Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge

Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, established in 1998, set lofty standards in sustainable hospitality and community-inclusive tourism. Located away from the crowded lakeside hotels of Pokhara town, this nature-based mountain lodge operates under Marcus and Lisa’s vision, which they drive with commitment and passion. The main lodge on top of the ridge houses a dining room, sitting areas, library, and bar, while the cottages, built into the hill-sides, maximise mountain views. The architecture, featuring mud-plastered limestone bricks with slated tiled roofs, is very similar to the village houses you see around and completely in sync with the gardens and thriving woodlands.

The short, pebbled driveway, which doubles up as a parking space as well as a landing spot for arrivals and departures, leads up some steps past a few cottages, which are ideal for older guests, easy to access without compromising on the views. Further up the incline, gentler for the carefully placed stepping stones, you arrive within view of the main lodge. A flight of stairs opens to a brief open hallway and what may be your first sight of the fishtail peak on a clear day. The hallways leads to the courtyard, which looks out to the valley below and the Himalayan skyline yonder and will be your favourite breakfast spot every morning. The hallway connects two similar buildings made of stone and slate, a local architectural style that is sustainable as well as suitable for local weather conditions. The building to the right includes spacious seating areas, a bar, and a library, while the building to the left is the dining room with a smaller covered area for buffet lunches, easy to access from the courtyard. Every space here including the dining room open out through large French windows for the best of the mountain views.

The award-winning infinity pool, positioned to reflect the peaks of Machhapuchhare, is one of the lodge’s most photographed features. Colonel Jimmy's library houses a unique collection of Himalayan mountaineering literature, and the bar serves international and local drinks, staying open until the last guest retires. The central courtyard and terrace is the perfect setting for sundowners or pre-dinner cocktails, with comfortable chairs gathered around log fires. Trained local guides escort guests on bird walks and day hikes through forests and villages, with activities tailored to meet guests' preferences.

Unless you are stopping en route to your trek in the Himalayas or on your return, the recommended minimum stay in Pokhara is three to four nights to explore the area and enjoy the lodge. As a base for trekkers heading to the higher Himalayas, the Lodge offers a haven of luxury and indulgence after the rigours of a trek. At this time, a recuperative massage is the ultimate treat. Asian massage techniques are offered in the privacy of your room, where local men and women trained in massage skills aid relaxation and work on the body’s meridian points. Private yoga sessions led by a skilled master are also available. A swimming pool, set high with views of the mountains, provides another area to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The lodge offers various walks, allowing you to explore the area with skilled local guides who are part of the lodge staff. With an emphasis on the rich local culture, birding, flora, butterflies, or just plain exercise, there is a walk to suit every guest's preference, whether gentle or active. Short forest and village walks, the Gurung Village hike, Pokhara Valley rim and Naudanda hike, Begnas Lake walk, Himalayan trekking, and seasonal white water rafting are some of the activities available, besides visits to Pokhara and Phewa Lake.