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Annapurna Circuit trekking normally starts and ends in Pokhara, a peaceful and pleasant city near Phewa Lake. It is Nepal's second city and a popular tourist destination, albeit mainly among them to the Annapurna circuit. Hikes in the mountains, speeding up the people while on returning a lot of people quickly move to their next destination or back to Kathmandu-Pokhara but is well worth lingering in.

Lakes

Pokhara is located near several magnificent lakes, which makes for a nice scenic contrast to the higher altitude mountain scenery of Annapurna Circuit trekking. Phewa Lake is spectacular, its waters as a mirror tomorrow morning reflects the majestic Annapurnas and monkey-filled jungle surrounding the Lake. Begnas Lake is from the city, offering a peaceful glimpse into daily life in Nepal-people. Dipang Lake is also very beautiful, wild lotuses and swans.

Sarangkot and world peace pagoda

Sarangkot is a large heated before embarking on the Annapurna Circuit trekking. It is steep and hard work, but well worth the effort. Head up to the late afternoon of Sarangkot, book a hotel before night. then climb up to watch the sunset and do the same thing in the morning for the sunrise at the top. The views are spectacular.

Another great pre-Annapurnas trek is world peace pagoda (Shanti Stupa) on a hill overlooking Phewa Tal. Rent a boat across the Lake and then follow a trail up the Hill through the forest.

Caves

Pokhara has also several caves that are offered. Mehendra Cave is located in Batulechaur, in the north end of Pokhara, Chamare Gufa (often called Bat Cave) in the vicinity. The latter is hardly surprising, known for its bats, as can be seen hanging from the cave walls. Mahadev Gupteswar Cave, located in Chorepatan, at the southern end of Pokhara, is of religious significance for Hindus.

Museums

People on the Annapurna Circuit hikes may encounter Gurkhas, the legendary Nepalese soldiers who fight for the British army, and will probably want to take a look at Pokhara's Gurkha Memorial Museum. Displays include historical uniforms, flags and, of course, the famous knives. There are also International Mountain Museum, which contains information about people living in the Himalayas and descriptions of the 14 highest peaks and the most famous expeditions.

Food

Like most places in Nepal, Pokhara, a large variety of dishes on offer, from local specialities to international dishes.