Best things to do in Pokhara

Visit Nepal’s second largest lake, Phewa Tal (Fewa Lake), and enjoy a peaceful walk along its scenic banks. The lake is a semi-natural body of water, fed by streams but regulated by a dam, and features an island with a Hindu temple. Hike or cycle around the lake, surrounded by verdant forest on one side, with the touristy lakeside area on its eastern bank. Rent a vividly painted boat and set off on the lake’s calm water, which reflects the towering Annapurna mountain range.

Poon Hill offers panoramic vistas of the Annapurna Massif, blooming rhododendron forests, and picturesque Gurung villages. The trail that begins and ends in Pokhara--Nepal's second-largest city--is short but steep and features numerous stone steps. Family-run teahouses along the way provide overnight stays and meals. Dress appropriately, as it can get quite cold at the top--especially if you visit before sunrise.

At Peace Temple, explore the 35 m (115 ft) tall Buddhist pagoda-style monument which symbolizes peace and compassion. Situated on a hilltop at the height of about 1,100 m (3,610 ft), the white temple offers a panoramic view of the lake, valley, and city, as well as the Himalayan range. The monument has two tiers, one for tourists and one for devotees to circumambulate the Buddha statue. Visit the site, which means "peace pagoda," either by crossing the lake by boat, or by going on an adventurous uphill trek. Take extra care of your personal belongings; some instances of theft have been reported.

A hotspot for paragliding, Sarangkot boasts some of the greatest views of the Annapurna Himalayan mountains. You can explore the site in many ways--by renting a bike, hiring a taxi, or going on a long hike. Try paragliding if you like excitement, but take extra care during the windy monsoon season. Despite peaceful surroundings, it can get crowded and noisy sometimes. Be sure to dress yourself properly, as it can get cold.

Take a trip to Devi's Fall, an roiling cataract that cuts deep into the ground. Plunging 100 m (328 ft) down into the earth, the fall has formed an underground tunnel at its foot, approximately 150 m (500 ft) long. The surrounding park offers extensive views of the water as it heads through a series of arches and over cascades before finally plunging into the abyss. Reach the fall via taxi or bus from the main town or lake.

A tour of International Mountain Museum allows you to discover the secrets of Nepalese mountaineering. Observe numerous exhibits about Nepalese peaks, learn about the brave climbers who ascended some of the world's most challenging summits, and get to know the country's mountain geography and wildlife. After you're done exploring, you can try ascending to the top of Mount Manaslu--on a 9.5 m (31 ft) climbing model.

Relax on the picturesque shore of Begnas Lake, the larger of the two freshwater lakes southeast of Pokhara. Enjoy the pristine natural setting of the placid lake surrounded by lush greenery and overlooked by Himalayan peaks. Rent a boat and set out on the water, go fishing, and revel in the tranquil atmosphere of the Pokhara valley. Take advantage of the uncrowded surroundings and pristine nature, and have a picnic or go for a hike among the terraced paddy fields.