Nestled against the Phewa Lake in Western Nepal, lies a place that is known for its tranquil lakes – their depths carrying many unexplored stories- and the soaring Annapurna mountains that speak for its own magnificence, nature’s contradiction in Pokhara is a prism for mankind, attracting tourists, spiritual seekers and adventurers alike for centuries.

Despite the urbanisation, Pokhara is blessed with lakes, caves, mountains, and pleasant season throughout the year, making it the most adventurous destination in Nepal. The peak seasons to visit Pokhara are from September to November. However, it gets really cold from December till March. Although Nepal widely accepts Indian Rupees, I would suggest exchanging them for Nepali Rupees in the city of Kathmandu.

Travelling Pokhara from Kathmandu takes almost 6 hours via a car. You can board tiny flights from Kathmandu- a costly option- that takes only 25 minutes. Buses are an option too, but since the road conditions can get risky I’d recommend the alternatives.

We chose the quirky route…

As an eccentric adventurer, it was time for me to take part in yet another outlandish but delightful travel nuisances. I made my way to Pokhara, with the help of the Nepal River Runner who entirely organised our trip.

From Kathmandu, we set off for a three-hour drive to reach the starting point of a 2 days rafting trip on the Trishuli river. We paused only to spend the night by the river in a tented camp.

Our next morning started early, with another 3 hours of rafting. After a drive for a few hours, we finally reached our destination.

The views of the Trishuli rafting trip were nice but little did we know, the best was yet to come.

Boating at Phewa Lake

We started off by visiting the focal point of every traveller in Pokhara- the Phewa lake. Popular for its pleasant boat rides on brightly painted doongas or boats, we thoroughly enjoyed watching the lush forest on the shore bestowing a beautiful jade hue on the lake. Many travellers love to make a stop at the Barahi Temple, it is located on a small island in the centre of the Phewa Lake. There are several boating options, depending on the duration you wish to sail. Take the longest tour, without a doubt, you will be left with wanting more.

As above so below

There are too many things we can ignore in our infinitesimal existence in this universe. But some views are impossible to ignore –

• Magnificent Helicopter ride to the Annapurna Base camp – If you wish to experience a helicopter ride for the first time in your life, then this is a must-do. There is no camera or words that can do justice to what you’ll encounter on this trip. You’ll be left just as speechless as I want. It leaves early in the morning around 7am. It is a 15-30 minute ride to the base camp. On your way you will encounter some of the most spectacular views of Nepal. The tour ends around 9-9:30am. The cost of the tour varies, depending on the tour company you choose. It ranges from $300 – $500 per person.
• Watch the Sunrise or Sunset from Sarangkot – On a clear day, you can expect to see breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the city of Pokhara.
• A visit to Gupteswar Gufa Caves – about 4 kms out of the city centre of Pokhara lie these mystical caves that houses the Shiva Temple.

 Not just a visual treat

Even though Pokhara is known to be the most adventurous destination in Nepal, yet it has something unique for every traveler. Rejuvenate your body with a Yoga Retreat package at the Sadhna Asana Yoga Centre. And revitalise your mind at the famous World Peace Pagoda. Both these experiences were spiritually satisfying. If having a meal at a quirky restaurant sounds something like you’d do then I suggest a visit to Crazy Gecko and while you’re at it why not try learning Nepali cuisine by booking a cooking class with Cook With Delight!

Marking the memories

Apart from my love for magnets, I don’t quite prefer shopping for large souvenirs while traveling. My tattoos, either tell a story of my past or relate to my identity. As a frequent globetrotter, I have tattoos from various parts of the world. To my surprise, Pokhara has some of the best tattoo artists in the world. I got my favorite (and the most painful) tattoo in Pokhara from Rabin Tattoo!

For the next time…

Visiting Pokhara is enough to quench any traveller’s thirst. From the happening nightlife bustling with live music – to the spirit of people who set the place ablaze with life, I can safely put that Pokhara left me wanting to return, thirsty for more. Since Pokhara is known as the most adventurous destination in Nepal, I cannot wait to go back and try some of the trekking experiences they have!

Here’s a bunch of destinations I’ve visited so far. Leave me comments and questions, lets hear from you!