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Pokhara, Nepal Tourism Highlights
Posted April 27th 2008
By; Michael Smith

Pokhara is one of Nepal's most impressive cities and for the region it is a rare combination of long arrays of snow clad peaks, clear lakes, turbulent rivers with deep gorges and picturesque villages inhabited by simple and friendly ethnic people. It offers a splendid variety of natural beauties nestled into the valley of Pokhara. A favorite spot among tourists visiting Nepal it provides a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the capital, Kathmandu. The lake front section of Pokhara is quite tranquil and offers a variety of activities and inexpensive lodging, as well as numerous open-air eateries. Built on the shores of the stunning Phewa Lake visitors can enjoy long treks around town or rent a rowboat and explore the forested boundaries of the lake. Yu may also hire a guide to row for you. Visitors can also enjoy viewing fields of Orchids in the nearby Raniban, or just relax by the lake side. Phewa Lake is one of the country's most breathtaking spots and is surrounded by a combination of monkey-filled forests and high white peaks. Trek a few kilometers along the lake and visit several remote villages where the local people mostly still live as they have for centuries.

           (Below pic; Lake Phewa) * The lake has many different spellings*

I most definitely recommend taking a hiking trip around the valley and for excellent mountain views, visitors should climb to the top of Mt. Sarangkot, just outside of the city. A taxi can drive you about half way up, where you will need to proceed on foot, but the climb is well worth while. From the top the magnificent snow-capped Annapurna Mountains come into full unobstructed view. For other treks, camping, river rafting, etc. you can ask for details or hire a day guide from one of the many agencies offering extensive services, maps, etc. Trekking routes are available to suit most everyone's needs and preferences.

(below pic; Annapurna's, Mt. Machapuchare) *The word means "Fishtail*

 

The valley is also home to many agencies providing safe, inexpensive mountain top para-gliding with professionals. If you like adrenalin, this is a must do. Be sure to take your camera for excellent photos of the amazing panoramic views .

Ballooning
Now it is possible to ride the balloon over the Himalayas. This ride gives a 360° view of lush green hills, terraced fields, and of-course the mountains. 

Some of the famous peaks you will enjoy are; Gasainthan, Gauri-shanker, Chhoba-Bhamare, Melungste, Cho-Oyu, Gyanchungkang, Chomolunga and Phurbi-Gyachu.

 

Paragliding, Pokhara

Travelers Digest recommends Frontiers Paragliding, as the most experienced company providing paragliding holidays in Nepal and are unrivalled in their knowledge of paragliding conditions, sites and local cultures. They have been providing flights in Pokhara for over 13 years.

Nepal forms a rectangle on the southern slopes of the Himalaya and is without exception, the most stunning country imaginable. The main area for paragliding is the Pokhara valley, commanding views of 3 of the worlds 8000m peaks with friendly and constant conditions for your paragliding holiday.

River Rafting

The Himalayas have drawn trekkers and climbers to Nepal for many years, but these same mountains also feed some of the world's most challenging and beautiful rivers. Nepal is one of a few few countries offering the combination of spectacular rivers, mountain scenery, a subtropical climate, and huge white-sand lake beaches that are idle for camping.

The best times to experience rafting in Nepal are from September to early December, and March to June. Winter is too cold to raft, and during the summer time the rivers are quite wild for all but experienced rafters. 

The Trisuli River
Trisuli lies West of Kathmandu, on the road to Pokhara. This is quite a popular river for rafting trips and an ideal river for the beginners. A one-day Trisuli rafting excursion could be incorporated on the trip to Pokhara or Chitwan. For those who want to spend more time on the river, this program could be extended to two or three days.

The Seti River
The snow white Seti river flows right through Pokhara, while running completely underground in some places dropping to 50 meter below ground level. This river draws a good number of Kayakers and rafters not only with its exiting rapids, but with its breathtaking views of the mountains and the impressive gorges it passes through. One might choose between a two or three days trip. This river is idle for both  professional and first time rafters.

The Kali Gandaki River
Kali Gandaki rafting is a combined experience of mountain viewing, culture observing, and rapid riding. This river flow from the mountains and passes by Pokhara, ending at Butwal and is accessible from Pokhara. This is a three days (only) rafting trip, and is suitable for both the experienced and beginner rafters.

Jungle Safaris

Among the popular jungle safaris in the world, Royal Chitwan National Park is considered one of the best. The park was established in 1973 and covers an area over 932 sq. km. The park sits between Kathmandu and Pokhara. It contains the Churiya hills, Ox-bow Lake and the plains of Rapti, Reu, and Narayani rivers. Around 70% of the park vegetation is sal forest. The remaining forest is covered with grassland and riverine forest and shelters a wide range of endangered and rare animals and birds: Varying safaris are available, including on the backs of elephants. A must do, for sure!

Animals (over 43 species)
Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic one-horned rhinos, Gaur (the largest of all the bovine), Leopard, Striped hyena, Gharial crocodile, four-horned Antelope, Monitor Lizard, Gangetic Dolphin, Python, Pangolin and the Barking deer. 

Birds (over 450 species)
Bengal florican, giant hornbill, egrets, peafowl, Red jungle fowl, Herons, Kingfishers, Flycatchers, Woodpeckers, Black, as well as White stork. 

Jungle Itinerary

Day 1

• Culture tour to Tharu Village

• Sunset Viewing

• Tharu stick dance/slide show program.

Day 2

• Dug-out canoeing

• Elephant back safari

• Jungle Walk

• Bird Watching

Day 3

• Jeep safari

Note: this specific itinerary is weather dependent.

Chartered Helicopter Tours

For the traveler who has a busy schedule, helicopter charter service is available in Nepal and offers an unparalleled experience and phenomenal views..

Heli-tours cover many flights; such as; Lukla, Muktinath, Chitwan, Lumbini, Ghandruk and Langtang Valley, etc.  Mountain flights are also available. Heli-tours while magnificent, are not inexpensive! As of may 2008 the average price per person for a 90 minute flight ranged from $410 up to $1600 US. Check with several agents when shopping for the best service, safety and current fares.

 

Mountain Flights

For the traveler who is unable or unwilling to make a long and arduous trekking trip to the mountains there are mountain flights available. Check with local agents for departure cities, times and fares. Most companies promise to refund your money if the mountains, including Mt. Everest, are not clearly viewable. The fares average around $150 US, per person, as of April 2008, from Kathmandu.

The one-hour flight takes you within camera range of some of the highest peaks in the world, and cruising this close to the awe-inspiring massifs of rock and ice, is an out-of-the world experience. The aircraft takes off and heads eastward and almost immediately, the peaks come into view. The first peak that appears on your horizon is the majestic Gosaithan, standing 8,013m tall.

To its right is Phurbi Chyachu, which looms over the Kathmandu Valley. Next to appear is Choba Bhamare, rather small in this company at 5,993m, it is, however, singularly stubborn, as it remains unclimbed and unconquered to this day. Then comes Mt. Gaurishanker (7,134m), standing out sharp and conspicuous. Hindus believe that Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati protect this mountain.

As the flight moves toward the eastern Himalayas, a succession of majestic mountains follows. Melungtse, with a plateau-like top stands at 7,023m; Chugimago is at 6,297m, and still remains to be scaled. Mt. Number stands at 6,511m, and Cho-Oyu, the sixth highest in the world at 8,021m.

The last and most exciting stretch of the journey takes you close to the 7,952m-tall Gyachungkang, which is considered an extremely tough climb. To its right is Pumori at 7,161m and Nuptse at 7,855m. Finally, there is Mt. Everest itself (8,848m), called Sagarmatha by the Nepalese and Chomolungma by the Tibetans. It is an altogether different feeling as one comes face to face with the world's tallest and most enigmatic mountain.

Lake Phewa Fishing Trips

Rugged Trails is probably the only travel agency that offers fishing trips in Pokhara. The trip is a one full day of fishing at the Fewa lake. Th lake offerers excellent fishing with a wide variety of species, most notably; the Golden Mahasheer, Rahu and Katle. This is a guided tour, and the agency will  provide a boat, a local guide, and fishing equipment.

Temples

Barahi Temple
In the middle of the phewa lake there lies an Island, which contains the temple of Barahi. Barahi is lord Bishnu in his boar incarnation. The temple's peaceful setting has made Barahi a must visit site for both the domestic and foreign tourists.

Bindabasini Tample
Pokhara's most popular temple, Bindabasini lies on top of a small hill North of downtown. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her Binda Basini Bhagwati manifestation. This temple is overly crowded during the Hindu festival Dashain.

Seti River
The snow white Seti river flows right through pokhara, while running completely underground in some places dropping to 50 meter below ground level. The view of this river, in combination with the Himalayas is quite fascinating.

Devi's Falls
The pardi stream, an outlet of Phewa Leke drops down into a hole and disappears some 2 kilometer south of Phewa lake, creating this dramatic fall. A major tourist attraction in Pokhara. The fall got its name from a tale about a tourist named David and his girlfriend who were washed away inside the hole by a sudden rush of rain water. 

Pokhara lakeside Hotels & Guest Houses
We recommend Lakeside Lodging

Our personal choice, and where we stayed for several weeks in April, 2008, is the Crown Hotel. Great location across from the Lake, quiet, excellent accommodations at very affordable rates, personal service and divine dining from their own restaurant, with room service up to 11:PM. Each large room is equipped with cable TV, large opening windows and ceiling fans.

Virtually all tourist accommodations are located on the Lake side and/or the Dam Side, near the Phewa lake.

Budget

• Pushkar Guest House, Lakeside -6, Pokhara Telephone: 00977-061-525053 [1]. Mr. Krishna Paudel. Has a variety of rooms to suit all budgets, hot showers, a rooftop restaurant (BEST breakfasts in Pokhara with great crusty brown bread!) overlooking the lake and with awesome views of sacred "Machhapuchare". Krishna speaks many languages and is very knowledgable about trekking. The Puskar Guest House has its own Carrom Board. Carrom is a national obsession and a fantastic way of meeting other travelers. You are also welcome to play your own music on the rooftop stereo.
• Angle Hotel, Lake Side. Quiet family run, clean rooms and hot shower for 200-300 Rs.
• Greenpeace Hotel, Lake side, past town on the dirt road that circles the lake. Great terrace over the lake. 200-300 Rs.
• Hotel Temple Villa, Lake side, towards the northern end in a very quiet street. Friendly owners with basic, but clean rooms and some with balconies. The villa is next to the Octagon Hotel and has a pleasant garden. Double with shared bath is 500 Rp, with private bath, its 600Rp.
  
  The exchange rate for a US dollar, as of April, 2008, is around 62 Rupees.

Mid-range

• New Pokhara Lodge. The lodge lies on the shores of Pokhara's largest Lake. Sufficiently set back from the main road to guarantee peace, quiet & privacy, there are just 16 rooms all with attach tiled toilets and 24 hours hot and cold running water. The Lodge is built around one of the best gardens in Pokhara.
   
• Hotel Trek O' Tel. Located; Gaurighat, Fewa Lakeside Lake side, Pokhara, Nepal. Quiet, lakeside hotel with modern comforts and restaurant serving Nepalese, Indian and Chinese cuisine
  $38-$46 US. Built: 2000.

Expensive

• Baba Lodge Baba Lodge has fine meals in a great outdoor dining area overlooking the "Dam-side" end of Phewa lake. Personally we feel it is over priced and is little better than most of the much cheaper hotels.
   
• The Fulbari Resort & Spa. 4 Stars. Located at; Chhinne Danda Kaski Pokhara 15 Green Canyon, Pokhara, Nepal. http://www.fulbari.com
  Rates in US dollars; $140-$600. Built: 1998.

  Shangri-La Village Pokhara. 4 Stars. Located at; 15 Green Canyon,  Gharipatan, Pokhara. Email;: express@fulbari.com.np
  Web:  http://www.fulbari.com/  Local phone and fax numbers; Phone:  1-446-1918. Fax:  1-446-2005
  Rates in US dollars. $180. Built: 1996. Renovated: 2003
  
  Fish Tail Lodge. 3 Stars. Located; Lakeside, Pokhara, Nepal.
  Country-style Mountain Lodge with round cottages set amidst gardens, surrounded by Phewa Lake and forest covered hills
  Air Conditioning. Balcony/ Terrace. Daily Maid Service. Refrigerator
  Cable/ Satellite Television. Pool.
  Rates in US dollars; $90-$115 
  Built: 1969. Renovated: 1999

  New Hotel Crystal. 3 Stars. Located; Nagdhunga, Pokhara, Nepal
  Traditional-style, three story Hotel in the heart of Pokhara Valley facing the Annapurna ranges; near the Pokhara airport. Amenities;  Air-con
  Balcony/ Terrace. Daily Maid Service. Fireplace. Mini-Bar (some)
  Free Newspaper. Rooms for Non-smokers. Telephone. Refrigerator
  Cable/ Satellite Television. Resort; Game room.
  Rates in US dollars; $26-$139 
  Built: 1974. Renovated: 1991.

  Hotel The Kantipur Ltd. VIP Area, Lake Side, Baidam, Pokhara, Nepal
  Artistically designed stone houses with modern amenities, balconies, restaurant and gardens; VIP lakeside area.
  $32-$60 US.
  Built: 1992. Renovated: 2002.

  Shopping, Pokhara Souvenirs

  Jewels and trinkets from the lovely Tibetan women who ply the streets with their wares in backpacks or blankets are always a good buy. Sit and enjoy the atmosphere while patiently bargaining to get the most fairest price. When buying perishables check the expiration dates, as we ended up with many food items, as well as toiletries, that were stale or spoiled and totally unusable. Sorry...no refunds is their common reply!

  Good & reasonably priced restaurants
  Stay away from Meat items.

  After viewing the callousness of the country's meat handlers and butchers, etc. and with no or little available refrigeration, we highly recommend staying away from all meat items. It will be an excellent time to become a vegetarian and in stopping the slaughter of animals.

  Along the lakeside road, a variety of quality restaurants can be found. Check their menus before sitting down, as prices vary greatly between the restaurants and as stated above, stay away from all meat and milk items, however, their buffalo cheese is divine..

  Pokhara nightlife, bars, clubs and pubs.

  • Pushkar Guest house Not just Beer, but COLD Carlsburg beer. They make a pretty good Lassi as well.

  • Pema Tibetan Restaurant A local joint for Thukkpa (Tibetan Soup Noodles), Mo Mo (Tibetan style dumplings) great taste, with sukuti, sekuwa and Locally brewed liquor

    Information for visiting Nepal

    

Important Notice for the Nepal Visitors:
Nepal Visitors Tourism offices provides Nepal Travel information and Company Listing for Trekking, Travel, Rafting, Adventure, Biking, Expeditions, Trek, Peak Climbing, Mountaineering, Hotels, Guest Houses, Tour, News, Cargo, Pashmina , Safari, Business Directory, as well as recommended Agencies.

The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)
Established by an Act of Parliament, is a partnership between His Majesty's Government and the private sector industry of Nepal. The Board is responsible for marketing Nepal as a premier destination, its objectives being to develop, expand and promote tourism enterprise, as also to emphasis the natural, cultural and human aspects, as well as the environment impact of tourism.

Trek Nepal, Adventure Holidays Company in Nepal.
At Trek Nepal, this business takes small sized groups on Himalayan adventures and run eco-friendly, trekking, mountaineering, scenic & cultural tours, wilderness expeditions, overland adventures, special interest tours, family adventures or group holidays in Nepal and Tibet. Don't want to go as a tourist, but want to go to local places and meet local people? Then Trek Nepal is for you. Guests will get a rare chance to immerse themselves in local culture, nature and the local people.

Nepal Myths and Mountain Trails.
Nepal is the ultimate destination for trekking and adventure holidays from soft adventures to challenging base camp treks. The company offers 16 Nepal treks from short excursions into the foothills to the demanding challenges of the snow peaks. Whether you're looking for a trek in Nepal that is easy, moderate or Challenging - they have a trek for you. Nepal has been called "A Trekking Paradise" as her varied terrain - mountains, hills, and the Terai, offer some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world..

Nepal Trek & Tour: Small Group Holidays in Nepal.
Specialists in trekking and climbing in Nepal, with over 20 years experience of organizing a wide variety of trips for clients from around the world. They offer small group holidays, culture tours and vacations in Nepal, sightseeing  tour in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Patan and Bhaktapur and also offer Annapurna Expedition, Dhaulagiri Expedition, Everest Expedition Kanchenjunga Climbing, Langtang & Ganesh himal, Makalu Expeditions, Manaslu Expedition.

Drift Nepal - Adventure Rafting Holidays.
Nepal has earned a reputation as one of the best destinations in the world for white water rafting and kayaking. Drift Nepal operates adventure rafting activities in Nepal, Trishuli river, Kali Gandaki river, Sun Koshi river, Bhote Koshi river, Marshyangdi river, Marsyangdi river, Seti river, Karnali river, Arun river, Tamur river, Bheri river, Seti river, budhi Gandaki river, Modhi Khola river, service offered Expedition, climbing, cultural tours, hiking, wildlife safari, rafting & Mt. Kailash pilgrimage, Nepal River Rafting, White water rafting in Nepal, Himalayan whitewater rafting, River surfing in Nepal, Rafting in Nepal.

Nepal Handicrafts Exporter.
Nepal 1 Craft Centre is a group of companies that manufacture and export quality products Felt, Garment, Woolen, Glass Pipe, Yarns, Cotton Products at wholesale prices in all over the world. All our products are environmentally friendly and do not cause deforestation, but in fact help reduce it. We manufacture unique products at a high standard of quality. All of their products are made by skilled workers and are carefully selected to be 100% free of child labor.

Trekking In Nepal.
You are invited to trek among the world's highest mountains, along ancient trails, encountering the warmth and generosity of the Nepali people. Their Trekking in Nepal program offers something for everyone. On our Nepal trek, we usually stay in mountain lodges. We favor this over camping because you get a chance to meet the Sherpa people and learn more about their culture. They also offers Nagarkot Hiking, Chisapani Hiking, Balthali Village Tour, Sirubari Village tour, Lumbini Village Tour and more...

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