Watching the sunrise near the Peace Pagoda in Pokhara
The city of Pokhara, Nepal's second-largest by population after the capital Kathmandu, offers a wealth of must-see tourist activities.
The city of Pokhara, Nepal's second-largest by population after the capital Kathmandu, offers a wealth of must-see tourist activities. Largely natural ones. The city sits just a stone's throw from the first slopes of the Annapurna range, which boasts some of the world's ten highest peaks, including the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I. Phewa Lake, caves and a waterfall are other points of interest drawing visitors to Pokhara. One vantage point stands out as unmissable, covering all these natural wonders. The Peace Pagoda.
Sunrises are highly sought-after experiences for travelers visiting Nepal, given that altitude plays a major role in choosing such a trip. It offers stunning views of the sun's movements. Gaining height is truly an understatement when planning a few days in Pokhara, but before tackling the major peaks, why not attempt an early morning wake-up to train and embark on the climb to the Peace Pagoda?
Setting off at night
Pack your bag and leave your Pokhara guesthouse or hotel around 4 a.m.. It takes a maximum of 2 hours 30 minutes to reach the Peace Pagoda at the summit of a small hill near Phewa Lake. Better to leave early, and nothing stops you from picnicking near this Buddhist structure if you arrive ahead of time, knowing that sunrise occurs around 6:30-6:45 a.m.
Walk along the lake's edge toward the southern slope. After crossing the Pardi Khola canal, head back up the shoreline toward the north until you reach the Tal Barahi temple, situated on the lake. You're almost at the starting point of the climb to the pagoda. Continue for a few dozen meters until you spot red markers indicating the path ahead: the Stupa Walkway.
A rewarding climb
Take this trail as it plunges into a tropical forest. The ascent lasts over an hour and brings you to the summit, near the immaculate Peace Pagoda. To the north, you can see the Annapurna mountain range, but the primary focus here will of course be to settle on the eastern slope, with your breakfast and tea, to watch the sun rise above Pokhara and the surrounding peaks.
Frequently asked questions
It's advisable to leave your accommodation around 4 a.m. The climb takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, allowing you to arrive before sunrise, which occurs around 6:30-6:45 a.m.
From the Lakeside area, walk along the edge of Phewa Lake toward the southern slope, cross the Pardi Khola canal, then head back up toward the north to the Tal Barahi temple. Follow the red-marked Stupa Walkway to the summit. A boat crossing on the lake is also possible to reach the foot of the hill.
The ascent lasts over an hour through a tropical forest. It is accessible to most travelers in decent physical condition. Bring appropriate footwear and a headlamp if you're starting in the dark.
The best period is the dry season, from October to December and February to April, which offers clear views of the Annapurna peaks. Avoid the monsoon (June-September) for optimal hiking conditions.
From the summit, you can admire the sunrise over the city of Pokhara and surrounding peaks by settling on the eastern side, and observe the Annapurna range to the north. Phewa Lake and its surroundings are also visible.
