Welcome to the picturesque city of Pokhara, the enchanting host city for WordCamp Nepal 2024. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Pokhara is a haven of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time in this idyllic destination.
Location
Pokhara is situated in the central part of Nepal, approximately 200 kilometers west of the capital, Kathmandu. Easily accessible by road and air, the city is nestled in the lap of the Annapurna mountain range, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
Getting to Pokhara
- By Road: Attendees can get to Pokhara from different major cities in Nepal including Kathmandu, Bharatpur (Chitwan), Bhairahawa, Birgunj, Kakarvitta, Nepalganj or Dhangadhi. There are luxurious tourist buses going to Pokhara from Kathmandu, Bhairahawa and Bharatpur costing around 15$ USD.
- By Air: Attendees can also take flights to Pokhara from Kathmandu, Bharatpur or Bhairahawa. There are more than 60 daily flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes around 25 minutes. These flights cost around 40$ USD for Nepali passengers and around 90-120$ USD for foreigners.
Climate
Pokhara experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year. While summers can be warm and humid, winters are generally cool. The event is in January, where the temperatures could go lower than 10°C. It is recommended to carry some warm clothes for the morning and evenings, while it is generally warm in the day when the sun is out.
Visa and Permits
For international attendees, a tourist visa is required to enter Nepal. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various entry points across the country. Please check the latest visa requirements and ensure you have the necessary permits if you plan to explore specific trekking areas.
Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)
Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:
- Children below 10 years
- Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizens i.e. Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka (except Afghanistan) once in a given visa Year.
- Chinese Nationals
Please follow this link to get the latest information on Visa of Nepal.
Banks and Money Changers
Pokhara has a well-established banking system with numerous banks and money changers. You’ll find ATMs in most urban areas for convenient cash withdrawals. Major currencies are accepted, and money changers provide services for currency exchange.
For Indian Nationals, please note that the debit or credit cards of Indian Banks might have a restriction stating that “This card is valid worldwide except for Nepal and Bhutan”. If your card has this information printed on it, please talk with your bank about providing a card that is valid for Nepali ATM machines and POS.
During the time of writing this post, UPI has not been implemented in Nepal.
Accommodation
A diverse range of accommodations awaits you in Pokhara, catering to various preferences and budgets. Lakeside is a popular area with numerous hotels, guesthouses, and resorts offering picturesque views of the lake and mountains. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A list of Official hotels will be published soon in our website.
Food and Beverage
Pokhara boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering a variety of Nepali and international cuisines. From traditional momo and dal bhat to Indian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese or continental dishes, you’ll find an array of options to satisfy your taste buds. Lakeside is a hub for restaurants and cafes, providing a delightful dining experience.
Communication
Staying connected in Pokhara is easy, with reliable internet services and mobile network coverage. SIM cards for local providers can be purchased at various outlets (including the International Airport, as soon as you arrive), ensuring seamless communication during your stay. Almost all hotels and resorts provide high speed WiFi connection for seamless connection to the Internet.
Postal Systems
While the reliance on traditional postal services has diminished, you can still access postal services in Pokhara. However, for urgent communication, it’s recommended to use email and other digital communication platforms. Post offices are generally available in urban areas.
Adventure Awaits
For thrill-seekers, Pokhara offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities. Paraglide over the Phewa Valley to witness the city from a bird’s-eye view, or embark on a trek to the Annapurna Base Camp for an unforgettable mountain adventure.
A more detailed post regarding “Adventures to do in Pokhara” will be published soon.
When In Nepal
Embark on a virtual journey through the “When In Nepal” campaign, a captivating showcase of Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Explore our Facebook album for a visual sneak peek into the wonders that await WordCamp Nepal attendees. Let the images spark your curiosity and anticipation for the event.
Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and connect with the vibrant community on our Facebook page. Discover the essence of Nepal through captivating visuals and get ready for an enriching WordCamp experience.