Pokhara City Tour: Explore Pokhara

Trip Highlights for a Pokhara Day Tour (Itinerary)

• Witness a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna range from Sarangkot.
• Explore the historic Bindabasini Temple with panoramic city views.
• Learn about mountaineering and culture at the International Mountain Museum.
• Admire the towering 51-foot Shiva statue at Pumdikot with valley views.
• Enjoy panoramic vistas from the World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa).
• Visit the unique underground waterfall at Davis Falls and explore Gupteswor Cave.
• Relax with a serene boat ride on Fewa Lake, with an option to visit Tal Barahi Temple.

Alternative Highlights for Custom Tour Itinerary

• Adventure through natural limestone formations in Mahendra & Bat Caves.
• Escape to the quiet, less-crowded Begnas Lake for a serene boating experience.
• Experience thrilling bungee jumping and zip-lining at Kushma - The Cliff.
• Relax at the luxurious Rupakot Resort with panoramic views of the Annapurna range.

The tourist hub of the nation, Pokhara is counted among the most visited city of Nepal by tourists. The city itself is a wonder of its own and also, the starting point of the many trekking routes especially the Annapurna Conservation Area.

The city has plenty of things to offer to the visitors such as Tal Barahi Temple where hundreds of devotees come to pay homage to the Goddess Durga, Fewa lake and many other sites. The distinguishing thing about this city is that it offers a mouthwatering view of the Annapurna Range.

If we have spare time, then we could head towards another equally famed Begnas lake and do some boating in the lake. The Pokhara Valley is equivalently renowned for its nightlife too. Such as dance bars and restaurants where one could savour the meal by listening to live music. The local guides can come in handy during the tour as they can formulate a detailed plan for you to cover all the significant attraction sites of this city.

The food and accommodation are available according to our budgets as well as our interests. Moreover, this city gained fame for the villages on its periphery such as Lwang Village, Ghandruk Village, and Sikles Village.

Best Itinerary for a Single-Day Pokhara Sightseeing Tour

1. Sarangkot Sunrise 

Starting Time: (5 am)

Start your day by driving to Sarangkot, located approximately 10 km from the heart of Pokhara. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, passing through winding roads lined with greenery and traditional villages. Sarangkot is famous for its stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Watching the first light hit the snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), is a mesmerizing experience. This early-morning excursion provides an incredible opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.

Photo: Sarangkot Sunrise

2. Visit Bindabasini Temple 

After enjoying the sunrise, we’ll head to Bindabasini Temple, a significant religious site located about 20 minutes from Sarangkot. This Hindu temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, sits atop a small hill and is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara. The temple’s peaceful surroundings and beautiful architecture make it an ideal spot for morning prayers and meditation. Visitors can also admire panoramic views of Pokhara city and the surrounding landscapes from the temple grounds.

3. Return to the Hotel for Breakfast

We’ll then return to the hotel for a refreshing breakfast. This break will allow you to rest, recharge, and prepare for the rest of the day's adventure.

4. Mountain Museum

After breakfast, we head to the International Mountain Museum, about 15 minutes away. This museum is dedicated to the history, culture, and biodiversity of the Himalayas. It offers detailed exhibits on mountaineering, indigenous mountain communities' lifestyles, and the region's flora and fauna. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of Nepal’s mountaineering legacy and is a must-visit for anyone interested in mountains and adventure.

4. Shiva Statue 

Next, we drive to the towering 51-foot Shiva statue at Pumdikot, a new yet popular attraction. The journey takes about 30 minutes, winding through scenic routes that offer beautiful views of Pokhara Valley and Fewa Lake. The statue stands as a symbol of peace and spiritual devotion, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors. It's a great spot to take in the views and learn about local religious culture.

5. Shanti Stupa

From the Shiva statue, we’ll proceed to the World Peace Pagoda, also known as Shanti Stupa. This 30-minute drive features lush greenery and glimpses of Fewa Lake. The stupa, built by Japanese monks, is a symbol of peace and harmony. It offers a peaceful environment perfect for reflection, along with one of the best panoramic views of the Himalayas, Fewa Lake, and Pokhara city below.

6. Davis Fall

Our next stop is Davis Fall, just a short drive away. Known for its unique underground waterfall, Davis Falls is a natural wonder with an intriguing story. It got its name from a tragic incident involving a foreign tourist. Visitors can stroll around the garden area and observe the geological formations that make this site truly special.

7. Gupteswor Cave

Right across from Davis Falls is Gupteswor Cave, our next destination. The cave is a fascinating labyrinth of natural rock formations and houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Exploring its dark, narrow passages is an adventure, and at the end of the cave, you can catch a glimpse of Davis Falls from below. The cave holds religious significance, attracting many visitors, especially during festivals like Shivaratri.

9. Fewa Lake Boating 

After Lunch Break

To conclude our day, we’ll drive to Fewa Lake for a relaxing boat ride. The lake, surrounded by lush hills, is a serene setting that offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and the reflection of Mount Machapuchare on the water. You can rent a traditional wooden boat and paddle across the calm waters, or visit the iconic Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the middle of the lake. The boat ride is a tranquil way to end your day, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of Pokhara before returning to your hotel.

Alternative Sites for the Pokhara City Tour

If you’re looking to customize your day in Pokhara or prefer exploring different attractions, here are some excellent alternatives. You can visit these sites by replacing one or more of the destinations from the main itinerary:

1. Mahendra Cave & Bat Cave (2 Hours)

Located about 7 km north of Pokhara, Mahendra Cave and Bat Cave are two natural limestone caves perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure. Mahendra Cave is known for its spacious chambers and fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations, while Bat Cave is narrower and home to thousands of bats. The drive to these caves takes you through local villages and greenery, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Exploring the caves will take approximately two hours, giving you a chance to experience Pokhara’s natural underground wonders.

2. Gorkha Museum (1 Hour)

If you're interested in history, consider visiting the Gorkha Museum instead. Located near the Old Bazaar, the museum showcases the history and legacy of the Gorkha warriors, who are known worldwide for their bravery. The museum displays traditional weapons, uniforms, and artifacts, providing insights into Nepal’s military history. This visit can be combined with a stroll through the Old Bazaar to explore local handicrafts and cultural items.

3. Seti Gorge & Old Bazaar (1 Hour)

For those who prefer to explore natural wonders and local culture, Seti Gorge and Old Bazaar are a great alternative. The Seti River cuts through a narrow, deep gorge, offering a striking natural sight right in the middle of the city. You can combine this visit with a walk through the Old Bazaar, where you can find traditional shops selling spices, handicrafts, and local produce. The whole visit can be comfortably completed in about an hour.

4. Begnas Lake (Majhikuna) (3 Hours)

Begnas Lake, situated about 15 km east of Pokhara, is a peaceful escape from the busy city. Unlike Fewa Lake, Begnas is less crowded, offering a more serene and quiet boating experience. The drive to Begnas takes around 30 minutes, passing through rural areas with views of terraced hills and forests. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the lakeside, surrounded by lush greenery. This alternative takes about 4-5 hours, making it a perfect half-day retreat.

6. Hemja Tibetan Camp (3 Hours)

For a cultural and serene experience, a visit to Hemja Tibetan Camp is a great addition to your Pokhara day tour. Located on the outskirts of Pokhara, this Tibetan settlement is home to refugees who have preserved their traditions and way of life. The drive to Hemja offers picturesque views of the countryside, with fields, hills, and a glimpse of local village life along the way. At the camp, you can explore vibrant monasteries, watch artisans creating traditional handicrafts, and shop for unique souvenirs like Tibetan carpets and jewelry. This peaceful visit can take around 5 hours and serves as a more cultural alternative to the typical sightseeing spots in the city.