Pokhara, located in central Nepal, is the country’s second-largest city and a popular destination for tourists. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, as it is situated in a valley surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountains. However, beyond the well-known attractions, Pokhara has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers. In this blog post, we will explore some of these hidden gems and give you a glimpse into the lesser-known side of this beautiful city.

  • Peace Pagoda: Located atop a hill overlooking Pokhara, the Peace Pagoda is a stunning Buddhist stupa built in the 1970s by a Japanese Buddhist monk. The pagoda is a symbol of peace and harmony and offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, Phewa Lake, and the city of Pokhara. To reach the Peace Pagoda, you can take a boat across Phewa Lake and then hike up the hill, or you can take a taxi to the base of the hill and then hike up.
  • Begnas Lake: While Phewa Lake is the more well-known of Pokhara’s lakes, Begnas Lake is a hidden gem that is worth a visit. Located about 15 kilometers from Pokhara, Begnas Lake is much quieter and less crowded than Phewa Lake. You can take a boat ride on the lake, go fishing, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings. There are also a few guesthouses and restaurants along the lake, making it a great place to spend a peaceful day away from the hustle and bustle of Pokhara.
  • Gurkha Memorial Museum: Located in the center of Pokhara, the Gurkha Memorial Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the history of the Gurkha soldiers. The Gurkhas are an elite group of soldiers from Nepal who have served in the British Army for over 200 years. The museum has a collection of weapons, uniforms, and other artifacts related to the Gurkhas, as well as information on their history and culture. It is a fascinating place to visit and gain insight into the bravery and courage of the Gurkha soldiers.

  • Sarangkot: Sarangkot is a small village located on a hill about 5 kilometers from Pokhara. It is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayan mountains. To reach Sarangkot, you can take a taxi or hike up the hill. Once there, you can watch the sunrise or sunset over the mountains, go paragliding, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings.
  • Davis Falls: Located in the southern part of Pokhara, Davis Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is a popular attraction among tourists. The waterfall is named after a Swiss woman named Davis who fell into the falls and drowned in the 1960s. There is a small cave behind the waterfall that you can explore, and the surrounding area is filled with lush greenery and beautiful flowers.
  • International Mountain Museum: If you are interested in mountaineering, then the International Mountain Museum is a must-visit. Located in Pokhara, the museum has exhibits on the history of mountaineering, the geology of the Himalayas, and the culture of the people who live in the mountains. There is also a section dedicated to the Sherpas, the ethnic group from Nepal who are renowned for their mountaineering skills.
  • Bindhyabasini Temple: Located in the heart of Pokhara, the Bindhyabasini Temple is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati. The temple is one of the oldest in Pokhara and is believed to have been built in the 17th century. It is a popular place of worship for both locals and tourists and is known for its stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. To reach the temple, you will need to climb a flight of stairs, but the climb is well worth it for the panoramic views that await you.
  • Mahendra Cave: Located about 10 kilometers from Pokhara, the Mahendra Cave is a natural cave that is believed to have been formed millions of years ago. The cave is named after King Mahendra, who visited it in the 1950s. It is a popular attraction among tourists and locals and is known for its limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. There is also a small temple inside the cave where locals come to offer prayers.
  • World Peace Pagoda: Similar to the Peace Pagoda, the World Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa located on a hill overlooking Pokhara. It was built in the 1990s as a symbol of peace and harmony and is one of 80 similar pagodas built around the world by the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii. To reach the World Peace Pagoda, you can take a boat across Phewa Lake and then hike up the hill, or you can take a taxi to the base of the hill and then hike up.

Pokhara is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure. While the well-known attractions such as Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range are certainly worth a visit, don’t forget to explore the city’s hidden gems such as the Peace Pagoda, Begnas Lake, and Sarangkot. These lesser-known attractions offer a unique perspective on the beauty and diversity of Pokhara and are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler who visits them.

Indeed, there are plenty of adventure activities to enjoy in Pokhara, and many of them can be combined with visits to the hidden gems mentioned earlier.

  • Paragliding is a popular activity in Pokhara, and Sarangkot is one of the best places to do it. You can take a tandem paragliding flight and soar over the beautiful Himalayan mountains and valleys, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
A woman jumps from a cliff.
  • If you’re looking for a more unique way to see the mountains, hot air ballooning is another option. You can take a balloon ride over the Pokhara valley and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city, lakes, and mountains.
  • Boating is another popular activity in Pokhara, and there are many options for renting a boat and exploring the lakes. In addition to Phewa and Begnas lakes, there is also Rupa Lake, which is less well-known but equally beautiful. You can rent a rowboat or a paddleboat and spend a peaceful day exploring the lake and its surroundings.

Other adventure activities in Pokhara include zip-lining, bungee jumping, and mountain biking. No matter what your interests or activity level, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.

Overall, Pokhara is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, culture, and history. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, there is always something new to discover in this magical city. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Pokhara, Nepal.

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