Pokhara, an alluring city in Nepal with incredible views of the Himalayas, was recently declared as the ‘tourism capital of Nepal.’ It was designated the position in a special ceremony presided over by the Nepalese Prime Minister in Barahi Ghaat. With this official designation, the famous hill station will have many more opportunities to transform into a global tourism destination. The designation has also increased the number of things to do in Pokhara, opening hours, availability, etc. With many lakes, mountains and natural beauty, there is no lack of places to see in Pokhara. Known as the city of lakes and mountains, you will easily find some of the most beautiful places to see in Pokhara. Lakes like the Begnas lake, Rupa Tal and mountains of the Annapurna range of the Himalayas, trekking pathways and so much more are just waiting to be explored by you.
Here's all you should do when visiting Pokhara, Nepal
1. Go boating on the beautiful Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake, one of the most scenic lakes in the hill station, is one of the best things to see in Pokhara. With the water surrounded by mountains from all sides, the time spent by this lake will give you the most precious memories. You can also rent out a boat by yourself or hire one of the boatmen to take you on a ride around the beautiful lake. Such is the beauty of the lake that it easily deserves a place on your list of top ten places to visit in Pokhara.
Where: Kaski district, Pokhara, Nepal
When: 9 am – 5 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
2. Visit the Shanti Stupa
Also known as the ‘Peace Pogoda,’ Shanti Stupa is one of the many important Buddhist religious monuments. One of the most famous things to see in Pokhara, Shanti Stupa is situated against a stunning backdrop of the most remarkable mountains, making it one of the best of Pokhara’s tourist attractions.
Where: Anadu Hill, Pokhara
When: 8 am – 8 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
3. Visit the stunning Devi’s Falls
Another one of the most incredible of Pokhara’s tourist attractions, this waterfall, with its gushing water, is a remarkable sight. Surrounded by the most vibrant fauna, the most mind-blowing fact about the waterfall is that it creates an underground tunnel that is as deep as 500 feet, as it reaches the bottom of its trajectory. This natural phenomenon sets this waterfall apart from the rest of Nepal’s waterfalls.
Where: Siddhartha Rajmarga, Pokhara
When: 5 am – 7 pm
Entry fee: Rs. 100 (approx.)
4. Go paragliding in the lap of the Himalayas
Paragliding is one of the most thrilling things to do in Pokhara. You must try paragliding in this hill station if adventure sports interest you. Following a route that will take you flying above the lake of over mesmerising lakes or rolling fields against the background of the Himalayas, paragliding in Pokhora is unlike anything you have ever experienced.
Best time to visit: September – November and February – March
When: 10:30 am – 2 pm (the last flight takes off at 2 pm)
Entry fee: Rs. 4000 onwards (approx.)
5. Visit the Gupteshwor Mahadev Temple
A unique temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is more intriguing than the rest of all of Pokhara’s sightseeing places. Built cylindrically, the temple sits atop a cave that houses a self-rising Shivling. This natural phenomenon has made believers flock to the temple and the cave to witness this ‘miracle’. This vibrant temple and the cave are a must-visit whenever you want to explore the wonders of Nature.
Where: Chhorepatan, Siddhartha Highway, Pokhara
When: 5 am – 9 pm
Entry fee: No entrance fee for the temple, Rs. 30 (approx.) for the cave
6. Explore the Mahendra Cave
Speaking of Pokhara’s sightseeing places off the mainstream path, this activity is just for all adventure seekers. A limestone cave, Mahendra Cave sees a regular flow of visitors excited to explore Nepal’s rich biodiversity. If you love everything adventure and exploring intriguing new places while vacationing, this cave should be on your list of top ten places to visit in Pokhara.
Where: Batulechaur, Pokhara
When: 10 am – 4 pm (Tuesday closed)
Entry fee: Rs. 100 onwards (for foreign nationals) (approx.)
7. Visit Sarangkot for some magnificent views of the Himalayas
A jaw-droppingly exquisite village in Pokhara, Sarangkot is famous for its ethereal views of the Himalayas it offers. The sunrise and sunset views against the Annapurna range in Sarangkot are unmatchable. Although there is a viewpoint designated to catch the beautiful views, you can experience an unforgettable view of the beauty around you from just about anywhere, such is the charm of Sarangkot.
Where: Pokhara
Best time to visit: September - November