Pokhara

Imagine a perfect triangular mountain, capped by snow and buffeted by the icy winds of the Himalaya. Imagine a millpond calm lake, perfectly reflecting the snowy peaks. Now imagine a village on the lakeshore, thronged by travellers and reverberating to the sound of ‘om mani padme hum’ from a hundred shops selling prayer flags, carpets, statues, singing bowls and music playing Buddhist mantras. That’s Pokhara.

Nepal’s second city, at least in tourist terms, Pokhara is the end point for the famous Annapurna Circuit trek and the starting point for a dozen more treks through the mountains of the Annapurna Range, including the perennially popular Jomson Trek and the equally dramatic (but less busy) trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary. It’s unashamedly touristy, in the Thamel mould, but the setting is spectacular – the perfect pyramid of Mt Machapuchhare looms high above Pokhara, reflected in the placid waters of Phewa Tal.

For many travellers, Pokhara represents a last chance to stock up on creature comforts before hitting the mountain trails. For others, it’s a place to enjoy a steak dinner and cold beer after weeks of daal-bhaat in the hills. Even if you aren’t a dedicated trekker, there’s plenty here to keep you busy or relaxed. Pokhara has numerous landmarks with museums and there are some fascinating caves, waterfalls and Tibetan villages in the surrounding hills.

For the adventurous, Pokhara offers a slew of adventure activities, from trekking and microlight flights to river rafting and jungle safaris. Paragliding from Sarankot viewpoint has to be one of the most thrilling experiences in the subcontinent along with a Bungy Jump. Alternatively, bring a good book and spend your days reading in a café Lakeside overlooking languorous Phewa Tal. There is excellent coffee and food spots waiting to be found.