It’s hard to keep up with all the new hotels in Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital and second-largest city. To help you figure out where to stay in this beautiful lakeside town, here’s a selection of some of our favorites, both classic and new, for every budget.
## A Deeper Dive into Pokhara’s Finest Accommodations
Pokhara, a jewel nestled in the heart of Nepal, offers a diverse array of accommodations to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. From historic lodges steeped in regal history to cozy inns brimming with cultural charm, there’s a perfect place to call home while exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of this enchanting city. This exploration delves into some of the most notable places to stay in Pokhara, offering a more comprehensive look at what makes each unique and desirable.
**Fish Tail Lodge: A Legacy of Luxury on Phewa Lake**
For those seeking a truly unique and historically significant experience, look no further than **Fish Tail Lodge**. More than just a place to rest your head, this lodge is a landmark in itself, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of luxury and exclusivity. If you happen to be a history aficionado, or perhaps you are simply determined to experience all “1,000 Places to See Before You Die,” consider requesting Room #17 at **Fish Tail Lodge**. This particular suite holds the distinction of having hosted both Prince Charles and President Jimmy Carter, adding a touch of royal and presidential prestige to your stay.
**Fish Tail Lodge** is composed of a series of charming cottages, and boasts a total of sixty rooms. These cottages are strategically positioned on the very tip of a peninsula extending into the serene waters of Phewa Lake. Adding to its exclusivity, access to the lodge is exclusively via boat or water shuttle, ensuring a tranquil and secluded retreat away from the bustling city. The location is a key part of the Fish Tail Lodge experience.
Established in 1969, **Fish Tail Lodge** has cultivated a reputation for unparalleled service and a commitment to preserving its unique character. While the price point may be higher than many other establishments in Lakeside, the secluded location and its undeniably unique history more than justify the investment. The rooms, though perhaps not the most cutting-edge in terms of modern design, possess a undeniable charm. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a small, intimate spa for relaxation, a refreshing pool with a bar that operates seasonally, a lush garden perfect for contemplation, a delectable restaurant serving both local and international cuisine, and convenient access to boats for exploring Phewa Lake.
**Big Pillow Inn: Cultural Comfort and Cozy Charm**
In contrast to the historical grandeur of Fish Tail Lodge, **Big Pillow Inn** offers a more contemporary and culturally immersive experience. Since its debut in October 2017, this inn has rapidly gained popularity in Pokhara’s vibrant hotel scene, thanks to its exceptional value, prime location, and thoughtfully designed decor. **Big Pillow Inn** is not aiming to be something it is not. Rather, it is a simply designed, cosy, “cultural bed & breakfast” that offers a taste of authentic Nepali hospitality.
The Inn’s design draws inspiration from the traditional architecture of three distinct ethnic groups in Nepal. The first and fifth floors showcase the intricate Newari style, while the second and third floors reflect the rustic elegance of the Thakali culture. Finally, the fourth floor embodies the vibrant aesthetics of the Gurung people, offering guests a diverse cultural experience within the confines of the Inn. The 25 rooms are inspired by the cultural architecture.
**Big Pillow Inn** truly excels in its commitment to comfort, particularly when it comes to the beds. Many visitors regard these as potentially the most plush and comfortable beds to be found anywhere in Pokhara. Each morning, a delightful breakfast is served in the lobby, featuring locally sourced organic coffee and a selection of freshly prepared dishes, including aloo paratha, eggs, and fresh fruit. Additional amenities at the **Big Pillow Inn** include air conditioning for climate control, complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TVs for entertainment, private balconies, an elevator for easy access to all floors, a limited concierge service, and a stunning rooftop terrace that is ideal for witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over Pokhara.
**Krishna’s Cottages: A Rotunda Retreat with Modern Flair**
For travelers seeking a truly unique and architecturally interesting stay, **Krishna’s Cottages** presents an intriguing option. From the comfort of your room, you can enjoy the spectacle of paragliders gracefully descending onto the northern shores of Phewa Lake. This vantage point offers a unique perspective on the stunning natural beauty of the area.
**Krishna’s Cottages** consist of two spacious 800 sq ft suites, nestled discreetly on a small hill behind Krishna’s Kitchen. Krishna’s Kitchen itself is a celebrated Thai restaurant known for its delightful garden setting on Khapaundi Cove, conveniently located just two miles north of Lakeside. The restaurant offers an amazing dining experience. Beyond the rooms, which are characterized by their sun-drenched ambiance and ample space, the bathrooms and walk-in showers are truly exceptional. Many consider these to be the most stylish and well-appointed bathrooms in all of Nepal, making **Krishna’s Cottages** a truly memorable experience.
**Mum’s Garden Resort: Eco-Friendly Serenity in Lakeside**
Escape the hustle and bustle of Lakeside at **Mum’s Garden Resort**, a haven of tranquility where stone cottages surround a beautifully landscaped courtyard. This idyllic setting provides the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation, whether you’re seeking to unwind after a day of exploring Pokhara or practice your downward dog amidst nature’s embrace.
Established two decades ago, **Mum’s Garden Resort** has earned a reputation as one of the most unique and environmentally conscious accommodations in Lakeside. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its design and operation. However, it is important to note that the resort’s eco-friendly approach comes with a caveat: none of the 12 deluxe rooms are equipped with air conditioning. The bungalows, constructed from hand-cut stone, naturally maintain a cooler temperature, but travelers planning to visit during the summer months should consider this factor.
In addition to its comfortable accommodations and serene setting, **Mum’s Garden Resort** also boasts its own restaurant and bar, offering guests convenient dining options. For those who wish to venture out and explore the culinary scene, Caffe Concerto, renowned as the best Italian restaurant in town, is just a short 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, guests can indulge in pampering treatments at **Kinjalla Spa at Temple Tree Resort**, one of the best resorts around Pokhara, located just across the street.
**Hotel Karuna: Modern Nepali Style with City Views**
From the moment you step into **Hotel Karuna**, you’ll be drawn to its welcoming atmosphere and contemporary design. This four-story hotel, which opened in 2017, features 24 rooms decorated in a fresh and modern Nepali style. The hotel’s colorful and cheerful lobby, adorned with bright blue and lime pillows, comfortable cushioned wooden furniture, and contemporary Tibetan rugs, doubles as a boutique pour-over bar serving Kar.Ma Coffee. Kar.Ma Coffee is a brand based in Kathmandu that sources its organic coffee locally from around Pokhara.
Guests can enjoy a complimentary cup of this locally sourced coffee with their breakfast, which is also served in the lobby, either indoors or in the courtyard. Throughout the day, coffee is available for purchase for those seeking an afternoon pick-me-up. Twenty of the rooms at **Hotel Karuna** feature private balconies, and all are decorated in a fresh and modern Nepali style. For the best views of the lake or mountains, request a room on one of the upper floors. The rooftop terrace also offers stunning panoramic vistas. However, it is important to note that **Hotel Karuna** does not have an elevator.
**Sampada Inn: A Taste of Newari Culture and Architecture**
While it may not be the newest hotel in Pokhara, the family-run **Sampada Inn** offers a distinctive charm and traditional character that sets it apart from the concrete properties that are increasingly common. This standard-priced boutique hotel features 21 rooms and is constructed with ancient bricks sourced from Bhaktapur. The exterior is adorned with dark hand-carved woodwork, reflecting the rich Newari heritage of the region. The **Sampada Inn** provides an authentic taste of Newari culture and architecture.
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