Pokhara is a city that will surprise you with its diversity. It is not just a place to start your trekking adventures in the Himalayas but also a destination that offers a wide range of things to do and see. From high-flying activities that will make your adrenaline rush to serene landscapes that will soothe your soul, from ancient temples that awaken your spirituality to modern museums that enrich your knowledge, Pokhara has it all. In this article, we will show you some of the best things to do in Pokhara that will make you fall in love with this city. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will find something that suits your taste and budget in Pokhara.

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Adventure and Thrill

Pokhara is a city that will thrill you with its adventure and excitement. It is a city that offers a range of high-flying, nature, and up-and-away adventures that will make your heart race and your spirit soar. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will find something that suits your level and interest in Pokhara. Some of the adventure and thrill activities you can try in Pokhara are:

High-Flying Adventures

If you want to feel the wind in your hair and the freedom in your soul, you can try some of the high-flying adventures in Pokhara. You can fly like a bird, glide like a plane, or jump like a daredevil in Pokhara. Some of the high-flying adventures you can try are:

Paragliding

Paragliding is one of the most popular and exhilarating activities in Pokhara. You can launch from Sarangkot Hill, about 1600 meters above sea level, and fly over the Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna range. You can enjoy the stunning views and the sensation of passing for about 20 to 30 minutes.

Ziplining

Ziplining is another thrilling activity that lets you zip through the air at high speed. It is a form of sliding involving a cable stretched between two points. You can strap yourself to a pulley and slide down the cable from Sarangkot Hill to Hemja village, which is about 1.8 kilometers long and 600 meters high. You can reach up to 120 kilometers per hour and feel the adrenaline rush as you fly over the forest, river, and fields.

Bungee Jumping

Bungee jumping is an extreme activity that tests your courage and nerves. It is a form of jumping involving an elastic cord attached to your ankles or waist. You can jump from a tower about 70 meters high and experience free fall for about 3 seconds before bouncing back up. You can feel the gravity and the thrill as you plunge towards the ground and then rebound in the air.

Skydiving

Skydiving is an ultimate activity that challenges your limits and dreams. It is a form of falling involving a parachute deployed after jumping from an airplane or a helicopter. You can jump from an altitude of about 4,000 meters and free fall for about 40 seconds before opening your parachute. You can see the breathtaking views of Pokhara and the Himalayas as you fall from the sky and glide gently to the landing zone.

Ultralight Flight

Ultralight flight is a fun activity that lets you enjoy the beauty and adventure of flying in a simple, light aircraft. It is a form of flying involving a small plane with one or two seats, an engine, and a propeller. You can take off from Pokhara airport and fly over the Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, Sarangkot Hill, and the Annapurna range. You can feel the joy and wonder of flying in an open cockpit and see the scenery differently.

Other Adventure Sports

If you love nature and want to explore its wonders, you can try some nature enthusiasts’ paradise activities in Pokhara. You can ride a bike, slide on a rope, paddle on a raft, or kayak on a lake in Pokhara. Some of the nature enthusiasts’ paradise activities you can try are:

Mountain Biking Tour

The mountain biking tour is an adventurous activity that lets you cycle through some of the scenic trails in Pokhara. You can choose from different routes that vary in length, difficulty, and terrain. You can ride through some of the villages, forests, hills, and valleys around Pokhara and enjoy the natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Canyoning

Canyoning is an exciting activity that lets you descend through some of the narrow gorges in Pokhara. You can choose from different levels of difficulty and duration depending on your skills and preferences. You can experience the thrill and fun of canyoning in some canyons near Pokhara, such as Ghalel, Lwang, or Kudi.

Seti River Rafting

Seti River Rafting is a fun activity that lets you float on some of the rapids in the Seti River. You can join a group of rafters and a guide who will steer you through some of the whitewater sections of the river. You can enjoy the splash and the speed of rafting in the Seti River, which is about 35 kilometers long and has a grade of 2 to 3.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a relaxing activity that lets you paddle on some of the calm waters in Pokhara. You can rent a kayak from the Lakeside and paddle around Phewa Lake or Begnas Lake at your own pace. You can enjoy the tranquility and the scenery of kayaking on the lakes, surrounded by green hills and snow-capped mountains.

Natural Beauty and Tranquility

Pokhara is blessed with stunning natural scenery that will take your breath away. Majestic mountains, lush green hills, and serene lakes surround the city. You can enjoy the beauty of nature in Pokhara by taking some scenic hikes, boating on the lakes, or simply relaxing in a peaceful spot.

Scenic Hikes to do around Pokhara

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Pokhara is to go for a hike. These short hikes are one of the most enjoyable things to do in Pokhara. Many hiking trails in and around the city offer spectacular views of the mountains, valleys, and lakes. Some of the popular hikes in Pokhara are:

Short hike to Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda, is a Buddhist monument overlooking Phewa Lake. It is a symbol of peace and harmony among different religions and cultures. You can hike up to the stupa from the Lakeside in about an hour and enjoy the panoramic view of Pokhara and the Annapurna range.

Sarangkot Hill for Sunrise or Sunset

Sarangkot is a hilltop village that offers one of the best sunrise or sunset views over the Himalayas. You can hike up to Sarangkot from Pokhara in about 2 hours or take a taxi or a bus. From Sarangkot, you can see the magnificent peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu glowing in the golden light.

Thulakot Hill Day Hike

Thulakot is a hidden gem that lies on the other side of Begnas Lake. It is a hilltop that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. You can hike to Thulakot from Begnas Lake in about 3 hours and enjoy the scenic views of the lake, the mountains, and the rivers. You can also see as far as Sikles, a famous Gurung village1, and Madi River2, a tributary of the Gandaki River, to the east, and Seti River3, another tributary of the Gandaki River, to the south.

Pumdikot View Tower Hike

Pumdikot is another hilltop village with a stunning view of Pokhara and the Himalayas. You can hike to Pumdikot from Naudanda in about 4 hours and reach the view tower at 1520 meters. You can see the whole Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Rupa Lake, and the snow-capped peaks.

Sundar Danda Hike

Sundar Danda is a hilltop with a peculiar vantage point that sees both Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake on either side. You can hike to Sundar Danda from Begnas Bazaar in about 2 hours and enjoy the unique view of the two lakes separated by a narrow ridge. You can also see the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre peak from Sundar Danda.

Waterfront Bliss

Pokhara is famous for its lakes, especially Phewa Lake, Nepal’s second-largest lake. Phewa Lake is a beautiful body of water that reflects the mountains and the sky. You can enjoy the waterfront bliss in Pokhara by boating on the lakes, visiting the island temples, or relaxing on the shores.

Boating on Phewa Lake

Boating on Phewa Lake is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable things to do in Pokhara. You can rent a boat from the Lakeside and paddle around the lake at your own pace. You can also hire a boatman to take you to different places on the lake, such as Tal Barahi Temple, Fish Tail Lodge, or Bat Cave.

Visiting Tal Barahi Temple

Tal Barahi Temple is a Hindu temple on an island in the middle of Phewa Lake. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga, who is believed to protect Pokhara from evil forces. You can reach the temple by boat from the Lakeside and pay your respects to the deity. The temple is also an excellent spot to enjoy the view of the lake and the mountains.

Relaxing on Phewa Shore

If you want to relax and soak in the beauty of nature, you can find a cozy spot on the shore of Phewa Lake and watch the world go by. On the shore, you can see different kinds of birds, fish, flowers, and trees. You can also see people enjoying various activities on the lake, such as paragliding, kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

Boating on Begnas Lake

Begnas Lake is another freshwater lake southeast of Pokhara Valley. It is the third-largest lake in Nepal and the second largest among the eight lakes in Pokhara Valley2. Begnas Lake is quieter and less crowded than Phewa Lake, making it ideal for a peaceful boating experience. You can rent a boat from the Lakeside and explore the lake. You can also see caged fisheries on the lake3 and taste fresh fish from the local restaurants.

Visiting Rupa Lake

Rupa Lake is the third largest lake in Pokhara Valley and lies south of Begnas Lake. It is a natural freshwater lake that covers an area of 1.35 square kilometers4. Rupa Lake is known for its rich biodiversity and ecological importance. You can visit Rupa Lake by taking a boat from Begnas Lake, a bus, or a taxi from Pokhara. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the lake and see some rare birds and plants.

Spiritual and Cultural Exploration

Pokhara is not only a city of natural wonders but also a city of spiritual and cultural richness. You can explore Pokhara’s diverse religious and cultural heritage by visiting some of the ancient temples, caves, and monuments that dot the city.

Spiritual Encounters

Pokhara is a city that embraces different faiths and traditions. You can find temples, monasteries, churches, and mosques in Pokhara that cater to other beliefs and practices. Indulging in spiritual and religious encounters could also be one of the things to do in Pokhara. Some of the spiritual meetings you can have in Pokhara are:

Bindhyabasini Temple

Bindhyabasini Temple is one of Pokhara’s oldest and most revered temples. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, who is Pokhara’s guardian deity. The temple is on a hilltop in the old bazaar area and offers a splendid view of the city and the mountains. You can witness the daily temple rituals and ceremonies performed by the priests and devotees. At the temple complex, you can also see some beautiful carvings and sculptures of various gods and goddesses.

Tal Barahi Temple

Tal Barahi Temple is on an island in the middle of Phewa Lake and is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her boar incarnation. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, especially during the festivals of Dashain and Navratri. You can reach the temple by boat from the Lakeside and pay your respects to the deity. The temple is also an excellent spot to enjoy the view of the lake and the mountains.

Matepani Gumba

Matepani Gumba is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery on a hill above Pokhara. It is one of the largest and most beautiful monasteries in Nepal. It houses a large statue of Buddha, a prayer hall, a library, and a school for monks. You can visit the monastery and observe the peaceful atmosphere and the colorful architecture. You can also join the monks in their daily prayers and chants.

Pokhara Shanti Stupa

Pokhara Shanti Stupa is one of the 80 peace pagodas built worldwide by a Japanese Buddhist organization. It stands on a hill overlooking Phewa Lake, symbolizing peace and harmony among different religions and cultures. You can hike up to the stupa from the Lakeside or take a boat and a taxi. From there, you can enjoy the panoramic view of Pokhara and the Annapurna range.

Mysteries of the Earth

Pokhara is also home to some mysterious natural phenomena that will fascinate you with their beauty and mystery. You can explore some of the caves, waterfalls, and springs that are hidden in Pokhara’s landscape. Some of the secrets of the earth you can discover in Pokhara are:

Davis Waterfall

Davis Waterfall, also known as Patale Chhango or Hell’s Fall, is a stunning waterfall that plunges into an underground tunnel. The waterfall is named after a Swiss couple drowned in the tunnel while bathing in 1961. The waterfall is about 2 kilometers from Pokhara Airport and can be reached by bus or taxi. You can see the waterfall from a bridge or a viewing platform. You can also visit a small museum near the waterfall displaying fossils, rocks, coins, and stamps.

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a sacred cave opposite Davis Waterfall. It is one of the longest caves in Nepal, with a length of about 3 kilometers. The cave contains a shrine of Lord Shiva, who is believed to have hidden himself from the demon Bhasmasur. The shelter also has stalactites and stalagmite formations resembling various animals and objects. You can enter the cave through a spiral staircase and walk through narrow passages to reach different chambers.

Chamero (Bat) Cave

Chamero Cave, also known as Bat Cave or Chameri Gufa, is another cave near Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. It is named after the thousands of bats that inhabit it. The cave has an entrance fee of 100 rupees for foreigners and can be explored with a flashlight or a guide. You can see different kinds of bats hanging from the ceiling or flying in the dark. You can also hear their squeaking sounds echoing in the cave.

Exploring History and Heritage

Pokhara is not only a city of natural wonders but also a city of history and heritage. You can learn about the past and present of Pokhara and its people by visiting some of the museums and memorials that showcase the region’s culture, art, and lifestyle.

Museums and Memorials

Pokhara has fascinating museums and memorials that will educate and entertain you with their exhibits and displays. Some of the museums and memorials you can visit in Pokhara are:

International Mountain Museum

The International Mountain Museum is a museum that celebrates the mountains and the people who live in them. It is located in Ratopahiro, about 5 kilometers from Pokhara airport. The museum has three main sections: Mountain People, Mountain Environment, and Mountain Activities. You can see various artifacts, photographs, models, maps, and documentaries related to the mountains’ history, culture, ecology, and adventure. You can also see some mountaineering equipment, such as tents, boots, ropes, ice axes, etc. The museum also has a library, a souvenir shop, a restaurant, and a rock climbing wall.

Gurkha Memorial Museum

The Gurkha Memorial Museum is a museum that honors the brave Gurkha soldiers who have served in the British and Indian armies for over 200 years. It is located in Pokhara-Lekhnath Road, near Fulbari Resort. The museum has four floors that display various uniforms, medals, weapons, photographs, documents, and stories of the Gurkha soldiers. You can learn about the history, achievements, and sacrifices of the Gurkhas who have fought in various wars and conflicts around the world. You can also see some personal belongings of some famous Gurkha soldiers, such as Victoria Cross recipients.

Local Flavors and Experiences

Pokhara is not only a city of natural wonders but also a city of local flavors and experiences. You can enjoy the taste and culture of Pokhara by trying some of the local cuisine, shopping for unique souvenirs, or participating in fun activities.

Taste of Pokhara

Pokhara has various food options that will satisfy your appetite and palate. You can find different cuisines, such as Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, Chinese, Thai, Italian, etc. in Pokhara. However, if you want to try some of the local specialties, here are some suggestions:

Thakali Khana Set

Thakali Khana Set is a traditional meal of the Thakali people living in Nepal’s Mustang region. It consists of rice, dal (lentil soup), vegetable curry, pickle, salad, papad (crispy flatbread), and gundruk (fermented leafy greens). It is served with meat, such as chicken, mutton, or fish. You can find Thakali Khana Set in many restaurants in Pokhara, especially in Lakeside.

Mo: Mo

Mo:Mo is a popular snack or appetizer in Nepal. It is a dumpling filled with minced meat or vegetables and steamed or fried. It is served with a spicy sauce or soup. You can find Mo:Mo in many street stalls or restaurants in Pokhara. You can also try different varieties of Mo:Mo, such as cheese Mo:Mo, chocolate Mo:Mo, or pizza Mo:Mo.

Sel Roti

Sel Roti is a sweet and crispy bread made from rice flour and deep-fried in oil. It is usually eaten during festivals or special occasions, but you can also find it in some bakeries or sweet shops in Pokhara. It is often served with tea or yogurt.

Local Fish Trouts

Fish trouts are fresh and delicious fish found in Pokhara’s lakes and rivers. They are grilled or fried and served with lemon, garlic, butter, or herbs. You can find local fish trout in restaurants near Phewa Lake or Begnas Lake. You can also visit Gandaki Rainbow Trout Fish Farm, which is the first trout farmhouse in Nepal and offers fresh and organic food.

Seti River Fishing

Seti River Fishing is an exciting and adventurous activity that allows you to catch some fantastic fish in the Seti River, which flows through Pokhara. The Seti River is home to over 50 fish and other aquatic creatures. You can join a fishing tour that will provide you with fishing equipment, guides, permits, and transportation4. You can also watch some videos of cast net fishing in Seti River to get an idea of how it works.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Pokhara has great shopping options that make you want to buy something for yourself or your loved ones. You can find different products, such as handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, books, etc. in Pokhara. However, if you want to buy some unique souvenirs that reflect the culture and identity of Pokhara, here are some suggestions:

Pashmina Shawls

Pashmina shawls are soft and warm shawls made from the wool of Himalayan goats. They are known for their quality and elegance and are ideal for cold weather. You can find pashmina shawls in various colors, designs, and sizes in many shops in Pokhara, especially in Lakeside. You can also bargain for the best price and quality.

Thangka Paintings

Thangka paintings are religious paintings that depict Buddhist deities, scenes, or symbols on cotton or silk canvas. Buddhists use them for meditation and worship and are considered sacred art forms. You can find thangka paintings in various styles, sizes, and prices in many shops in Pokhara, especially in Lakeside. You can also learn about the meaning and history of thangka paintings from the shopkeepers or artists.

Khukuri Knives

Khukuri knives are curved knives used as weapons and tools by the Gurkha soldiers and Nepali people. They are known for their sharpness and strength and are symbols of bravery and honor. You can find khukuri knives in different sizes, designs, and qualities in many shops in Pokhara, especially in Mahendrapul Bazaar. You can also see some demonstrations of khukuri skills by the shopkeepers or experts.

Hidden Gems and Local Insights

Pokhara is not only a city of popular attractions but also a city of hidden gems and local insights. You can discover lesser-known places and experiences to make your trip more memorable and authentic.

Off the Beaten Path

Pokhara has some fantastic places and activities off the beaten path and away from the crowds. You can explore some of the natural, cultural, and historical wonders hidden in Pokhara’s landscape. Some of the off-the-beaten-path places and activities you can try in Pokhara are:

Begnas Coffee Estate

Begnas Coffee Estate is a coffee farm on a hillside near Begnas Lake. It is the first organic coffee farm in Nepal and produces high-quality Arabica coffee beans. You can visit the farm and learn about the coffee cultivation, from planting to harvesting to roasting. You can also taste some fresh and aromatic coffee and buy coffee products from the farm shop.

Old Bazaar

Old Bazaar is the historical center of Pokhara that dates back to the 18th century. It is a lively and colorful area showcasing Pokhara’s traditional architecture, culture, and lifestyle. You can walk around the old bazaar and see old buildings, temples, shops, and markets. You can also interact with some local people and learn about their customs and stories.

Kahun Danda

Kahun Danda is a hilltop that offers a spectacular view of Pokhara and the Himalayas. It is located about 10 kilometers from Pokhara airport and can be reached by hiking or driving. From Kahun Danda, you can see the whole Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Rupa Lake, and the snow-capped peaks. You can also see some paragliders flying over the hill.

Pokhara Organic Village: Pokhara Organic Village is a community-based tourism project that aims to promote sustainable and eco-friendly tourism in Pokhara. It is located in Hemja village, about 15 kilometers from Pokhara city. You can stay in one of the traditional mud, stone, and wood houses and experience Pokhara’s rural lifestyle. You can also participate in some activities, such as farming, cooking, milking, weaving, etc.

When to Visit Pokhara

Pokhara is a city that can be visited throughout the year, as it offers different attractions and activities for different seasons. However, if you want to know the best time to visit Pokhara, here are some factors to consider:

Weather

Pokhara has a subtropical climate varies from warm to cold, depending on the season. The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 30°C throughout the year. The hottest months are May and June when the temperature can reach up to 35°C. The coldest months are December and January, when temperatures can drop below 0°C. The rainy season lasts from June to September when Pokhara receives heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The dry season lasts from October to May when Pokhara enjoys clear skies and pleasant weather.

Trekking

Pokhara is the gateway to some of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Annapurna Circuit, the Poon Hill Trek, the Mardi Himal Trek, and the Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek. If you are interested in trekking, the best time to visit Pokhara is from October to November or March to April. These are the peak seasons for trekking, as the weather is clear and stable, the visibility is high, and the trails are less crowded. However, these are also the most expensive seasons for trekking, as the accommodation and transportation costs are higher. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, you can also trek in the off-seasons, such as December to February or May to June. These are the low seasons for trekking, as the weather is unpredictable and challenging, the visibility is low, and the trails are more crowded. However, these are also the cheapest seasons for trekking, as the accommodation and transportation costs are lower.

Festivals

Pokhara is a city that celebrates various festivals yearly that reflect its cultural and religious diversity. If you want to experience some of the festivals in Pokhara, here are some of the best times to visit:

Dashain: Dashain is Nepal’s most significant and prolonged festival that falls in September or October. It is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil and honors Goddess Durga. During Dashain, people fly kites, play cards, sacrifice animals, worship idols, receive blessings from elders, and visit their relatives and friends.
Tihar: Tihar is the second biggest festival in Nepal that falls in October or November. It is a Hindu festival celebrating the bond between humans and animals and worshiping Goddess Lakshmi. During Tihar, people decorate their houses with lights and candles, make rangoli patterns on the floor, offer food and garlands to animals such as crows, dogs, cows, and oxen, play deusi-bhailo songs and dances, and exchange gifts and sweets.
Holi: Holi is a colorful festival that falls in February or March. It is a Hindu festival that marks the arrival of spring and celebrates love and joy. During Holi, people throw colored powder and water at each other, dance and sing on the streets, light bonfires at night, and share food and drinks.