Khapaudi is one of the major tourist destinations in Pokhara, Nepal. It is a small village, about 6 kilometers away from Lakeside. Khapaudi is also known as the “happy village” of Pokhara. Over the years, many resorts, restaurants, and lodges have been established in the area.
In fact, Khapaudi is a beautiful place located on the banks of Phewa lake. You can have the mesmerizing scenery of Phewa Lake and a panoramic view of Raniban. In addition, the Shanti Stupa, and a magnificent view of the Lord Shiva Statue can be seen from Khapaudi village.
Things to do in Khapaudi
- Fishing
Basically, the main occupation of the local villagers is fishing. There are many local restaurants in the area that offer Nepali fish curry. Besides, it is also a popular place for fishing in Pokhara. The most common fish found in Phewa Lake is tilapia.
Similarly, there are several fish conservation areas around Khapaudi. Recently, a campaign was launched by the government, in which 16000 fish fries were released into the lake. The fish released were silver carp and bighead carp. Moreover, the government is planning for building an integrated settlement for the fishing community living in Khapaudi.
- Hiking
There are some yoga and meditation centers around the area. Many tourists love to go to these centers during their visits to Pokhara. Besides, there is a hiking trail from Khapaudi to Sarangkot hill. Sarangkot is one of the major tourist destinations in Pokhara. The hiking trail is about 2 hours uphill.
After climbing a few meters, you will reach Pandeli Park, from where you can get a panoramic view of Phewa Lake, Pokhara City, and the surrounding villages of Kaskikot Village Development Committee.
- Kart racing
Go Kart Pokhara is the first kart racing in Pokhara, and it is very popular nowadays. Lots of people are visiting Khapaudi, to achieve a new experience. Actually, the experts will give you a free 30-minute driving course, before driving.
Therefore, people are getting more interested. Indeed, Go Kart Pokhara has become a new attraction in Khapaudi.
- Cycling
Khapaudi is also famous for cycling. People love to ride along the banks of Phewa lake from Hallanchowk to Khapaudi, as there is a beautiful road along with beautiful paddy fields. You can find lots of bikes and car rentals in Lakeside.
Point of attraction
Khapudi is also a landing zone for paragliding. In fact, paragliding is a major tourist attraction in Pokhara. The duration of a paragliding flight is usually 25 minutes, which costs Rs. 5000 to Nepali citizens, and Rs. 5500 for foreigners.
Every year, people from outside the valley, as well as foreigners, visit Pokhara for paragliding. Eventually, paragliding played an important role in the tourism development of Khapaudi.
In addition, the newly opened city sightseeing bus has also included Khapaudi in its route. It is the first-ever sightseeing bus in Pokhara, which is launched by Swift Holiday Nepal. The bus fare is only Rs. 600, which takes you to almost all major tourist destinations in Pokhara.
Recently, the Annapurna cable car is being constructed near Khapaudi. In fact, it is the first cable car in Pokhara. The cable car connects from Khapaudi to Sarangkot. Eventually, it will be one of the major tourist attractions in Khapaudi. Therefore, it can play an important role in the tourism development of Khapaudi.
Best restaurants in Khapaudi
There are several restaurants in the Khapaudi village nowadays, and more are under construction. Nowadays, people have come up with new and unique designs for restaurants. Listed below are some of the best restaurants around Khapaudi.
- Sundown by Karma
Sundown by Karma is the most popular restaurant in Khapaudi. It is built in the Greek Santorini style. In fact, it is the only restaurant in Pokhara with this design. Therefore, it is becoming very popular among people nowadays.
Moreover, you can have an enchanting view of Phewa lake from the restaurant. The restaurant serves a variety of continental dishes along with traditional Nepali dishes.
- Coco Beach
Another famous restaurant in Khapaudi is Coco Beach Restaurant. It is located on the banks of Phewa Lake. Generally, the restaurant is crowded with visitors most of the day. Apart from this, various programs and wedding ceremonies are being held in the restaurant. Nevertheless, you can have quality time while staying at the restaurant.
- Alfanzoo Resort
Alfanzoo is one of the best resorts in Pokhara. It lies in the lap of Sarangkot hill, a little higher place than other restaurants. Therefore, we can have a panoramic view of Khapaudi village, along with the beautiful lake, from the resort. In addition, the resort offers 24-hour service for customers, including bike and car rental facilities.
- Feel Good Restro and Bar
Feel Good Restro and Bar is one of the oldest restaurants in Khapaudi. Located on the shores of the lake, you can find peace and serenity in the restaurant. In addition, the staffs are very friendly with good hospitality, which makes you feel at home.
- Duna Tapari Restaurant
Duna Tapari Restaurant is a typical Nepali restaurant. They serve a variety of Nepali dishes, with fish items being the most popular. Similarly, they serve Asian and continental dishes as well. Besides, Duna Tapari is also one of the oldest and most popular restaurants among Nepalese people.
Recently Built Restaurants
- Happy Village Restaurant
Happy Village Restaurant is located on the edge of Phewa Lake. The restaurant offers a variety of fish items and many traditional Nepali dishes. Most of the time, people like to have a BBQ at Happy Village Restaurant at night. Additionally, you will find peace of mind in the restaurant’s beautiful garden.
- SAMAYA by the lake
SAMAY by the lake is one of the finest restaurants in Pokhara. It is famous for its delicious food and charming location. The restaurant has a beautiful garden by the lake, decorated with beautiful dining tables, and a swing. Undoubtedly, it is the best place to hang out in Khapaudi.
- Marina Beach
Marina Beach Restaurant has been gaining popularity for the past few years. It is one of the happening places in Pokhara nowadays. Similarly, Marina Beach Restaurant lies next to SAMAYA by the lake restaurant.
- Beach bar & lounge
Recently, Beach Bar & Lounge has gained a lot of popularity among people. In fact, the restaurant has created an artificial beach in the courtyard. Therefore, while staying at the restaurant, you can find beach vibes.
Conclusion
Eventually, Khapudi has become a center of attraction in Pokhara for the past few years. It is playing an important role in the development of tourism in Nepal. However, the villagers have not made much progress.
People prefer to go to fancy restaurants rather than local restaurants. Therefore, their income has been deeply affected. Moreover, after the construction of the road, the number of hikers has also drastically declined. On the other hand, lake encroachment has also increased exponentially.
However, the government is working for the development of Khapaudi and the locals. Many inspections are carried out throughout the year for the conservation of Phewa lake. Furthermore, fish conservation campaigns are also conducted from time to time.
