Nepal is a very tiny country with so much to see. It’s been on the map for quite some time now and is a beloved destination amongst hikers and adventure seekers.
This guide will focus on the wonders of Pokhara. Most visitors touchdown in Kathmandu and automatically head to the mountains for some hiking fun. Now this is totally understandable. After all, the Himalayans are truly a show stopper. They will definitely blow your mind along with all the other nature routes.
That said, ever wonder what else is there to do in Nepal besides hiking and trekking?
Whether or not you’ve already done all the hikes or simply yet not really into hiking at all, I got you.
Let me show you all the amazing things you can do in the beautiful Pokhara, Nepal. Perhaps you can save those world famous hiking adventures for another time.
VIsit the Fewa Lake
This one is really hard to miss. You’d really have to be blind to pass through it. It is a huge body lake right at the beginning of the lakeside, the shore of Pokhara.
Did I mention how stunningly beautiful Pokhara’s lakeside is?
It goes without saying. Yes, I do recommend stopping by just to admire it. If you stop at the main area, you will be approached by these boat masters trying to get you into their transport vehicle of choice.
Ok, let me be real for a minute. To be fair, it is pretty much impossible for you not to spend time around the Fewa Lake. It’s quite expansive along Pokhara’s coast.
Now back to our boat hustlers. I’ve witness people being mean to them. I really don’t think it is a necessary to lose your cool. Please remember that Nepal is overall a very poor country and people are just trying to make a living. So let’s all respect the hustle and remember that kindness goes a long way.
If you really don’t want to be bothered, you can keep walking along the sidewalk and you will come along a little parking area. Right next to it there is a small path with stairs leading towards a quieter area of the lake. You will find a tiny little shrine there. Besides a couple people who might come to pray, it’s generally a quieter area to enjoy the lake views.
Take a boat ride
Now you could choose to have a totally different perspective of the lake by going on a boat ride. It is absolutely beautiful and serene, so you definitely won’t regret it.
Also bare in mind that those cute little tiny boats are scattered all along the lakeside coast. Most tourist tend to think that they’re only at the beginning and entrance of lakeside. But no you will find them all along the tiny lake shore.
Stroll around the Lakeside
By now, you’re probably getting an idea.
Yes I know I’ve said a million times. The lakeside is a very beautiful shore all along a good portion of the coast of Pokhara. One thing that makes it special is that you can walk the whole length of it, go on a boat ride, shop in the many shops, and there is also many restaurants and nice coffee shops to relax in.
Pokhara is a place where you go to relax and you feel that time stands still.
Have a dinner and night out at the Nepali Pokhara Riviera
This was one of my favorite things to do. Most people in Pokhara are there for hiking and use the city as a pit stop.
As a result, they have a vey hectic schedule and then they recluse during the night to sleep.
However, Pokhara has so many things to do at night. I was surprised to find many fancy cafes and restaurants. There was one particular *****************place that was my all time favorite. I did not expect to find such a fancy lounge in this lowkey hikers paradise.
It quickly became my go to place at night to dress up a bit. This is not a requirement but of course you’re welcome to switch your hiking boots for nicer clothes and shoes. Sit back, relax and enjoy a nice glass of wine, great food with one of the best view in town.
Catch a Sunset by the lake
The sunset are truly magical on this side of the world.
Explore the food scene and the Posh Cafes
This kinda ties in with the previous point. But I just want to reiterate it again. The food scene in Pokhara is definitely worth checking out. This was all a very pleasant surprise.
Go clubbing in Pokhara
What now?
Yes! And no, this is not a typo.
This can also be done. There is a nice little nightclub in Pokhara. If you keep your eyes peeled you might be able to catch it thanks to the quirky lights.
Go Paragliding
Pokhara is the de facto adventure capital of Nepal.
Whenever you’re there, chances are that if you look up, you’ll be able to catch some big wide birds in the sky, paragliders.
If you’re set on doing this, I recommend checking out the weather and the paragliding company a few days in advance in order to book. Because sometimes, the weather is really bad and they have to reschedule and move bookings around.
Take a Day Hike to the Peace Pagoda ( Or Cab it)
Come on now! Hear me out for a second.
Yes, I know that I said that this guide was for non hikers. Why am I even recommending a day hike then?
I promise I’m not trying to pull a bait and switch on you guys but this is not your regular hike.
I truly believe that everyone should walk to the world famous peace pagoda. If you commit to this, you won’t be disappointed. It is an unforgivable experience to be had in Pokhara.
That said, if you still are not interested in hiking, you can simply hire a driver for the day or catch a taxi. They will bring you to the top of the mountain in the main parking lot. This area also has some nice cafes and restaurants along with some stands selling really posh coffee beans ( great gift opportunity).
That said we spent most of the day hiking all the way from Pokhara lake side to the top of the Pagoda. Now let me tell you that this was definitely a challenge. The map along with everyone we’d ask kept saying that it should take about 2 hours. It definitely felt much longer than that.
I’d say that it was more of a 3 hours with half of it incline. You can check my world pagoda guide for more info.
Visit the Peace Temple
Now getting to the main area is one thing, but there is a nice temple called the peace temple all the way on top. While the taxis can bring you to the main parking areas, you would still have to hike up the many stairs in order to actually get to the peace temple.
For anyone with reduced mobility though, it is still worth getting to the main area and enjoying the view from there. Just be aware that this is Nepal after all and the terrain isn’t always the smoothest.
Get a Symbolic Tattoo
I was really pleasantly surprised to find that Nepal has a growing tattoo scene. For any fellow tattoo lovers out there, I recommend Rabin Tattoo Inn. Rabin is not only the kindest but he is so hilarious and his work is out of this world.
Bare in mind that he is a very busy guy, so if you are set up on having a tattoo in Pokhara, I recommend booking a spot with him in advance. Don’t forget to tell him that I sent you and that I’ll definitely be back for my sleeve 🙂
Go on a Free Vipassana Silent Retreat
Looking for something totally out of the ordinary? How does a 10 day silent retreat sound to you? And what if I told you, it was 100% FREE.
Ok, I know I am slowly sounding like those annoying infomercials. But before you go exit my page, I am actually being totally honest.
This was one of the highlight of my time in Pokhara. I decided to shake things up a bit for my birthday and signed up for a 10 day silent Vipassana Retreat with the Damma non profit organization. Oh my goodness, I don’t think I was ready for this. What a beautiful experience it was but oh so challenging.
In case you don’t know, the Damma organization runs these 10 days silent retreat all around the world and I still can’t believe that they’re totally free.
You often have to book a little bit early since they are quite popular and always run at full capacity. Once you get to the location of your choice, housing and food is included entirely free.
Say what now?
Check out my detailed review to know what to expect. One thing is sure is that you will be thrown out of your comfort zone. They keep your phone on check-in day so no internet, no working out, no reading, nothing. No need to even ask as the answer will most likely be a no.
No one is coming to save you. It’s just you, your breath, learning to calm and refocusing your mind. Did I say that you will meditate for 12 hours every day?
It is one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done but it was so much worth it, especially that the Pokhara camp faces the entire majestic Himalayas.
Attend a FREE Singing Bowl Sound Healing workshop/ Meditation
I think you’re noticing a theme here. We like to get our wellness on and Nepal is so perfect for helping you dive in and connecting with yourself.
I’ll be honest and this was my first time attending one of these and now I am totally hooked. There’s a couple groups offering it but I went with Nirvana Singing Bowls . The singing bowls and sound healing is available every single day at 4pm. There is a mantras chanting session and meditation at 9:15 AM.
Again, did I mention that these are all free?
Just make sure to leave a generous tip at the ends. Trust me on this one. If you have free time in Pokhara, this is not something you’d want to miss. You will leave feeling totally renewed.
Go Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs
I can’t be the only one who’s obsessed with handicrafts, right?
Pokhara is such a haven to find some goodies. If you like picking up unique items all around the world, you will be spoiled for choice. There are so many shops with beautiful locally handmade linen clothes.
I saw some many dresses and Capri pants. You can also pick up the highly coveted silk scarves or one of those warm wool sweater, blankets or shawls. Point is if you like shopping, you are guaranteed to find something.
Get a massage at Seeing Hands Pokhara
Whether you go on a multi day hike in Nepal or not, one thing that is guaranteed is that you WILL do a lot of walking. Even if you taxi everywhere, Nepal is just set up this way. It is what it is?
So why don’t you make the most out of it and enjoy the best massage of your life now? All while simultaneously supporting a great cause.
On that note, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you a very special place called Seeing Hands. It is a fantastic initiative in Nepal. They have massage spas in both Kathmandu and Pokhara.
What makes them special and unique I hear you ask? They create work opportunities for blind people. So all the massage therapists along with the receptionist are all blind.
I won’t spoil the massage for you. Once again, they are also a popular spot so in case you are set up on having your massage at a particular time, you should message them and book as early as possible.
Another great thing is that they also have a loyalty program where you get a free massage after a certain number of booked sessions. Honestly I still always prefer to pay as the massages only cost around 20$ USD per hour and I love supporting their amazing initiative.
Catch a movie at the open air cinema
This is another cherished memory of my time in Pokhara. Now, I definitely did not expect to find something like that there. Yes, it is true that the waterfront is quite beautiful and relaxing. If you’re ever looking to add another cool activity to your list, this could do the trick.
The second you step in, you feel as if you got teleported to heaven.
Imagine a big screen in the middle of a beautiful lush garden. I am telling you, the whole set up is absolutely stunning. Best thing is that this place mostly stays under the radar as most people are too busy rushing around and heading to their next hike. But not you my savvy traveler!
Want to know what else makes the garden cinema even better?
There is also a cute little bar in the back, allowing you to enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine while you watch a movie. Sounds amazing? Well yes, it is! Only thing is that I have to warn you that they don’t usually have the latest hollywood showing. The place seems to stick to major classic. When I went, Lord of the Ring was the one playing. So if you don’t mind re-watching old classics, give it a try.
Check out the Devi’s Fall
Yep, you’ve guessed right! It’s Pokhara’s waterfall claim to fame. The day I went there, the gate was sadly closed but a few friends vouch for it. If I can be honest, I’m Canadian and it’s a little bit harder to impress me when it comes to waterfalls. I mean, I do have the Niagara Falls in my backyard after all. That said the Devi’s Fall is definitely on the smaller scale. What makes it stand out is that you can see the point where the stream merges with the surrounding and ” disappears” underground.
I still think, it is worth checking it out if you have extra time. You should stop there while heading to the Peace Pagoda as it’s on the way there.
Tibetan Encounter Day Tour
There is so much culture in Nepal and so many different ethnic group all co-existing along side one another. This cultural experience never crossed my mind but I do recommend it. Plus it will allow you to better understand the challenges and hardships of the Tibetans living in Nepal.
The best part is that this is run by my favorite guesthouse owner. He is such an honest and hardworking gentleman, always make sure to go above and beyond. Most of all, his passion is very contagious.
Stay at his tiny little guesthouse
Well, well, well, talking about the devil.
If you are looking for a very cozy guesthouse to stay in, I also recommend staying over at our Tibetan host.
His guesthouse is one of the cleanest places you’ll find around. It’s cozy with only two en-suite rooms. If you get the chance to stay there, he will even make you an authentic Tibetan breakfast every morning. Another thing is that it gets quite cold in the middle of the night during winter. It was life saving to have a heater in my room on those nights.
OH! Another thing is the cute Tibetan design of the guesthouse and the bed linens. His attention to details is definitely worth mentioning.
Pokhara’s Disneyland
Ok, this one would definitely be disappointing to Americans. But what can I say? This is in no way comparable to the real Disneyland but it Pokhara’s own neighborhood fair. I did not ride anything but was glad to have some ice cream there.
Take a day trip to that nearby town
Pokhara is definitely where you want to be for maximum relaxation. That said there are still a few day trips to do if your feet are feeling itchy. You could go on a few mini trekking to visiting neighborhood towns.
Another thing you can do is go explore some tea routes. There are tons of excursion companies scattered all around to help you plan your trips.
Enjoy Nepali Beer
Sit by the water front, pick one of the many cafes/ bars and just enjoy the local Nepali beer. It seems to be quite popular with the tourists and Nepalis alike.
Well to sum things up, you can see that there is plenty of things to do in Pokhara and in Nepal in general if you’re not too keen on hiking. Or perhaps, you had plans but things fell off. Regardless of your situation, don’t despair. Pokhara has plenty to keep you entertained for a few days and however long you plan to stay.
Then you can relax and sample the ever growing restaurants and cafes scene all while admiring the beautiful lake views. I hope you’ve enjoyed this Pokhara besides and beyond hiking guide of the top things to do in the city and will find it useful.