Pokhara is Nepal's second city and its adventure capital — a laid-back lakeside town that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna treks and a destination in its own right. **Adventure Activities** - Paragliding: Launch from Sarangkot for a 20–30 minute flight over Phewa Lake with Annapurna and Machhapuchhre as your backdrop — simply spectacular - Zipline: The world's longest zipline (1.8 km, 120 km/h) with mountain views - Ultra-light aircraft: Horizon-level flights past the Annapurna massif - Kayaking and boating: Peaceful paddling on the mirror-like Phewa Lake - Caving: Bat Cave and Mahendra Cave offer underground exploration **Sightseeing** - World Peace Pagoda: Hilltop stupa with the finest panoramic views in the valley - Barahi Temple: Hindu island temple in the middle of Phewa Lake - International Mountain Museum: Best museum for Himalayan history and culture - Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave and Davis Falls: Combined natural attraction with cave and waterfall **Lakeside Promenade** The Lakeside neighbourhood is Pokhara's tourism heart — lined with restaurants, cafes, bookshops, and gear stores. Evenings here are magical, with the setting sun turning the Annapurnas golden. **Getting There** Pokhara is 200 km from Kathmandu by road (5–7 hours by tourist bus) or 25 minutes by domestic flight. The new Pokhara International Airport opened in 2023. Pokhara manages to be simultaneously thrilling and relaxing — a rare combination.