The biggest tourist destination in Nepal after Kathmandu, Pokhara is a subtropical valley surrounded by lofty Himalayan peaks. The name Pokhara has been derived from pokhri, a word in Nepali signifying pond. In earlier times the place was a big lake. Today in addition to the town, there are three major lakes namely, Phewa, Rupa, and Begnas here. Due to its nearness to the Himalayan peaks, Pokhara is home to some of the most beautiful vistas in the world. The abrupt changes in the altitude makes the place even more exciting.
Pokhara does not have a long history. It was founded in the 16th century by Gurungs. The construction of two national highways in 1970’s marked the phase of modern development here and in no time it became a well-known hippie hideout. Today, Pokhara is the centre of river rafting industry and starting point of some of the most exciting treks besides being an important administrative and commercial centre in Nepal. The town landscape has changed a lot in the last few decades and a concrete jungle has came up to satisfy needs of ever increasing number of visitors. But Pokhara has still maintained its small town image that is best experienced during the off season.
Pokhara does not have a long history. It was founded in the 16th century by Gurungs. The construction of two national highways in 1970’s marked the phase of modern development here and in no time it became a well-known hippie hideout. Today, Pokhara is the centre of river rafting industry and starting point of some of the most exciting treks besides being an important administrative and commercial centre in Nepal. The town landscape has changed a lot in the last few decades and a concrete jungle has came up to satisfy needs of ever increasing number of visitors. But Pokhara has still maintained its small town image that is best experienced during the off season.
No comments:
Post a Comment