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The population of certain species of vulture has collapsed in many parts of Asia due to vultures eating dead cows that have been injected with a drug that helps the cows in old age but poisons the vultures when they eat them after their die. A charity has established a hospice for cows coming to the end of their lives. They look after the cows but ensure they don't have any of the drug that kills the vultures. When the cows eventually die they are given as food to the vultures. Trips are arranged to view such early morning vulture feasts. To find out more visit Blue Sky Paragliding.
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One of Nepal's most beautiful spots, Phewa Tal is surrounded by a combination of monkey-filled forests and high white peaks. The reflections in the mirror-like water in the early mornings are impressive. Hire a boat and row yourself across the lake, or hire a local to do it for you – there are some fine times to be had on this lake, even in the middle of the night.
Opened in 1999 on top of a hill just south of Phewa Tal, the Stupa offers great views of the Annapurna Mountains, including Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Annapurna III. This is a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset over Pokhara. The easiest way to get there is to take a taxi to the base of the Peace Pagoda (Rs1000 return, including waiting). If you want to go on foot, you must first get to the southern side of Phewa Tal, either by walking around the lake, getting a taxi or rowing across the lake. Then take a very steep hike through the forest (watch out for leeches during the monsoon) or from the road that passes Devi's Fall.
The perfect pre-trek warm-up. Head up Sarangkot, and be prepared as it's steep and hard work. You can rent a motor bike or use the cable car to go to the top. The road is rough, but traversable. Great views, spectacular images and a great way to get a taste of what it's like to be trekking.The Sarangkot south slope trail is a challenging run/polewalk workout. Go north through Lakeside about 5 km, through Kare until cable car bottom station. Follow the road up the hill and don't try to ride a motorbike or bike up this road, too rocky. Shortly after you've crossed under the cable cars, the trail goes off the road to the left (there's a sign, too) and soon the gruelling stone steps begin. Follow the steps all the way, notice the arrows carved into stones where confusing, but stay on stone step trail for the shortest way or use the road for a longer, less steep alternative. Morning views are best. This trail takes at least 1 hour from the bottom. Knee jarring descent takes 40 min, or an easy ride with the cable car (notice their many breaks during the day).