Still Water at sunset on Phewa Lake in Phokara
Phokara is the Beach city of Nepal. Except the “beach” is actually the banks of the very small Phewa Lake. The energy and enthusiasm for tourists and relaxation, however is tangible and reminiscent of any California beachside community. Small shops with handpainted signs, every kind of restaurant you’d want, water sports, and paragliding.
Yes. Paragliding. This is the sport where you run off a hill with a parachute tied to your body and fly around with the birds for a bit before landing at the base of the hill. In Phokara, this sport is extremely popular and many different offices along the main walking drag will advertise packages. In each, you’ll be flying tandem with a professional who knows what he or she is doing- and in most cases is not Nepali, but an enthusiast from another country who came to Nepal because the paragliding options are spectacular near the Himalayas.
Ramesh Paraglides high above Phewa Lake in Phokara
Other extreme sports are also very popular- trekking, rafting, boating, etc. I recommend making arrangements through your guest house or hostel as they usually have a company that they trust and get special deals through. The prices are usually fixed, however, so the normal bartering skills you’ve developed will not apply here.
This small city is particularly great if you are a happy window shopper. The numerous stalls along the lakeside have some great artistry- tonka paintings, tibetan rugs, handmade paper goods, etc. Most shops are open late, so feel free to walk to dinner from your hostel and get a bit lost on your way back as you peruse the goods.
One of the most charming (and surprising) entertainment options in this small town is the evening music that is available. Cover bands belt out the latest tunes, karaoke bars crank out the drunken melodies, and independent artists and travelers host open mic nights in the lobbies of guest homes. Once again, walking down the street and simply finding the bar or spot that feels right is the way to go.
Fresh fruit for sale on the roadside in Phokara
If busy and congested Kathmandu seems overwhelming and you are looking for a great spot that feels like having a vacation within your vacation, Phokara is definitely the spot for you. We sat on the roof of our guest house one night, drinking a beer with our friend Ramesh, and remarked on just how quiet and peaceful the area really is.
Phokara is also fun to get to. Whether you board the pond-hopper plane that gets you there in 30 minutes or the train that can take you anywhere from 4-6 hours, you have gorgeous views the entire way. Relaxing and definitely affordable, Phokara is a great stop while traveling through Nepal.
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