Things to do · Pokhara
Peace Pagoda Hike
Cross Phewa Lake by boat, then climb through forest to the white stupa above the southern shore.
The Peace Pagoda hike is the most rewarding short walk in Pokhara: a boat glide across Phewa Lake followed by a forest climb to the gleaming white World Peace Pagoda on the ridge above the southern shore. It combines a lake crossing, a shaded trail and one of the finest views in the valley — all in a half-day from Lakeside.
Overview
The pagoda is a Buddhist stupa built for world peace, sitting high on the Anadu hill overlooking the lake. While you can drive most of the way, the walking approach is what makes it special. The standard route takes a wooden boat from the Lakeside shore to a landing on the far side, then follows a clear forest trail uphill for about 45 minutes to an hour. The reward at the top is a sweeping outlook over Phewa Lake, the city of Pokhara and, on a clear day, the Annapurna range behind. For details on the monument itself, see the World Peace Pagoda guide.
What to see and do
The boat crossing is part of the pleasure — hire a rower or paddle yourself across the calm water. From the landing, the forest trail climbs steadily through shade, a pleasant walk in itself, before emerging at the pagoda's broad terraces. Circle the stupa, take in the panorama, and rest at the small tea stalls near the top. Many walkers descend a different way — continuing down toward Davis Falls on the southern side — turning the outing into a one-way traverse.
How to visit
From Lakeside, hire a boat to the southern shore and start walking from the landing; the round trip with the climb takes about two to three hours. Alternatively, walk up from the Davis Falls area or take a taxi most of the way and finish on foot. There is no entry fee for the pagoda, though boat hire carries the usual lakeside charge. Bring water, as the climb is continuous, and wear shoes with grip.
Tips
- Go early for clear mountain views and a cooler, quieter trail.
- For sunset, arrange your return boat or descend by road — the forest path is unlit.
- The trail can be muddy and slick after rain; sturdy shoes help.
- Carry small cash for the boat and for tea at the top.
Nearby
Down the southern side, the walk links to Davis Falls and its neighbouring cave. For higher foothill views, pair this with the Dhampus village and Australian Camp ridge, or visit the calm hilltop of Matepani Gumba on the city's eastern side. See more short walks in the Pokhara day hikes and nearby areas collection, or plan your trip with the Pokhara guide.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you hike to the Peace Pagoda in Pokhara?+
The classic route takes a short boat across Phewa Lake from Lakeside to the southern shore, then climbs through forest for about 45 minutes to an hour up to the World Peace Pagoda. You can also reach it on foot from Davis Falls or drive most of the way by taxi.
How long is the Peace Pagoda hike?+
From the lakeshore boat landing, the uphill walk takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour at a steady pace. Allow two to three hours in total for the round trip, including the boat crossing and time at the pagoda for the views.
Is the Peace Pagoda hike difficult?+
It is a moderate climb on forest trail and steps, manageable for most reasonably fit walkers but with a continuous uphill section. Good shoes help, as the path can be slippery and muddy after rain. There is shade for much of the way.
Can you do the Peace Pagoda hike at sunrise or sunset?+
Sunset is popular for the views over Phewa Lake and Pokhara, but plan your return — arrange the boat in advance or descend by road, as the forest trail is not lit. Sunrise is quieter and offers the clearest mountain views before the haze builds.
Do you need a boat for the Peace Pagoda hike?+
No, but the boat crossing is the most scenic way to start. Alternatives include walking up from Davis Falls on the southern side or taking a taxi most of the way to the pagoda, then a short final climb on foot.
