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Places to visit in Pokhara, Nepal
Pokhara is one of the most beautiful and popular cities in Nepal. Located about 200 kilometers west of the capital city, Kathmandu, Pokhara is known for its natural beauty, peaceful environment, and adventure activities. It lies at the base of the majestic Annapurna mountain range, and many visitors come here to relax or begin treks to the Himalayas. Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Pokhara:
1. Phewa Lake
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Phewa Lake, also known as Fewa Lake, is one of the largest lakes in Nepal. It is the heart of Pokhara. Visitors can enjoy boating in the calm waters, with stunning views of the mountains reflected in the lake. In the middle of the lake is the Tal Barahi Temple, which can only be reached by boat. The Lakeside area near Phewa Lake is full of shops, cafes, and hotels, making it a perfect place to relax.
2. Sarangkot
Sarangkot is a hill located on the outskirts of Pokhara. It is famous for its amazing sunrise views. From here, you can see the beautiful peaks of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains. It is also a popular spot for paragliding, where people fly over the valley and lake for a bird’s-eye view of Pokhara.
3. World Peace Pagoda
The World Peace Pagoda is a white Buddhist stupa located on a hill above Phewa Lake. It was built to promote world peace. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, the lake, and the city. It is a peaceful and spiritual place to visit, and many people enjoy hiking up to the pagoda.
4. Devi’s Fall (Patale Chhango)
Devi’s Fall is a unique and powerful waterfall where water from Phewa Lake disappears into a deep underground tunnel. It is especially impressive during the monsoon season. Next to Devi’s Fall is Gupteshwor Cave, which contains a large stalagmite worshipped as a symbol of Lord Shiva. The cave also gives a view of the waterfall from inside the tunnel.
5. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Located near Devi’s Falls, this sacred cave houses a Shiva Lingam and is an important pilgrimage site. The cave’s mysterious ambiance and religious significance make it a must-visit.
6. Lord Shiva Statue at Pumdikot
Pumdikot, located approximately 1,500 meters above sea level in the Kaski District of Nepal, is a scenic hilltop destination near Pokhara. It offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, Phewa Lake, and the surrounding valley. One of its most notable attractions is the Lord Shiva Statue, which has become a significant site for both religious pilgrims and tourists.
The Lord Shiva Statue in Pumdikot stands at an impressive height of 51 feet, making it the tallest Shiva statue in Nepal. When combined with the surrounding white stupa, the total height reaches 108 feet. The site also features 108 Shiva Lingas encircling the base of the statue, symbolizing devotion and spiritual significance. Additionally, the area houses on of the largest Shiva Damarus (drum) in Asia, adding to its cultural and religious importance.
7. Begnas and Rupa Lakes
If you want to get away from the busy city, Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake are perfect places. These lakes are located about 30 minutes from the city center and are much quieter than Phewa Lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and picnicking while enjoying beautiful natural scenery.
8. Bindhyabasini Temple
This is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara, dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, a form of Durga. It is located on a hill and offers views of the city and the mountains. People come here to pray, especially during festivals and special days.
9. Seti River Gorge
A hidden gem, the Seti River Gorge is known for its deep, narrow canyon and milky-white waters. The gorge offers a unique geological formation and is a great spot for photography.
10. Bat Cave
If you are an adventure seeker, the Bat Cave is an exciting place to explore. True to its name, the cave is home to thousands of bats hanging from the ceiling, creating an eerie yet thrilling experience.
11. Adventure Activities
Pokhara is also known as the adventure capital of Nepal. Many tourists come here for paragliding, zip-lining, bungee jumping, ultralight flights, and trekking. The famous Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek start from Pokhara.
Annapurna Circuit Trek – Pokhara serves as the starting point for the renowned Annapurna Circuit Trek. This multi-day trek offers diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, and stunning mountain views.
ZipFlyer Nepal – Experience the thrill of the world’s steepest zipline, which descends over 2,000 meters at speeds up to 100 mph. This adrenaline-pumping activity offers unparalleled views of the Himalayas.
Paragliding – Pokhara is a premier destination for paragliding, with flights launching from Sarangkot. Soar above the city and enjoy aerial views of the Annapurna range and Phewa Lake.
12. International Mountain Museum
Pokhara is a gateway to the Himalayas, so it’s the perfect place for the International Mountain Museum. This museum provides information about the history of mountaineering in Nepal, famous climbers, mountain cultures, and the geography of the Himalayas. It is a great place for students and tourists to learn more about Nepal’s mountains.
