Pokhara
Next to Kathmandu Pokhara is the most popular destination
for visitors to Nepal. There is little in its past
by way of history nor cultural impact and the only
important role that the old Pokhara played was that
it was along teh route of trade between India and
Tibet. Today it is one of the fastest developing
cities of Nepal, mainly due to tourism.
The natural beauty of its lakeside location its
pronimity to the mountians has made it the natural
choice for trekkers and adventures. Pokhara is also
the base for some of the most famous trekking circuits
of Nepal. By itself, the surroundings area provides
ample scope for short walks and day trips. Suitable
for children or weary trekkers that can be made
around the valley.
Pokhara's popularity has led it to accommolate
people of many nationalities and there is no death
of hotels, guest house and other lodgings, ranging
from delux to the economy. True the tourists are
mainly centred around the lakeside and Dam - site,
where most tourist lodgings, resturant and other
facilities are located but Pokhara city more than
that.
Foriegners find Pokhara an oasis where 'leisurely
meaks' good books and short walks can easily fill
several days - ideal if you are recovering from
(gearing up for )Travel to India, it is the comsination
of the magnificient location, good - value accomodation
and food, and the proximity of local village life
that accounts for much of Pokhara's appeal.
Climate
Pokhara experiences a tropical mild temperature
with not so cold winters and a hot summer. In spite
of its proxmity to the Annapurna ranges, the mountainous
temperatures not at all affect the valley. this
is due to Pokhara's low altitude of only 827m above
sea level. During summer, heat and humidity dominated
the valley while winter offers a pleasant weather,
especially from September onwards. Monsoon in Pokhara
begins from early June and Continues untill last
August, though rains may occur as pre monsoon showers.
The rains though are always welcome as it helps
in cooling the summer temperatures. During winter
if there is slight rain, accompanied by thunder
and lightning it could means snow in the upper regions
of the Annapurna circuit.
The maximun temperatures in and around the valley
goes up to 32 degrees celcius in teh winters. ALmost
in all the seasons, the days remains relatively
warm and pleasent expect for some days during the
monsoon and in winter.
Since Pokhara gets the heaviest rain fall in Nepal,
ot produces a variety of sub - tropical flora. Flowering
cacti, poincettius, citrue, banana and orange trees.
Green leafy vegetables and huge pipal and sayan
trees.
Museums: The Pokhara Museum, located between the
bus stop and Mahendra Pul, reflects the ethnic mosaic
of western Nepal. The lifestyles and history of
ethnic groups such as the Gurung, Thakali and the
Tharu are attractively displayed through models,
photographs and artifacts. One major attractoins
is a display highlighting the newly - discovered
ramains of an 8000 - year - old settlement in Mustang.
Open daill, except Tuesdays and holidays, from 10
am to 5 pm. entrance fee is Rs. 10 (tel: 20413)
The Annapurna Regional Museum, also known as the
Natural History Museum, is another interesting visit
in Pokhara. Run by Annapurna conservation Area Project
(ACAP), the museum has an exceptional collection
of butterflies, insects, birds and models of wildlife
found in teh area. Located at Prithvi Narayan Campus
east of the old bazaar, it is open daily except
Saturdays and holidays from 9 am to 5 pm. Entrance
is free (tel: 21102).
Surrounding Areas: Pokhara is the starting and
/or finished point for some of the most popular
treks including the Annapurna Circuit and the Jomsom
Trek. It is also offers a number of short treks
for those who cannot opt for long, challenging ones.
The most popular destination among them is Sarangkot
(1592 m), a former Kaski fort Iying atop a hill
to the west of Pokhara. The Panoramic view of the
HImalaya seen from this point is superb. Kahundanda,
Naudanda, Ghandrung, Ghorepani, and Ghalchok are
other favorite destinations around Pokhara.
Getting There: Pokhara is located roughly 200 km
west of Kathmandu. The journey between these two
famed cities is certainly part of the Pokhara experience.
Flying over the snow capped Himalaya to the north
and the green Mahabharat range to the South is thrilling,
while the overland journey past sparse rural settlements
nested along the Trisuli river provides a view of
life particular to Nepal;s middle hills. There are
daily flight and bus services between Kathmandu
and Pokhara. |
