
Things to do in Pokhara

Pokhara is the paradise of Nepal and the second most popular tourist area after Kathmandu. This city sits right in the lap of the stunning Himalayas, offering a unique charm and tranquility. The magnificent Himalayas, exotic locations, serene lakes, and temples make Pokhara hard to resist. Famous recreational activities, adventures, sports, and trekking routes in the Annapurna Region make it the most favored city.
Sightseeing / Tour
During your stay in Pokhara, you can immerse yourself in various adventures. Pokhara offers a unique blend of culture, tradition, and lifestyle through sightseeing. You can visit different lakes, caves, waterfalls, and temples, such as Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Rupa Lake, Tal Barahi Temple, Bindabasini Temple, Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple, Gupteshwor Cave, World Peace Pagoda, and Devi’s Falls. The city offers glimpses of mountains, including the Annapurna Range, Fishtail Mountain, and many more.
Sightseeing in Pokhara is an excellent way to learn about the local culture and people. Consider hiring an experienced tour guide to get insights and history behind these places.
Visit Museums
For those interested in history, art, and culture, Pokhara offers several museums:
- Pokhara Regional Museum: This museum preserves mosaics of western Nepal, reflecting the region's lifestyle and history.
- Annapurna Museum: Also known as the Natural History Museum, it features a collection of butterflies, insects, birds, and models of wildlife. It also houses precious stones and volcanic rocks.
- International Mountain Museum: Dedicated to showcasing information about mountains and mountaineers worldwide, this museum is a perfect place for mountaineers.
- Gorkha Memorial Museum: This museum provides information about the brave Gurkha soldiers, their history, and various aspects of their lives.
Hiking
Most trekking routes in the Annapurna Region start from Pokhara, but you can also opt for shorter hikes. Popular hiking destinations include Dhampus, Sarangkot, and Kahun Danda. These hikes offer spectacular views of the mountains and typical Nepali villages, showcasing the local lifestyle.
Sunrise/Sunset & Mountain View
Sunrise and sunset views from Sarangkot are famous among tourists. Rise early to experience the sunrise over the Annapurna Range, Manaslu Range, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Mountain. These breathtaking views are a true testament to nature's beauty.
Paragliding
Paragliding is popular in Pokhara, offering panoramic views of the city, valleys, mountains, green hills, and lakes from above. The experience is enhanced by the sight of the Annapurna range. A recent addition to paragliding in Pokhara is Para-Hawking, where you can fly alongside hawks.
Zip Flyer / Zip Line
Pokhara offers an exhilarating Zip Flyer experience. The zip line starts at a height of 1,625 meters in Sarangkot and ends at 960 meters in Hemmja. It's the world's steepest, tallest, and fastest zip line, with a total distance of 1.80 KM (1.12 miles) and a vertical drop of 610 meters, reaching speeds of up to 120 km/hour.
Bungee Jumping
Bungee Jumping in Pokhara was introduced in September 2014. Jumpers experience a thrilling fall from a height of 80 meters into an artificial pond. Photos and videos of the jump are available for purchase.
Ultra-light Flight
Ultra-light flights offer a unique adventure, allowing you to soar above Pokhara city like a bird. The views of the beautiful landscape, hills, lakes, and peaks are breathtaking. The two-seated light aircraft has no windows, allowing you to feel the fresh air. You can book this experience through Sunrise Adventure Trek.
Mountain Biking/Cycling
Mountain biking in Pokhara is a must-try adventure. The lush green hills, remarkable villages, and serene surroundings make for an unforgettable experience. Bikes are available for rent on an hourly or daily basis. You may also join a group for a discounted rate.
Boating
Boating is a popular activity in Pokhara. Both locals and tourists enjoy rowing on Phewa Lake to the famous Tal Barahi Temple, located in the middle of the lake. You can also boat on Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake, located about 15 km away. Boats are available for rent, with options for pedal-driven, sail, or rowboats.
Trekking
Pokhara is a hub for trekkers, offering famous routes like Annapurna Base Camp and shorter treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking, Dhampus Trekking, Ghandruk Trekking, and Sarangkot Hiking. These treks offer views of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, Manaslu, and more.
Ranging from one-day hikes to multi-day treks, Pokhara has options for every trekker. Consider hiring experienced guides and porters for a safe and enjoyable journey.