Best Nightlife in Pokhara

Sunset Activities

Similar to Santorini, sunset viewing is an event in Pokhara. Where's the best place to watch it? Every local you ask will have a different opinion. On a clear day, a hike up to the World Peace Pagoda will give you a bird's eye view of the town and lake as well as magnificent mountain views. Likewise, Sarangkot (5,250 feet), which is somewhat more popular at sunrise, will give you gorgeous close-ups of Macchapuchhare (Fish Tail mountain) and the Annapurna range. You can reach both places by car, but you'll appreciate the sunset even more if you hike at least one way.

Alternatively, enjoy sundowners and dinner at a lakeside restaurant or bar (like El Bocaíto Español, Krazy Gecko Bar & Rest, Zero Gallery Café, etc.) or better yet, rent a boat and bring some beers and snacks with you, as there's nothing quite like paddling around the lake as it reflects the changing colors in the sky. (It's about $7 to rent a boat on your own for 2 hours.)

Film Screenings

Movie Garden

Following sunset, head to Movie Garden, a fantastic open-air amphitheater in North Lakeside run by a few expats. To find it, you'll have to follow a path behind LakeVision for about a minute until you reach the hidden cinema. Movies are screened daily at 7 pm and cost about 300 Nepali rupees (or $3) to watch. If you're cold, blankets are available — as well as liquid heat (like cocktails), and food options from popcorn to pizza. Check the signboard or Facebook page for the upcoming film schedule. (Open 6 pm-11 pm.) 

Baidam Road, North Lakeside (before 3Sisters Trekking turn right at LakeVision and follow the path behind for 1 minute) 

OR2K

This favorite Middle Eastern eatery also occasionally screens films and is a good option if you'd like to stay inside or combine a vegan/vegetarian dinner with a movie. Check Instagram for details, or call/stop by. 

Center Point Complex, Baidam Road, Lakeside (near Hallan Chowk), Central Lakeside

The Blind Tiger

At this recently opened rooftop bar and restaurant in North Lakeside, you can watch movies for free daily at 8 pm. In fact, the Blind Tiger claims to be the only outdoor cinema in Lakeside that screens new releases at no charge. Check its Facebook page for the schedule. 

Baidam Road, North Lakeside (about a minute walk from Earthy Nepal)

Live Music Bars

Silk Road

A cozy haunt with fantastic live music and cocktails made from fresh juices, Silk Road is the perfect destination to follow an outdoor movie screening—conveniently, it's only a 5-minute walk from Movie Garden. If you're traveling solo, the friendly owner Lalit (who also owns Bhanjyang Village Lodge in Sarangot) will make you feel at home within a matter of minutes. Drinking one of his signature ”Thirsty Camels” also helps.

Baidam Road, North Lakeside

Busy Bee Café

Busy Bee Café is a hoppin' bar in the heart of Central Lakeside that always seems to be, well, busy. The outdoor area feels like a beer garden and is usually filled with a mix of tourists and locals, while inside patrons often are dancing to live music.

Baidam Road, Central Lakeside

Old Blues Bar

The Old Blues Bar is "old" by Pokhara standards. Established in 1987, this Central Lakeside bar has given the floor to many local bands over the years and remains a fun and lively spot to let loose.  

Hallan Chowk, Central Lakeside

The Office

Who knew spending weekends at The Office could be so much fun? Well, it's easy when "work" involves figuring out which cocktail to order and listening to talented musicians perform live on stage at one of Pokhara's top music bars.  

Baidam Road, North Lakeside (near 3Sisters Trekking) 

Upbeat Music Bar & Restaurant

In just a few months since opening, Upbeat has become one of the most popular bars and live music venues. Check its Facebook page for upcoming events, or just wander over. You can also have dinner or snacks here. 

Baidam Road, North Lakeside

Billiards & Sports Bars 

Phat Kath

More than just a hostel, Phat Kath (which has a Thamel location, too) has a great garden area with hammocks and an indoor bar and billiards table. It's an excellent choice if you're traveling on your own or looking to meet fellow backpackers. 

Baidam Road, North Lakeside

Message in a Bottle 

Message in a Bottle is a very new, modern sports bar and restaurant with an outdoor patio that is located in the same complex as Himalayan Java and OR2K. It also might be the only bar in Pokhara that serves bubble tea and beer! 

Center Point Complex, Ground Level, Baidam Road (near Hallan Chowk), Central Lakeside 

Paradiso Sports Bar & Grill

Paradiso Sports Bar & Grill is a classic sports bar that's perfect for large groups. Watch everything from soccer, rugby, and basketball games to golf, tennis, and Formula 1 on Paradiso's big screens while enjoying a meal, happy hour, or even hookah. Check its Facebook page to know about sporting events and daily live musical performances, which go from 7:30 pm until late. 

Baidam Road (near the German Bakery), Central Lakeside