Pokhara

Few cities anywhere sit so close to such high mountains: from Pokhara at about 800 m, Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) and Annapurna rise almost straight up to the north. It is the capital of Gandaki Province, a relaxed base for treks, and the centre for paragliding, ultralight flights, zip-lining and boating.

Beyond Lakeside, explore the old bazaar and Bindhyabasini temple, the International Mountain Museum, the Seti river gorge and the caves and waterfalls south of the city. Pokhara's new international airport opened in 2023.

What to see and do

Beyond Phewa Lake, visit the old bazaar area around Bindhyabasini temple, walk along the deep gorge of the Seti river (seen best from the Mahendrapul bridge and K.I. Singh bridge), and explore the Gurkha Memorial Museum and the International Mountain Museum. The Tibetan settlements of Tashi Palkhel and Tashiling have carpet workshops and monasteries.

Adventure options include tandem paragliding from Sarangkot, ultralight flights past the Annapurnas, the zip-line from Sarangkot to Hemja, bungee jumping and white-water rafting on the Seti and Kali Gandaki.

Good to know

Pokhara has accommodation for every budget along Lakeside, and it is the start of most Annapurna treks — permits (ACAP and TIMS where required) can be obtained here. The monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain; autumn and spring give clear mountain views.