Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal with about 520,000 people in 2021. It is the starting point for most of the treks in the Annapurna area. It is a very popular location with most people staying around the beautiful Fewa Lake. Dozens of hotels and restaurants are sprouting like mushrooms everywhere, and today it is much easier to find modern amenities not common to other locations in Nepal, but Pokhara is losing its small town charm and the lakeside now feels more like Khao San Road (with all the usual: yoga, reiki, massages by blind p…
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
Pokhara is a mid-sized city and can be traversed on cycle or car or bike. Walking is necessary to get to places where vehicles or bicycles can't reach. Buses and minivans operate on most of the popular routes. These are crowded and uncomfortable but the fare is cheap and student discounts may be offered. Fare is Rs20–40 per way (as of March 2023). Comfortable taxis are available to be hired. You may also use InDrive app to hail a taxi or motorbike. Bicycles can be hired in a lot of shops in Lakeside (Rs300-2,000/day).
1 Phewa/Fewa Lake (Phewa/Fewa Tal) (just west of Pokhara). One of Nepal's most beautiful spots, Phewa Tal is surrounded by a combination of monkey-filled forests and high white peaks. The reflections in the mirror-like water in the early mornings are impressive. Hire a boat and row yourself across the lake, or hire a local to do it for you – there are some fine times to be had on this lake, even in the middle of the night. 2 Begnas Lake (Begnas Tal) (13.3 km south-east from Pokhara, along the Prithvi Rajmarg road). Out of town and away from the hustle, Begnas Tal is quiet, clean and peaceful. There are a few basic hotels nearby and the odd refreshment shop.
Hiking and trekking — for information on trekking in the Pokhara region, including popular treks and suggested itineraries, see Trekking in Nepal Boating and canoeing — hire a boat or canoe for a day out on the water. Canoes can be difficult to steer on the flat lakes. Whitewater rafting, kayaking, and canyoning - 1- to 10-day adventure expeditions on beautiful Nepali rivers. There are many operators offering trips. Paragliding. Don't miss soaring around Lake Pokhara and the Annapurnas. US$120. 1 Parahawking/Vulture Restaurant.
The cheapest (and often the best) food is found at the street stalls, selling momos/dumplings, samosas or fried noodles. Early in the morning, children walk the streets with trays of pastries; chocolate croissants, cinnamon rolls and other cakes. The bazaar across from the old bus station has basic Nepali dishes from Rs60, and a nice atmosphere amongst the bustle of vendors. 1 Asian Teahouse. Located along the main road through Lakeside on the opposite side from the lake. The only way you'll find this place is to look out for the handwritten sign sitting at the end of the alleyway that the restaurant sits in.
Try the local beer (Gurkha/Everest), and if you are brave the home brew which comes in several forms "Chang": A rice or millet beer that's slightly sour and earthy. "roxi" a stronger fermentation of Chang, And "three panni roxi": very strong and tastes awful. Coffee Culture Cafe, ☏ +977 61 525587. Various types of espressos, and other hot and cold drinks. The only completely dedicated organic coffee shop in Pokhara.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Jul, Pokhara typically sees ~29°C daytime highs and 28 rainy days.
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