Which trek from Pokhara should I choose?+
For three to four days, Poon Hill offers sunrise over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas — the most popular short trek. For a week to ten days, the Annapurna Base Camp trek reaches a natural amphitheater beneath the mountains at 4,130 meters. For two to three weeks, the Annapurna Circuit crosses the Thorong La pass (5,416 meters). For a single day, there's Australian Camp.
Do I need a guide for the trek?+
Yes — since April 2023, trekking without a licensed guide has been banned for foreigners in Nepal's national parks and protected areas, including the Annapurnas. A guide costs twenty-five to thirty-five dollars a day and arranges permits, accommodation, and safety. A porter costs around twenty dollars a day.
What permits do I need for the Annapurna trek?+
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs three thousand rupees, is arranged in Pokhara or Kathmandu, usually through an agency or guide. It's checked at several checkpoints along the route. Treks to Mardi Himal and Upper Mustang require separate permits.
When are the mountains best seen from Pokhara?+
From October to February, ideally early in the morning. In spring, from March to April, haze often sets in and the mountains are only visible in the morning. During the monsoon, from June to September, the peaks are mostly hidden in clouds and only occasionally appear at dawn. After eight in the morning, clouds tend to build up over the valley.
Is paragliding in Pokhara safe?+
Tandem flights with licensed operators and experienced pilots are safe — Pokhara has some of the best paragliding conditions in the world. Choose an established, insured company with good reviews rather than the cheapest offer. Accidents are rare, but they do happen.
How do I get from Kathmandu to Pokhara?+
By plane in twenty-five minutes with Buddha Air or Yeti Airlines (around one hundred twenty dollars), with Himalayan views on the left side. By tourist bus in seven to nine hours for fifteen hundred rupees — the road is under construction and dusty. A private car is faster and can stop in Bandipur along the way.
How many days should I spend in Pokhara?+
For Pokhara alone, two to three days: Sarangkot, the lake, the Peace Pagoda, paragliding, and rest. With a short trek to Poon Hill or Australian Camp, a week. Most visitors come here at the start and end of a trek.
Is Pokhara suitable for families with children?+
Yes, it's the calmest and safest place in Nepal. The lake with its rowing boats, the caves, the mountain museum, and short excursions are ideal for families, and the restaurants in Lakeside cater to picky eaters too. Paragliding usually has a minimum age and weight requirement depending on the operator.
