Pokhara is the travel capital of Nepal, a beautiful city right in the heart of the country. It's famous for its calm lakes, stunning mountain views, and rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling in Nepal. Whether you're exploring alone, on a family vacation, or with friends looking for adventure, knowing how to get to and move around Pokhara is key to having a smooth and fun trip. Pokhara is a stop for travelers heading to Mustang and trekking routes in the Annapurna region, including Ghorepani Poon Hill and Jomsom-Muktinath.
Getting to Pokhara
Pokhara is well-connected to major cities in Nepal, including the capital, Kathmandu. Here are the primary transportation mediums to reach this beautiful city:
1. By Air
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Pokhara is by air. Several daily flights operate between Kathmandu and Pokhara, with a flight duration of just around 25-30 minutes. Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) and Pokhara International Airport (Pokhara) are the two airports facilitating this route. Airlines like Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Shree Airlines offer frequent flights. The aerial view of the Himalayas during the flight is an added bonus, making the journey an experience in itself.
2. By Road
For those who prefer road trips, traveling to Pokhara by bus or private vehicle is a popular option. The 200-kilometer journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes approximately 6-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The Prithvi Highway, which connects these two cities, offers scenic views of lush green valleys and rivers.
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Tourist Buses
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Private Vehicles
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Local Buses
Exploring Pokhara: Top Travel Areas
Once you've arrived in Pokhara, there are several must-visit spots that you can explore using various local transportation options.
1. Phewa Lake
2. Sarangkot
3. World Peace Pagoda
4. Devi's Fall and Gupteshwor Cave
5. Bindhyabasini Temple
6. Begnas Lake
7. Paragliding Sites
8. Seti River Gorge
9. International Mountain Museum
10. Shiva Statue [Pumdikot]
11. Adventure Activities Spots
Local Transportation Options in Pokhara
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To explore these destinations within Pokhara, you can choose from several local transportation options:
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Taxi: Easily available and convenient for short trips around the city.
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Motorbike Rentals: Popular among tourists for the freedom and flexibility they offer. Ensure you have a valid driving license.
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Bicycles: Ideal for exploring the lakeside area and nearby attractions at your own pace.
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Public Buses: Affordable but less comfortable, they connect major parts of the city and nearby villages.
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Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Pokhara.
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Annapurna Cable Car : The Annapurna Cable Car offers ride from Pokhara to Sarangkot, making it easier for visitors to enjoy stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna range.
Getting to Pokhara from other 3 travel destination of Nepal
Chitwan : If you're coming from Chitwan, you can either take a 5-6 hour drive via the Mugling-Narayanghat Highway, with tourist buses and private vehicles available, or take for a flight from Bharatpur Airport to Pokhara International Airport.
Lumbini : Traveling from Lumbini involves a 7-8 hour drive along the Siddhartha Highway, with tourist buses and private vehicles being the most convenient options. Alternatively, you can fly from Bhairahawa Airport to Pokhara International Airport.
Janakpur : From Janakpur, the journey to Pokhara is longer, with a 10-12 hour drive primarily along the East-West Highway. Overnight buses or private transport are recommended for comfort. You can also fly from Janakpur Airport to Pokhara International Airport.
Conclusion
Whether you're flying in for a weekend or driving to explore, knowing the best ways to get around Pokhara will make your trip better. Once there, you can easily explore its beautiful landscapes, making every moment an adventure.
We can assist with reserving seats on tourist buses, booking domestic flights, and arranging private cars to make your trip more comfortable. Please feel free to contact us with any inquiries or requests.
