Things to do in Pokhara

Why go to Pokhara

• Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill Trek

  Multi-day Himalayan trekking with jaw-dropping sunrise views over the Annapurna massif, accessible directly from Pokhara.

• Paragliding over Phewa Lake

  Soar tandem from Sarangkot Ridge with the snow-capped Himalayas ahead and the glittering lake below, a bucket-list flight.

• Phewa Lake Boat Ride to Tal Barahi Temple

  Paddle a wooden rowboat to a serene island temple in the middle of the lake, perfectly framed by mountain reflections.

• Sarangkot Sunrise Viewpoint

  Watch the first golden light ignite Machapuchare and Dhaulagiri in an unforgettable pre-dawn spectacle above the clouds.

• World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)

  A gleaming white Buddhist stupa perched on a jungle ridge with panoramic 360-degree views of the lake and Himalayas.

Good to know in Pokhara

• Transit: Shared jeeps and local buses connect Pokhara to Kathmandu (5-6 hrs, ~$5-7), far cheaper than tourist buses; taxis within town cost $1-3 for most rides, always agree on fare before boarding.
• Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; round up restaurant bills or add 5-10% for good service, guides and porters on treks deserve $8-15/day as a meaningful tip.
• Tap water: Never drink tap water; buy large 5-liter jugs for ~$0.50 at shops rather than paying $0.50-1 per small bottle, or use a filtered-water refill station common along Lakeside.
• Free-entry days: Most outdoor viewpoints (Sarangkot, lakeside, Old Bazaar) are always free; the International Mountain Museum occasionally waives fees on national holidays, check locally on arrival.

Trip essentials