Warming up the yaks…
Warming up the yaks…
Warming up the yaks…






The tourism capital of Nepal
Nepal's tourism capital for lakes, mountains, adventure, food, hotels, and unforgettable Himalayan views.
Why Pokhara
Set beside Phewa Lake under the Annapurna range, Pokhara pairs lakeside calm with big Himalayan views and easy adventure. It's the gateway to the Annapurna treks and an unhurried base for families, couples, students, solo travellers and trekkers alike.
Explore
Lakes, viewpoints, temples and easy day trips.
LakeA calm row across the lake with mountain reflections and the island temple.
TempleThe island shrine at the heart of Phewa Lake, reached by short boat.
LakeCafes, shops and lake views along Pokhara's easy waterfront promenade.
ViewpointDawn over the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre from the classic ridge.
Adventure
ViewpointA white stupa above the lake with sweeping valley and mountain views.
A giant hilltop Shiva statue with panoramic Pokhara vistas.
NatureA striking waterfall that vanishes into an underground channel.
NatureA sacred limestone cave beside Davis Falls with a hidden shrine.
Nepal's climbing and Himalayan heritage under one roof.
Quieter than Phewa, greener surroundings and gentle boating.
Slow mornings and lake-view dining along the tourist strip.
Adrenaline
Fly, glide and leap over the valley with licensed operators.
Tandem glide from Sarangkot over Phewa Lake with a licensed pilot.
20–40 min · Sep–Nov best
One of the world's steepest ziplines down the Sarangkot hillside.
Year-round · clear days
Open-cockpit scenic flight along the Annapurna range.
15–60 min · Oct–Apr
Water-touch bungee over the Pokhara valley (operator-run).
Year-round
On foot
From half-day viewpoints to the classic Annapurna routes.



Stay
Lakeside boutiques to backpacker bunks.

Baidam, Lakeside
$40–90 / night
Lakeside
$8–20 / night
Hallan Chowk
$15–35 / night
Sarangkot
$60–140 / night
Lakeside / Damside
$50–120 / night
Taste
Where to eat, drink and watch the sun set.
Slow coffees and breakfasts with a lake outlook.
Hearty mountain thali from the Annapurna region.
Sunset dining above the tourist strip.
Local and touring bands most evenings in season.
Waterfront tables for a calm evening meal.
Get there
Flights, buses and getting around Lakeside.
Kathmandu to Pokhara is a scenic 25–30 min hop. Pokhara International Airport also handles select regional flights.
Tourist buses and private vehicles take roughly 6–8+ hours depending on traffic, road works and weather.
Local taxis and scooter rentals cover Lakeside easily; the airport is a short drive from Lakeside.
Plan
Pick a rhythm and shape it to your trip.
Sarangkot sunrise, a lake boat to Tal Barahi, and a Lakeside evening.
Add the Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls and a paragliding flight.
Include Begnas Lake, the Mountain Museum and a short hike.
Paragliding, zipline and an ultralight flight over the range.
Two lake days plus an overnight to Australian Camp or Dhampus.
When to go
Sep–Nov
Clearest skies and best mountain views. Peak season.
Mar–May
Warm, green and good for adventure; some afternoon haze.
Dec–Feb
Cool, quiet and crisp mornings; pack warm layers.
Jun–Aug
Monsoon: lush and cheap, but flights and views vary.
Good to know
Check the weather before booking adventure activities.
Use licensed, well-reviewed operators for flights and water sports.
Carry some cash for smaller cafes and shops.
Dress modestly and remove shoes at temples.
Confirm airport and taxi timings the day before.
Avoid swimming in unmarked or unsafe lake areas.
Save places and build a trip that fits your days and budget.