




While most people travel to Nepal to trek amongst the highest peaks in the world, there are also peaceful, beautiful places to spend a few days resting and relaxing. The city of Pokhara, located on the edge of Phewa Lake, is not only the starting point for many treks in the Annapurna region but also offers stunning views of several peaks in the Annapurna Region and surrounding green hills. The city and adjacent area have been described as paradise, a traveler's dream, and even heaven.
The fresh air, clear mountain views, tranquil lakes, quiet villages, and an endless list of recreational activities make for the perfect getaway for tourists and locals. Nepal Hiking Team's Pokhara City Tour is the perfect way to experience the sights and sounds of Pokhara in just one day.
While we highly suggest spending more than one day in this lovely city, the Pokhara City Tour allows guests to see the highlights and learn more about these places of importance. The tour starts around eight in the morning, shortly after breakfast. You will be met by our guide at your hotel, who will take you to Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Temple, and the International Mountaineering Museum.
One of the most popular sights in Pokhara is the beautiful Phewa Lake. Here you will find colorful boats, coffee shops, restaurants, and street stalls. It is an ideal place to relax, watch people row across the lake, and see the sunset. There is also an exceptional view of several peaks in the Annapurna Region. Many people enjoy taking a boat across the lake, or visiting the temple in the middle of the lake, Barahi Temple.
Next, we will visit a famous waterfall only two kilometers southwest of Pokhara. There is a story about a tourist who once fell into the passage while swimming upstream, and this is how the falls got its name. There are many names based on many different stories that have been told for generations. The waterfall is exceptionally beautiful in the fall when water levels are highest after the monsoon season.
There are many caves throughout Nepal, but one, in particular, lies near the waterfall. The cave is considered to be rather mysterious as it preserves a phallic form of Lord Shiva called Shivalinga. It is incredibly important for Hindu followers around the world. Commonly called Gupteshwor Temple, many Hindus make the pilgrimage here to worship Lord Shiva.
The International Mountaineering Museum is a perfect place to visit for those who are looking to learn more about the incredible mountains in Nepal in addition to those who have summited such peaks. Here, you will find the names of all climbers who have reached the top of mountains above eight thousand meters. There is also unique information about the rare flora and fauna found inside the Annapurna Conservation area. The museum is designed in the shape of mountain peaks, directly reflecting the incredible views behind it.
This is the final stop on the Pokhara City Tour; however, there is still much to see, and we can help plan your arrangements to visit other locations. This includes watching the sunrise at Sarangkot, paragliding, and many more.
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
We (my wife and I) did the Muktinath/Pokhara tour in June 2025 by Jeep with Nepal Hiking Team and had an amazing experience. Our guide, Dhurba, was very knowledgeable, and our 4x4 driver was excellent. He drove safely and carefully on the narrow and winding mountain roads.
Nepal Hiking Team arranged everything perfectly, and the time management throughout the trip was impressive. I truly recommend Nepal Hiking Team for any adventure in Nepal, whether it is the Muktinath/Pokhara tour, Annapurna hike, Everest Base Camp trek, or even Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. They are the best.
Nepal Hiking Team organized an intricate 30-day custom holiday for me and a friend, two schoolmates now in our late 70s. We requested a journey that would take us up the Langtang Valley, then to Chitwan Nature Reserve, on to Pokhara, and finally to Poon Hill.
When booking a trip like this, there's always some concern about finding a trustworthy and reliable organization. However, those worries vanished the moment we arrived at our hotel in Kathmandu and were warmly welcomed by Ganga, our guide Ram, and our "porter." We were provided with travel bags, jackets, and sleeping bags.
It’s worth explaining that a “porter” here is an unbelievably strong Gurkha who can carry up to 50 kg of baggage up and down mountains and through rivers, using a simple piece of plastic webbing, often cut from a sack, supported on his head. Their incredible strength and skill often go unrecognized, but it left a lasting impression on us.
From the high quality of the equipment, it was immediately clear that we were dealing with a responsible organization that knew exactly what they were doing. This first impression was confirmed throughout the trip. Ganga was always reachable by phone to answer any questions and readily made adjustments to the schedule when we asked.
Our guide, Ram, was clearly an expert. During our Langtang hike, we faced severe weather and landslides, which destroyed bridges and the return path. While many were affected, Ram skillfully found a safe route back, involving a day of climbing above the landslides and half-sliding down an improvised path. Throughout the journey, Ram was always mindful of my age and prepared to support me if needed.
All transportation between locations was efficiently arranged, including a flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu.
In summary, I highly recommend Nepal Hiking Team for a safe, reliable, and adventurous journey in Nepal.

I highly recommend the Nepal Hiking Team for anyone planning to trek in Nepal. My spouse and I had a fantastic time on our trek and greatly credit our positive experience to the thought and care put into it by Nepal Hiking Team in coming up with a personalized plan that would enable us to succeed.
Every detail was considered to match us based on our abilities and interests. We also could not have felt more cared for minute to minute by the team that supported us from the minute we arrived in Kathmandu until our departure.
Our guide, Nim, was amazing -- so careful, thoughtful, warm, and supportive. And our porters, Sabin and Ganesh, were delightful. They were all unbelievably generous in terms of how much they worked to ensure we were comfortable and prepared. They thought of every detail along the way.
- Guided By Nim Dahal
Just got back from a trekking holiday in Nepal- I did Annapurna circuit and Nar Pho valley and finished in Pokhara and Chitwan national park. Many thanks to Ganga and my guide Arjun for making everything smooth and extremely enjoyable. The scenery was superb and the weather one of the best I had in the high Himalayas.
My luxury escape to Nepal with Nepal Hiking Team was truly unforgettable. From the moment I booked my trip, their exceptional organization skills ensured that every aspect of my journey was taken care of, allowing me to fully enjoy myself. Our guide, Kumar Rupakheti, was incredibly knowledgeable and led us through the stunning cities of Kathmandu, Lumbini, Chitwaan, and Pokhara, ensuring we didn't miss any hidden gems.
I was impressed by the comprehensive package provided by Nepal Hiking Team, which covered meals, accommodation, and transportation. The top-notch accommodations, blending heritage and classic hotels, added a touch of luxury to my stay.
A highlight of the trip was the once-in-a-lifetime experience of a helicopter ride to Everest. Words cannot describe the breathtaking beauty I witnessed from above the world's tallest peak. It was a surreal and awe-inspiring moment that I will cherish forever.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to Nepal Hiking Team for their impeccable service and attention to detail. Every aspect of the trip was meticulously planned, and their professionalism and dedication were evident throughout. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking a luxury escape in Nepal.
In conclusion, my luxury escape to Nepal surpassed all expectations. From the excellent organization of Nepal Hiking Team to the knowledgeable guide, Kamar Rupacheti, every aspect of the trip was exceptional.
The accommodations were outstanding, and the helicopter ride to Everest was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I cannot thank Nepal Hiking Team enough for their exceptional service, and I enthusiastically recommend them to anyone looking to explore the beauty of Nepal.
Nepal Hiking Team is known for its professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care for travelers. As reflected in numerous traveler reviews, they provide high-quality equipment when needed, maintain excellent time management, and offer personalized support. From the moment you arrive, their team ensures all transportation, guiding, and entry arrangements are seamless, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights of Pokhara.
Absolutely. Reviews highlight the company's ability to handle everything from complex multi-week treks to shorter excursions like the Pokhara City Tour. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides (such as Dhurba, Ram, and Kumar), safe driving practices, and the team's responsiveness. One review specifically mentioned how the organization "arranged everything perfectly" for a Muktinath/Pokhara tour, demonstrating their capability for both short and extended trips in the Pokhara region.
Yes, the tour page explicitly notes that while this is a 4-hour highlights tour, there is still much more to see in Pokhara. Nepal Hiking Team can help plan additional activities such as watching the sunrise at Sarangkot, paragliding, or visiting other locations. Their guides and office staff (like Ganga mentioned in reviews) are reachable by phone to assist with adjustments or extensions to your itinerary.
Most travelers arrive in Nepal via Tribhuvan International Airport (KYC) in Kathmandu. From there, you can take a short domestic flight to Pokhara (approximately 25 minutes) or drive by private vehicle (around 6-7 hours). The tour itself begins in Pokhara, so you'll need to arrange your travel to the city beforehand. Nepal Hiking Team can assist with transportation arrangements if needed.
Tourists from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land border crossings. You'll need a valid passport, a digital photograph (or you can use the automated kiosks), and the visa fee payable in USD or other major currencies. For a short stay like this city tour, a 15-day or 30-day tourist visa is typically sufficient. Always check current visa requirements with your local Nepalese embassy before traveling.
While the tour package includes ground transportation during the city tour, accommodation is not included. However, based on their service model, Nepal Hiking Team can help you arrange hotels in Pokhara. You can contact them directly to book lodging that suits your preferences, and they can coordinate your guide to meet you at your hotel on the morning of the tour.
Booking is done directly through the Nepal Hiking Team website. On the package page, there is a form where you can fill in your details, travel dates, and group size. The team will then check availability and respond promptly with confirmation and payment instructions. The tour requires a minimum group size of 10 persons to operate.
Specific deposit details are not listed on the public page, but typical practice with Nepal Hiking Team is a small deposit (often 10-20%) to secure your spot, with the balance payable upon arrival in Nepal, either in cash (USD or Nepalese Rupees) or by card (with a possible service charge). For exact deposit requirements and payment options, you’ll receive details after submitting the inquiry form.
While not explicitly stated for this short tour, Nepal Hiking Team generally has a fair cancellation policy. Deposits are usually non-refundable if you cancel last minute, but they often allow date changes or credit for future trips. For the most accurate information, request the cancellation terms when you book.
The "Cost Includes" section clearly states: All ground transportation by private vehicle. You will be picked up from your hotel in Pokhara in a private vehicle, and the same vehicle will take you to all four stops: Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Temple, and the International Mountaineering Museum, before dropping you back at your hotel.
No, flights to or from Pokhara are not included in this package. You are responsible for arranging your own travel to Pokhara. However, if you are combining this tour with a trek or other services, Nepal Hiking Team can arrange domestic flights and airport transfers as part of a larger itinerary.
The standard tour covers four main attractions within 4 hours. If you wish to visit other sites like Sarangkot or World Peace Pagoda, you can discuss this with your guide. Additional time or distance may incur extra charges, which can be arranged directly with Nepal Hiking Team.
This tour is designed as a concise, well-paced half-day experience (4 hours) that covers Pokhara's four most iconic landmarks: the serene Phewa Lake, the dramatic Davis Falls (Patale Chango), the sacred Gupteshwor Cave Temple, and the informative International Mountaineering Museum. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a structured introduction to the city before exploring further on their own. The inclusion of a private vehicle and an English-speaking guide ensures a hassle-free experience.
Absolutely. While Pokhara is a gateway to the Annapurna region, this tour is explicitly designed for relaxation and cultural sightseeing. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to experience the "paradise" side of Nepal—with lake views, a waterfall, a cave temple, and a museum dedicated to mountaineering heritage—without any physical trekking demands. The trip difficulty is marked as "Relaxing."
Yes, the tour itinerary allows flexibility. While the guided portion covers the four main sites, you can extend your day. For example, at Phewa Lake, you might choose to spend extra time on a boat ride to the Barahi Temple (at your own cost). The page also mentions that Nepal Hiking Team can help arrange paragliding or a sunrise trip to Sarangkot either before or after the city tour.
No, the Pokhara City Tour is not a trek. The trip difficulty is officially listed as "Relaxing". It involves short walks from the vehicle to the sites, with no extended hiking or significant altitude gain. The maximum elevation is Pokhara city itself, around 822 meters (2,700 feet). It is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, including families, seniors, and those with limited mobility (though some sites like the cave have stairs).
There is no specified minimum age. Children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult. The tour is stroller-friendly for the most part, though Gupteshwor Temple and Davis Falls involve some steps. The private vehicle ensures comfort for all participants.
No prior experience is required. This is a sightseeing tour with a guide, focused on cultural and natural highlights. The only requirement is to be able to walk short distances and navigate a few stairs at the cave and waterfall sites.
Yes, it is safe. You will have a private English-speaking guide and a private vehicle. The guide will ensure you are comfortable and provide local insights. However, note that the tour has a minimum group size of 10 persons to operate, so solo travelers would need to join an existing group or book a private tour (which may incur a higher cost). Contact Nepal Hiking Team to inquire about private options.
Your guide is familiar with all locations and will advise on safe areas for walking, especially around Davis Falls (where there are slippery rocks and railings) and inside Gupteshwor Cave (which has dim lighting and uneven steps). The private vehicle is driven by an experienced driver who follows road safety norms. For any health concerns, Pokhara has several clinics and pharmacies.
Pokhara is at a low altitude (~822m), so altitude sickness is not a concern. The main health considerations are typical travel ones: stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. The tour duration is only 4 hours, minimizing exposure to the midday sun.
Since this is a half-day sightseeing tour, no specialized gear is needed. Recommended items: comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a light jacket or sweater (depending on the season), a camera, and some cash for snacks, souvenirs, or optional boat rides on Phewa Lake. A small daypack is sufficient.
Meals are not included in the cost, but your guide can recommend cafes or restaurants near Phewa Lake or the museum if you wish to have a snack or drink. It's a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle; you can purchase bottled water or refill at filtered water stations in Pokhara.
Gupteshwor Temple is a sacred Hindu site. While there is no strict dress code, it is respectful to dress modestly—cover your shoulders and knees. You may need to remove your shoes before entering certain areas of the cave temple. Your guide will provide specific instructions on the day.
No, accommodation is explicitly listed under "Cost Excludes." You are responsible for booking your own stay in Pokhara. However, Nepal Hiking Team can assist with hotel recommendations and bookings upon request. The tour starts from your hotel in Pokhara, so choose a hotel that is centrally located for convenience.
Pokhara offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget guesthouses to luxury lakeside resorts. The lakeside area near Phewa Lake is the most popular location, with easy access to restaurants and shops. If you prefer high-end stays, there are heritage and classic hotels mentioned in traveler reviews.
Yes, Pokhara is a modern city with excellent mobile network coverage (Ncell, NTC) and Wi-Fi available in most hotels, cafes, and even at the museum. You can purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in Pokhara. Your guide will also have a phone for coordination.
No, meals are not included. The "Cost Excludes" section clearly lists meals. The tour duration is 4 hours, typically starting at 8:00 AM, so you may want to have breakfast before the tour or plan for a late breakfast/early lunch at one of the lakeside cafes after the tour. Your guide can suggest good options.
Yes, at Phewa Lake there are numerous coffee shops, restaurants, and street stalls. You can take a break to enjoy a snack or drink. The International Mountaineering Museum also has a small cafeteria. Payment is in Nepalese rupees, though some places may accept cards.
Tap water in Pokhara is not recommended for drinking. Bottled water is widely available and affordable. Many hotels and cafes also offer filtered or boiled water for a small fee. You can also bring a reusable bottle with a filter for convenience.
The standard tour has a minimum group size of 10 persons. If you are traveling with a group of 10 or more, you can book this tour directly. For smaller groups or solo travelers, you may either join an existing group (if available) or request a private version of the tour, which would likely have a higher per-person cost due to the private vehicle and guide.
Yes, Nepal Hiking Team specializes in custom arrangements. You can contact them to design a personalized Pokhara sightseeing tour that includes additional sites like Sarangkot, World Peace Pagoda, or adventure activities. The cost will be adjusted based on the duration, vehicle type, and extra services.
Tips are not included in the tour cost and are a personal gesture of appreciation. While there is no fixed amount, it is customary to tip the guide and driver separately. For a half-day tour, a combined tip of NPR 500–1000 (approx. $4–$8) per group is common if you are satisfied with the service. In the reviews, travelers often commend the guides' expertise and care, reflecting the high level of service.
Based on the "Cost Excludes" section: meals, accommodation, and tips for the guide and driver are not included. Additionally, personal expenses such as boat rides on Phewa Lake, souvenirs, travel insurance, and any extra activities beyond the listed itinerary are at your own cost.
This FAQ is based on the official package page for the Pokhara City Tour (nepalhikingteam.com/package/pokhara-city-tour). For the most current pricing, availability, or to book, please contact Nepal Hiking Team directly.