Pokhara, Nepal

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  Visitors to Nepal can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at the airport or at any border entry point. The visa is valid for 15, 30, or 90 days depending on the chosen option.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
  The Visa on Arrival is available at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and other border crossings. You will need to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay and a valid passport.
• Digital Nomad Visa
  As of now, Nepal does not have a specific digital nomad visa. However, tourists often use the tourist visa to stay longer, especially in places like Pokhara, where many expats and remote workers are based.

For visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration.

Cost of Living

• Accommodation
  Pokhara offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to high-end hotels. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from $150-250 per month, with cheaper options available in the surrounding areas.
• Food
  Eating out in Pokhara is affordable. A meal at a local restaurant can cost between $2-5, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost around $10-15. Groceries for a single person can cost between $100-150 per month.
• Transportation
  The cost of public transportation in Pokhara is low. A typical bus ride will cost around $0.25-0.50. Taxis are also available, but the cost can vary depending on the distance.
• Healthcare
  Healthcare in Pokhara is generally affordable, though the quality may not be as high as in larger cities like Kathmandu. A standard doctor’s visit costs around $10-15, and health insurance typically ranges from $30-50 per month for basic coverage.

Climate & Weather

Pokhara experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by a distinct dry and rainy season.

• Summer (March to June): Warm temperatures with occasional rain.
• Monsoon (July to September): Heavy rainfall, making trekking difficult.
• Autumn (October to November): Mild weather and clear skies, ideal for trekking.
• Winter (December to February): Cold, especially in the evenings, but generally clear and sunny.

Landscape

Pokhara is known for its stunning natural beauty. The city lies at the foot of the Annapurna Range and is surrounded by lush hills, valleys, and lakes. The Phewa Lake is the central feature of Pokhara, where tourists often enjoy boating or simply relax along its shores. To the north, the Annapurna Mountain Range provides dramatic views and trekking routes. The Sarangkot Hill offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Things to Do

• Heritage Sites
  • Bindabasini Temple: A famous Hindu temple located in the heart of Pokhara, dedicated to the goddess Durga.
  • Tal Barahi Temple: A temple located on an island in Phewa Lake, accessible by boat.
• Adventure Activities
  • Trekking: The starting point for popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit and Ghorepani Poon Hill.
  • Paragliding: Pokhara is a major spot for paragliding, offering an exhilarating experience with views of the mountains and lake.
  • Zip-lining: Pokhara also offers one of the world’s longest zip lines.
• Nightlife
  While Pokhara is quieter than Kathmandu, there are a number of bars, cafes, and live music venues. The Lakeside area is popular for its laid-back atmosphere.
• Wellness Retreats
  Pokhara has a number of yoga and meditation retreats, attracting visitors looking for spiritual growth and relaxation.
• Shopping
  The Lakeside area is filled with small shops selling handicrafts, trekking gear, jewelry, and other souvenirs.

 Lifestyle

Pokhara has a relaxed pace of life, with most daily activities revolving around outdoor adventures or enjoying the peaceful lakeside. The majority of expats and long-term visitors live in or near the Lakeside area, which is the hub of tourism in Pokhara.

Pokhara is home to a mix of ethnic groups, including Magars, Gurungs, and Tamang. Expats in Pokhara often engage with the local community through volunteering, cultural exchanges, and tourism-related activities. There’s a significant community of trekkers, yoga practitioners, and remote workers. Socializing often happens around cafes and restaurants, or during group activities like trekking or yoga retreats.

Other Important Locations in Nepal

• Kathmandu: Nepal’s capital and cultural hub.
• Chitwan: Famous for its wildlife and jungle safaris.
• Lumbini: The birthplace of Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Shared apartments or basic housing can be found for $150-250 per month.
• Mid-Range: Comfortable, self-contained apartments in areas like Lakeside range from $300-500.
• Luxury: Luxury accommodations in Lakeside and Pokhara Valley can go from $600-1,000 per month.

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Pokhara is home to a growing number of co-working spaces, particularly around the Lakeside area. These spaces cater to digital nomads and entrepreneurs. Monthly hot desks typically cost around $100-150, with private offices available from $300-500.

Connectivity

• WiFi: Most hotels, guesthouses, and cafes in Pokhara offer WiFi, but speeds may vary, especially in peak tourist seasons. Coworking spaces provide better and more reliable internet connections.
• SIM: Ncell and Nepal Telecom are the main providers, with prepaid SIM cards easily available. Data connectivity is good in central areas but may weaken in rural or hilly regions.

Volunteering Opportunities

Pokhara offers various volunteering opportunities, especially in areas like education, wildlife conservation, and community development. Many NGOs and local projects welcome international volunteers who want to make a difference in the community.

Local Employment Options

• Adventure tourism jobs (trekking guides, paragliding).
• Yoga teaching in retreats.
• Hospitality roles in hotels or restaurants.

Real Estate Investment Options

Real estate in Pokhara is becoming increasingly attractive, especially with the rise in tourism and expat interest. Opportunities exist in both residential properties and commercial spaces. Areas like Lakeside and Prithvi Chowk offer potential for rental investments due to the high demand for short-term accommodations.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Pokhara is slowly emerging as a hub for start-ups, particularly in tourism, agriculture, and e-commerce. Several local and international entrepreneurs are setting up small businesses related to trekking, hospitality, and wellness. While it’s not as developed as Kathmandu in terms of start-up ecosystems, Pokhara is a favorable location for niche businesses catering to tourists or adventure seekers.

Business Setup Process for Expats in Pokhara

Starting a business in Pokhara involves a few key steps:

1. Choose a Business Structure: Expats can choose from options like a Sole Proprietorship or Private Limited Company.
2. Register with the Department of Industry: Submit your business plan and registration application to the Department of Industry.
3. Obtain a Tax ID: Register with the Nepal Revenue Department to obtain a Permanent Account Number (PAN).
4. Get Required Licenses: Depending on your business, you may need additional permits from the local municipality.
5. Open a Business Bank Account: You will need a Nepalese bank account for your business operations.
6. Comply with Labor Laws: Ensure that you adhere to local labor laws, including registering your employees with social security.

Business Opportunities in Pokhara

• Tourism and Adventure Services: Given Pokhara’s location near the Annapurna Circuit, businesses catering to trekkers, such as tour operators, trekking gear shops, and guides are in demand.

• Wellness and Yoga Retreats: With a growing number of visitors seeking spiritual and wellness retreats, opening yoga schools, meditation centers, and spa resorts could be profitable.
• Hospitality and Accommodation: The hospitality industry, especially budget hotels and guesthouses, has seen significant growth. There is also demand for more luxury resorts catering to tourists.
• Retail and Souvenir Shops: Selling local handicrafts, trekking gear, and Nepali textiles presents a good opportunity for business owners.
• Food and Beverage: Restaurants, cafes, and food delivery services that cater to both local tastes and international visitors are expanding.
• Sustainable Ventures: Eco-friendly initiatives, such as sustainable travel services and organic farming, are gaining popularity.