Traveling to Pokhara has always been on my list, and no matter how many times I go, I never feel it’s enough. Each trip feels new, as if the city always has something fresh to offer. This time too, the excitement began the night before when I was packing. Even though I had carefully put everything in my bag, I still felt like I had forgotten something maybe because of the rush and excitement that comes whenever I know I’ll be on the road to Pokhara.
Early in the morning, I caught the bus. I chose the window seat, as always, because for me, the journey itself is as beautiful as the destination. The road was winding and a bit scarier than my previous trips, but that only made me more alert and more connected to the ride. The bus ride took around seven to eight hours. At times, the road was bumpy, yet I didn’t mind because the views were more than enough to keep me hooked. For a long stretch, the Trishuli River kept us company. It was calm in some places, while some places faced heavy rainfall, crashing into big rocks. I even spotted groups of people rafting down the river. Their loud cheers reminded me of my own rafting experience chaotic, thrilling, and full of laughter.
The journey also gave me glimpses of daily life of people living a bit outside of city areas. Farmers bent over their fields, women carrying bamboo baskets heavy with grass, and children who waved excitedly at our bus made the ride feel homely and real. These little scenes always remind me that beauty isn’t only in mountains and lakes but also in the way people live so simply and yet so fully and by looking at this beauty and headphones on my ear I realized that I almost slept for 2 hours during the journey. I was enjoying the ride had some foods which is best part when I travel.
After few hours Finally, when we reached Pokhara, The tiredness gradually turned into a fully energetic mood. The air felt fresher and lighter compared to Kathmandu and also the very first place I went was, of course, Phewa Lake. No matter how many times I visit, it always feels different, always new. The colorful boats floating gently on the water, the cool breeze brushing against my face, and the mighty Annapurna and Machhapuchhre reflected in the lake it felt almost magical. I sat there quietly, not rushing anywhere, just breathing and soaking in the peace. walked around the streets of Pokhara full of lights people walking till the mid night which felt so wonderful.
The next morning, I woke up at 4 a.m. to catch the sunrise at Sarangkot. Getting up that early was tough, but the moment the golden light touched the snowcapped peaks of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, I forgot all about my sleepy eyes. It was like watching the mountains wake up. Afterward, I hiked up to the World Peace Pagoda. The climb was sweaty and tiring, but once I stood on the top, the whole city of Pokhara lay beneath me the lake, the houses, and the mountains standing tall in the background.
It was a view that instantly made me feel grateful. Same day after lunch also visited Devi’s Fall, where water suddenly disappears underground, creating a forceful rush that’s both beautiful and a little scary. Right across the way I went into Gupteshwor Cave. Inside, the sound of water echoed through the dimly lit paths, creating a mysterious, almost spiritual feeling. It felt like nature was whispering its own secrets.
Evenings in Pokhara have their own charm. The Lakeside area comes alive with music, food, and lights, but it never feels too crowded. I walked along the streets, passing small shops, listening to live music pouring out of cafes, and enjoying the smell of food from street stalls. Of course, I couldn’t leave without eating momos they tasted even better after a long day of wandering. I also tried fried fish and sekuwa by the lake, and it quickly became one of my favorite meals from the trip.
What I love most about Pokhara is its balance. Mornings gave me peace the still lake, the cool air, the quiet mountains. Evenings gave me energy the laughter of people, the sound of guitars, the warmth of food and those vibe in live music session making whole lakeside vibing. It’s rare to find a place that can calm your soul and excite your heart at the same time, but Pokhara does it effortlessly.
If someone asked me whether they should visit Pokhara, I would say yes, without a second thought. It’s not just a tourist spot for foreigners it’s our place too, a treasure for us Nepalis. Whether you’re looking for adventure like paragliding, trekking, or rafting, or you simply want to sit by the lake and lose yourself in the view, Pokhara welcomes everyone. Travelling with your friends, families or your loved ones its always a perfect destination.
For me, this trip was more than just sightseeing. It was about remembering the beauty, feeling the calmness of the lake, and recharging myself with the vibrant evenings. Pokhara gave me moments that I will carry for a long time. If you ever get the chance, don’t think twice. Just pack your bag and go. Pokhara will not disappoint it never has, and I don’t think it ever will.