There’s so much to do in Pokhara, but these are our 9 things to do in Pokhara – If you are traveling to Nepal, you will most likely spend some time in the popular Lakeside town of Pokhara. And really, why wouldn’t you! You get incredible mountain views, relaxed lakeside living, and heaps of things to do.
A few of our trips travel through Pokhara (namely, the Upper Seti, Kaligandaki and our famous Multiriver Kayak Expedition). So we thought we’d help you out a little and compile a list of things to do should you find yourself with a few days to spare in Pokhara.
1 – Visit Sarangkot
You can either hike to the top from Lakeside (around 2 hours) or ‘cheat’ a get a taxi up. The best time to visit is sunrise or sunset to see the sun over the Annapurna Mountains. There is a small fee to get up the road so just be aware of that and at times, the view point can get extremely busy which is why we prefer to visit (or even stay overnight) at the beautiful Bhanjyang Village which offers the same view, less crowds and coffee – win!
2 – Hike to the World Peace Pagoda
There a few ways to reach the famous Stuupa on top of the hill, either by taxi, or our choice is to get an open boat and paddle across the lake and then take a short 45 minute hike up the hill. Once you reach the top you will be greeted with peace and tranquility and the most beautiful white bright stuupa. One clear days you will also get spectacular views of the Annapurna mountain range and the whole of Pokhara city. It’s quite a sight. There are a few little cafes at the top to enjoy a cold drink before the hike back down – or why not spend the night enjoying the view at one of the mountain top hotels. (Our favourite, although a little pricey is Raniban Retreat).
3 – Enjoy a night out on the town
After Kathmandu, the best nights out in Nepal, have to be in Pokhara. You’ll find many of the paddlers hanging out at Silk Road Bar, a chilled cocktail bar which has live music most nights. Try out their famous Thirsty Camel cocktail. After this, the favourite is Busy Bee, a rock bar just down the road, a ‘place like no where else’ which also serves a surprisingly good pizza.
4 – Get a massage
Pokhara is full of places to get massages. As this is the start and end point for many trekkers you can see why. But why should the trekkers get all the fun? Paddlers are also in need of a little TLC we think. Our favourite places to grab a massage in Nepal are Jiva Cafe and Spa and the Ayurveda Health Home.There’s nothing better than a hot stone massage when you achy after a days paddle or a foot massage with views of the Fewa Tal lake in our opinion.
5 – Visit the ‘other’ lake
Begnas Tal is around a 20 minute drive from Pokhara. It is less crowded (and less polluted) than the Fewa Tal. Great if you want a bit of peace and a swim. There are a few little cafes dotted around the area, and some nice places to spend the night if you wanted. Great for a bit of peace and tranquility or a romantic little getaway. And if you are looking for a little luxury, we recommend the Begnas Lake Resort.
6 – Take a Dunga (boat) out or SUP on the Fewa Tal
As you know, we are all about the paddling! And even flat water can be a lot of fun. There are plenty of places to pick up a SUP or sit on top kayak or even an open water traditional canoe which you will find lining the lake shore. Take one for an hour or a day and explore the lake. There’s a temple in the middle (Bahari) which is worth a visit. Pick a clear day and you’l be treated to views of the mountains as well.
7 – Go trekking
Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna’s. One of the most famous mountain ranges to go trekking in Nepal. Depending on your schedule you could do just a few days or up to a month in this region. The most popular treks are Poon Hill (Ghorepani), Annapurna Base Camp and of course, the Annapurna Circuit.
8 – Go paragliding
If we weren’t kayakers, we’d probably be paragliders, that’s how much we love it and Pokhara is one of the best places in the world to take a flight. There are now many paragliding companies in Nepal, however we highly recommend Blue Sky Paragliding.They offer a variety of different flights and are extremely professional. If you’ve got a morning to spare, why not soar with the birds and get a unique view of the mountains and lake.
9 – Go on the worlds longest, fastest and highest zipline
It’s 1800 meters long. 2000 feet vertical drop. 120 km per hour max speed. 2 minute ride time. Awesome views of the Annapurna Mountain range. WOWZERS! I don’t think we need to say more. For more information on this impressive ride, visit the Highground Nepal website
So there you go, if you find yourself in Pokhara you now have an idea of some of the awesome things you can get up to.
And of course, our Upper Seti and Kaligandaki trips depart from Pokhara.
If you would like more information on any of the activities listed above, please feel free to contact us.
