Things To Do
in Pokhara

Pokhara, Nepal is a stunning lakeside city known for its breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range. It serves as a gateway for trekkers heading into the Himalayas and offers a plethora of outdoor activities. With its serene lakes, vibrant culture, and adventure sports, Pokhara attracts tourists from around the globe.

The blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination in Nepal.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Lakes and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake, enjoying the stunning reflections of the mountains in the water.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the lake, then explore the International Mountain Museum to learn about the region’s climbing history.

evening
:

Stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoy local street food, and watch the sunset over the mountains.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Embark on a paragliding adventure from Sarangkot, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and the city below.

afternoon
:

After paragliding, visit the World Peace Pagoda for a short hike and more spectacular views of Pokhara.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, followed by a visit to a local bar for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3
🏨Budget hotel per night$15
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🍺Beer$2
🚕Taxi ride within the city$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery with easy access to the Himalayas.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Wide range of outdoor activities and adventures.
  • Crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Infrastructure can be lacking in some areas.
  • Monsoon season can hinder travel plans.
  • "धन्यवाद (Dhanyabad)" - Thank you
  • "कसरी हुनुहुन्छ? (Kasari hunuhunchha?)" - How are you?
  • "सुरक्षित रहनुहोस् (Surakshit rahanu hos)" - Stay safe
  • "मलाई यो मनपर्छ (Malai yo manparcha)" - I like this
  • "कृपया (Kripaya)" - Please

Places to Visit in Pokhara

Visit one of these nice places.

Sarangkot

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sunrise over the Annapurna range.

Phewa Lake

The serene lake is perfect for capturing reflections of the mountains and vibrant sunsets.

World Peace Pagoda

A stunning stupa providing sweeping views of the Pokhara valley and the lake.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pokhara

Pokhara offers a unique culinary experience with a mix of traditional Nepali flavors and international cuisine. Whether you're dining in a restaurant or sampling street food, there are plenty of delicious options to explore.

Pokhara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dal Bhat

A traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal) served with rice (bhat) and various accompaniments.

Must-Try!

Momo

Nepali dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Thukpa

A noodle soup originating from Tibet, usually containing meat and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lakeside Street Food Stalls

A variety of stalls offering local snacks like momos and samosas, perfect for a quick bite.

Pokhara Food Festival

An annual event where local vendors showcase their best dishes, usually held in the summer.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pokhara has a mild climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are pleasant, with moderate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Summers can be hot and humid, while winters see temperatures drop to around 5°C (41°F) at night. Rainfall is concentrated during the monsoon season from June to August, with heavy showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Local Customs

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people.

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes before entering homes and some temples.

Use the Right Hand

Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall, Pokhara is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to take common safety precautions, such as safeguarding valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Also, ensure to stay informed about weather conditions if engaging in outdoor activities.

Tipping in Pokhara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; ATMs are available, but credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Mild temperatures and blooming rhododendrons make it a great time for trekking.

Monsoon (June to August)

Expect heavy rainfall; some trails may be muddy and slippery.

Autumn (September to November)

Clear skies and mild temperatures provide excellent trekking conditions.

Winter (December to February)

Cool temperatures, but still a good time for sightseeing; some trekking routes may be snow-covered.

Nightlife Guide

Pokhara at Night

Pokhara has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs along the lakeside. Live music, cultural shows, and dance clubs can be found in abundance. Popular spots like Busy Bee and The Clubhouse offer a lively atmosphere and a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Pokhara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ghorepani Poon Hill

A popular trekking route that provides stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna range.

Dhampus

A short trek from Pokhara, offering a glimpse into local village life and breathtaking mountain views.

Airports

How to reach Pokhara by plane.

Pokhara Airport (PKR)

Located just a few kilometers from the city center, it offers domestic flights primarily to Kathmandu and is an important gateway for tourists.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pokhara is quite walkable, especially around the lakeside area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate on foot, but it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes due to the occasional uneven paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Gurung Community

One of the prominent ethnic groups in the region, known for their rich traditions and hospitality.

Brahmin Community

Another significant group in Pokhara, often engaged in various professions and known for their cultural contributions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport among locals, with many playing in parks and fields.

Cricket

Cricket is widely played and followed in Pokhara, reflecting the national passion for the game.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pokhara is relatively light compared to larger cities. The main roads are well-maintained, but during peak hours, congestion can occur. Public transportation options include local buses, taxis, and cycle rickshaws, making it easy to get around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pokhara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Options may be limited; inquire about rice-based dishes and avoid bread.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Pokhara are adequate for basic medical needs, with several hospitals and clinics available. However, for serious conditions, it is recommended to travel to Kathmandu for advanced treatment. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Discover Nepal

Read more in our Nepal 2025 Travel Guide.

Nepal Travel Guide