Pokhara Things to Do

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At an altitude of 1592m (5500ft), this mountainside village lies to the north-west of Pokhara, a 2hour trek or a 45 min taxi/scooter ride away. It is best known for its panoramic views of the Annapurna range, which many people come to see at sunrise. Sadly it was very cloudy the day we went up to the top of Sarangkot, but the views were stunning nonetheless - we just caught only glimpses of Machhapuchhare through the clouds!

The best viewpoint is from the hill fort right at the top - you'll have to leave your transportation just below the village if you've come by car or scooter, and walk up through the houses and paddy fields of the village to get to it. Entry fee is 25NPR (which goes to conservation of the area according to the ticket) - the tower is a still occupied by the military, but walk around and you'll see a viewing platform. On the way out there is a small temple too (2nd photo).

Because of all the hikers coming back from long treks, there are a lot of barbers in Pokhara offering haircuts, shaves, and even massages for a better price than you can find in the West. I love a good shave with hot lather so I went twice while in Pokhara.

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This was the first time I've ever paraglided. I wasn't sure I knew what I was doing but once I was up there it was incredible. We floated over the lake and the mountains and the city and I've never felt anything like it.

There are many companies that push this in Pokhara. I used Everest Paragliding, which is run by an Italian named Brandon. I was very pleased with them even though they kept saying they weren't sure they could handle someone as big as me:). They told me that Nepal is very loose about licensing requirements for their pilots and accidents happen. So best to ask questions of any agency you use here.

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These are in the city and its name comes from a Swiss couple that supposedly drowned here in 1961. It is far from a memorial but still nice for a short visit. I went across the street and down into a cave where I could view the falls from below.

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A popular activity here is to leave early with a guide and hike up to Sarangkot for a view of the sunrise. There are several spots where you can do this and somehow I ended up at the highest with an Australian couple from my hotel, tired and hungry. It was a bit hazy that day but still nice to be up there.

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Nepal considered as the roof of the world is of course one of my top list in my travel destination. To climb up to the summit of Mount Everest is not my goal but to see in person and enjoy this hidden jewel and unspoiled natural wonder is more than enough to make me feel high ;-) Of course, I crowned my travel in Nepal with this breathtaking day trek and experienced the friendly and welcome atmosphere of the villagers while climbing up to the spectacular Panorama of Himalaya mountain ranges. HolyMachhapuchhre

It is advisable to wear good comfortable walking shoes. Bring enough water to drink. Children sometimes enjoy to receive some goodies or souvenirs like pens or pencils. This village woman tried to offer me to chew or smoke with her some marihuana leaves just showing me a sign of friendliness or being welcome. But it is enough if i answered her with smile and lovely "no" gestures.

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One of the most beautiful Lakes of Pokhara Valley is the well-known Phewa Lake. It is popular for its fascinating landscapes especially when the vast mountain ranges are reflected on the lake giving its most picturesque scenery. The lake offers boating, swimming and as fishing grounds. In the middle of the Lake is a small Island with a Temple of goddess named "Bahari". The lake is very tranquil and provides a meditative feeling when you just sit and observe the silence of the water. Use your bargaining abilities if you like to ride on a boat.

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The Pokhara region has some deep gorges with extremely fast flowing water that springs from the Himalayas. There are waterfalls too. This one is the Devi Falls which is right in the heart of Pokhara town. Nearby is a cave where you can see the falls from below!