
Places to Visit in Pokhara: A Guide to Exploring Nepal’s Natural Paradise
Pokhara, also known as the “Gateway to the Himalayas,” is a beautiful city situated in the northwestern part of Nepal. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its natural beauty, adventure sports, and cultural sites. If you’re planning a trip to Pokhara, this guide will help you explore the top places to visit in Pokhara and make the most of your trip.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Pokhara
- Phewa Lake
- World Peace Pagoda
- Sarangkot
- Davis Falls
- Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
- Bindhyabasini Temple
- International Mountain Museum
- Seti River Gorge
- Mahendra Cave
- Begnas Lake
- Barahi Temple
- Pokhara Regional Museum
- Annapurna Circuit
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. Introduction to Pokhara: Places to visit in Pokhara
Pokhara is a scenic city located in the Kaski District of Nepal. It is known for its stunning mountain views, beautiful lakes, and adventure sports. The city is surrounded by the Annapurna range and is a great place for trekking, hiking, and paragliding. Pokhara has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several temples, museums, and other historical sites. It is also an excellent destination for relaxation and rejuvenation with its serene atmosphere and natural beauty.
Some of the best places to visit in Pokhara are given below:
2. Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake is the second-largest lake in Nepal and a major attraction for tourists visiting and one of the best places to visit in Pokhara. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, making it a perfect spot for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The lake is also home to the Tal Barahi Temple, a Hindu shrine situated on an island in the middle of the lake. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
3. World Peace Pagoda
The World Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa situated on top of a hill overlooking Pokhara city and it it one of the best places to visit in Pokhara.. It was built by Japanese Buddhist monks and is a symbol of peace and harmony. Visitors can reach the pagoda by hiking or taking a boat ride across Phewa Lake. The panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains from the pagoda is breathtaking and worth the effort.
4. Sarangkot
Sarangkot is a hilltop located on the outskirts of Pokhara city. It is a popular destination for paragliding and offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, including the Machhapuchhre mountain. Visitors can also enjoy sunrise and sunset views from the hilltop and it is alos one of the best places to visit in Pokhara.
5. Davis Falls
Davis Falls, also known as Patale Chhango, is a popular waterfall located in Pokhara also one of the best places to visit in Pokhara.. The waterfall is named after a Swiss tourist who fell into the waterfall and died in the 1960s. The waterfall flows into an underground tunnel and reappears at the other end, making it a unique sight to behold.
6. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
The Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a natural limestone cave located near Davis Falls. The cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has several stalactites and stalagmites formations. Visitors can also see a natural waterfall inside the cave.
7.Bindhyabasini Temple
One of the most popular temples in Pokhara, Bindhyabasini Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati. It is located on a small hill near the Old Bazaar and offers a stunning view of the city. Visitors can participate in daily prayers and offerings to the deity or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
8. International Mountain Museum
For those interested in mountain climbing and exploration, the International Mountain Museum is a must-visit. It features exhibits on the history of mountain climbing, including famous climbers and expeditions. Visitors can also learn about the geology and ecology of the Himalayas.
9. Seti River Gorge
The Seti River Gorge is a natural wonder located in the heart of Pokhara. The river flows through a narrow gorge, creating a beautiful landscape of white water rapids and limestone formations. Visitors can take a walk along the Seti River or go on a rafting adventure.
10. Mahendra Cave
Mahendra Cave is a limestone cave located near the city of Pokhara. It features beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a large statue of Lord Shiva. Visitors can explore the cave on foot and marvel at the natural formations.
11. Begnas Lake
Begnas Lake is a peaceful and serene lake located about 15 km from Pokhara. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and is a popular spot for boating and fishing. Visitors can also hike around the lake and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
12. Barahi Temple
Barahi Temple is a Hindu temple located on an island in Phewa Lake. It is dedicated to Goddess Barahi and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Pokhara. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and participate in daily prayers and offerings to the deity.
13. Pokhara Regional Museum
The Pokhara Regional Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Pokhara region. It features exhibits on traditional crafts, costumes, and musical instruments. Visitors can also learn about the ethnic groups that live in the area.
14. Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is a popular trekking route that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It takes about 2-3 weeks to complete and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can also visit traditional villages and learn about the culture of the local people.
Conclusion
Pokhara is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in culture, adventure sports, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area. From temples to lakes, caves to museums, there are plenty of places to visit and things to do in Pokhara.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Pokhara? The best time to visit Pokhara is from September to November, when the weather is clear and dry.
- Is Pokhara safe for tourists? Yes, Pokhara is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- Which is the beautiful place of Pokhara? Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Devi’s Fall, Bindhyabasini temple, Mahendra cave, Tal Barahi, Rupa Taal, International Mountain Museum, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Chamere Gufa, Seti River Gorge, Gorka Memorial Museum, Matepani Gumba, and many more places.
4. What is the famous thing of Pokhara?
Pokhara is renowned worldwide for its mesmerizing paragliding site and without a doubt, makes for one of the best sites to enjoy the thrilling activity of paragliding. Upon taking a flight, you will witness towering mountain range on one side and a beautiful lake on the other.
5. How many days should I spend in Pokhara?
Depending on your schedule it is recommended visitors spend at least two or three days in Pokhara. Longer if you can!
6. Is Pokhara Nepal worth visiting?
Pokhara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal.
7. What are the top activities in Pokhara? What is the famous thing of Pokhara?
Pokhara is renowned worldwide for its mesmerizing paragliding site and without a doubt, makes for one of the best sites to enjoy the thrilling activity of paragliding. Upon taking a flight, you will witness towering mountain range on one side and a beautiful lake on the other.