About Pokhara
Pokhara is a tourist paradise of Nepal. It is approx 200 kms west of Kathmandu and lies in Gandaki zone. It is easily accessible by road and flight from Kathmandu.
It has been a tourist jewel of Nepal since three out of ten highest mountains in the world – Dhaulagiri , Annapurna I and Manaslu are within the vicinity ( approx 30 miles ) of the city. This lovely town is admired by all tourists and offers lively views of Feva / Phewa lake and Annapurna range including it’s distinguishing feature , the Great “Fish Tail ” or Machhapuchhre Mountain , which lies close to city.
Pokhara serves as first stop over or pre base camp for most of the trackers and mountaineers undertaking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal.
Pokhara has become an international tourist destination with views of whole Annapurna range of Himalyas, especially Machpussere – The “Fish-Tail” Mountain. On a clear day, one can actually see reflection of these ranges in Feva lake. Most of the hotels provide breathtaking views of the Feva lake and mountain ranges from the roof top itself.
Sarangkot is a small sleepy village and a hill station in Gandaki Zone , located approx 5 kms from lakeside , Pokhara. At a height of 1592 meters , it is considered one of the most scenic spots in Pokhara , renowned for its spectacular sunrise in the backdrop of Annapurna range of Great Himalyas. It offers glorious views of Annapurna range and landscapes around Pokhara valley.
The beauty of Sarangkot Sunrise lies in its panoramic view of the Dhaulagiri (8167 met), Annapurna Range including Machpussere – “Fish-Tail” Mountain (6997 met) along with Annapurmna II (7937 met) and III peaks.
At the sunrise , Glowing up of snow capped peaks of Annapurna Himalyan range creates a spectacular view and certainly a most memorable one.
However , the most thrilling part of the scenic beauty is the view of majestic Himalyas reflecting sunrise , as most peaks facing sun glow with sunlight as sun rises.The fishtail mountain gives a truely majestic appearance and as the sun rises , it creates various hues and colours which turn on the applause from a patient audience.
Also considered as best viewpoint spot to enjoy the magnificent and spellbounding sunrise atop many hillocks and rooftops of houses , Sarangkot commands one of the broadest views of the snow capped Himalyas in Annapurna range with a splendid view of Pokhara Valley on the other side. The other topmost viewpoint in Pokhara is world peace pagoda again giving a panoramic view of Fewa lake and Great Mount Machhapuchhre.
Our experience
We started from Kathmandu after mountain flight and breakfast. It was around 10 am. Considering the route would take around 8 hours, we planned to reach about 6pm but fortunately since it was Vijay Dashain holidays, so roads were empty and we reached at 4pm. The drive to Pokhara was awesome having many mountains peeping one after the other around the river Marshyangdi creating a blissful view.
We checked in our hotel Landmark which had a scenic view of Fewa lake and Mt. Machchhapuchhre peak on the side from the rooms on terrace. After having little bit snacks and freshening up, we went for a little stroll in the market which was just by our hotel. There were many shops selling tour packages, adventure sports, clothing, food, restaurants, hotels, clubs, bars and what not. It was a very happening place with cool breeze coming from Fewa lake.
We had our dinner at Hungry Eye, the restaurant of Hotel Landmark. Food was delicious. Early morning we had to visit Sarangkot for spectacular sunrise. So, we slept early. It was a fabulous experience. As we came back, had sumptuous breakfast and got ready for sight seeing. We visited Devi’s falls followed by Gupteshwor Mahadev cave. It was then the turn of International Mountain Museum.
Having spent full day for sight seeing we rested and got ready for the next day’s departure to Nagarkot. Pokhara was a memorable trip. We will remember it for lifetime.
Where to stay in Pokhara
There are many luxurious and budget properties in Pokhara like Fish tail lodge, Pokhara Beach club, Pokhara Grande, Hotel Landmark, Shangrila Village, Hotel Nirvana, Waterfront resort, Atithi resorts etc , hostels and guest houses.
Where to shop and eat
There are ample shopping and eating options in Pokhara Main market. One would get lot of choice.
Nidhi KM
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