When the name Pokhara comes up, one of two things comes to mind: partying and relaxing. For the latter, a new attraction has emerged in the city; a newly established clubhouse, the Avya Club. When the word club comes into a conversation, one usually thinks of loud music, sweaty bodies, and blinding lights. But learning about Avya has completely changed my perception of the word.
Located in GhariPatan in Pokhara, Avya was built with the intention of setting a benchmark in the Fitness Industry. Spread over 20 ropanis of land, the Avya Club has everything you could wish for, to spend a relaxing day. Starting from gyms equipped with the latest Life Fitness Premium Series Equipments to saunas and steams, and even a multi-cuisine restaurant to satisfy your taste buds after a tough workout.
Niroj Lama, one of the owners and the Managing Director of Avya has been in the fitness line for over 28 years. Lama was previously associated with Jasmine Fitness in the World Trade Center, Kathmandu which underwent a change of ownership in 2019.
The dream of Avya was first envisioned by Lama and his partners in 2017. But like most businesses, the idea had to be stalled due to the Corona virus pandemic. The project came to a sudden halt and was finally opened only in April of 2022.

According to Hindu mythology Avya, means the first life form that is all-pure and also the first ray of the sun. And that has become the vision too, to provide a holistic approach to fitness, focusing not only on the physical body but also on the betterment of the mind and spirit.
For this, Avya Club has some of the best relaxing and therapeutic massages. The experienced therapists at the club put together massages according to your specific requirements. Thai massage, Shirodhara, and Pregnancy massage are just a few to choose from, which are facilitated by organic essential oils and attentive hands. The Avya premises also serve as a rehabilitation area to help people recover from injuries and conditions that can be made better through physiotherapy.

Pokhara is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and is known for its breathtaking views of mountains, cultural attractions, and adventure activities. It is one of the most popular tourist areas in Nepal, with both relaxation and an upbeat, funky vibe to offer its visitors. Further, it is also the gateway to the Annapurna mountain range and the famous Annapurna Circuit trek along with a number of biking and cycling trails. This has led Pokhara to become a hub for people craving to break the monotony of their daily lives. 

Avya is coming up with a one-day recreational package that is aimed at relaxing your mind altogether. Lama says that when the trekkers are done hiking up in the mountains, and breathing in the cold air, they come to Pokhara to relax. To do so they seek a swimming pool or a spa for a massage or might just want to work out. But given the current setting of the city, this would mean visiting various places for each of the activities. Very few places have a combination of all these facilities in one place, but Avya does. From swimming pools to tennis courts or a restaurant to take a break, and even a multipurpose hall where you can host your own gatherings, the club has it all. Avya has not only positioned itself as a wellness club but has also introduced a fairly new concept of the clubhouse in Pokhara. 

According to Lama, the clubhouse is the premium section of the club, with exclusive facilities. The exclusive members in the clubhouse get to use the gym along with having their own personalized lockers next to the sauna, steam room, and Ofuro (Japanese bath). The rooftop terrace for sundowners and barbecues is also reserved only for clubhouse members. The clubhouse is to serve as a space for professionals and like-minded people to unwind, rejuvenate and re-energize.
 
Lama has noticed a lack of sports facilities in Nepal, for example, if any of the national teams wants to do a close sports camp there is no proper place to train and relax. The concept of Avya emerged from this concept alone; to create a space where athletes could train using the finest equipment and relax in a conducive atmosphere. He hopes that Avya will set a benchmark for upcoming wellness clubs and serve as a space for relaxing mind, body and soul.
Niroj feels that he was extremely lucky to find a group of like-minded people to work with, and wishes that more people could understand the importance of taking a holistic approach to fitness. If you have recently acquired a desire for fitness and happen to be in Pokhara, then Avya is definitely the place to check out.