What to do in Pokhara, Nepal

The Lakeside district is the centre of tourism in Pokhara and the place where most visitors choose to stay. Stretching along the eastern shore of Phewa Lake, the area is lined with restaurants, cafés, bakeries, outdoor equipment shops and small boutiques.

Unlike the often chaotic streets of Kathmandu, Lakeside has a relaxed and welcoming feel. It is an excellent place to spend an afternoon strolling along the waterfront, enjoying a coffee with mountain views or watching local life unfold around the lake.

The district comes alive in the evenings as travellers gather in restaurants and bars to exchange trekking stories and plan their next adventures.

Pokhara has developed a reputation as Nepal’s adventure capital. And rightly so.

Paragliding is particularly popular (and world class), with flights launching from Sarangkot and soaring high above the lake and valley below. The combination of mountain views and favourable flying conditions attracts enthusiasts from around the world.

Other activities include zip-lining, bungee jumping, mountain biking, ultralight aircraft flights and white-water rafting on nearby rivers.

Whether you are seeking a gentle scenic experience or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Pokhara offers plenty of options.

The paragliding in Pokhara is world class

For most treks into the Annapurna region, it’s hard to avoid going through Pokhara en route.

Popular treks including the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and the Annapurna Sunrise Poon Hill Trek. The other big treks in this region are the world renowned Annapurna Circuit and the Manaslu Circuit treks. They are usually accessed direct from Kathmandu but finish in Pokhara.

As a result, Pokhara has developed excellent facilities for trekkers, including gear shops, accommodation and transport services. Even if you are not planning a trek, the city’s connection to the Himalayas is evident everywhere and contributes greatly to its unique atmosphere.

Pokhara is the perfect ending to any trek in the Annapurna region, and to spend some time generally.

The relaxed nature of Lakeside lends itself to slowing down. There’s no rush. A few days here on the end of a trek allows you to rest the body, to recover fully. Whether that be by the side of a pool, finding a massage place, or just chilling, it is a destination that instills relaxation. Try our Tour of Nepal.

Pokhara appeals to almost every type of traveller. Some visitors arrive intending to stay for a day or two and end up remaining for a week. It offers a memorable blend of adventure, natural beauty and relaxation that makes it one of the country’s most rewarding destinations.

Phewa Lake is the most iconic feature of Pokhara and a boat trip on its calm waters is one of the city’s most enjoyable activities.

Colourful wooden rowing boats can be hired from several points around the lakeshore. As you drift across the lake, the surrounding hills and distant Himalayan peaks create one of Nepal’s most memorable landscapes.

On clear days the reflection of the Annapurna range can often be seen shimmering on the water’s surface.

Many visitors choose to row to the small island temple of Tal Barahi, located in the middle of the lake.

The colourful boats on Phewa Lake

Pokhara offers an excellent introduction to Nepalese food. Traditional dishes such as dal bhat, momo dumplings and thukpa noodle soup can be found throughout the city. Many restaurants also serve international cuisine to cater for trekkers and travellers from around the world.

After returning from a day of sightseeing, there are few better experiences than enjoying a meal beside the lake while watching the sun set behind the surrounding hills.

The hills surrounding Pokhara contain numerous traditional villages where visitors can gain an insight into local life. Communities inhabited by Gurung and Magar peoples preserve many customs, architectural styles and agricultural traditions that have existed for generations.

Short hikes to villages such as Dhampus, Australian Camp and Astam provide excellent opportunities to combine cultural experiences with mountain views. These walks can often be completed in a day and are suitable for travellers who want a taste of trekking without committing to a longer expedition.

It is advisable to hire a guide who knows where he’s going and can organise the transport too. His insight and language skills will be invaluable.

Few experiences in Nepal can match watching the sun rise over the Himalayas from Sarangkot.

Located on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara, Sarangkot offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri and the distinctive pyramid-shaped peak of Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail Mountain.

Before dawn, visitors gather on the viewpoint terrace as the first light gradually illuminates the snow-covered peaks. As the mountains change colour from grey to pink and gold, it becomes easy to understand why this is one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints.

Sarangkot can be reached by vehicle, on foot or via the cable car system that now connects parts of Pokhara with the hilltop.

Situated on a tiny island in Phewa Lake, Tal Barahi Temple is one of Pokhara’s most important religious sites. Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi, the temple attracts both pilgrims and visitors throughout the year. Reaching the temple requires a short boat journey, which adds to its charm and uniqueness.

The peaceful setting and scenic surroundings make it a worthwhile stop even for those with little interest in religion. Early morning visits are particularly rewarding when the lake is quiet and the mountains are often at their clearest.

Perched on a ridge above Phewa Lake, the World Peace Pagoda is one of Pokhara’s most recognisable landmarks. Built by Japanese Buddhist monks, the gleaming white stupa symbolises peace and harmony. The site offers magnificent views across the lake towards Pokhara and the Annapurna mountains beyond.

Visitors can reach the pagoda by road, hiking trail or by combining a boat crossing of Phewa Lake with a scenic uphill walk.

The combination of mountain scenery, spiritual atmosphere and panoramic views makes this one of the highlights of any visit to Pokhara.

For anyone interested in trekking, mountaineering or Himalayan culture, the International Mountain Museum is an essential stop. The museum tells the story of the world’s highest mountains and the people who live among them. Exhibits cover famous expeditions, climbing history, geology, wildlife and the cultures of Nepal’s mountain communities.

Visitors can learn about the achievements of legendary mountaineers as well as the contributions made by Sherpas and other local peoples who have helped explorers navigate the Himalayas for generations.