Pokhara
A lakeside city with stunning mountain views.
About Pokhara
Pokhara is Nepal's second-largest city and a major tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty. The city offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, with the majestic Annapurna range as its backdrop.
Set on the shores of Phewa Lake at around 820 metres, Pokhara is Nepal's adventure capital and the launch point for treks into the Annapurna region. Unlike the urban bustle of Kathmandu, the city moves at a slower, lakeside pace — wooden boats drift across the water, cafes line the Lakeside (Baidam) strip, and on a clear morning the snow peaks of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna massif reflect on the lake's surface.
The city is far more than a trekking base. Adventure seekers come for some of the best commercial paragliding in the world, launching from Sarangkot and soaring above the valley with the Himalayas as a backdrop. Others raft the nearby rivers, fly microlights, zip-line, or explore the limestone caves and waterfalls scattered around the valley. For those who prefer a gentler pace, Pokhara rewards visitors with quiet boat rides, lakeside yoga, and easy day hikes to viewpoints and monasteries.
Pokhara also serves as the trailhead for the legendary Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks, as well as shorter routes like Poon Hill. Permits, gear shops and experienced guides are all readily available in town, making it the natural place to organise a Himalayan trek before heading into the mountains.
Getting There
Pokhara lies about 200 km west of Kathmandu. The quickest option is a 25-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara International Airport. Overland, tourist buses take 6–8 hours along the Prithvi Highway, while private cars and shared jeeps offer more flexibility. The newer Pokhara airport also handles select regional international flights.
Travel Tips
- Visit between October–November or March–April for the clearest mountain views and stable weather.
- Book paragliding flights for early morning, when thermals and visibility are best.
- Stay in the Lakeside (Baidam) area for the best access to restaurants, gear shops and the lake.
- Arrange Annapurna trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS) in Pokhara before setting off.
- Wake early for the Sarangkot sunrise — the Annapurna range lighting up at dawn is the city's signature view.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Pokhara?
Two to three days is enough to enjoy the lake, paragliding and key viewpoints. Allow more time if you plan to trek into the Annapurna region from here.
Is Pokhara good for non-trekkers?
Yes. Pokhara offers boating, paragliding, caves, waterfalls, lakeside cafes and easy day hikes, so it suits relaxed travellers as well as adventurers.
What is the best time to visit Pokhara?
October to November and March to April bring the clearest skies and the best Himalayan views. The monsoon (June–September) often clouds the mountains.
Highlights
Phewa Lake
World Peace Pagoda
Sarangkot Viewpoint
Devi's Fall
Gupteshwor Cave
Activities
Paragliding
Boating on Phewa Lake
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp
Mountain biking
Zip-lining
Travel Information
Location
Gandaki Province, Western Nepal
Best Time to Visit
October to November and March to April
Where is Pokhara?
Pokhara is located in Gandaki Province, Western Nepal.
