Pokhara
Nepal
Attractions & Events in Pokhara
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Pokhara, Nepal
Top Attractions
Barahi Temple
A two-story pagoda temple located on an island in Phewa Lake, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi.
Tips: Accessible only by boat. Combine with a lake tour. Remove shoes before entering the temple.
Begnas Lake
A tranquil freshwater lake east of Pokhara, popular for fishing, boating, and picnics.
Tips: Less crowded than Phewa Lake. Ideal for peaceful getaways and bird watching. Local eateries offer fresh fish dishes.
Bindhyabasini Temple
A historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, set atop a small hill with city views.
Tips: Respect local customs; remove shoes before entering. Early mornings are less crowded.
Devi's Fall (Patale Chhango)
A dramatic waterfall where the Pardi Khola river vanishes underground, especially powerful during the monsoon.
Tips: Best visited during or after the monsoon (June–September) for the most impressive water flow. Combine with nearby Gupteshwor Cave.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
A sacred cave featuring a revered Shiva lingam and a view of Devi's Fall from inside.
Tips: Slippery stairs, so wear good shoes. Entry fees apply. Photography is restricted in the holy section.
International Mountain Museum
An informative museum displaying the history, culture, and biology of Nepal's mountains and mountaineering.
Tips: Great for families and mountain enthusiasts. Allocate 1-2 hours. The museum is a bit outside the main tourist area, so consider a taxi or bike.
Lakeside Pokhara
The main tourist hub, filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and live music venues overlooking Phewa Lake.
Tips: Ideal for nightlife, dining, and shopping. Try local Nepali cuisine and enjoy lakeside cafés in the evening.
Mahendra Cave
A large limestone cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, named after King Mahendra.
Tips: Bring a flashlight or rent one at the entrance, as sections are dimly lit. Wear sturdy shoes due to slippery surfaces.
Old Bazaar
A traditional Nepali marketplace with historic buildings, temples, and vibrant local life.
Tips: Explore on foot for the best experience. Visit in the morning when the market is most lively. Great for photographers and culture seekers.
Phewa Lake
A scenic freshwater lake surrounded by mountains, popular for boating, kayaking, and lakeside relaxation.
Tips: Boat rentals are available along the lakeshore; sunrise and sunset views are especially beautiful. Don't miss the Tal Barahi Temple, accessible by boat.
Pokhara Regional Museum
A museum showcasing the culture, history, and ethnic diversity of the Pokhara Valley.
Tips: Allocate about an hour. Displays are in English and Nepali. Combine with a visit to the Old Bazaar.
Pokhara Street Festival
An annual New Year event with food stalls, music, and cultural performances along Lakeside.
Tips: Held in late December to early January. Book accommodation in advance as it gets busy. Suitable for all ages.
Sarangkot
A hilltop viewpoint famous for sunrise views over the Himalayas and as a top paragliding spot.
Tips: Arrive before dawn for sunrise; dress warmly as it can be chilly. Book paragliding in advance for the best time slots.
Seti River Gorge
A deep, narrow gorge carved by the milky Seti River, visible from several points in the city.
Tips: Best views are from the Seti River Gorge Park and Mahendra Pul. Not suitable for swimming.
World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)
A gleaming white Buddhist stupa perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna range.
Tips: Reachable by hike, bike, or taxi. Early morning visits offer the clearest mountain views. Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk.
Events & Festivals
Fewa Festival
Celebrated around the Nepali New Year, this festival includes indigenous food exhibitions, cultural parades, folk song duets, and a tourism marathon.
When: April
Tips: Engage in local traditions and enjoy the cultural performances; it's a great time to experience Nepali cuisine.
Nepal International Balloon Festival
A hot air balloon festival featuring participants from around the world, offering spectacular views of Pokhara from the skies.
When: December
Tips: Book balloon rides early as slots fill up quickly; it's a unique way to see the city and surrounding landscapes.
Pokhara International Mountain Film Festival
A non-competitive film festival showcasing documentaries and feature films that focus on the environment and culture of the Himalayas.
When: December
Tips: Check the official schedule for film screenings and venues; some events may require prior registration.
Pokhara Street Festival
A vibrant festival transforming Lakeside into a bustling carnival with food stalls, live music, cultural performances, and adventure activities.
When: December 28 to January 1
Tips: Explore the diverse food options and participate in cultural activities; accommodations may be busier, so book in advance.
Tamu Lhosar
The New Year festival of the Gurung community, celebrated with traditional dances, music, and vibrant displays of traditional attire.
When: December 30
Tips: Witness cultural processions and enjoy Gurung cuisine; it's a colorful and lively celebration.
Aaha! Rara Gold Cup
An annual international football tournament featuring major Nepali and international clubs, organized by the Sahara Club to support underprivileged children.
When: February
Tips: Arrive early to secure good seating at the Pokhara Rangasala stadium; tickets can be purchased at the venue or online.
Paragliding Championship
An adventurous paragliding competition held to promote sports tourism, attracting participants and spectators from around the world.
When: February
Tips: Spectators can enjoy the event from designated viewing areas; for participation, ensure to register in advance.
Dhunge Sanghu Mela
A festival celebrated annually on Maghe Sankranti at Sita Ghat on the bank of Seti River, featuring traditional rituals and local produce markets.
When: January
Tips: Experience local traditions and purchase unique handicrafts; it's a great way to immerse in the local culture.
Nepal Literature Festival
An annual international literary festival featuring discussions, book launches, and interactions with authors and literary figures.
When: January
Tips: Attend various sessions to gain insights into Nepali literature; some events may have limited seating, so arrive early.
Pokhara Mahotsav
A two-week-long festival featuring live music events, food stalls, exhibitions, and cultural programs, celebrating the cultural richness of Pokhara.
When: January
Tips: Enjoy performances by popular Nepali artists and explore local crafts; it's an excellent opportunity to experience local culture.
Ropain Mahotsav (Rice Planting Festival)
An agricultural festival marking the beginning of the rice planting season, where participants engage in planting rice seedlings accompanied by folk music.
When: June
Tips: Wear clothes suitable for muddy fields and participate in traditional farming practices; it's a unique cultural experience.
Pokhara Cup
An international football tournament organized by ANFA Kaski, featuring teams from Nepal and abroad competing at the Pokhara Rangasala.
When: November
Tips: Check the match schedule and purchase tickets in advance; the event attracts large crowds.