Pokhara
is the starting and finish point for many of the popular trekking routes in
Nepal. Longer treks one to three week long such as the Jomsom trek, Annapurna-circuit, and Annapurna Sanctuary begin here. If Kathmandu is the cultural hub
of Nepal, Pokhara is its center of adventure. An enchanting city nestled in a
tranquil valley; it is the starting point for many of Nepal's most popular
trekking and rafting destinations. The atmosphere on the Shore of Fewa Lake is
one of excited vitality as hipster backpackers crowd the many bars and
restaurants exchange recommendation on guest houses and viewpoints, both by the
lake and above the clouds. Around to pokhara Pokhara is a place of remarkable
natural beauty. The serenity of Fewa Lake and the magnificence of the
fish-tailed summit of Machhapuchhre (6,993m) rising behind it create an ambiance of peace and magic. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu, it has a
much more tropical feel to it, a fact well appreciated by the beautiful
diversity of flowers which prosper in its environs. Indeed, the valley
surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, emerald lakes,
and of course, the world famous views of the Himalaya.Pokhara is part of a once
vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains
can be seen camped on the out-skirts of the town, bringing goods to trade from
remote regions of the Himalaya. This is the land of the many ethnic groups,
hardworking farmers and valorous warriors who have earned worldwide fame as
Gurkha soldiers. The Thakalis, another important national group here, are known
for their private enterprise.
