Dharma Backpackers

On the banks of Phewa Tal lake in central Nepal lies the town of Pokhara. Often called the gateway to the nearby Annapurna mountain range, the town and its colourful fishing boats sit in the shadow of snow-capped peaks across the lake. Although it's a relaxed place overall, the area has a huge adventure sports scene. Staggering green hills and clear skies make it one of the best places for paragliding in the world, and thrill-seekers can take to the white-water rivers.

Pokhara hostels like to make your stay a little luxe with extras like hot tubs, on-site massage parlours and complimentary slippers. For somewhere super sociable, look for a Pokhara hostel with multiple common areas like a rooftop terrace strung with hammocks. You can take in views of the lake from an on-site bar, or check into a place with air con and freebies like Wi-Fi and breakfast.

The town has a few key areas to explore. The Nepali urban centre is Mahendra Pul, where locals dash between the main market and bright shopping malls. Head north for the Old Town, which promises a little more calm in its streets dotted with shops selling religious figures. The region's peaceful spirit can be felt on the eastern shore in the Lakeside district, where you can find your zen in yoga centres. Don't think that the place is without its quirks, though – the 200-year-old Bhimsen Temple is famous for its erotic carvings. 

On top of adrenaline-fuelled sports and mountain treks, Pokhara offers much to see. Discover tranquil temples like the white World Peace Pagoda built on a narrow ridge by Buddhist monks, or row out to the two-tiered Hindu temple, Varahi Mandir, on an island in the lake. Outside of monsoon season, you can hike to Devi's Falls (Patale Chhango) to see the Pardi Khola stream disappear underground via a deafening waterfall. To learn about the area's inhabitants and past, visit the International Mountain Museum and Gurkha Museum.

Pokhara Airport is just 6km from town and can be easily reached by taxi. If you're arriving from or travelling to Kathmandu, you can catch buses running between the two, which take 6-8 hours. In town itself, you'll find three bus stations with local vehicles travelling from the lake to the airport and Mahendra Pul. Getting around Pokhara like a local means jumping in a taxi or renting a scooter or a motorbike.