Just 200 km west of Kathmandu lies a tranquil, naturally blessed Pokhara valley. Here the tropical flowers blossoms at the lake of Fewa lake, and the Himalayas fills the skyline.
In just a few decades the Pokhara has gone from a secluded destination to major tourist hub in Nepal. However, the stunning beauty still remains the same. The tourist area of lakeside stretched along the shore of Phewa Lake is the best tourist attraction in the valley. There are plenty of restaurants where tourists can dine, relax, and wait for the next meal. This lakeside is so beautiful one can spend hours glaring at it without getting tired.
Despite its tourist-trap aura and high-season claustrophobia, Lakeside has its own charm. Especially in the evenings, when the darkness hides the clutter and the shops are lit up like a Christmas tree.
Further, for trekkers, Pokhara is the starting point of classic Annapurna treks which includes Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Panorama trek, Annapurna Sanctuary treks to name a few.
For non-trekkers, Pokhara Valley offers a dramatic view of the mountains and takes them far away from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu city to glimpse the rural Nepali life. Immersing into the culture of the destination is one of the prime attractions for the non-trekkers visiting the Valley.
Moreover, for every travelers, Pokhara is a wonderfully relaxing place, and a place one can get almost close to nature.
The Land and Climate
Pokhara is the blend of rich farmland and forest rimmed by hills. It has an average elevation of 800 meters and enjoys the mild climate averaging 15-25 degree Celsius. Further, the valley is steamy in summer months, but downright balmy in the winters. Pokhara is the wettest place in Nepal. The average rainfall exceeds 4,000 mm. Greenery thrives in this gentle climate. The flowers displays are magnificent all year round.
The autumn and winters in Pokhara are rather more comfortable than in often-chilly Kathmandu.
The land is chiefly inhabited by Bahauns and Chhetries (two ethnic groups among 205 Ethnic groups in Nepal), while the surrounding hills are inhabited by Gurungs (another ethnic group in Nepal).
The Valley is the sprawling town, stretching about 5 km in a north-south direction.
Tourist Attractions and Highlights
- Phewa Lake
The Valley is the sprawling town, stretching about 5 km in a north-south direction.
The steep southwestern shore is deeply forested.
2. Davi’s Fall
Also known as Patale Chhango, this waterfall is 2 Km southwest of the Pokhara airport. The outflow from the Phewa Lake makes a sudden drop down into the hole and disappears. It got its name as Davi’s fall after a tale about a tourist David who disappeared inside the whole with his girlfriend
3. Tibetan Settlements & Monasteries
There are plenty of Tibetan settlements around the Valley. Many Tibetan handicrafts shops are in the lakeside area selling their artifacts and crafts. The main attraction is the larger settlement of Tashipalkhel at Hyangja also referred to as Tibetan Refugee Settlement. It is only a short drive or 1.5 hours walk northwest of Pokhara on Baglung road. The large monastery here is very interesting. Also, of interest is the carpet weaving center, where one can see all the stages of processes and can buy here at a cheaper price.
Tashipalkhel Monastery – Best Nepal Tour packages
6. Sarangkot Hill
At an elevation of 1592m, Sarangkot is probably the most popular short excursion from Pokhara. It is a perfect viewpoint to admire the mountain views and a splendid panorama.
The panoramic view includes a glimpse of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna South and Mt. Hiunchuli with the bulk of Mt. Annapurna behind, unmistakable mt. Fishtail, Mt. Annapurna III, IV and II, and Lamjung Himal. Pre-dawn excursion to Sarangkot is recommended to view beautiful sunrise over the Himalayas. The sight of shimmering Phewa Lake is stunning enough, but to the north, the hillside drops straight down to Suikhet valley, with a breathtaking vista of Mt. Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna range, and Mt, Fishtail filling the horizon. Sarangkot once had a fort which can be seen on the very top of the ridge just a few minutes’ walks above the village.
If travelers opt for Nepal tours on this year 2019, it is recommended to include Pokhara Valley tour in their luxury Nepal tour package.
Travelsmith Nepal Private Limited 