Your journey begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The scenic route, which takes about 6 to 8 hours, winds through river valleys, terraced fields, and quaint villages, offering beautiful glimpses of Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax by the tranquil Phewa Lake or explore the vibrant Lakeside area filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you prepare for your trek. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
After breakfast, we take a short drive from Pokhara to Phedi, the starting point of today’s trek. From Phedi, the trail ascends steadily through forested paths and traditional villages. You will enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range as you walk through rhododendron and oak forests. After approximately 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you reach the picturesque village of Dhampus at 1,650 meters. This Gurung village offers panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other peaks. Spend the night at a cozy teahouse, soaking in the tranquil mountain atmosphere.
Today’s trek takes you from Dhampus to Sarangkot, a popular viewpoint known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail meanders through forested hills and terraced fields, offering occasional glimpses of Pokhara Valley below. Sarangkot, at around 1,600 meters, is a lively village with panoramic views of the Himalayas and Phewa Lake. Spend your afternoon exploring the area or simply enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery. Overnight in Sarangkot.
On your final trekking day, you descend from Sarangkot back to Pokhara. The trail winds gently through forests and rural villages, providing a peaceful walk with plenty of natural beauty. After about 3 to 4 hours, you arrive back in Pokhara, where you can celebrate the successful completion of your trek. Take some time to enjoy the town’s vibrant atmosphere, perhaps with a boat ride on Phewa Lake or a visit to the lakeside markets. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
The Dhampus and Sarangkot Trek is a scenic and culturally rich trekking experience near Pokhara in Nepal’s Annapurna region. This trek is perfect for travelers looking for a short, accessible adventure that offers spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, including peaks like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Dhaulagiri. The trail passes through beautiful Gurung villages such as Dhampus, which offer insight into traditional Nepali mountain culture, terraced fields, and lush forests. Sarangkot is famous for its sunrise views and paragliding opportunities, making this trek a diverse mix of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
This trek is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for beginners, families, and those short on time but eager to experience Himalayan scenery without the challenges of a high-altitude trek. The highest point is Sarangkot hill at around 1,600 meters, making altitude sickness unlikely. The trek involves a few hours of walking each day on well-marked paths with some uphill sections, but nothing too strenuous. Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions provides support and pacing to make the journey comfortable for all fitness levels.
Usually, the trek begins with a drive from Pokhara to Dhampus village, followed by hiking through terraced fields, local farms, and traditional villages. After soaking in the mountain views from Dhampus, trekkers continue toward Sarangkot, a popular viewpoint famous for its sunrise panorama over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as well as Pokhara Valley below. Trekkers can also explore Sarangkot’s paragliding launch site. Afterward, the descent leads back to Pokhara where the trek ends. The entire trek can be completed in 2 to 3 days, making it ideal for those with limited time.
The best trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their best. Spring also brings colorful rhododendron blooms along the trails. While the trek can be done in winter, temperatures can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings. The monsoon season (June to August) is generally avoided due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.
Accommodation on the trek consists of simple teahouses and guesthouses in Dhampus and Sarangkot villages, offering clean rooms with basic amenities and warm hospitality. Meals typically include traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat, vegetable curries, momos, and soups, along with some international options. Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions ensures that you enjoy nutritious meals that fuel your trek and support local businesses.
No special trekking permits are required for the Dhampus and Sarangkot Trek since it is a low-altitude and relatively short trek close to Pokhara. However, if you plan to continue trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area or visit other popular routes, permits like the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) might be necessary. We will advise you accordingly when you book your trek with Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions.
Since the trek’s highest point is around 1,600 meters, altitude sickness is very unlikely. This makes the trek safe and comfortable for most travelers, including families and older trekkers.
Comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing for changing weather conditions, a rain jacket, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and a daypack are essential. A warm jacket is recommended for early mornings and evenings. Hidden Path Treks & Expeditions provides a comprehensive packing list upon booking to ensure you are fully prepared.
We work closely with local communities to ensure our trekking activities benefit the environment and local economy. We encourage trekkers to minimize waste, respect local customs, and follow Leave No Trace principles. By staying in local teahouses and hiring local guides, we help preserve the cultural heritage of the Dhampus and Sarangkot areas.
Booking is simple—contact us via our website, email, or phone with your travel dates and preferences. Our team will provide detailed itinerary options, pricing, and preparation tips. Once confirmed, we arrange all logistics including transport, accommodations, and guides, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable trek experience.
