Sarangkot and Dhampus hiking

The Sarangkot and Dhampus hiking trek offers spectacular views of the Annapurna mountain range as well as the opportunity to explore traditional villages and experience local culture.

The Beautiful easy hiking near Pokhara is a popular route that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek starts in Pokhara and takes you to the top of Sarangkot, a hill station that offers panoramic views of The Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna mountain range, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). From Sarangkot, the trail descends to the traditional village of Dhampus where you can experience the local culture and traditions.

The trek starts in Pokhara, and the first day of the trek is a gradual ascent to the village of Sarangkot. Along the way, you will pass through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The trail is well-marked, and the scenery is breathtaking, with views of the Annapurna mountain range and the city of Pokhara.

Sarangkot is a small village located at an altitude of 1,592 meters, and it is known for its panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range. From the top of Sarangkot, you can see the entire Annapurna range, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The sunrise and sunset views from Sarangkot are particularly beautiful and not to be missed.

After spending some time at Sarangkot, the trail descends to the traditional village of Dhampus, located at an altitude of 1,292 meters. Dhampus is a picturesque village that offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local people. The village is known for its traditional houses, friendly locals, and beautiful views of the Annapurna range.

The Sarangkot and Dhampus hiking continues further through the beautiful landscapes of the Annapurna region. The trail passes through forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions, visit temples and monasteries, and interact with the friendly local people.

The trek ends back in Pokhara, where you can enjoy the city’s many restaurants and cafes, and reflect on the memories of the beautiful landscapes, villages, and people you encountered during your trek.

In summary, the Sarangkot and Dhampus hiking is a perfect blend of nature and culture, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range and an opportunity to experience the traditional way of life in the local villages. The trek is relatively easy and is a great option for those looking for a short, but rewarding, hiking experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Trip Highlights:

• Panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail),
• Passing through lush forests and terraced fields,
• Exploring traditional villages and experiencing local culture and traditions,
• Sunrise and sunset views from Sarangkot,
• Enjoying the panoramic view of Pokhara city from Sarankot,
• Interacting with friendly local people,
• Visit temples and monasteries,
• Acclimatization hike,
• Enjoying the natural beauty of the region,
• The sense of accomplishment after completing the trek.

Weather & Temperature overall:

The weather during the Sarangkot and Dhampus hiking can vary depending on the time of year. The best time to do the trek is from September to November, and from March to May. During these months, the weather is typically dry and clear, with warm days and cool nights. However, temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially at higher altitudes.

In the winter, from December to February, the weather can be cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night. The monsoon season, from June to August, can bring heavy rains and make the trails muddy and slippery.

During the day, the temperature ranges around 10-20C and at night it can drop to 0-10C. It’s important to bring warm clothing, a good pair of boots, a hat, and sunscreen, to be prepared for the weather changes.

Permits Requirments:

You do not need any special permits for the Sarangkot and Dhampus hiking. However, if you are planning to extend your trek and enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The fee for the ACAP permit is relatively low and can be obtained at the local Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or a tour operator for any updates on regulations or fees that might have changed as it is subject to change.

Best time to go to Sarankot and Dhampus village:

The best time to visit the Sarangkot and Dhampus village is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is typically dry and clear, with warm days and cool nights. The skies are usually clear, providing excellent views of the Annapurna mountain range and the surrounding landscapes. The temperature ranges around 10-20C and at night it can drop to 0-10C. This is the peak tourist season, so the trail and accommodations may be more crowded.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable and can change suddenly, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before embarking on the trek and be prepared for any eventuality.

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Pokhara to Sarangkot

• Start the trek from Pokhara
• Overnight stay in Sarangkot

Day 2: Sarangkot to Dhampus

• Wake up early to catch the sunrise
• Overnight stay in Dhampus

Day 3: Dhampus to Pokhara

• Start the descent to Pokhara
• Reach Pokhara and end of the trek

After the trip, You may like to explore Chitwan or Lumbini:

After completing the Sarangkot and Dhampus hiking trek, you may want to consider visiting the Chitwan National Park and Lumbini, which are both located in southern Nepal. Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, and elephants. Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and is a sacred site for Buddhists from around the world. It offers a variety of temples, monasteries, and other historical and religious sites.

After visiting Chitwan and Lumbini, you can head back to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal which is a melting pot of culture and history. It offers a variety of temples, stupas, and other historical and religious sites, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities.