📖 About Pokhara

Pokhara is Nepal's second-largest city and the gateway to the Annapurna Himalayas. With approximately 420,000 residents, this lakeside city in the foothills offers stunning mountain views, adventure activities, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it Nepal's premier tourist destination after Kathmandu. The Annapurna range, including the iconic "Fishtail" peak Machhapuchhre, dominates the horizon.

Phewa Lake, surrounded by hills and reflecting the mountains, is the city's centerpiece. The Lakeside (Baidam) district buzzes with travelers preparing for treks, seeking adventure sports, or simply relaxing. Paragliding over the lake with Himalayan views is legendary. The new international airport expands access. Pokhara embodies Nepal's appeal—natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual tranquility in the shadow of the world's highest peaks.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Pokhara's economy is tourism-driven—hotels, trekking agencies, adventure sports, restaurants, and shops serve visitors. Agriculture in the valley produces rice and vegetables. The new international airport is expected to boost tourism further. Services, education, and government employ residents. The economy depends heavily on tourist seasons and global travel patterns.

Nepali culture with Gurung and Magar influences characterizes Pokhara. Nepali is spoken; English common in tourist areas. Hinduism and Buddhism blend; temples and stupas dot the landscape. Traditional hospitality welcomes visitors. Food includes dal bhat, momos, and international cuisine. The culture balances tourism orientation with traditional Nepali values of family, hospitality, and spiritual connection to the mountains.

📜 History

Pokhara developed as a trading post on routes between India and Tibet. The area was home to Gurung and Magar peoples. Modern development began after 1951 when Nepal opened to outsiders; the road from Kathmandu arrived in the 1970s.

Tourism grew from the 1960s as hippie travelers discovered Lakeside. The Annapurna Circuit trek, opened in 1977, brought trekkers. Adventure sports—paragliding, rafting, bungee—expanded offerings. The new Pokhara International Airport opened in 2023. Today Pokhara thrives as Nepal's adventure capital—stunning natural beauty drawing travelers from around the world to the foot of the Himalayas.