Two hundred kilometres and a world away from the hustle, bustle and pollution of Kathmandu lies the bazaar town of Pokhara. Situated 900 metres above sea level, not only is Pokhara surrounded by the mighty Annapurna mountain range, but also by some of the largest lakes in Nepal. Combine these dramatic visual effects with Pokhara's tranquility and it is easy to see why Pokhara is the second most popular tourist destination in the country. Well, what better way to start the day than by having breakfast on the rooftop garden of your hotel as you watch the sunrise over Mt. Machhapuhhre (22,950 ft.) which lies only 45 km away. Hire a canoe and relax on the serene waters of Phewa Lake. Make sure you step off at the Golden Temple of Varahi which is located in the middle of the lake and attracts both pilgrims and romantics. You can hire a paddle-boat for the whole day and enjoy the picnic on one of the seven other lakes in the valley.
Other attractions of Pokhara are :
Underground limestone caves known as Mahendra Gupha and David's Waterfall. The Tibetan village of Tashiling is well worth visiting as in the Natural History Museum at Prithivi Narayan Campus which features displays on the people and animals of the Annapurna area. If you prefer to go trekking on four legs - try pony trekking! or to discover the tropical surroundings you can rent a bicycle. It's the starting point for tens of thousands of trekkers who either "go all the way" and do the arduous three week Annapurna Circuit trek, or settle for the far easier three day "Royal" trek, which Prince Charles made famous during his visit here. If you don't have to "conquer" the mountains by foot then why not go on one of "Mountain Flights". Flying at a height of around 19,500 ft., you'll get amazing three dimensional views of the lakes, hills, vallies and villages plus the chance to get a rare close-up not only of Machhapuchhre, but of the entire awesome Annapurna mountain range. These exhilarating and popular "fly-bys" last about 30 minutes and give you a chance to boast to your friends back home that you came face to face with some of the highest mountains in the world! Another great way to see the mountains, lakes and vallies is to go power gliding in a micro-light aircraft! To watch the fabulous mountain sunset from Sarangkot cliff is yet another attraction.
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