Overview
Pokhara Hiking is one of the most popular activities of Nepal. The rare combinations of snow-clad peaks and snow fed lakes and rivers has helped to make the valley of Pokhara ( 210 km/ 31 miles from Kathmandu) one of the most picturesque natural attraction in the Kingdom. A must for all visitors to Pokhara valley is the Fewa lake. A half-day excursion of the Pokhara market, the cap factory, and Seti gorge. For people with more time in hand can visit the Begnas and Rupa Tal or take a 3 hours hike to Sarangkot or Hyangja. Pokhara is accessible daily by road or air from Kathmandu.
Trip Facts
Trip Name: Pokhara Day Hike / Pokhara Hiking
Duration: 1 day
Country: Nepal
Destination: World peace stupa, lakeside
Max. Altitude: 1350m
Min altitude: 850m
Group size: Any
Average walking: 3-4 hrs
Trip type: Hiking
Grade: Easy
Best Season: all around the year
Trip Highlights Pokhara Hiking
- Short hike to the World Peace Stupa
- Witness the majestic view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, as well as Machhapuchhre
- Boating in Phewa lake
- Hike through the beautiful village in Pokhara
- Enjoy the evening walk at Lakeside
Pokhara is a city in the Kaski district located 200km west of Kathmandu. Pokhara is the second-largest city in the western part of Nepal at an altitude of 900m above sea level. Seti Gandaki river flows through Pokhara and its tributaries have created several gorges in and around Pokhara. Pokhara is popular as the city of Lake. Lake in Pokhara like Phewa lake, Begnas lake, are the major source of attraction here. Besides, Pokhara is a place that provides a stunning view of the Sunrise and the closest view of Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. There are numerous Gumpas and temples in Pokhara such as Taal bara hi in the middle of Phewa Lake, Bindabasini along with the world peace stupa. In recent days, Pokhara is the tourism capital of Nepal and also a gateway for the Annapurna circuit trek.
The world peace stupa is a popular destination across the southern shore of Pokhara at an elevation of more than 1000m. The Nepali name for the stupa is Shanti stupa. Shanti is a Sanskrit word meaning peace. As the stupa shrine was built as a symbol of peace. Likewise, Shanti stupa has become the major tourist attraction place in Pokhara. Similarly, one can have a panoramic view of the Annapurna Himalayan range, Pokhara city, and Phewa Lake from the stupa. However, it is said that Nipponzan Myohoji along with the local people of Pokhara built this stupa. Standing at the top of the hill, the white-colored stupa adds extra beauty to the city. Therefore, Shanti stupa comes under second top attractions in Pokhara by Trip advisor.
Hike to World Peace Pagoda
A short hike to World peace stupa in Pokhara starts with a morning hike from Damside to the world peace stupa. Then, Start your Walk from Lakeside for 2 hours along the trails through the forest. You can easily spot the fantastic white pagoda uphill and head towards it. Furthermore, reaching upon the footbridge Pardi Khola, the route splits after crossing the bridge. We will choose the stone steep on the right side. Similarly, passing a small brick temple on the left and climbing up the regular step, the view of the Phewa lake can be seen magnificently. We will reach the world peace stupa passing through several cafes and lodges. The stupa is painted on a whole white which makes the stupa look more tranquil.
You can spare some time exploring around the stupa from where you will be blessed with the magnificent view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Then, descend steeply along the paved path with cut stone steps, pass through several forests, local villages overlooking beautiful Phewa lake.
Reach a small bay at Pumdi Bhumi and start a boat excursion crossing Phewa lake that lasts up to 30 minutes. After that enjoy your boating trip with a panoramic view of the Himalayas reflecting on Phewa lake.
Most asked questions
What is the Best Season for the Pokhara Hiking?
Pokhara is fresh green and beautiful throughout all seasons. You can hike here almost every season. The view present in each season is different. Likewise, The summer season is warm and offers a stunning view of the Himalayas. Whereas the rainy season can be a little gloomy because Pokhara receives the highest amount of rainfall. Similarly, the spring offers the best natural scenario. Wintertime in Pokhara can be a little cooler but it is moderate compared to other places.
Is this hike suitable for all age groups?
A day hike to the world peace stupa is relatively easy. Also, it is convenient and can be done just within a day. The hike takes around 5 hours of ascending and descending through the dense forest in Pokhara Valley. Besides, this can be done by any age group of people and you do not need any kind of extreme preparation for this trek. Therefore, trekkers with moderate fitness levels can complete this trek pretty easily.
Where is the world peace stupa located?
The world Peace stupa is located across the southern shore of Pokhara at an elevation of more than 1000m. On the other hand, the Nepali name for the stupa is Shanti stupa. From the stupa, one can have a magnificent view of the Himalayan ranges.
What does the hike offer?
You will explore several village life in Pokhara. Besides, this hike offers an exceptional opportunity to do boating in Phewa Lake. Similarly, you will explore the Buddhist stupa which symbolizes peace. Moreover, the hike offers a wonderful panorama of nature including the scenic beauty of the high Himalayas and the natural landscapes.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Start your hike from the lakeside to the World Peace Stupa. Hike down to the Lakeside and enjoy boating there.
Detailed itinerary
Early morning after breakfast, we will start our hike from Damside to the world peace stupa. Walk for around 2 hours along the trails through the forest. So, you can easily spot the fantastic white pagoda uphill and head towards it.
In a couple of minutes, you will reach the footbridge Pardi Khola and the route splits after crossing the bridge. The stone steep in the right side goes a step up whereas the left goes up more smoothly suitable for bikers.
Similarly, passing a small brick temple on the left and climbing up the regular step, the view of the Phewa lake can be seen magnificently.
Then passing through several cafes and lodges we will reach the stupa. The stupa is painted on a whole white which makes the stupa look more tranquil.
Enjoy exploring around the stupa with the magnificent view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
Later, descend steeply along the paved path with cut stone steps, pass through several forests, local villages overlooking beautiful Phewa lake.
Reach a small bay at Pumdi Bhumi and start a boat trip crossing Phewa lake that lasts up to 30 minutes. Therefore, Enjoy your boating trip with a panoramic view of the Himalayas reflecting on Phewa lake.
Includes and Excludes
Includes
- Private transport with departs
- Pick up and drop off to the desired location
- Gasoline and car parking
- Breakfast
- All government taxes
- Tourist guide
Excludes
- Lunch and dinner
- Personal expenses such as phone bills and additional shopping
- Any alcoholic beverages as well as soft drinks
- Tips and gratitude for the drivers