Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal and the last place to stock up on supplies before heading into the Annapurna Mountain Range. The city is on the shores of Phewa Tal, a beautiful lake with the Annapurna Massif as a stunning backdrop. Take a walk on the shoreline or row out into the lake to appreciate its beauty. Another excellent place to see the Himalayas and in particular Himchal, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, and Annapurna II, is from the World Peace Pagoda, also on the lakeside.
The main street in Pokhara is full of interesting souvenir shops and stores selling trekking and climbing gear. There are some really interesting museums here including the Gurkha Museum which celebrates the history of this famous regiment, many soldiers coming from the foothill villages nearby. The International Mountain Museum celebrates mountaineering and in particular the early Himalayan ascents.
Pokhara is a great place for cycling, for boating, and finding a good Ayurvedic massage for tired limbs after trekking. There are some good restaurants and hotels in the area and it is a beautiful place to relax after a walking holiday.
We thoroughly recommend the delightful Begnas Lake Resort particularly for those people where one partner has restricted movement. They may undertake easy activities, relax by the pool, do natural massages etc while the other goes on half day and day hikes with a guide. Then both can visit the fascinating bazaar by car. It is also the perfect base for hiking before returning each day to enjoy the comforts of a pristine located quality resort at an affordable price.
An interesting guided individual itinerary with appeal to people 40 years plus is to have 2 or3 nights in Kathmandu , with a half day tour to nearby Patan, drive to Tansen visiting its delightful bazaar along with the potential for spectacular views. From there we continue to Begnas Lake Resort for easy hikes/relaxation then onto Chitwan National Park , home to Nepalese wildlife staying in a comfortable superior tourist lodge before returning to Kathmandu through spectacular scenery.
