Pokhara Travel Guide
Pokhara's spellbinding beauty has been the subject of many travel writers. Its pristine air, the spectacular backdrop of the snowy peaks of the Annapurna Range and the serene Phewa, Begnas and Rupa Lakes, makes this destination 'the Jewel of the Himalaya'.
Situated amongst lakes at the northern end of the Pokhara valley and at the foot of the Annapurna Mountain Range which contains 3 of the world’s 10 tallest mountains, Pokhara is truly a scenic and happening tourist spot. It is Nepal’s second largest city and is a major spot for tourists that come to experience its many varied attractions.
Pokhara is very popular among trekkers and others who visit here for participating in adventure sports such as paragliding, mountain biking, canoeing and skiing. For those inclined towards a more spiritual experience, there are several Temples and Buddhist Gompas that are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. These sites such as the Tal Barahi Temple and World Peace Pagoda attract their own share of pilgrims and visitors who come from all over the world.
The presence of lakes such as the Phewa Lake and Begnas Lake along with the scenic mountain ranges always make for splendid views that would be welcomed as breathtaking and memorable sights by any and all. Additionally, Pokhara has all the amenities expected from a place that’s regularly visited by tourists offering options and things to do for people at all ends of the budget spectrum.
Must Know Facts
Pokhara served as its regional and zonal headquarter. It was also the birthplace of Bhanubhakta Acharya, first poet of Nepal. The Gandaki Zone was home to multiple cultures which are unique in themselves.
Pokhara Sub-Metropolitan City is a city of close to 200,000 inhabitants in central Nepal located at 28.25°N, 83.99°E, 198 km west of Kathmandu. It is the third largest city of Nepal after Kathmandu and Biratnagar. It is the Headquarters of Kaski District, Gandaki Zone and the Western Development Region.
March, April, May, September, October, and November are the best months to visit Pokhara. Pokhara is the tourist transit hub of Manang, Mustang and Annapurna region. The city offers an average of cool weather during these months.
There is no any snowfall place in either Pokhara or Kathmandu. You have to go to slightly high altitudes than these towns to experience snowfall in Nepal.
Religions practiced in Pokhara are: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism, Bon, ancestor worship and animism. The majority of Nepalis are either Hindus or Buddhists and these two religions have co-existed in harmony through centuries. Buddha is widely worshipped by both Buddhists and Hindus of Nepal.
Gurungs are hard working mongolian hill people inhabiting southern part of Annapurna region in between 5,000 to 7,000 feet. Their main villages around Pokhara include Ghandruk, Dhampus, Ghachok, Armala, Tanting, Chhomorng and Sikles. Gurung people are considered honest, brave and laborious. Most of the Gurungs prefer to join the British and Indian army.
They have their own language and their cultural practices are still existing. The Gurungs live in small round, oval or rectangular houses which are clustered to form a single village. The upper section of their house is white washed and the lower part is red plastered.
Pokhara is the second most visited city in Nepal, as well as one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is famous for its tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful surrounding countryside.
Pokhara is rich in cultural diversity. The population of the valley comprises Brahmins, Kshetris, Newars, Gurung, Magar, Thakalis and other occupational castes like Damai (tailor), Kami (blacksmith), Sunar (goldsmith) and Pode (sweeper). There is a small Muslim community as well.
There is an extensive and privately run public transport system operating throughout the city and also connecting it to the surrounding areas.
Nepal enjoys winter season during December-February. The temperature reaches almost the freezing point during these months, while hilly regions experience rough weather and heavy snowfall. Locally, seasons in Nepal is also categorized into 6 divides.
Boating in Phewa Taal, Witness Sunrise at Sarangkot, Visit Devi’s Fall, Marvel at Shanti Stupa, Seek blessings at Bindhyabasini Temple, River Rafting, Check Out the International Mountain Museum, Pray at Barahi Temple, Explore Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, and many more.
Home to numerous thrilling adventures and entertainment options, a visit to this quaint town will ensure that you will never run out of things to do in Pokhara. Famous for Himalayan expeditions , this small town is dotted with various hidden wonders, which provide the tourists with much required thrill and places to explore. Be it boating in the midst of serenity or just chilling at some local cafes, you will be loaded with a plethora of activity options here.
>One can enjoy the blend of peaceful and adventurous activities in Pokhara Nepal. From taking a stroll along the shores of Phewa Lake to scaling the 8,000-meter high Annpurna range, there are many things to do in Pokhara for tourists. You can also witness the mesmerizing sunrise at Sarangkot and indulge in local shopping at the Tibetan market. Above all, one thing is for sure that a visit here will be loaded with lots of fun and enjoyable activities.
Hotels in Pokhara
Ramada Encore Kathmandu
- Air Conditioned
- Bathroom
- Breakfast
- Elevator in building
- Free Parking
Bar Peepal Resort
- Air Conditioned
- Bathroom
- Breakfast
- Elevator in building
- Free Parking
Kathmandu Guest House
- Air Conditioned
- Bathroom
- Breakfast
- Elevator in building
- Free Parking
Dwarika’s Hotel Kathmandu
- Air Conditioned
- Bathroom
- Breakfast
- Free Parking
- Free Wi Fi