Pokhara: Sports & Activities

There are numerous outdoor activities for travelers to enjoy in Pokhara.  In fact, this is one of the main reasons why people travel to the area.  Visitors can enjoy hiking in the surrounding mountains, boating on the local lakes or more unique adventures such as whitewater rafting and paragliding.

• Boating – There are numerous lakes all throughout the area.  Travelers can rent boats and get out on the water.
• Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking - Pokhara is the starting point for many of Nepal's best river adventures. Raft on the mighty Kali Gandaki, Marsyangdi, Trisuli or Seti rivers, or learn a new skill and challenge yourself on a 4 day kayak school. For more infomation see the listing for the highest reputed whitewater adventure companies -  Rapidrunner Expeditions and Paddle Nepal. 
• Canyoning - Canyoning is one of the newest adventure activities to hit Nepal.  Imagine abseiling, jumping, sliding and swimming down multiple cascading waterfalls to crystal clear pools below!?  This is damn good fun!  One of the best Canyoning sites is located within a day trip of Pokhara.  Check out Paddle Nepal, GRG's or Adrenaline Rush.  Note - Canyoning can be combined with whitewater rafting or kayaking trips on nearby rivers, creating the ultimate multi-sport adventure itineraries.
• Caving – Many travelers visit the tourist caves but it is actually possible to bring proper equipment and do some deep caving.  Mahendra Gupha cave is the best place for doing so.Hardcore Nepal are one of the only companies to offer a caving expereince.
• Hiking  - The mountains of the area are known for hiking.
• Mule rides – Travelers can ride mules or horses through the smaller mountains of the area.
• Paragliding – Travelers who know how to enjoy this sport can do so if they bring their own equipment and head over to Sarangkot.  Visitors who aren’t skilled should make plans with local experts.  Ask around to get advice on who to see for enjoying this activity.
• Parahawking – Take paragliding one step further and fly with trained birds of prey.
• Swimming – Phewa Lake is attractive for swimming (a free of cost), and the water quality is generally very good (there is loads of fish and plant life in the lake as evidence to this). For the best swimming spots it is a good idea to hire a boat or hike around the lake away from the Lakeside shore as many locals use the lake