Old Bazaar, Pokhara Overview

The Old Pokhara Bazaar in Nepal is a vibrant and historic marketplace showcasing the region's cultural heritage. Wander through narrow alleys lined with shops selling authentic Nepalese handicrafts, including handmade pottery, Tibetan rugs, traditional clothing, and intricately crafted jewelry. You can also enjoy traditional Newari and Nepali cuisine at local eateries and street food stalls.

Experience the daily life of locals by exploring stalls offering fresh produce, spices, and local goods, providing insight into the agricultural heritage of the region. You can also engage with friendly locals, artisans, and shopkeepers, learning about their crafts, traditions, and way of life. The Old Pokhara Bazaar is known for its ancient Newari architecture. The buildings feature intricately carved wooden windows, brick facades, and pagoda-style rooftops, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship of the Newar community. The bazaar retains its historical charm, providing visitors a glimpse into the region's past while coexisting with modern developments.

Attractions at Old Pokhara

The preferable point to start exploring Old Pokhara is the Nepal Telecom Building. From here, head to the north-west, crossing some religious shops till they reach an intersection called Nala Mukh. This area is famous for the Newari Houses that are adorned with brickwork and bear beautifully carved wooden windows and doors. On proceeding further, you would reach Bhairab Tole which is one of Pokhara's significant commercial centres. There is a 200-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Bhimsen here who is considered an important deity of the Newars. He is said to be the one who brings success in trade and commerce and is, therefore, worshipped with great devotion by the traders. A pit stop at this temple to admire its ancient architectural beauty is much advisable.

The region around the Bhimsen temple has some shops selling ceramics and baskets where tourists can spend some time shopping or just observing the authentic products on sale. A little ahead is a small hillock which is famous for another ancient temple, Bindhya Basini Temple. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga who is represented by a Shaligram instead of the usual imposing idol. Exploring this section of Pokhara is the best thing to do for those who wish to feel like they have gone decades into the past when simplicity was also beautiful. The traditional two or three-storey buildings with brick and woodwork bearing intricate carvings that still stand tall in this part of the city sort of make the point that the charm of Old Pokhara is still alive and breathing.