Pokhara is known more for its beautiful lakeside setting and panoramic mountain views of distant Himalayan peaks than for historical sights and culture. The lake is the second largest in the Kingdom, and the sight of brightly painted wooden boats and sails rippling across the reflections of icy summits, presents a picture of perfect serenity. It has become a popular base for some of Nepal’s finest trekking expeditions as well as the main centre for white water rafting and kayaking trips. The city provides a peaceful place to relax before or after tackling the mountains or the rivers, and there are a multitude of excellent shops supplying the necessary equipment for trekking expeditions.

Pokhara is divided into two parts – the lakeside and the bazaar area. The actual town or bazaar of Pokhara is set back from the lake, while the lakeside has become the main tourist-orientated zone brimming with bakeries, international restaurants, shops, souvenirs and woven handicrafts, bookshops, hotels and guesthouses.

The city is a favourite for visitors to Nepal as a relaxing break from the temples, noise and bustle of the Kathmandu Valley. There are ample opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing on the lake, or lazing on the sunny lakeshore before the magnificent backdrop of some of the highest mountains on earth.