Pokhara

Overview

Pokhara is Nepal's second city, where Phewa Lake mirrors the snow peaks and offers an ideal base for paragliding and trekking.

History

Pokhara sits at about 884 metres on the southern slope of the Himalayas beside Phewa Lake. Historically an important staging post on trade routes, it was a supply stop for caravans linking Tibet and India and remained largely cut off until a modern road arrived in the 1950s. After its airport opened in 1972 it grew into Nepal's second city and most important tourism centre. It is the main trailhead for the Annapurna Circuit, one of the world's great treks.

Highlights

• •Dawn light reflected perfectly on Machhapuchhre from Phewa Lake
• •The Annapurna Circuit, a 200-kilometre classic trek
• •Balloon flights over the Himalayan panorama
• •The disappearing waters of Devi's Falls
• •Gurkha restaurant cooking and Nepali craft markets

Practical tips

• •Autumn offers the clearest views
• •Book paragliding in advance

Practical information

Best time

October to April

Tickets

Annapurna Conservation Area permit about NPR 3,000; bring your own trekking gear

Opening hours

The city and trekking routes are accessible at all hours

Local food

Dal bhat, grilled fish and yak milk tea

Getting around

Boats can be hired on Phewa Lake, and Annapurna treks start from the town

Visa

A visa on arrival is available with a passport valid for at least six months. Trekking routes require a separate TIMS card and conservation area permit.

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