Pokhara is a attractive city located in central Nepal. This is also known as a gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, one of the famous trail in the Himalayas. It is the second-largest city in terms of population after the capital, Kathmandu. Pokhara is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range and situated next to Phewa Lake. City main highlight is it’s lake, boating paradise, charming shops, restaurants, café, and pubs which makes it best place to visit in Nepal.
Pokhara Valley History:
Place has a rich history from ancient times but not well documented, the region has been inhabited for centuries. Pokhara valley and its surrounded area has rich history and according to some of Archaeological region was major route for trade between India, China & Tibet.
Pokhara was majorly ruled by the Kaski Kingdom during medieval period. Kashi Kingdom played an important role in terms of politics and trade of the region. King Prithvi Narayan Shah the founder of modern Nepal started so many to unify the small principalities into a single nation in 18th century.
Region evolved from small town to more a significant settlement over the years. Nature beauty and its strategic location contributed the growth of Pokhara and Nepal. The town was resting place for traders and travelers on the route to Mustang and beyond.
In the mid of 20th century, Pokhara emerged as a international tourist point and the gateway to the Annapurna region. Tourism industry rapidly grown in Pokhara post construction of airport which gives a easy access to world visitors and experience the beauty and adventure of Nepal most tourist destination.
People who has interest in adventure activities such as river rafting, paragliding, Pokhara is perfect destination. City is also popular for commercial point of view along with tourist destination.
Some of the best places to visit in Pokhara:
Pokhara is full of best places to visit such as Begnas Lake, Phewa Lake, Devi’s Fall, Mahendra cave, Tal Barahi, Rupa Taal, International Mountain Museum, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Seti River Gorge , Chamere Gufa, Bindhyabasini temple, Gorka Memorial Museum Matepani Gumba and so many.
1.Phewa Lake: The Beautiful Lake in Pokhara, Nepal
Phewa Lake is one of the biggest lake in Pokhara Nepal which also popular with the name Fewa Lake. Place is famous for domestic and international tourists and tourist can experience sail, swim and fist on the lake. Visitors can see awesome view of mountain from lake and can see the shadow of mountain on the surface of the lake. Lake is surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range and the Machapuchare (Fishtail) peak.
This is located in the south of the Pokhara valley and 2nd largest lake in Nepal. The lake is fed by the Seti River. Lake is famous for boating like rowboats paddleboats, and canoes to explore the serene waters. Visitors can experience awesome view of lake, surrounding mountains and the picturesque landscapes.
This lake was formed around 13000 BC according to several research and examination and nearby city Pokhara formed later in the medieval region. You can also experience the activities like daily yoga, Reiki, and massages beside the lake side road.
Visiting Time: Monday to Sunday (Day time).
2. Begnas Lake:
Begnas Lake is freshwater lake in Pokhara valley in Nepal. It is one of the seven prominent lakes in the Pokhara region and is the third-largest lake among them. Lake is situated 15 kilometers southeast of the city of Pokhara and it’s easy accessible by road.
Lake is large in size wise and it’s spread in around 3.73 square kilometers. Place is popular for tranquility and natural beauty and surrounded by lush green hills and offers a serene and picturesque environment. Visitors can enjoy boating in Begnas Lake and peaceful atmosphere.
There are resorts and lodges around the lake that offer accommodation options, making it possible for visitors to stay and fully experience the natural beauty of the area. The surrounding areas are inhabited by various ethnic communities, and you may get a glimpse of the local culture and traditions.
Location: 11 Lekhnath, Pokhara 33411 Nepal
Visiting Time: Monday to Sunday(Day time)
3.Devi’s Fall
Devi’s Fall is also known as Patale Chango, is a amazing waterfall located in Pokhara, Nepal. Fall is situated about 2 kilometers southwest of Pokhara Airport in the Pokhara Valley. This is one of best place to visit in Pokhara if you are a waterfall lover.
The waterfall is named after a tragic incident. According to local legend, a Swiss women named Devi was swept away by the stream and disappeared into an underground passage beneath the fall. Hence, the name Devi’s Fall.
Devi’s fall is surrounded by abundant flora and it creates around 500 feet tunnel underground. Visitors can easily reach by road and it’s popular stop for tourists visiting Pokhara.
Location: Siddhartha Highway, Pokhara 33700 Nepal.
Best Time to Visit: Monday to Sunday (6:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
4. Shree Bindhyabasini Temple-Oldest Temple in Pokhara
Shree Bindhyabasini Temple is a famous Hindu sacred temple and located in Pokhara valley of Nepal. Temple is situated on a small hill near the old bazaar of Pokhara, which is also known as Bagar. The Temple complex is small but discriminative. The temple was built in 1842 B.C during the regime of king of Kaski, Siddhi Narayan Malla or the king of Parbat, Khadgaman Malla dreamt about establishing a temple for the goddess.
Temple is dedicated to Hindi Goddess Bindhyabasini, who is considered to be a form of Goddess Durga. The goddess is worshipped as a guardian deity by the local people.Place is good for scenery and photography.
Location: Pokhara-Baglung Highway, Pokhara, 33700 Nepal.
5. Mahendra Cave
Mahendra Cave is one of another top attraction in Pokhara Nepal. It is a large limestone cave named after the late King Mahendra of Nepal and located in the northern part of Pokhara, near the Bat Cave. The cave is a fascinating natural formation with stalactites and stalagmites, and it offers an interesting underground experience for visitors.
Exploring the cave allows tourists to witness unique rock formations and get a sense of the geological features of the region. This is about 1100 meters above the sea level.
Place is featured with both natural and artificial lighting to make it accessible for tourists. Visitors can be found a statue of lord Shiva inside the Mahendra cave. Cave was discovered in 1950’s by shepherds in Pokhara. People used to call earlier with name of ‘Adhero Bhawan’ which means Dark Habitat.
The place is full of greenery where Mahendra Cave lies. Visitors can observe mules and horses in this area frequently. Kumari Cave and the Bat Cave are nearby only and you can cover easily if you visit Mahendera cave.
Location: 7XCH+MR6, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
Visiting Time: Monday to Sunday (6 AM to 6 PM)
6. Sarangkot- An Adventure Village of Pokhara
Sarangkot is a village in Pokhara and famous for awesome view of sunset and sunrise of Annapurna and the take-off site for paragliding. Located on the Sarangkot Mountain. Place is 1600 metres high on sea level and perfect place to capture the great view of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, the Manaslu Mountain Ranges and the valley of Pokhara.
Visitors can also go for trekking & paragliding here and place is around 5 km away from lakeside Pokhara. This is one of the world fastest Zipline. Many adventure seekers come to Sarangkot to experience the thrill of flying over the picturesque landscapes.
It’s not just about adventure; the hill station also provides a peaceful retreat, and there are small villages around where you can experience the local culture.
Location: Sarangkot, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
7. Seti River Gorge
The Seti River Gorge is one of the remarkable natural feature in the Pokhara Valley of Nepal.The River, which flows through the valley, has carved a deep gorge that showcases the power of nature .The colour of river water is milky white and greenish which gives a beautiful view of valley.
The Seti River itself originates from the snowmelt of the Annapurna and Fishtail mountain areas. It has carved a deep gorge into the landscape, as it flows through the Pokhara Valley. This River particularly known for its depth and beautiful view.
There are so many viewpoints along the gorge where visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery. Water gives a stunning visual effect which attracts to visitors to come here.
Location: Lamachaur Rd, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
8. International Mountain Museum
The International Mountain Museum is a prominent attraction located in Pokhara, Nepal. Dedicated to showcasing the various aspects of the world’s mountain regions, it serves as an educational and informative destination for visitors interested in mountain culture, geography, and mountaineering history.
The International Mountain Museum has stunning collection of stories and photographs of the mountains, artefacts, original gears, their inhabitants’ and the explorers who climbed some of the highest peaks in the world.
Visitors can see 14 highest peaks in the world which is featured in the museum, including Mount Everest, and provides insights into the lives of the people who inhabit mountainous regions.
One of the highlights of the International Mountain Museum is its focus on the history of mountaineering. It pays tribute to the achievements of famous mountaineers, the challenges they faced, and the equipment they used. The museum also addresses the environmental and conservation issues related to mountain regions.
The location of the museum, surrounded by the stunning Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges, which adds to the overall experience. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of these majestic peaks from the museum premises.
Location: 5XQM+X4P, Ratopairo, Pokhara 33700, Nepal
Pokhara is a completed tourist destinations and full of sight attractions. Visitors can plan their trip and will be one of the memorable experience specially who has interest in adventure related activities such as trekking, boating, water rafting, waterfalls and nature experience.
How to reach Pokhara:
Reaching the place depends on your starting point. Pokhara is well connected by air and road. Visitors can plan according to their starting point.
By Air:
Fly to Pokhara Airport: Pokhara has its own airport, Pokhara Airport (PKR). You can fly directly from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu to Pokhara. The flight offers scenic views of the Himalayas.
By Road:
Bus & Private Vehicle or Jeep:
There are regular tourist and local buses that operate between Kathmandu and Pokhara. The journey takes around 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions. You can also hire a private vehicle, such as a car or taxi, for a more comfortable and quicker journey.
You can take a bus or a shared jeep from Chitwan to Pokhara. The journey time varies based on the mode of transportation.
Resorts & Hotel in Pokhara:
Pokhara is one of the popular destination in Nepal and place is full of wide range of hotels and resorts according to budgets and preferences. Here is list some of the famous resorts and hotels.
- Shangri-La Village Resort
- The Fulbari Resort & Spa
- Temple Tree Resort & Spa
- Hotel Barahi
- Atithi Resort & Spa
- Hotel Glacier Pokhara
- The Pavilions Himalayas Lake View