Pokhara City TourPokhara City Tour

Pokhara City Tour

Beautiful city tour Pokhara
  • Duration1 Day
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Activity Tour
  • Starts Pokhara
  • Ends Pokhara
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Best Season September to May
Price Per PersonUS$90All-inclusive services
Pokhara City Tour Highlights
  • Tranquil boating experience in Phewa Lake with stunning views of the Annapurna range.
  • Explore Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in Phewa Lake.
  • Witness Devi's Fall. 
  • Explore Gupteshwor Cave with a Shiva temple inside.
  • Get panoramic city views from Bindabasini Temple.
  • Explore World Peace Pagoda and get sweeping views of Pokhara and the surrounding mountains. 
  • Watch sunrise and sunset from Sarangkot. 
  • Learn about Nepal’s mountaineering history and culture in International Mountain Museum. 
  • Enjoy lakeside cafes and restaurant. 
  • Engage in adventure activities such as paragliding, bungee jumping, biking, zip-lining, hikes, and many more. 

Pokhara City Tour Overview

Nepal's second-largest city, Pokhara lies 200 kilometers to the west of Kathmandu and is renowned for its beautiful lakeside setting. Heralded as the gateway to the Annapurna ranges and other major points in the eastern half of the country, it's also regarded as Nepal's primary venue for various packages involving paragliding, Ultraflights, zip-lining, and whitewater rafting, as well as offering day tours of the picturesque city and the surrounding landscape. Nepal Trekking Experts offer an exceptional package that involves visiting the Pokhara region’s entire tourist highlights, including Davi's fall, Gupteshwor Cave, the World Peace Pagoda, and Phewa Lake.

Davi’s Fall:

Known locally as Patale Chhango, the waterfall's other title derives from a tragic event in 1961 when a Swiss couple by the name of Davi went swimming nearby, only for the wife to be swept to her death. A truly spectacular cascade, the water thunder down and disappears into a tunnel that runs for 500' underground before emerging to run through Gupteshwor cave.

Gupteshwor Cave:

The Pokhara region offers many caves, with Gupteshwor cave among the more interesting, not least for the cascading waters running through it. Also known as Gupteshwor Mahadev, one of the cave's major claims to fame is the idol of Lord Shiva that was found within and now sits outside, opposite Davi's fall. The cave is popular with Hindu pilgrims.

World Peace Pagoda:

Shanti Stupa, better known as The World Peace Pagoda, is a magnificent structure set on the slopes to the south of Phewa Lake. The panoramic view of the Himalayas, the Pokhara Valley, and the shimmering waters of the lake alone are worth the visit, though the noble cause lying at its heart is one that all can appreciate. While the pagoda can be accessed by road or trail most visitors opt for the peaceful and scenic boat ride from Pokhara.

Phewa Lake:

Phewa is a picture-perfect lake, with dense forests to the southwest, the Himalayas to the north as a mighty backdrop, and Pokhara set by its eastern shores. With myriad possibilities to explore the lake via one of the multitudes of colorful boats that dot the shoreline, few experiences in Nepal are as serene as paddling the placid waters of Phewa and gazing languidly at the dappled reflections of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail. At the heart of the lake lies Tal Barahi, a sublime temple built on an island that attracts both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims.

Bindabasini Temple:

It is one of the oldest Hindu temple in Pokhara dedicated to goddess Bindabasini and located at an altitude of 1,000 meters. Situated in a hilltop, this temple offers stunning views of the surrounding city and the majestic Annapurna range. It has a tranquil environment surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant prayer flags. 

International Mountain Museum:

The International Mountain Museum in Pokhara is a cultural and educational center dedicated to the history, culture, and mountaineering heritage of the Himalayas. It showcases exhibits related to mountain expeditions, the lives of legendary climbers, and the diverse cultures of the people living in the mountainous regions.

Key Experience During Pokhara Adventure Trip

During your Pokhara adventure trip, you will experience a beautiful blend of relaxation, culture, and thrilling activities, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Annapurna Range. One such serene experience is boating in Phewa Lake. Whether you choose to paddle yourself or hire a boatman, the lakeside offers a perfect place to unwind, soak in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Additionally, even if you do not want to get into the water experience, the lakeside offers vibrant cafes and restaurants for active time or you can also indulge in leisure strolls or relaxing evenings with a spa. 

Moving on, the city offers a fascinating glimpse into Nepal’s diverse heritage through its temples, festivals, and interactions with the local people. Visiting places like Bindhyabasini Temple and Gupteshwor Cave provides spiritual enrichment and a deeper understanding of the region's religious significance.

Now, if you are an adventure enthusiast, you can also get involved in multiple thrilling activities. You can get the bird's eye view of the city with paragliding, challenge yourself with bungee jumping, explore rugged trails with mountain biking, or if you plenty of time in your schedule, you can also take on short hikes. 

Views During A Pokhara City Tour

The views are nothing short of spectacular in Pokhara city. From the moment you arrive, you will be greeted with Annapurna and Machapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks dominating the skyline. Whether you are exploring the Lakeside area or relaxing at a café, these awe-inspiring mountain views are never far from sight. You can catch some of the most incredible sunrise and sunset views of the Himalayas and the city area. 

Likewise, the views around Phewa Lake are equally mesmerizing, with the lake's calm waters perfectly reflecting the mountains, creating a mirror-like image that feels almost dreamlike. As you boat in the lake, you will be surrounded by lush green hills, blue sky, and clear water. 

Now, if you head towards the World Peace Pagoda, you will be treated to elevated views of the entire Pokhara valley. No matter where you go in Pokhara, the views are a reminder of the city’s harmony between nature and tranquility. 

Best Time For Pokhara Adventure Tour

The best time for a Pokhara City Tour largely depends on the type of experience you are looking for, but generally, Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) are the prime seasons to visit. 

During Autumn, Pokhara city is at its finest. If you are traveling during this season, you will be rewarded with dry and clear weather, offering unparalleled visibility of the Annapurna and Machapuchhre mountains. Outdoor activities such as boating and paragliding are the best during these months. Likewise, the greatest festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar also falls during this season hence, the whole city offers festive mood. 

Moving on, Spring is yet another fantastic time to explore Pokhara city. The temperature is comfortably warm, and the blooming rhododendrons paint the hillsides with vibrant colors. Additionally, the environment is refreshing with lush landscapes. 

For those who prefer fewer crowds, Winter (December to February) provides a quieter alternative, though temperatures can drop significantly. Yet you will have some of the best morning views of the Himalayas. On the flip side, Summer (June to August) is the monsoon season, with frequent rainfall that halts every outdoor activity.

Who Can Join Guided City Tour In Pokhara?

A guided city tour in Pokhara is designed to cater to a diverse range of travelers, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking to explore the city. First-time visitors to Pokhara will especially benefit greatly from a guided tour, as it provides a structured way to discover the city’s highlights. with local guide by your side, you will get the in-depth experience exploring the city. 

Additionally, as a family with children, a guided tour will be equally beneficial. Many tours are designed to be family-friendly, allowing children to enjoy activities like boating on the lake or exploring fascinating places. 

Moving on, whether you are an adventure seeker or a couple looking for a romantic holiday, the Pokhara city tour will not disappoint. As per your preference, you can travel solo, with friends or families. 

Book Your Guided Pokhara Tour With Nepal Trekking Experts

Booking the Guided Pokhara Tour with us is quite simple and flexible as you will get to customize the entire experience as per your preference and schedule. Well, you can choose from half-day, full-day, or multi-day options based on your interests and time constraints. We can help you with amenities such as food, transportation, and accommodation during this interval. 

Useful Information

Tips For A Successful Pokhara Sightseeing Tour

  • Schedule your tour during Autumn (September-November) or Spring (March-May) for the best weather and views. 
  • Begin your day early to enjoy the sunrise at Peace Pagoda and avoid crowds at popular spots like Phewa Lake and Devi’s Fall.
  • Opt for comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for walking. 
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
  • Avoid overpacking. 
  • Explore local Nepali cuisine at lakeside cafes or traditional restaurants.
  • For activities like paragliding or boating, book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
  • When visiting temples or cultural sites, dress modestly, remove shoes if required, and follow local etiquette.
  • Keep your schedule flexible. 
  • When visiting temples or cultural sites, dress modestly, remove shoes if required, and follow local etiquette.

Local Culture And People Of Pokhara

A fun fact: Pokhara city is known as the melting pot of the ethnic groups such as such as the Gurung, Magar, Brahmin, Chhetri, and Newar, each contributing unique elements to the cultural tapestry of the city. Here, the Gurung and Magar communities are particularly prominent. Gurungs are widely known to be backbone for the Gurkha soldiers and are also popular for their unique dances like the Ghatu and Rodhi. 

The locals of Pokhara are deeply rooted in their religious beliefs. Here, Hinduism and Buddhism coexist harmoniously and festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, and Buddha Jayanti are celebrated vibrantly. Moving on, the Newar community of Pokhara are known for their artistry and trade. Their traditional architecture, intricate woodwork, and delicious cuisine are to die for. 

Altogether, whether you are enjoying a homestay in a Gurung village or interacting with locals in the bustling Lakeside area, you’ll feel welcomed and valued. 

Meals During Cultural Tour In Pokhara

During the Pokhara city tour, you can enjoy multiple cuisines from traditional to Western dishes. One of the must-try dishes is dal bhat. It is a wholesome platter including steamed rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, pickles, and often a serving of meat or fish. It is a staple meal of the locals, and hence, many restaurants and homestays serve dal bhat prepared with family recipes. 

Another highlight is momo, the Nepali version of dumplings, which can be steamed or fried and stuffed with meat or vegetables. Additionally, it is served with a tangy dipping sauce. You can also explore more authentic dishes such as dhido (a traditional buckwheat or millet porridge) and gundruk (fermented leafy greens). 

Moving on, Pokhara also has some of the best recipes for cooking fresh fish. You must try grilled or fried lake fish paired with local spices and herbs. Furthermore, some other varieties include thukpa (noodle soup) or shyaphale (meat-filled pastries). As for the beverages, do not miss chiya (spiced tea), tongba (a warm millet-based alcoholic drink), or lassi (a yogurt-based drink), depending on the season and your preference.

Accommodation During The Cultural Tour In Pokhara

Depending on your preference and budget, Pokhara has wide availability of multiple accommodation options. If you are searching for an authentic experience, homestays are the best option. Staying in a local home allows you to immerse yourself in the traditions and daily life of the hosts. Additionally, if you want moderate comfort with a blend of tradition, then, boutique hotels offer a perfect blend. These accommodations often feature traditional Nepali architecture and décor. Many of these hotels are located near Phewa Lake, providing a serene environment.

If luxury and comfort are priorities, five-star hotels in Pokhara, such as those with panoramic views of the Annapurna range, provide world-class service and facilities. With this level of service, you will have spa services, fine dining, and cultural performances. 

Transportation To Pokhara

Reaching Pokhara city is a journey with multiple options which you can choose to roll with depending on your budget and schedule. 

For the fastest and most convenient option, domestic flights are available between Kathmandu and Pokhara, with flight durations of just about 25-30 minutes. These flights offer stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. If you are traveling during peak seasons (Spring or Autumn), book your flight in advance. 

If you have ample time and would want a more scenic journey, you can take road transportation. The Prithvi Highway connects Kathmandu to Pokhara, and the journey typically takes around 6-8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. here, you can again choose between multiple options such as travel via local bus, tourist bus, or a private jeep. 

The local bus journey starts from Gongabu Bus Park in Kathmandu at 6 am in the morning. While this is the most affordable option, it can get quite uncomfortable as the bus may be congested and crowded, Furthermore, you will not have any flexibility regarding the places you want to stop. So, if you want a more comfortable option, you must take a private jeep. It is much more expensive, however, you will have the flexibility to manage the journey the way you please. 

Nightlife In Pokhara

The nightlife in Pokhara is a vibrant blend of relaxation, entertainment, and cultural experiences, offering something for every type of traveler. As the sun sets behind the Annapurna range, the city transforms into a lively hub. Here, the lakeside area is the heart of Pokhara's nightlife. The Phewa Lake comes back alive with colorful lights, live music, and the cheerful buzz of travelers and locals alike. Numerous bars, pubs, and cafes offer live music performances ranging from traditional Nepali tunes to international music. 

However, if you are not into active nightlife, you can also get a more tranquil experience in some of the most cozy rooftop cafes and restaurants. The meal with low music in the background, and a silent lake reflecting the night sky is an experience you must indulge in. Beyond the lakeside area too, you will find several bars and lounges offering a more intimate and relaxed vibe.

Souvenirs To Buy During Family Tour In Pokhara

Pokhara offers a delightful array of souvenirs that serve as perfect keepsakes or gifts to remember your tour. Some of the unique souvenirs you can get from this city are as follows:

  • Hand-knitted woolen items including sweaters, scarves, gloves, and hats.
  • Intricately detailed Thangka paintings, depicting Buddhist deities, mandalas, or religious symbols. 
  • Tibetan-style jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings made with semi-precious stones and intricate designs. 
  • Handwoven carpets and rugs with intricate patterns and colors. 
  • Natural and organic products, such as herbal teas, honey, and essential oils.
  • Wooden masks, statues, and decorative items. 
  • Iconic Gurkha Khukuri.
  • Postcards of Pokhara. 
  • Traditional Nepali instruments like the madal (a hand drum) or sarangi (a string instrument). 
  • Locally made clothing like kurta suruwal (traditional attire) and cotton bags with unique Nepali designs. 

Nepalese Currency and the Payment:

The currency of Nepal is the rupee. The ideal currencies for exchange are those of the USA, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and Singapore, as well as the Euro, any of which can be readily exchanged in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in major tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and larger stores in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, etc. A surcharge of 3.5% is typically levied on all purchases or payments.

ATMs are also very common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with Thamel being a particular area of focus for their use. Some ATMs only allow a daily maximum of Rs 10,000 to be withdrawn, while others allow for as much as Rs 35,000. A charge of USD 4 is usually applied per transaction, on top of which your bank may also apply a fee of its own.

Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?

On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.

While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.

As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:

  • Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
  • You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
  • Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.

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