Pokhara is in western Nepal. It is a popular destination for tourists, trekkers, and Peace Corps volunteers too. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains, including the Annapurna range. Pokhara is home to several lakes, temples, and cultural sites. Pokhara has something to offer everyone. In this article, we will highlight 9 must-see sights and activities in Pokhara that you won’t want to miss.
Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake is a large lake located in the center of Pokhara. It has some stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. This lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing, and it is also a popular spot for photography. Visitors can take a boat ride across the lake to reach the Tal Barahi Temple. It is a small temple located on an island in the middle of the lake and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi.
Sarangkot
Sarangkot is a hilltop viewpoint located on the outskirts of Pokhara. Visitors can hike to the top of Sarangkot for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. You can even see Machhapuchhre with its famous fishtail peak.
International Mountain Museum
The International Mountain Museum is dedicated to the culture and history of mountaineering in Nepal. It features exhibits on the history of climbing in the Himalayas. The museum also showcases the culture of the Sherpa people living in the Himalayas.
Begnas Lake
Begnas Lake is a peaceful and less crowded alternative to Phewa Lake. It is about 13 km southeast of Pokhara. Visitors can take a boat ride or go fishing on the lake and explore the surrounding area by bike or on foot. The lake also offers beautiful views of the Himalayas and is a great spot for birdwatching.
Peace Pagoda
The Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa. It was built to promote peace and understanding among different cultures. This stupa is also known as Shanti Stupa and it is on a hilltop, offering views of the Pokhara valley. Visitors can climb to the top of the stupa to get a panoramic view of the surrounding area. They can also learn about the teachings of Buddhism.
Davis Falls
Davis Falls (also known as Devi’s Falls) is a waterfall formed by the Pardi Khola stream, located about 2 km southwest of Pokhara. The waterfall is also known in Nepali as Patale Chhango and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the cave behind the waterfall, which some say is the home of the serpent god.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a limestone cave containing a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The cave is about 3 km southwest of Pokhara and is a popular spot for pilgrimage. Visitors can explore the cave and see the underground waterfall.
Seti Gorge
Seti Gorge is a narrow and deep gorge carved by the Seti River, located about 2 km northwest of Pokhara. The gorge offers a unique perspective on the geology of the area. Visitors can walk along the bank of the river and see the beautiful rock formations.
Tal Barahi Temple
Tal Barahi Temple is a small temple located on an island in Phewa Lake. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi. The temple is a popular spot for pilgrimage. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island to visit the temple and offer prayers. The temple is also a popular spot for taking pictures. It offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding area.
Any Festival in Pokhara
Pokhara is home to several festivals throughout the year. A popular festival is the annual Pokhara Street Festival. It celebrates the culture and traditions of Pokhara through music, dance, and food. The Rara Festival is another famous festival in Pokhara. It offers visitors a chance to experience the local culture, food, and traditions.
Conclusion:
Pokhara is an incredible destination with a lot of activities and sights to see. Be sure to add these 11 must-see sights and activities to your itinerary when visiting Pokhara. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, Pokhara is sure to be a trip you’ll never forget.
Other Resources:
- Apex Nepal Treks & Tours – Sightseeing in Pokhara
- Lonely Planet: Asia – Nepal – Pokhara
- TripAdvisor.com – Things to Do in Pokhara
- Wikipedia.org – Pokhara, Nepal
Photo Credits:
Feature Photo by sippakorn yamkasikorn on Unsplash