Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal, is a prominent tourist attraction in Pokhara. It has an elevation of 742 meters above sea level. The lake has an area of approximately 4.43 square kilometers. Similarly, the lake has a maximum depth of 24 m and an average depth of 8.6 m. Moreover, the lake’s maximum water capacity is around 35,000 acre-feet.
In general, Phewa Lake is one of the most visited lakes in Nepal. It is located on the southwestern side of Pokhara city. The western side of the lake is surrounded by the lush tropical forest of the Raniban and Pumdikot hills. The eastern side, on the other hand, has plain land and is good habitat, with many restaurants, hotels, and resorts.
Furthermore, the head of the Phewa Lake is situated in Pame, a small village. And, the tail area is known as Damside, since a dam to the south has preserved the lake.
Way To Phewa Lake
The domestic airport in Pokhara is not far from Phewa Lake. By vehicle, it takes only five minutes to get to the lake; on foot, it can take twenty to twenty-five minutes. Additionally, the tourist bus will drop you off at Damside, where there are plenty of lodging options as well as bike and auto rentals.
Accommodation
Since there are tons of hostels, lodges, and resorts in the Phewa Lake area, it is easy to find one. Backpackers can stay in hostels for as little as $4–5 per night. Similarly, numerous hotels have begun offering rooms with two single beds and attached toilets for $ 8. While prices for resorts start at $50 to $100. Generally, free WiFi services are available in almost every accommodation.
Attraction
- Tal Barahi Temple
Tal Barahi is a two-story pagoda temple situated on an island in the middle of Phewa Lake. The temple has great importance in the Hindu religion. Every year, numerous devotees from different regions of Nepal visit Tal Barahi. Furthermore, the temple is visited by a large number of foreign tourists, the majority of whom are Indians.
You can find a small wooden boat to reach the temple in the area for $1. The boat will carry around 10–12 passengers. Furthermore, a life jacket is provided at the ticket counter when purchasing the ticket. However, you can reserve a boat for $4 for an hour, including a boatman.
- Foot Track
Recently, a beautiful foot track has been constructed along the eastern shore of the lake. Several benches are placed at different locations along the way. One can observe the mesmerizing scenery of the lake along with the astonishing perspective of the Great Himalayas while walking along the foot track. Furthermore, the spectacular reflection of the Himalayas in the lake is another wonderful sight.
You can find numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars along the foot track. You can relax and unwind while enjoying the view from almost every restaurant. Besides, the foot track is popular for jogging and cycling. Generally, the foot track is most crowded in the evening hours.
Similarly, along the foot track, you can find several stalls selling local tea, cold drinks, Chatpate (Nepali spicy snacks), cotton candy, typical Nepali grilled meat, and many more.
- Lakeside
Lakeside is a beautiful town settled along the shore of Phewa Lake. It is one of the happening places in Nepal. There are numerous cafes, pubs, bars, discos, dance bars, and hotels in the area. Besides, the town is full of handicraft shops, local garment shops, tattoo parlors, art galleries, book shops, and so on.
Generally speaking, Lakeside is the major town in Pokhara, where almost 99% of the tourists prefer to stay. There are numerous travel agencies that provide information and facilities regarding tours, trekking, transportation, adventure, and several activities for tourists.
- Basundhara Park
Basundhara Park is the first-ever park in Pokhara, which is built along the shore of Phewa Lake. For relaxation and to escape the city’s bustle, many people prefer to visit Basundhara Park. Moreover, it is one of the most convenient fishing locations.
The park has a beautiful large meadow where several events, programs, and festivals are performed occasionally. Moreover, the park has table tennis and volleyball courts. Especially in the evenings, the park is crowded with people engaging in activities like football, yoga, running, martial arts, and many more.
Things To Do In Phewa Lake
- Boating/Kayaking
The first thing that most visitors want to do in Phewa Lake is go boating or kayaking. There are two types of boats: little wooden boats and large foot paddle boats. Small and paddle boats will cost roughly $4 and $7 per hour, respectively. Similarly, you may rent a kayak for $6-7 per hour.
- Fishing
Fishing is one of the best experiences you can have in Phewa Lake. However, there are some restricted areas that you should consider when choosing a location, such as areas around the Tal Barahi Temple, the Nepal Army Barrack, and the fish conservation spots.
- Paragliding
There are various agencies in Lakeside where you may book a paragliding ticket. For foreigners, a 30-minute flight will cost approximately $30.
- Cycling
In general, many tourists prefer to cycle around Phewa Lake. You can hire a mountain bike for $7 per day.
- Hiking
There is a beautiful hiking trail that starts from the western shore of the lake. The hiking trail passes through dense tropical forests, and typical villages and finally reaches the mesmerizing Shanti Stupa. You can find several restaurants, hotels, and homestays along the way.
Shanti Stupa is situated at an elevation of 1100 meters above sea level. From the spot, you can have a panoramic view of the magnificent Phewa Lake, the Pokhara valley, and the Great Himalayas.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, the lake has been playing a vital role in the economic growth of the country. Besides, the concerned government has been making efforts in promoting and preserving the lake.
Well, we hope that we have covered all the necessary things that you must know about Phewa Lake. If you are considering a trip to Nepal, you should consider visiting Phewa Lake. The beauty of Phewa Lake awaits you.
