Phewa Lake
- Address: Northwest of Pokhara
- Transportation: Take a taxi from Pokhara Station to Lakeside District, 200-300 rupees
- Cost: Rafting is generally 250 rupees/hour, hiring a boatman is 300 rupees/hour
- Time reference: 2 hours
Phewa Lake is one of the most stunning natural attractions in Pokhara, Nepal, famous for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. You can kayak in the lake, admire the island in the middle of the lake and the Talbat Monastery, and feel the peaceful atmosphere. The surrounding hiking routes allow you to experience the charm of nature up close. Especially at sunrise and sunset, the reflection on the lake is even more intoxicating. The best time to travel is from September to November and February to April every year. The weather is clear and the view is clear. It is an ideal place for you to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you are looking for adventure or leisure, Phewa Lake will leave you with unforgettable memories!
The origin of Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake is the second largest lake in Nepal, located near Pokhara. It was formed gradually in geological history due to crustal movement and accumulation of sediments. The name of the lake comes from "Phewa", which means "lake" in the local language.
What can you do in Phewa Lake?
At Phewa Lake, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
1. rowing
Rent a canoe or kayak on the lake and experience the joy of paddling. You can choose to row your own boat and enjoy the tranquility of the lake, or hire a local boatman and listen to their stories about the lake. The lake is calm, especially suitable for beginners.
2. Visit Talbat Monastery
Take a boat to the small island in the middle of the lake to visit Tal Barahi Temple, a two-story temple dedicated to the goddess Barahi. The surrounding environment of the temple is beautiful and is an ideal place to take photos and experience religious culture.
3. Hiking
There are many hiking trails around, such as heading to Sarangkot, which is the best place to enjoy the sunrise and panoramic views. You can encounter charming villages, terraced fields and lush forests along the way and feel the tranquility of nature.
4. Cycling
Rent a bike by the lake and ride along the lakeside roads to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. You can visit other attractions in Pokhara such as David's Fall and World Peace Pagoda.
5. Photography
Phewa Lake is a paradise for photographers. At sunrise and sunset, the lake reflects the mountains, creating a dreamlike scenery. Shooting by a lake or on an island can capture beautiful moments.
6. Taste local food
There are many restaurants and cafes around the lake offering a variety of cuisines. From traditional Nepali cuisine such as Dal Bhat to international cuisine, you can enjoy your leisurely time while enjoying the lake view while dining.
7. Bird watching
Phewa Lake and its surroundings are home to a variety of bird species and are suitable for bird watching enthusiasts. In the morning or evening, bring your binoculars and look for different species of birds, especially waterfowl and migratory birds.
8. Shopping and cultural experiences
Cotton handmade goods from shops near Fewa Lake
There are many things worth buying in Nepal, such as felt items, local specialty bags, cashmere wool scarves and clothes, essential oil soaps, wood carvings, blankets, etc. They are high quality and cheap, but there are some issues that need to be paid attention to.
1. Find the right place. Some of the items sold on the street are very rough in workmanship. For example, although cashmere scarves are 100% cashmere, their workmanship is very poor and it is difficult to wear them when you buy them home.
3. You must negotiate the price. Many asking prices are falsely high, and you can close the deal at half the price.
4. The one-horned rhinoceros is unique to Nepal. There are also many elephants here, so there are many one-horned rhino and elephant wood carvings that are worth buying, and they are all carved by local craftsmen themselves.
When is the best time to go to Phewa Lake?
The best time to go to Phewa Lake are usually autumn (September to November) and spring (February to April) every year.
Autumn (September to November)
Weather: The weather is sunny and moderate at this time, with daytime temperatures usually between 20°C and 25°C and slightly cooler at night.
Views: The atmosphere is highly transparent and the field of vision is clear, making it ideal for viewing the majestic scenery of the Himalayas.
Activities: Suitable for various outdoor activities, such as hiking, boating, etc.
Spring (February to April)
Weather: Spring is warm with gradually rising temperatures, usually between 20°C and 30°C during the day and cooler at night.
Flowers: Many flowers are in bloom during this time, especially cherry blossoms and other native flowers, adding color to the lake area.
Activities: It’s also a great time for hiking and water sports.
Not a good time to go
Summer (June to August): This season is the rainy season, with heavy rainfall and humid weather, which may affect outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February): Although the temperature is lower, there may be snowfall in high altitude areas, which is suitable for activities such as skiing, but activities around the lake will be restricted.
What should you pay attention to when traveling to Phewa Lake？
1.The weather in Nepal is changeable, so it is recommended to carry lightweight rain gear, especially during the rainy season (June to August).
2.The sun at high altitudes is strong and it is easy to get sunburned, so bring sunscreen, a sun hat and sunglasses to protect your skin.
3.It is recommended to drink bottled water and avoid raw water to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort. Pay attention to dietary hygiene and choose clean restaurants.
4.When visiting religious sites such as temples, pay attention to dress appropriately, usually avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops, and greet local residents politely and respect their customs when meeting them.
5.When boating, be sure to wear a life jacket and follow the boater's instructions to ensure safety; when hiking, know the route in advance and bring necessary equipment such as a map, water and snacks.
6.Although there are some ATMs and merchants in Pokhara that accept credit cards, cash is more convenient in small shops and markets, so it is recommended to prepare some Nepalese rupees.
7.Try to reduce the use of single-use plastics, pay attention to protecting the environment, and keep the lake area clean.
8.Nepal's mobile signal coverage is wide, but it may be unstable in some remote areas. Purchase a local SIM card to better stay connected.
