Credit: Titas gurung
There are plenty of reasons to travel to Pokhara, Nepal. Perhaps you’ve had enough of the capital and want to take a day trip from Kathmandu. Maybe you want to sit back and relax as you float around on a lake, surrounded by chirping birds and gorgeous scenery. Or maybe you just want to explore the rest of the country and are looking for other places to visit in Nepal.
No matter what your goal is, Pokhara should be on your itinerary! This charming and tranquil city is small enough to explore on a weekend trip yet big enough for a multi-day trekking tour — Pokhara is called the “gateway to the Annapurna Circuit” for a reason!
If you’re looking for a Pokhara itinerary or just some basic travel tips, look no further, as I’ve compiled this Pokhara travel guide specifically for you! Let’s check it out :)
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HOW TO GET TO POKHARA
Pokhara is well-connected to the rest of Nepal and can be reached by a number of different options, including overland busses, planes, and car hires. Since Nepal is mountainous, there are no trains. Here are your options:
POKHARA BY BUS
The most budget-friendly way of getting to Pokhara is by bus. There are dozens of busses from Kathmandu to Pokhara every day, and all follow a similar route. The total travel time is around 7 hours and there are both early and overnight options.
Busses are divided into two categories: standard busses and VIP busses. Standard busses cost anywhere from 750 to 1,000Rs (around $6.25 to $8 USD) and have air conditioning and seats. VIP busses cost twice more (around 2,500Rs / $20 USD) but come with super-plush seats, toilet onboard, and some even include lunch!
BOOK BUS TICKETS TO POKHARA HERE
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POKHARA BY PLANE
If you’re limited on time, taking a short airplane ride is another great option. We chose this as we only had 2 days and wanted to get the most out of Pokhara.
There are two main airlines that fly to Pokhara: Buddha Air and Yeti Air. Both are very similar in terms of price, convenience, and safety — the only difference is the departure times (and even then, both usually depart within 15 to 30 mins from each other). Tickets cost around $100 to $130 one-way. You can choose either one depending on whichever has the cheaper tickets. :)
One thing to note is that both airlines do not have flights after 2:30PM, so it’s wise to plan in advance. The flight takes between 25 to 30 minutes. For an amazing view, definitely sit in a window seat!
BOOK AIRLINE TICKETS TO POKHARA HERE
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POKHARA BY CAR
The final option is to hire a private transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara. This is a great option if you’re looking for something between riding a bus or taking a flight: you’ll have the convenience of stopping along the way to check out the sights (something you can’t do on a bus) and the flexibility to bring more luggage (as opposed to baggage limits on airplanes).
A private transfer between Kathmandu to Pokhara will cost around $90 to $120 USD, depending on the size of the car and season. The best part is that you pay per transfer and not per person, so that $100 transfer will only be around $33 if you carpool with two other people.
BOOK CAR TRANSFER TO POKHARA HERE
WHERE TO STAY IN POKHARA
There are plenty of lovely hostels and hotels in Pokhara, from budget-friendly accommodations to stunning luxe lakeside resorts — and everything in between!
HOTELS IN POKHARA
Credit: Hotel Middle Path
Hotel Middle Path & Spa *top pick*
After scrolling for hours and looking for accommodations, this was the hotel I picked for my trip to Pokhara. The service is absolutely fantastic and the rooms are comfortable, but what really sets this hotel apart is how serene and quaint it is. There’s a pool to relax after a long day of sightseeing, a garden to drink tea and listen to the thunderstorm (one of my favorite activities!), and even yoga classes.
It looks like the hotel underwent a remodel after we visited and it’s better than ever. Best of all, it’s a quick walk over to the lake and the main road, yet quiet from the hustle and bustle.
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Credit: Himalayan Front
Himalayan Front Hotel
If you’re looking for the perfect view, you can stop scrolling and take a seat over here while I tell you more about this hotel. ;)
Every morning you’ll wake up, look out the window, and think you’re dreaming after you see the gorgeous view outside. I’m serious, just take a peek at that photo above! Can you imagine how beautiful the view of the sunset will be?
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Hotel Spring
A great option for those who are on a budget but still want a top-rated hotel. Hotel Spring has comfy beds, fast internet, and breakfast included — for under $25/night!
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Credit: Mingtang
Mingtang Garden Cottage
This serene and idyllic hotel, located on the south side of Phewa Lake, looks like it came straight out of Bali. It’s the perfect hotel if you want to be central yet have some peace and quiet. Don’t forget to say hello to Yahoo, the Golden Labrador that “guards” the hotel. :)
Hotel Eco Tree
Hotel Eco Tree has everything a traveler is looking for, from large and comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and breakfast included. As a bonus, there’s even a gym, sauna, and rooftop pool!
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HOSTELS IN POKHARA
Pokhara Backpackers Hostel
With reviews like “Definitely a TOP 5 among the hostels I have stayed around the world” and “This was the best travel experience yet,” how can you pass up a stay at Pokhara Backpackers Hostel? Beds start at $5/night and private rooms at $10/night. There’s a large den where you can hang out with other travelers, as well as a beautiful rooftop view of the Annapurna mountain range.
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Kiwi Backpackers Hostel Pokhara
Another great Pokhara hostel is Kiwi Backpackers. They have a nice mix of private and shared rooms starting at $5/night. A terrace bar, hammocks, and library full of books add to the relaxed and friendly vibe.
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WHAT TO DO IN POKHARA
Credit: Madhushree Narayan
Check out Pokhara’s Lakes
Pokhara is known as the city of lakes and caves, and you’ll find plenty of them scattered across the city. If you only have a day or two, be sure to visit the most famous lake and cave, which are the Phewa Lake and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. Otherwise, I’ve compiled a list of other lakes and caves at the end of this section. :)
Phewa Lake
What better way to get to know the city than by starting off at one of it’s most famous attractions? Phewa Lake (also written as Fewa Lake) is Nepal’s second largest lake and the most popular. There are plenty of activities to do— start off by renting a boat and paddling across Phewa Lake (prices start around $5 for a 2-hour rental); take a break by visiting the temple in the middle of the lake; and reward yourself for a successful trip by visiting one of the many souvenir shops or cafes that are scattered along the eastern bank of the river (also known as Lakeside).
Tal Barahi Temple
Did you know that Phewa Lake is the only lake in Nepal to have a temple right in the middle of the lake? It’s true! To get to the Tal Barahi Temple, be sure to rent a boat and paddle to the temple — you’ll know you’re where when you see the beautiful two-story pagoda that welcomes you as soon as you land.
The Tal Barahi Temple (also known as the Lake Temple — I think you can guess why 😉) is a Hindu temple that’s dedicated to Goddess Durga, who is the goddess of war and protector of other Hindu gods.
Begnas Lake
Located right outside of Pokhara, Begnas Lake is a more peaceful and less-crowded alternative to Phewa Lake. You can find similar activities, like renting a boat, as well as opportunities to go hiking, and fishing. You can get here via taxi or by bus – the ride is 25 to 30 minutes and there are a handful of bus stations near the lake.
Devi’s Falls
Perhaps the second most popular thing to do in Pokhara is to admire Devi’s Falls. Located in the southern part of Pokhara, the waterfall has a tragic backstory – there was a Swiss tourist who drowned here back in the 60’s and it was renamed after her. Thankfully, the area is much more safe nowadays (with fences everywhere and a viewing platform) and also includes a garden and children’s area. Don’t forget to find the pond where you can throw a coin – if it lands in the middle, your wish will come true. :)
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Across Devi’s Falls is another famous Pokhara landmark — the Gupteshwor Cave. This attraction, with its long spiral staircase, beautifully carved figures, and bright red colors lead you down to a cave that’s filled with more statues (and mysteries). 👀
Credit: Prasesh Shiwakoti
World Peace Pagoda
In the southwest part of the city is the towering World Peace Pagoda, with a statue of Buddha in the middle and a gorgeous panoramic view over Pokhara. You can either hike up here or take a taxi (like we did). It’s a short 10-minute drive from Devi Falls.
Credit: Sagar Rana
See the Sun Set at Sarangkot
Sarangkot is located high above Pokhara, which makes it the perfect place to see the sunrise or sunset. Although it looks daunting to get up here, it’s actually fairly easy – you can either take a taxi or rent a scooter and follow the well-marked path. If you’re really up for an adventure, you can even go paragliding from Sarangkot as well!
International Mountain Museum
Remember how I said that Pokhara is the gateway to the Himalayas? Here’s your chance to learn everything you’ve ever wanted about trekking, Nepal’s mountains, and the people who’ve climbed them. One of the coolest things in this museum is the original gear that the hikers used during expeditions – it’s amazing to see how things changed over the years. There’s also an informative part about Nepal’s culture and ethnic groups.
WHERE TO EAT IN POKHARA
Credit: The Juicery
Thanks to Pokhara’s popularity and international community, you can find virtually any cuisine within the city — from French croissants to Korean bibimbap, acai bowls, momos, and everything in between.
AM/PM Organic Cafe — One of our favorite spots! My friend and I found this cafe on our first day and ended up eating here every day while we were in Pokhara. :sweat:
The food is fresh, organic, and healthy – it almost feels like a slice of Bali in Nepal.
The Juicery Cafe — A lovely little cafe with — you guessed it — juices. (Although they have salads and brunch as well ;)). It’s also a great spot to visit with friends or to get some work done, as there’s a fantastic garden and a gorgeous view of Phewa Lake outside.
Nepali Kitchen — If you’re craving local food, look no further. Nepali Kitchen has been in Pokhara for the last 20+ years and is a family-run business with delicious Nepali and Indian food. In fact, the food is so authentic that many locals like to hang out here – we met one friendly woman who said she goes here because the food reminds her of her grandma’s dishes!
Mo2’s Delights — Speaking of local food, don’t miss the momos at Mo2’s. Especially the chocolate ones. ;)
Cafe 17 French Bakery — If you’re based in northern Lakeside, don’t miss this gem. Like the name says, you can expect to find soft croissants, crunchy baguettes, and traditional French-style sandwiches at this boulangerie.
That’s it for my mini travel guide to Pokhara! Would you love to visit this gem in Nepal? Or perhaps you’ve already been here? Let me know in the comments!
Wow. Very interesting. I’m going to book tickets.