Things to do in Pokhara

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Nepal

Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal. When the weather is clear and the lake is calm, snow-capped peaks are clearly reflected in the water. In the windless early morning, the lake surface is like a mirror, which is an iconic view of Pokhara. There is also a Tal Barahi Temple on a small island in the center of the lake, which can only be reached by boat, with wooden boats carrying pilgrims and tourists constantly coming and going. The Lakeside area on the north shore is a popular tourist hub in Pokhara, where hotels, restaurants, cafes, and small shops line the streets, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere. The southwest shore is covered by dense forests, with few visitors, retaining an original and tranquil atmosphere.

Pokhara

Pokhara is located in a river valley in central Nepal, at the southern foothills of the Himalayas, approximately 200 km west of the capital, Kathmandu, and is a lakeside city nestled between mountains and water, often referred to as the tourism capital of Nepal. Located in a subtropical region, it enjoys a warm and humid climate with lush greenery all year round, and the sight of snow-capped mountains and lakes in the same frame is particularly captivating. Because the surrounding snow-capped mountains are not difficult to climb and have excellent service facilities along the routes, they have long been the starting or ending points for many famous trekking routes, and are recognized by travelers from all over the world as a trekking paradise.

Devi’s Fall Pokhara

Devi’s Fall Pokhara is also known asDevi’s Fall Pokhara. The river flows nearPhewa Lake, forming this well-known local waterfall. It is one of the larger waterfalls near Pokhara. 1. The magic of Devi’s Fall Pokhara The water flow of the waterfall is usually light, but it is very rapid; it only feels like a true waterfall during the rainy season. Its unique feature lies in the underground cave beneath it, which forms an above-ground river after passing through the cave. The cave is filled with steam year-round, and you can feel the distinct heat with your hand. The water vapor creates a spectrum of colors in the air, and rainbows are often visible. 2. The origin of the name Devi’s Fall Pokhara The name originated in 1961 when a young couple from Switzerland—the man, named David, and his beloved girlfriend—were hiking and exploring when they discovered this waterfall and were immediately captivated. At that time, there were no paths. After lingering on the ground for a while, they went down into the cave. Due to the slippery ground, David's girlfriend accidentally fell into the rapid river. Seeing this, David immediately jumped in to save her, but unfortunately, both were swallowed by the waterfall... To commemorate David and his girlfriend who lost their lives here, the waterfall was named Devi’s Fall Pokhara. Of course, it also serves as a warning to everyone to be careful.

No. 13 of Best Things to Do in Nepal

Sarangkot

Sarangkot is located in the northwest of Pokhara, 1,592 meters above sea level. It is a good viewing point for overlooking Fishtail Peak and Annapurna Peak. Many people choose to get up early to watch the sunrise, but since the snow-capped mountains are located to the east of Sarangkot, you can actually see a more beautiful view at sunset. 1. The magnificent view of "Sunshine Golden Mountain" In clear weather, the rolling snow-capped mountains will be dyed golden by the sun, and the magnificent view of "Sunshine Golden Mountain" is amazing. In addition, this is also the take-off point for many paragliding projects. When you watch Fishtail Peak from high in the air, the scenery that is within reach will be exciting, and the beautiful Phewa Lake is also in sight. 2. Suggestions for going to Sarangkot Going to Sarangkot to watch the sunrise usually requires departure at 5 a.m., please make an appointment for a chartered driver the day before. Take a bus from the Pokhara Lakeside area to the parking lot of Sarangkot. After getting off the bus, you still have to walk for about 40 minutes to reach the viewing platform on the top of the mountain, where you can see the best view of the snow-capped mountains. However, you don't have to climb to the top of the mountain to watch the sunrise. There are many good hotels and restaurants along the path along the ridge from the parking lot. Almost every one of them has a good viewing platform. You can order a cup of hot drink and sit down to wait for the sunrise. 3. Experience Sarangkot paragliding If you want to experience Sarangkot paragliding, you can find several paragliding companies in the lakeside area. They will be responsible for the round-trip transportation to Sarangkot. Paragliding activities are usually only carried out in fine weather from October to April of the following year.

Peace pagoda ( Japanese Gumba)

The Peace Pagoda is a white pagoda standing on the ridge of the southern shore of Phewa Lake. Four gilded Buddha statues are enshrined on each of the four sides, representing the Buddhist culture of different countries. The pagoda is located on Mount Anadu, about 1,100 meters above sea level, and is one of the viewpoints overlooking the panoramic view of Pokhara. From here, you can see the blue waves of Phewa Lake, the red-roofed houses in the city of Pokhara, and the Annapurna Peak and Fishtail Peak in the Himalayas. Especially at sunrise and sunset, the snow-capped mountains and the sunset glow complement each other, and the scenery is stunning. Tourists usually take a ferry from Phewa Lake to the foot of the mountain, and then hike for an hour to the top. Along the way, they can enjoy the natural ecology of terraced fields and mountain birds. As a landmark building in Pokhara, the Peace Pagoda is not only a Buddhist holy place, but also attracts travelers who pursue spiritual tranquility. The pagoda carries the wish for world peace and has become one of the spiritual symbols of Nepal's "Oriental Switzerland".

Shree Bindhyabasini Temple

The Bindu Bashini Temple is a small comprehensive temple located on top of a small hill on the north side of the Old Market. In the main hall of the temple are enshrined the combative Durga, Vishnu, the god of prosperity, and the god of Krishna, who is especially worshipped by women. This is an earlier temple with Durga as the object of belief.

World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara

Hotel pumdikot Shiva statue

International Mountain Museum

The International Mountain Museum has a wealth of geological specimens, which collect information on mountaineering, geology, animals and plants, ethnic groups, and the environment. There are also a wealth of geological specimens in the museum, and this unique museum also has a library where you can learn about other mountainous countries besides Nepal.

Mahendra Cave

This attraction is a cave hidden on a street lined with souvenir stalls. The cave is shallow, and at the end there is a small temple. Deeper inside, you can also see some stalactites. It's a must-see attraction in the area.