A good book on Pokhara Valley
by Saagar
The book "Pokhara: A Valley in the Himalayas" Nabin Publications, author Prakash A. Raj, 1993, is a very good introduction to activities, geography and society in the Pokhara Valley. About 70 pages it has the contents of a guidebook but as written by a local it goes beyond the minimalist info of a busy travel author. A good book that I regularly consult while in Nepal. At only 150 Rs this is good value for your money.
Pokhara Airport
by Saagar
Pokhara airport is small and quite efficient. It has easy access from Lakeside and downtown (10 minutes), you pass two ticket/access checks prior to be let into the check-in counters. Easy to see/ask if your flight is ready to check in/delays etc. If seriously delayed, check in, security check your luggage and go upstairs to the rooftop cafe. Expensive prices for Nepal, but hey, a good way of waiting over a lemon soda or beer and snacks. When you see your plane is landing, proceed to security check and enter the departure hall. A bit confusing regarding what airline is departing, and lots of people pushing to get on what they think may be their flight, but it will sort itself out. It is a good idea to call your airline before your flight to find out if it is worth leaving the hotel or not!
Phewa Tal Lake.
by euzkadi
The main feature of the city is this beautiful lake, located westwards from Phokara city. This lake is the second largest in Nepal, covers an area of 4.4 square kms with an average depth of 7.6 mts. The city area of Lakeside is on the shores of the lake, lots of hotels, restaurants, bars and shops to choose from. The lake is famous for it´s crystal clear water and the scenic backgrounds. A good place for kayaking, rowboating and practicing other water sports. Walking along the lake shore is also a fantastic way to enjoy the place.
Lakeside-place for shopping
by MASRYNA
Roaming around the lakeside area really great experince, for buying gift or just window shopping. I preferd buying my gift here rather than Thamel coz more option and not to crowded. There a lot of shop also cafe from you to choose, western, japanese, indian, korean or nepali style.
The Royal Trek
by Saagar
The Royal Trek is a short, gentle and safe trek in the hills just northeast and toward the east of Pokhara. The general concept is to walk from village to village and stay on the ridges as much as possible. The ridges constitute by and large the first rim you will see north and east of Pokhara.
This isn't exactly a practical lodge trek, nor considered so, but I will in a related tip (later) explain how you can still do it as a "lodge trek". It is now mainly geared for small fully-catered guided groups and by means of tent camping. There are comfortable camping spots along the route. The end and finish points vary a bit - you can shorten or prolong the trek as you want.
Generally, the day hikes are very short, giving you the chance to enjoy the views along the trail. The view toward the Annapurna mountains and Lamjung Himal is the key "sight", along with views of mainly Brahmin and Gurung village life. Very pleasant, and everybody can do this trek who is just reasonably fit for walking. There are two major steep uphills on the route (that school children do every day...), Lipiyani-Syaglung and Sakkra Bas-Mohoriya.
The Royal Trek can easily be done in three days, even two if you move this tip to the category of "VT Sport Tip", but trekking companies offer a more leisurely 4-5 days outing, which is reasonable. I would suggest 4, which gives you two full days without vehicles, and one entry and exit day. During foggy and hazy periods and seasons, this trek may not offer much in terms of mountain views.