Pokhara is one of the main tourist destinations of Nepal. The city has many lakes, caves and hills that have attracted the numbers of tourists for many years. It is the perfect destination to enjoy the vacation and relax our tired mind and soul in the midst of the beautiful natural heritage. There are places to visit in Pokhara that will sweep you off your feet with their scenic beauty and calm atmosphere. Pokhara is the second most important city in Nepal after the capital city, Kathmandu. But when it comes to tourism, Pokhara is simply the most popular destination in the country. The fame of this city among the tourists visiting Nepal is attributed to a variety of places that confirm the richness of culture and nature of the country. Located in the shadow of some of the most prominent Himalayan mountains, Pokhara is beautiful.

Pokhara is an ideal destination for all kinds of tourists belonging to all age groups. From hills to lakes and from markets to shrines; tourist places to visit in Pokhara are in surplus despite the small geographical area occupied by the city. Whether you are a daredevil who wishes to get closer to the highest of the peaks by indulging in trekking or you are someone who wants to stay in the soothing embrace of nature by sailing a boat on the tranquil waters of a lake, Pokhara is the place to be. Whenever you plan to tour Nepal, make sure to add a couple of extra days to spend exploring Pokhara. The city is known as the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, a popular trait in the Himalayas.

Places around Pokhara

There are many major tourist attractions in the city. Pokhara is also known as the city of lakes and hills. It has many beautiful temples, monasteries, lakes and Himalayan ranges that has captivated the heart of the many visitors. This city is one of the most visited places in Nepal if you are here on your vacation.

1. Phewa lake

Phewa Lake is one of the major attractions of Pokhara and is the second largest lake of Nepal. The holy and sacred temple at the middle of the lake has increased its beauty even more. It is the travelers’ focal point in the city. The serene and tranquil water of the lake pleases your disturbed and stressed mind, body and soul.  In contrast to the gaudy tourist development of Lakeside, the steep southern shore is densely forested and alive with birdlife. The lush Rani Ban, bestows an emerald hue to the lake and on a clear day the Annapurna mountains are perfectly reflected on its mirror surface.

The visitors can take a tour in the lake in one of the brightly painted wooden boats. You must visit the religious and historical Tal Barahi temple which is situated in the middle of the lake. Many people walk or cycle around the lakeshore area. There are many restaurants and bars with the view of the beautiful lake in which the visitors can enjoy their rest time in front of the silent and peaceful lake.

2. Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is rumored to be the longest cave in Nepal. The cave is said to have been discovered in the 16th century. The main cave entrance was not constructed until 1991. It contains two chambers with several shrines located throughout the cave. The main shrine of the cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is often closed during monsoon season due to access of water from the waterfalls coming through. There are many souvenir stalls located at the main roadside entrance to the cave. The ticket allows you to clamber through a tunnel behind the shrine, emerging in a damp cavern adjacent to the thundering waters of Devi’s Falls.

3.  Bindabasini temple

Bindabasini Temple is one of the greatest religious sites of Nepal. The temple itself is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, who is Pokhara’s chosen guardian deity. Durga, also known as Shakti or Kali has numerous manifestations and at the Bindabasini temple she is seen as Bhagwati, a blood-thirsty aspect of the goddess. Durga appears in the form of a Saligram. It is said that the temple was created after the goddess ordered king Khadag Bum Malla to set up her statue here. The Bindabasini temple was then founded in BS 1845. Since its establishment, Bhagwati has been an object of worship here on a daily basis. Animal sacrifices are typically presented at the temple on Saturdays and Tuesdays. The Hindu festival of Dashain sees large numbers of believers coming to offer sacrifices at Bindabasini Mandir.

The white pagoda-styled building of the Hindu Bindabasini Temple quietly sits at some 3000 feet above sea level along the renowned Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountain ranges. It is located near the busy Old Bazaar of Pokhara, a center of commerce in the Himalayas. The ornate structure of Bindabasini Temple is surrounded by a park-like landscape. Many come here to enjoy pleasant picnics whilst enjoying the amazing panorama. Spectacular views can be absorbed from this marvelous vantage point which looks out over the town of Pokhara and takes in some of the impressive Himalayas.

4. Bhimsen Temple

The 200 year old Bhimsen Temple is dedicated to the Newari god of trade and commerce. This temple is believed to be the oldest temple in the city and it replicates the pagoda style of architecture. Its exterior is covered with intricate erotic carvings and exquisite woodcarvings on doors, windows , pillars and struts.

5. Mahendra Cave

Mahendra Cave is located in the Batulechaur close to the Kali Khola. It is a rare example of a cave system in Nepal containing stalagmites and stalactites. This cave attracts thousands of tourists every year. A statue of Hindu lord Shiva can be found inside the cave. This cave was discovered in the late 1950s by young shepherds of Pokhara. Its corridors are completely dark with continuously dripping water overhead. The cave consists of about 100m of easily accessible passages and a further 100m of low unstable corridors entered by way of a collapsed passage only perhaps half a meter high. Its surrounding is full of green vegetation and grasslands. The grazing horses and mules can frequently be observed in this area. This cave lies in the bottom of a hill covered with greenery. Many surrounding hills full of greenery can be observed from here.

Pokhara is one of the favorite destinations for the many visitors. It is the starting point of the many adventurous activities. The visitors can indulge themselves in the serene environment and beautiful and stunning views of the Himalayas, hills, lakes and landscapes. You can explore many historical and religious sites with the great cultural values.