Top 10 Things to Do in Pokhara: A Complete Travel Guide

Pokhara is a beautiful town nestled at the foot of the Himalayas and therefore is one of the main places to visit in Nepal. Famed for its tranquil lakes, adventure sports, and scenic mountain views, Pokhara is where adventure and tranquility blend in a perfect ratio. 

Whether you want thrilling experiences or tranquility, this city has got everything. After a day of adventure, you can unwind in one of the many lakeside cafes or yoga retreats and feel the peaceful atmosphere surrounding you. 

We have documented the top 10 things to do in Pokhara in this blog to assure you that your stay and time in this lovely city will not go underutilized.

1. Explore Phewa Lake (Fewa Lake)

Phewa Lake is, without a doubt, the heart of Pokhara. The serene water surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks forms a perfect spot for a quiet boat ride. 

Rent out a traditional wooden boat and row across the lake or hire a paddle boat and be awestruck with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You can also visit Tal Barahi Temple, situated on an island in the middle of the lake, giving a cultural touch to your adventure.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Boat ride, paddle boating, visit Tal Barahi Temple, and Lakeside stroll.
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for beautiful views.
• Additional Tip: Bring a hat or sunscreen, as it can get quite sunny around the lake.
• Nearby Attraction: Visit the nearby lakeside spas for a peaceful break.
• Safety: Always wear a life jacket when boating, even if you’re just on a calm lake. Avoid boating during high winds or storms.

2. Hike to Sarangkot for Sunrise

If you are an early riser, then Sarangkot in Pokhara is a must-visit. This viewpoint on the hill offers one of the best sunrise views in Nepal, with panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges. 

The hike takes about 1-1.5 hours, or you can take a taxi to the top if you prefer a more leisurely experience.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Sunrise view, photography, paragliding.
• Best Time: Sunrise (from 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM depending on the season).
• Additional Tip: Bring a jacket as the mornings can be quite chilly, even during the warmer months.
• Nearby Attraction: If you’re into paragliding, this is a prime location for that as well.
• Health: Start your hike early and pace yourself, especially if you’re not accustomed to early morning climbs. Stay hydrated and carry water.

3. Go Paragliding

Paragliding in Pokhara is a haven, offering some of the most scenic flights in the world. You can take off from Sarangkot and soar above the valley for bird’s-eye views of the mountains, Phewa Lake, and the city below. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced flyer, there are multiple options for tandem flights with experienced pilots.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Tandem paragliding flight, aerial photography.
• Best Time: October to March (clear skies and favorable winds).
• Additional Tip: Make sure you choose a licensed and experienced pilot for safety reasons.
• Nearby Attraction: Consider visiting nearby Sarangkot for even more mountain views.
• Safety: Always follow the pre-flight safety briefing. Avoid paragliding if you’re feeling unwell or fatigued to minimize risks.

4. Visit Devi’s Fall (Patale Chango)

There it is, the wonderful Devis Fall, also referred to as Patale Chango, 2 km south of Pokhara. The waterfall disappears into a deep gorge with its water disappearing underground to again appear after a while. 

There is also a nearby cave, Gupteshwor Cave, which also happens to have an ancient temple of Lord Shiva.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: View the waterfall, explore the cave, photograph.
• Best Time: Monsoon season (June to September) for a more powerful flow.
• Additional Tip: The cave can get slippery, so wear proper footwear if you plan to explore it.
• Nearby Attraction: Check out the nearby Gupteshwor Cave with its ancient Shiva Temple.
• Safety: Exercise caution around the waterfall’s edge and in the cave, as the paths can be slippery and narrow. Always stay within designated areas.

5. Trek to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

If you’re into trekking, Pokhara is the gateway to some of Nepal’s most popular trekking routes. The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of the most iconic hikes in Nepal.

It usually takes 7-12 days to complete, depending on your pace, but it offers stunning views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and other Himalayan peaks.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Multi-day trek, enjoy Himalayan scenery, visit traditional Gurung villages.
• Best Time: September to November or March to May.
• Additional Tip: Ensure you’re physically prepared for the trek, as it’s moderate to strenuous.
• Nearby Attraction: Consider stopping by the Ghandruk village for a cultural immersion.
• Health: Be aware of altitude sickness and take time to acclimatize, especially above 2,500 meters. 

6. Visit World Peace Pagoda

The World Peace Pagoda is an extremely beautiful Buddhist monument situated on the top of a hill that overlooks Pokhara. It was built by the Japanese/Chinese Buddhist community and offers great views of Phewa Lake and the mountains surrounding it. 

You can reach the pagoda by hiking from the lakeside, about 45 minutes, or by boat and a short trek.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Visit the pagoda, enjoy panoramic views, relax and meditate.
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon.
• Additional Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the hike up to the pagoda can be a bit steep.
• Nearby Attraction: Take a boat ride on Phewa Lake to access the pagoda via a short trek.
• Sustainability: Respect the peaceful environment by avoiding noise and littering. 

7. Take a ride in Hot Air Ballon

For a unique and peaceful way to take in the stunning views of the Himalayas, a hot air balloon ride in Pokhara is an unforgettable experience. As you gently float above the beautiful landscape, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the towering Annapurna Range. 

The serene journey provides an entirely different perspective of the region, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Hot air balloon ride, panoramic views, photography. 
• Best Time: September to April for the clearest skies.
• Additional Tip: Book your ride in advance, as availability can be limited during peak tourist season.
• Nearby Attraction: Spend some time in Pokhara’s lakeside area, reflecting on the majestic views.
• Safety: Always follow the pilot’s instructions for a safe and enjoyable ride. Weather conditions can affect balloon flights, so keep an eye on forecasts.

8. Explore the Old Bazaar of Pokhara

To feel the culture, one should not miss Pokhara’s Old Bazaar, which is located near the central bus park. It contains an old-world charm with narrow streets, traditional houses, and bustling markets. 

One can shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs and soak in the local culture of Pokhara.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Explore the local market, shop for souvenirs, and try local snacks.
• Best Time: Morning for a quieter atmosphere.
• Additional Tip: Bargaining is common, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
• Nearby Attraction: Check out the nearby Bindhyabasini Temple for a more spiritual experience.
• Sustainability: Support local artisans by purchasing handmade goods and products.

9. Visit the International Mountain Museum

International Mountain Museum is located in Pokhara, dedicated to the history of mountain exploration but with more emphasis on the Himalayas and the people who climbed them. This provides a fascinating look into the lives of Sherpas, mountaineers, and rich mountaineering history in the region.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Learn about the history of mountaineering, and explore exhibits on the Himalayas and mountaineering equipment.
• Best Time: Anytime during the day.
• Additional Tip: Spend at least 1-2 hours here to fully appreciate the exhibits.
• Nearby Attraction: The nearby Gurkha Memorial Museum is also worth a visit for those interested in Nepal’s military history.
• Health: The museum is fully accessible, but be mindful of long hours of standing if you have joint or muscle concerns.

10. Take a Day Trip to Rupa and Begnas Lakes

The ideal place for those seeking peace and solitude away from the hustle and bustle would be Rupa Lake and Begnas Lake in Pokhara Lekhnath. About 20 km away from Pokhara, these lakes are reachable by local bus or taxi hire. 

This is a good site for a quiet boat ride, angling, and enjoying nature’s beauty of this region.

• Things to Do in Pokhara: Boating, fishing, relaxing by the lakeside, photography.
• Best Time: Early morning for a peaceful atmosphere.
• Additional Tip: Bring some snacks and a picnic mat for a relaxing lakeside experience.
• Nearby Attraction: Explore the surrounding forests for a nature hike.
• Sustainability: Avoid using motorized boats to help preserve the calm and natural atmosphere of the lakes.

Final Thoughts

Pokhara is the ultimate destination that has something in it for everyone. One can feel the adventure, culture, or simple leisure in nature. 

From the thrilling activities of paragliding and trekking to the serene spots at Phewa Lake and the World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara offers all kinds of possibilities for natural beauty and adventure.

So pack your bags, get ready for an unforgettable journey, and enjoy the best of what Pokhara has to offer!

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