Each autumn, Pokhara shifts from a tranquil lakeside town to a vibrant hub of mountain storytelling during the Pokhara International Mountain Film Festival (PIMFF). This festival invites outdoor enthusiasts and cinephiles alike to engage with tales of mountain adventure, environment, and culture projected against the backdrop of the Annapurna range. The festival showcases films from around the world, spotlighting the fierce spirit of the mountains that attract adventurers to Nepal year-round.

Held at various venues around Pokhara, including cultural centers and lakeside spaces, PIMFF creates a dynamic atmosphere where the environment itself seems to lean in, whispering stories from the peaks and valleys. Films range from raw, technical documentaries of alpine climbs to intimate portraits of mountain communities. Attending means immersing yourself not only visually but also in discussions with filmmakers, climbers, and conservationists who bring the high-altitude world vividly to life.

For travelers, Pokhara serves as the ideal base. The city sits at 827 meters, comfortably above the heat and humidity found further south, with the snowcap giants beckoning just beyond the skyline. Lodging ranges from budget hostels to upscale hotels with views of Phewa Lake, letting you rest well before and after festival screenings.

Planning your visit during PIMFF (typically October to early November) pairs perfectly with trekking seasons. The weather is crisp and clear, making hikes in the Annapurna foothills both stunning and manageable. Consider day trips to spots like Sarangkot for panoramic sunrise views or the peaceful Davis Falls, which echoes the mountain’s untamed character in its rushing water.

The festival itself is often hosted indoors but expect the occasional outdoor screening by the lake where the chill rising from the water meets warm cinematic light. Comfortable footwear is a must for navigating between venues, and layering is key—the evenings require a sharp jacket after a sun-soaked day exploring Pokhara’s markets and nearby trails.

Beyond film, PIMFF encourages a quiet reverence for the mountains’ power and vulnerability, tackling issues from climate change to cultural preservation. It’s not just a festival; it’s a meeting ground for adventure that remains fiercely itself—challenging, inspiring, and ultimately grounding.

If your journey is motivated by an appetite for outdoor stories lived and breathed in real time, PIMFF in Pokhara offers a gateway to understanding mountains through the eyes of those who dare to meet them. With each film and each conversation you’ll feel the mountains’ pulse under your feet, calling for respect, preparation, and awe.