Pokhara sits beneath the towering Annapurna range, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of Nepal. It’s a stunning mix of adventure, culture, and calm. During our last trip to Nepal, Pokhara made a lasting impression on us. Whether you’re into adrenaline-filled activities, scenic nature, or a romantic getaway, this city has something for everyone.
📍 How to Reach Pokhara
- By Air: We flew in from Kathmandu — just a 25-minute scenic flight.
- By Road: The drive takes about 6–8 hours, with stunning landscapes along the way.
For us, the flight was seamless and offered aerial views of the Himalayas — a beautiful prelude to what lay ahead.
🏔️ Best Places to Visit in Pokhara
1. Phewa Lake: The Soul of Pokhara
We started our journey with a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake, with the reflection of the Annapurna range dancing on the water. The Tal Barahi Temple sits at the center of the lake, accessible only by boat — a magical spiritual experience.
Pro Tip: Go early morning or during golden hour for the best photos!
2. World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)
A short hike or taxi ride took us to the World Peace Pagoda, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the snow-capped mountains. The tranquility here is unmatched.
3. Sarangkot Sunrise Viewpoint
Waking up before dawn was worth every second. At Sarangkot, we witnessed a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas — the golden glow over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) is unforgettable.
Bonus: You can also try paragliding from Sarangkot for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
4. Devi’s Fall & Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Next on our list was Devi’s Fall, a unique waterfall that disappears into a cave. Right across the street is Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, housing a sacred Shiva temple deep within the rock.
🚣♂️ Best Activities to Do in Pokhara
✅ Paragliding
We couldn’t miss this — soaring above Phewa Lake with a tandem paragliding flight was a highlight of our trip. The thrill and the views are unbeatable!
✅ Boating & Kayaking
Aside from regular boats, we tried kayaking on the lake. The calm waters and surrounding hills made it incredibly relaxing.
✅ Trekking & Day Hikes
While we didn’t embark on a full Annapurna Circuit, we did a day hike around Australian Camp — a beginner-friendly trail with stellar views.
🍛 Where to Eat in Pokhara
Pokhara’s food scene is a fusion of Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and international cuisine.
- Moondance Restaurant: Great food and atmosphere near Lakeside.
- The Juicery Cafe: Perfect for breakfast with lake views.
- OR2K: Delicious vegetarian dishes and a chill vibe.
We tried traditional dal bhat, momos, and even some local Tibetan butter tea.
🛏️ Where We Stayed
We stayed in a cozy boutique hotel by Lakeside Pokhara — close enough to all the attractions but quiet enough to relax. Most accommodations offer rooftop views of the mountains.
Tip: Book in advance during peak season (October–November, March–April).
❤️ Final Thoughts: Why Pokhara Stole Our Hearts
Pokhara isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling — of peace, adventure, and inspiration. Whether you’re riding a boat across a serene lake, standing before the mighty Himalayas, or simply sipping tea as the sun sets behind Fishtail Mountain — Pokhara will stay with you long after you leave.
If you’re planning your trip to Nepal, don’t just pass through Pokhara — stay, explore, and fall in love like we did.
📸 Coming Soon: Our Pokhara Photo Diary
Stay tuned — we’ll soon share a full gallery of our Pokhara journey to inspire your next trip!
✈️ Plan Your Trip to Pokhara
Have questions about travel, itineraries, or where to stay? Drop us a comment below or reach out — we’d love to help fellow travelers experience the magic of Pokhara.