Range.
2. Fewa Lake
Location: Lakeside, Pokhara
Fewa Lake is the center of attraction of Pokhara, where you can enjoy boating or kayaking, with views of the Machhapuchre and Annapurna Mountains.
Visit the Tal Barahi Temple on an island in the middle of the lake and spend the day relaxing and connecting with nature.
3. David’s Fall
Location: Chhorepatan, Pokhara
David’s Fall is another natural fascination of Pokhara which is a 10-minute ride from lakeside.
This waterfall offers you the sight of water mysteriously disappearing into an underground channel and reappearing as a beautiful waterfall.
4. Majhikuna
Location: Lekhnath
If you want a quieter atmosphere to relax for a day and connect with nature, Majhikuna is just a 45-minute ride away from Pokhara.
It is also famous for its fresh fish BBQ and its local cuisine. The view of the third largest lake of Nepal, Begnas Lake, and the surrounding landscape is incredible from Majhikuna.
5. International Mountain Museum
Established: 2004 AD
Location: Ratopairo, Pokhara, Nepal
The Pokhara Museum was established to document and keep a record of mountaineering and to mark the achievements in the history of mountaineering, especially of the Himalayan Ranges of Nepal.
6. Annapurna Regional Museum
Established: 1965 AD
Location: Prithvi Narayan Campus, Pokhara
Annapurna Regional Museum was established to educate and entertain children. Therefore, you will notice a wide range of toy collections inside the museum.
Another feature of the museum is that it has a huge butterfly collection, around 660 species of butterfly are displayed here.
7. Gurkha Memorial Museum
Established: 2005 AD
Location: Lamachaur, Pokhara
The Gurkha Memorial Museum was officiated to preserve the history of the British and Indian armies.
The museum displays pictures, uniforms, medals, weapons, and other stuff and documents related to brave Gurkha soldiers.
8. Pumdikot Shiva Statue
Image Source: Wikipedia
Established: 2021 AD
Location: Pokhara, Kaski District
Pumdikot Shiva Statue, located near Pokhara, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges.
Perched atop a hill, this majestic 108-foot statue of Lord Shiva is a serene symbol of faith and tranquility.
The peaceful ambiance, combined with the stunning scenery, makes it a popular spot for visitors seeking both spiritual solace and natural beauty
Things to do in Pokhara
1. Boating
Pokhara is also known as the “City of Lakes” as eight beautiful lakes lie inside the valley.
The popular lakes among tourists are Fewa and Begnas Lake. You can glide on the calm water, surrounded by the stunning landscape making your trip memorable for a lifetime.
Boating is simply a tranquil experience on the lakes and is a must-try things to do in Pokhara.
2. Paragliding
Paragliding is one of the many adventures this city offers. You take off from the top of Sarangkot and land on the bank of Fewa Lake.
The aerial view of Annapurna Range and Fewa Lake is to die for. Soar like a bird for 15-20 minutes of your life in the skies of Pokhara!
3. Bungee
Pokhara delivers a thrilling experience to its visitors by providing them with a bungee jumping experience. You must try jumping off the 70 meters high tower into the artificial pond if you are an adrenaline junkie.
4. Trekking
Trekking trails in and near Pokhara let you explore majestic landscapes, lush forests, and Gurung villages of the Gandiki Region.
There are many hiking and trekking options in this region. These trekking trails are a less challenging yet rewarding adventure.
If you are short of time to explore other famous trails, like Annapurna Base Camp, you can trek the shorter-distance route in Pokhara.
5. Australian Base Camp
The Australian Base Camp, located in the Annapurna Region, is a peaceful hideaway. As you trek, you pass through lush rhododendrons and oak forests that reflect the sublime beauty of this region.
Australian Base Camp is also popular for bird watching, as many species of birds are preserved in this area. This trek offers you stunning views of Mount Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, making it a perfect trail for self-reflection and relaxation.
6. Khumai Danda
Khumai Danda is yet another hidden gem in the Annapurna Conservation Area, near Pokhara. This short trek offers a great view of the Himalayas, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.
This trail is less crowded compared to other famous trekking routes with flourishing terraced fields and a warm local community.
7. Poon hill
Poon Hill is another famous trekking trail that includes dense woods, rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and Gurung villages.
These components of the trek make the journey wholesome and memorable for a lifetime. The route is managed and marked well and takes 3 days to complete the journey.
The motive of this trek is to witness the sun’s rays hitting the mountain range early in the morning.
Top 10 Hotels in Pokhara
Accommodation in Pokhara Valley ranges from luxury hotels to affordable backpacker hostels and homestays. We have prepared a list of various hotels that offer their customers good hospitality and comfortable stay.
These listed hotels are popular among tourists. Choose wisely among these options according to your preferred location, budget, and other necessities.
- Golden Gate Hotel
- Hotel Barahi Pokhara
- Hotel Middle path and spa
- Landmark Hotel
- Mandala Hotel Pokhara
- Temple Himalayan Hotel and spa
- Paradise Boutique Hotel
- Pokhara Back Packers
- Pokhara Boutique Hotel
- Roamers Inn
Final Say
In conclusion, Pokhara has many facilities and activities to choose from. From spectacular sunrise views to thrilling adventurous activities, Pokhara has it all.
If you are looking for the complete package of having fun while exploring natural beauty and taking part in adventurous activities, you should consider Pokhara for your next vacation.
Pokhara is an ideal destination for a family vacation, a romantic holiday, or even a solo tour. We are sure that you are not going to have a dull moment in Pokhara City.
We hope our guide helps you find the best places to visit in Pokhara.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What to do in Pokhara Valley?
You can spend your time in Pokhara by exploring various natural wonders present in the city. You also have the option to participate in various adventurous activities like bungee, paragliding, boating, and zipline. Sports like cycling, swimming, golf can also be practiced.
2. Which is the best month to visit Pokhara?
The best time to visit Pokhara is March-May and late September-November. The skies are clear so the view of Annapurna Mountain Range is visible from Pokhara. Avoid monsoon (July-early September) as it rains heaviest during this time.
3. Where is Pokhara Valley in Nepal?
Pokhara lies in the western part of Nepal and is the headquarters of Kaski District. It is 200km from the country’s capital city, i.e., Kathmandu.
4. Which is the largest lake in Pokhara Valley?
Fewa Lake is the largest and most famous lake in Pokhara, which lies in the center of the city. Tal Bahari a Hindu temple is situated in the middle of a lake. It is famous for boating and kayaking.
