Phewa Lake

फेवा ताल

The heart of Pokhara, where Annapurna and Machhapuchare are reflected on the lake. Rowing out to the island temple and strolling along the lakeshore are part of everyday life in Pokhara.

Phewa Lake is Nepal's second-largest lake, covering about 4.4 square kilometres. Pokhara's tourist district, Lakeside, stretches along its eastern shore, dense with restaurants, bars, outdoor gear shops and guesthouses. It is the base where trekkers rest before and after their hikes. On clear mornings the lake is as still as a mirror, and the Annapurna range and the fishtail-shaped Machhapuchare (6,993 m) are reflected in the water. This is Pokhara's signature view. Classic activities include renting a colourful wooden boat (about NPR 500–700 per hour to row yourself, or about NPR 1,000 with a boatman) to Tal Barahi Temple on the island in the lake. Alternatively, row to the far shore and then hike about an hour up to the World Peace Pagoda for views over the lake and the snow peaks. You can also cycle or walk along the lakeside trail to the dam at the north end and to Pame village. In the evening, watch the sunset colour the snow peaks from a lakeside restaurant. Lakeside is also where paragliding, microlight flights and bungee jumping are booked and gathered. Paragliders take off from Sarangkot and land by the lake. From Pokhara Airport, a taxi takes about 15 minutes, and from the tourist bus station about 10 minutes. Notes: swimming in the lake is not recommended, as the water quality is average. Mosquitoes are common in summer. Wear a life jacket when on a boat, as afternoon winds often pick up.

Phewa Lake

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby