Experience the Himalayas. Nepal is famous for the Himalayas, which boast some of the highest and most spectacular mountains in the world. Pokhara is the starting point for treks into the Annapurna region, and opportunities for hiking and mountain viewing abound. It is possible to see the Himalayas from Pokhara if you wake before the clouds set in. For a panoramic view and an excellent day hike, head to Sarangkot, which offers a stunning view of the Annapurnas. If you're up for a short trek, consider a hike to nearby Poon Hill or Dhampus.
Sample local cuisine. Pokhara offers endless options for food, at all budgets. Spend a week trying new restaurants and different types of food. Mexican food in Pokhara, for example, is an unforgettable experience. For excellent food, outrageously low prices, and friendly service, head to Be Happy restaurant on the main street in the Lake District. The apple pie is excellent at Mike's Restaurant on the Lakefront, and the various small establishments around town offer a mind-boggling array of food. Don't forget to buy some of the fresh fruit from the roadside stands, but be sure to wash it carefully with purified water before eating.
Barter for souvenirs. The Lake District in Pokhara has a dizzying array of stores selling various Nepali crafts, pashminas, clothing, and other assorted souvenirs. Bartering is standard practice in Nepal, and half the fun of shopping is seeing how the price changes as you employ different tactics. Pay attention to quality and get a general sense of prices at several different stores before committing to a purchase. Keep a clear perspective of how much you're haggling over; it makes no sense to waste an hour trying to reduce the price of a carving from $5.00 to $4.50.
Stock up on expedition literature. Pokhara has multiple bookstores that offer books of all kinds in numerous languages. Look for the latest expedition tales, or indulge in an overpriced Western bestseller. After you've chosen a book, head to a lakefront bar and enjoy a drink near the lake while you read.
Paddle on Fewa Lake. Along the lake shore in Pokhara, you will find several companies that rent boats. Choose from kayaks, rowboats, and local boat styles, and rent by the hour or by the day. Be sure to check your boat for leaks, and return within the designated time limit to avoid fees. Paddle to the opposite shore of the lake and visit the island in the center.
Explore the city and its surroundings. At least once during your week in Pokhara, get out of the tourist-friendly Lake District and wander around the rest of the city to see how the population lives. Walk out of town and watch the paragliders land on the flats near the lake. Explore dirt trails and hill tracks, and catch a glimpse of rural Nepali life. While you're walking, watch out for traffic. Buses and other vehicles do not always obey familiar rules of the road, and it's best to stay as far on the shoulder as possible.
