The metropolitan of Pokhara is also widely known as the tourism hub of South Asian holiday favourite Nepal. With brilliant displays of the Annapurna and the still waters of the numerous lakes dotted with colourful boats, Pokhara is a scene to behold. But it doesn’t just end there. As with all major cities in Nepal, here too, you will find a regal collection of architectural brilliance that displays a compelling narrative of its rich history and traditions. A visit to Pokhara requires one to come prepared to be blown away by the sheer beauty of its landscapes and the sundry activities on offer, such that no matter the duration of your stay, it will never seem enough.

Here’s a brief list of some of the best tourist places to visit when you next come to Pokhara.  

Sarangkot is a small village located on the hilltop of Sarangkot Mountain at an elevation of about 1500 m, approximately 10 km away from Pokhara city. It is a scenic location that provides brilliant views of the Himalayas and the Annapurna range. If you are here on a clear day, you will find a chance to witness striking sunrise and sunset views as well. However, this serene location is best known for its paragliding spots; as you take flight from this location, you will find yourself soaring among the clouds whilst enjoying sparkling views of the Phewa Lake and the splendor of the neighboring mountain ranges. 

In the old part of Pokhara, lies the true hidden charm of the city; something that tends to get overlooked under the façade of marketable tourism opportunities. The architecture located in the old town provides some insight into the historical past of the city; while the rest of the city has undergone substantial modernization for commercial purposes, this part manages to retain some of its true authenticity and charisma that is definitely worth paying a visit.

The famous Bindhyabasini Temple is located here as well, and is dedicated to the Newari God that brings success in commerce. Aptly, you will also see a number of old-school shops here selling a wide range of genuine local items like baskets and ceramics, along with fruits and vegetables. 

Out of the 2 World Peace Pagodas in Nepal, one is located in Pokhara, and is situated on top of Anand Hill overlooking the Phewa Lake. Reaching this site involves hiking up the hill for about an hour, but you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding scenic beauty, grand vistas of the city area and awe-inspiring views of the sunset and sunrise. The striking white colour of the monument is visible from a good distance, and it is home to four beautiful statues of Buddha, along with other relics corresponding to different aspects of his life.

Museums are a fun way to spend your time if you are looking to familiarise yourself with the history of the city. The Gurkha Memorial Museum has been dedicated to the achievements and bravery of the Gurkha soldiers who were a part of the Indian Army in the British rule era.The Annapurna Butterfly Museum hosts a wide assortment of butterfly species with varied information and comparisons between different varieties. The International Mountain Museum consists of all kind of information related to mountains and mountaineering activities, especially historical aspects of Mount Everest in the form of photographs, gears, artefacts etc. The Pokhara Regional Museum is where you will get to witness the ancient culture and history of Pokhara through various artefacts and exhibits that represent the lifestyles of previous tribes and communities.

Colloquially also known as Davis Waterfall, or locally as Patale Chango, the incredible view of the falls can be seen ending in an underground tunnel, which leads into the Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave. The water comes in from the Phewa Tal with the starting point of the waterfall being the spot where the Pardi Khola stream meets the waters, and can reach a vociferous intensity during the monsoons when the water level reaches great heights.

This base camp starts from Pokhara and encompasses six glorious mountain peaks of the Annapurna range. One of the most important peaks in this range, the fish-tailed Machhapuchare, is also known to be the dwelling of Lord Shiva. Magical views of towering glaciers like Gandharvachuli, Annapurna Glacier and Gangapurna are also visible while passing through this trail.

Ideally, the perfect way to appreciate such a marvel is to hike through it, which takes about a week. But if you are running low on time or are not much of a trekking enthusiast, you can take a helicopter ride around the region with amazing views of the mountains and valleys.

Thousands of Tibetan refugees migrated to Nepal during the Chinese takeover of Tibet, and took residence in containment camps spread across Nepal. Four such camps are located in Pokhara and are a unique spectacle worth visiting at least once. The Tibetan population that resides here is legally not allowed to work, so they make a living by selling handmade carpets, woodcarvings, and other trinkets and jewellery to locals and tourists alike; especially to the tourists.

Commonly known as the Seti River, this tributary runs through the middle of Pokhara and is worshipped locally as a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. The most awe-inspiring feature of this river is its course, which alternates between vanishing into mountains and suddenly reappearing in a different location, which has given rise to a local belief that the city literally floats on top of the river.

This glacier-fed river has also given rise to many new attributes to the terrain of Pokhara by carving out gorges and terraces by the sheer intensity of its running flow. Its white color will often make you feel like you are looking at a river made of milk; and white-water rafting in this river is one of the most sought after sporting activities of Pokhara.