Pokhara’s Lakeside area is famous for relaxed lake views by day and eclectic nightlife after sundown — from long-running live-music joints to fresh, buzzy lounges. Below I’ve picked 6 newer (trendy) bars and 6 classic/old favorites that consistently show up on traveller guides and reviews. Each entry includes a short reason to go and a source so you can check hours, location and recent reviews before you head out.
6 New / Trendy Bars tourists should try
- Rolling Stones Rock Bar — Big stage, nightly rock bands and a lively crowd; great if you want amplified live music and a modern rock-bar vibe. (Tripadvisor)
- Mustang Pub — Popular for jam sessions and themed live nights (blues/reggae); friendly, current-scene spot for locals and tourists. (Instagram)
- Jay’s Bar — Trendy lakeside hangout with karaoke, DJ nights and happy hours — a good spot for groups and casual nights out. (Instagram)
- The Longest Bar — Stylish cocktail list and a large, garden-adjacent bar area; great if you want craft drinks in a roomy setting. (Tripadvisor)
- Tiki Bar — Fun, Hawaiian-themed spot in central Lakeside — colorful, casual and popular with tourists for relaxed evening drinks. (Tripadvisor)
- Koyla Lounge — A lounge atmosphere with shisha/hookah options and late-night music — good for small groups who want a chill vibe. (Tripadvisor)
6 Old / Classic Bars tourists should try
- Old Blues Bar — Iconic live-music venue in Lakeside (long history of rock/blues acts); ideal for anyone who loves bands and an authentic local scene. (Tripadvisor)
- Moondance Restaurant & Bar — Lakeside staple for decades (well-reviewed for food + bar); good if you want a reliable night with solid food and drinks. (moondancepokhara.com)
- Busy Bee Cafe — A pioneer of Lakeside nightlife with live bands and a party atmosphere — great for lively evenings and meeting other travellers. (Tripadvisor)
- The Irish Pub — Classic pub experience (import beers, live bands, big bar) — popular among international visitors. (Tripadvisor)
- Paradiso Sports Bar & Grill — Longstanding lakeside spot for pub food, sports on screens and a relaxed garden bar. Good for sports fans and evening meals with drinks. (Tripadvisor)
- Into The Wild (Cafe/Bar area) — While also a guesthouse/cafe, it frequently appears on lists of nightlife/relax spots — pleasant views and calmer evenings away from the busiest streets. (Tripadvisor)
Quick practical tips & ending notes
- Where to go: Most bars listed are in Lakeside (Baidam) — the walking area beside Fewa Lake — so you can hop between places easily.
- Live music nights: Check Instagram/Facebook pages or Tripadvisor for the week’s live acts (many bars post schedules online). Popular live-music spots (Old Blues, Rolling Stones, Mustang, Busy Bee) often have shows on weekends. (Tripadvisor)
- Safety & prices: Pokhara is tourist-friendly; still carry small cash (NPR) and watch your drinks in busy venues. Prices vary — expect mid-range for cocktails and cheaper local beer. For current opening times and any cover charges, check each bar’s TripAdvisor/Instagram page before you go. (Tripadvisor)
- Transport: Lakeside is compact and walkable at night; taxis are available for late returns.
- Best nights: Fridays–Sundays are busiest; if you want quieter evenings seek out garden bars (Paradiso / The Longest Bar / Moondance) or early-evening lakeside cafes.
