Why visit
Pokhara is lakeside with Machapuchare rising behind. The Annapurna trek hub, paragliding capital, and quieter alternative to Kathmandu.
How to use this result
Use it as a travel-city prompt
Pokhara is included because it has traveler appeal beyond being a dot on the map. Use the themes, neighborhoods, notes, and season guidance to decide whether it fits a weekend, longer route, or writing prompt.
Build a realistic route
For a real trip, check how Pokhara connects with nearby cities, airports, rail or bus routes, local costs, weather, and entry rules for Nepal.
Pokhara at a glance
City population
600k
Elevation
1,008 m
3,307 ft
Time zone
UTC+5:45
Asia/Kathmandu
Airport
PKR
Pokhara Domestic Airport
Nepal at a glance
Country center
28.0°, 84.0°
Coast
Landlocked
Country area
147,181 km²
56,827 mi²
Country population
30.9 million
210/km²
Subregion
Southern Asia
Currency
Nepalese rupee (₨)
NPR
Dial
+977
Language
Nepali
Demonym
Nepalese
Internet
.np
UN
Member state
ISO code
NP / NPL
Where in the world
28.0° - 84.0°
Nepal
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Pokhara sits beside Phewa Lake with views toward the Annapurna range on clear days.
- The city is the main preparation base for many Annapurna trekking routes.
- From Pokhara's lakeside you can see three 8,000 m giants, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu, without hiking a step.
- Nepal's flag is the only national flag that is not rectangular: it is two triangular pennants stacked.
- Eight of the world's ten highest mountains are in Nepal, including Everest.
Bordering Nepal
Traveler notes
- Phewa Lake boat + Peace Pagoda hike
- Paragliding from Sarangkot
- Annapurna Base Camp trek (7–10 days)
Plan checks
- Build a three-day plan before extending. Most travel cities are easy to undersell to yourself.
- Check seasonal timing: high season can triple costs on some coastal destinations.
- Bring layered clothing and verify trail/park access before arrival.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Pokhara
What currency is used in Pokhara?
Pokhara uses the Nepalese rupee (₨), ISO code NPR.
What languages are spoken in Nepal?
The primary language is Nepali.
What is the international calling code for Nepal?
The calling code is +977.
What airport serves Pokhara?
Pokhara Domestic Airport (IATA: PKR).
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