“It is the mountain that has been calling me, and it’s time to answer,” says renowned Indian author Susan Jagannath in her book Chasing Himalayan Dreams. This quote by Jagannath perfectly sums up what many of us feel; a persistent pull of the mountains.
Indeed, there is something so magical about mountains that I, like many others have always been drawn to it. Whether it’s the grandeur, the resilience or the way they somehow seem to hold the wisdom of centuries, mountains, especially the Himalayas, have always enthralled me. Over the years, I have explored several Himalayan spots within India and each one has left an imprint on my heart. From the beautiful Pauri in Uttarakhand to the Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh, every visit has been filled with adventure and has doubled my love for the Himalayas.
Recently, I wanted to go beyond the usual places in India and explore something new. So, I chose Pokhara. Nestled in central Nepal and called the gateway to the Annapurna Himalayas, Pokhara is known for its lakes, greenery and the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. It promises everything I love—nature, culture and the mighty mountains. So, with a heart full of excitement, I set off on a lovely journey to Nepal’s Pokhara. Let us explore the stunning Himalayan wonder together.
Vacation and holidays are not just about sightseeing or discovering new things. Sometimes, the best idea is to simply take a stroll through a peaceful park, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Basundhara Park in Pokhara is exactly the kind of place where you can do that. Located next to Phewa Lake, Basundhara Park is a perfect spot for families to spend time leisurely, enjoying the surroundings. Travellers can also rent a boat and enjoy the view of the lake. This large lake is ideal for birdwatching too.
Your trip to Pokhara is incomplete without visiting the Dolakha Bhimsen Temple, a place that holds great cultural and spiritual importance, especially for the Newar community. The temple is dedicated to Bhindyo (Bhimsen) who is regarded as the god of trade, wealth and good fortune. According to local legends, the Pandavas spent their exile in Dolakha and one of the Pandava brothers, Bhimsen, is honoured here till date.
While the exact date of construction of the temple is unknown, it was rebuilt in 1682 by the Nepalese king Srinivasa Malla. Bhimsen Temple is renowned for its stunning architecture and it is the perfect place to learn more about Nepal’s rich culture and history.
Water is a calming element and it is ideal to head to a riverside or lakeside in order to feel rejuvenated during holidays. The Pokhara Lakeside is one such breathtaking spot that is a must-visit when in Nepal. The Phewa Lake and its surrounding area offers some of the most iconic views in the city. For instance, the majestic peak of Mt Machhapuchhre can be viewed from here.
The Pokhara Lakeside is filled with cozy restaurants, cafes and shops where visitors can enjoy great food combined with a lovely view of the mountains. For those who like to mingle with the locals and explore lively markets, this is the place to be.
Located in the serene hills of Pokhara, is the small but sacred Shree Gaden Ling Monastery. It offers a glimpse into the Tibetan culture and spirituality.
It is said that after facing persecution in Tibet, many Tibetan monks fled to Nepal and some of them established the Shree Gaden Ling Monastery in Pokhara. The monastery is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and provides a perfect setting for meditation, reflection and quiet contemplation. People who come to visit are allowed to observe the daily rituals here and learn more about Buddhist teachings and practices.
So, if you are seeking peace and a deeper connection to spirituality, this monastery is a significant start.
If you are up for some adventure and are thrilled at the idea of exploring caves, then Mahendra Cave in Pokhara cannot be missed. Made of shining limestone, the Mahendra Cave was discovered by shepherds in the 1950s and named in honour of King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev.
These caves are home to fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations that have developed over thousands of years. With water dripping from above and many parts of the caves draped in darkness, it is a cool and thrilling adventure to embark on.
A Lord Shiva temple in the premise makes the visit a spiritual one too. And for those who cannot get enough, there is Kumari Cave and Bat Cave near the Pokhara Mahendra Cave, waiting to be explored as well.
So, whether you are seeking adventure or a deep connection with nature, Pokhara has it all. From the peaceful Pokhara Lakeside to the serene Shree Gaden Dhargay Ling Monastery, every corner of the city has an inviting story to share.
Pokhara is located in central Nepal, about 200 kilometers from Kathmandu.
The best time for sightseeing in Pokhara is between September and November. March to May also make for good travel months.
You can reach Pokhara by bus, by a private car or via a flight from Kathmandu.
You can visit several places of cultural and spiritual significance in Pokhara. You can also enjoy activities like boating, trekking, paragliding and exploring ancient caves.
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