Pokhara: lakes, paragliding and the gateway to the Annapurnas

Why go

Few places put you so close to big mountains with so little effort. From Pokhara the Annapurnas are only a few dozen kilometres away, and the drop from subtropical lake to snow peaks is one of the steepest on Earth. The town itself is relaxed and walkable, with lake boats, bakeries, yoga studios and gear shops, and a good range of stays for every budget.

What to see and do

**Phewa Lake** is the heart of Pokhara. Hire a colourful wooden boat and paddle to **Tal Barahi**, the small temple on an island, or across to the forested shore to hike up to the **World Peace Pagoda**, a white stupa with views of the lake and mountains.

**Sarangkot** is the classic sunrise viewpoint, a short drive above town. Arrive before dawn to watch the first light hit Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. It is also the main launch site for **paragliding**, one of the best places in the world to try a tandem flight, with views of the peaks as you circle down to the lake.

The **International Mountain Museum** explains the Himalaya, its peoples and the history of climbing. **Davis Falls** and the **Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave** across the road make an easy half day, and the **Bat Cave** and **Mahendra Cave** north of town are fun for children. The **Seti River Gorge** is so narrow and deep the water vanishes in places. Begnas and Rupa lakes, east of town, are quieter alternatives to Phewa.

Adventure options include white water rafting on the Seti and Kali Gandaki, zip lining, ultralight flights and mountain biking. Check that operators are licensed and that safety gear is in good condition.

Short treks from Pokhara

The **Poon Hill** trek, usually four or five days via Ghorepani, gives a famous sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. **Australian Camp** and **Dhampus** make an easy overnight. The **Mardi Himal** trek and **Annapurna Base Camp** are longer. Check current guide and permit rules before you set out; see our Annapurna Region guide.

Where to stay

Most visitors stay in **Lakeside**, with everything in walking distance. **Damside**, at the southern end, is quieter. For views and peace, there are hillside lodges in Sarangkot and around Begnas Lake.

Food and evenings

Lakeside is full of cafés serving everything from dal bhat and momos to wood fired pizza and Thakali sets. Evenings are low key: live music bars, lakeside dinners and early nights before sunrise trips.

Getting there

Flights from Kathmandu take about half an hour and give mountain views on the right side heading west. Tourist buses take most of a day on a winding, busy highway. Flights can be delayed or cancelled by cloud, so allow flexibility.

Practical tips

Carry cash, as only larger places take cards, and arrange your trekking permits through a registered agency before you head into the hills. Mornings are clearest, so plan viewpoints early and keep afternoons for the lake. On rainy days, the museums, cafés and yoga studios of Lakeside keep everyone busy.