Phewa Lake, Pokhara

Phewa Lake is the heart of Pokhara, Nepal’s most relaxed city. On clear mornings the snow peaks of the Annapurna range, including the sharp summit of Machhapuchhre, the Fishtail, are reflected in its still water, and the Lakeside area along the eastern shore is lined with hotels, cafés and shops.

Hire a colourful wooden rowing boat to paddle out to the Tal Barahi Temple, a small pagoda on an island in the lake. From the far shore, a path climbs through the forest to the World Peace Pagoda, a white stupa with fine views back over the lake and the city.

Go out on the water early in the morning, when the mountains are clearest and the lake is still. Evenings along the lakeside, with music drifting from the cafés, are a gentle way to end the day.