Things to Do in Pokhara: Nepal's Adventure Capital

Lakeside calm meets mountain adrenaline — the perfect place to start or unwind from a trek.

Pokhara is Nepal's laid-back adventure capital and the gateway to the Annapurna region. Set beside the tranquil Phewa Lake with the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre reflected in the water, it's the ideal place to relax before a trek or celebrate afterwards. Here's what to do.

On and around the lake

• Row or sail on Phewa Lake to the island temple of Tal Barahi
• Stroll or cycle the buzzing Lakeside strip
• Visit the World Peace Pagoda for sweeping lake and mountain views

For the adventurous

Pokhara is one of the world's great paragliding destinations — tandem flights launch from Sarangkot with the Annapurnas as your backdrop. You can also try zip-lining, ultralight flights and white-water rafting nearby.

Sunrise at Sarangkot

A short drive up to Sarangkot before dawn rewards you with the sun rising over the entire Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre turning gold — one of Nepal's most photographed views.

A perfect trek base

Most Annapurna treks — Base Camp, Poon Hill, Mardi Himal and more — begin and end in Pokhara, so it's easy to build in a day or two here. After the trail, there's nothing better than a lakeside dinner with the mountains glowing pink.