Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking is a perfect hike for first-time trekkers, families, and travelers of all ages. It is a short trek that is easily accessible from Pokhara. Just in the span of 6 days, you will travel from the bustling Kathmandu city to the lakeside city of Pokhara, and trek through the dense forest of rhododendrons in the Annapurna region. It is an ideal destination for those looking for a quick mountain escape into the lap of the pristine Himalayas.
The Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking route lies in the western part of Nepal. You will drive from Pokhara to Dhampus, from where you will start your hike. The moderately easy hiking trail takes you through charming Gurung villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests. You can enjoy the spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges while experiencing the rich Gurung culture along the way. The scenic trail follows the route from Dhampus to Pothana, then to Australian Camp, Naudanda, Sarangkot, and Khahare. From Khahare, you will drive back to Pokhara.
The major highlight of the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking is the iconic Australian Camp (2,060 M) and Sarangkot (1,600 M). Australian Camp is an open grassy hilltop and an excellent viewpoint. It is a quiet, relaxing spot offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Sarangkot is another popular vantage point, famous for its gorgeous sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayas. You can enjoy a gorgeous sunrise with the view of Annapurna I (8,901 M), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) (6,993 M), Dhaulagiri I (8,167 M), Manaslu (8,163 M), Ganesh Himal (7,446 M), and Hiunchuli (6,441 M). Similarly, the vantage point also offers you a view of the Pokhara Valley with all its natural beauty. Sarangkot is a popular spot for Paragliding. The 6-Day Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking is a short journey but offers spectacular views, moderate adventure, and rich cultural trekking experiences.
After this short Dhampus Sarangkot hiking. You can continue such a trek as well as Annapurna Base Camp, Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit Trek, and Climbing Peaks.
Highlights of Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking
Short and easy hiking route in the Annapurna region, ideal for beginners, families, and trekkers with limited time.
Hike through peaceful rhododendron forests, small Gurung villages, terrace farms, and lush farms.
Follow the trail to the Australian Camp (2,060 M), located between Pothana and Dhampus.
Witness gorgeous, panoramic Himalayan views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
Observe a gorgeous sunrise from Sarangkot with the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in the background.
Stay at cozy lodges run by locals, enjoying mountain hospitality and immersing yourself in the vibrant culture.
Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking Outline Itinerary
Route
End Elevation
Elevation Gain/Loss
Duration
Distance
Day 01
Arrival at the International Airport in Kathmandu
1,400 M
-
30 Minutes Driving
6.5 KM
Day 02
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
822 M
+ 520 M
6 - 8 Hours Driving 25 Minutes Flight (optional)
200 KM
Day 03
Drive from Pokhara to Dhampus & trek to Pothana
1,950 M
+ 1,128 M
1.5 - 2 Hours Driving Trek: 2 - 3 hours
Drive: 25 KM Trek: 5 - 7 KM
Day 04
Trek from Pothana to Australian Camp to Naudanda to Sarangkot
1,600 M
+ 220 M - 620 M
5 - 7 Hours Trekking
15 KM
Day 05
Trek from Sarangkot to Khahare & drive to Pokhara
Welcome to the land of the Himalayas! Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our staff will greet you and assist you with a hotel transfer. You can rest and settle into your hotel after check-in. Depending on your arrival time, you may have time to explore around your hotel or around the city.
There will be a short briefing on the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking in the evening. If you need assistance with anything, our staff will be happy to assist you. After the briefing, you can spend the time as you please. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 02 :
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Drive Distance
200 KM
Drive Duration
6 - 8 Hours
Flight Hours
25 Minutes (optional)
Highest Altitude
1,400 M
Place
Pokhara
Meals
Not included
Accommodation
Hotel
The day begins early, and you will start your Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking adventure with a drive to Pokhara. You will leave the capital city just as it starts to wake up, driving along its empty streets. The first part of the drive takes you through the Prithvi Highway. You will drive on a winding, relatively smooth road, passing through hills, terrace fields, valleys, and rivers. Along the way, you will pass by small roadside villages, riverside settlements, and markets. The drive also offers you your first glimpse of rural life in Nepal.
Following the Trishuli River along the way, you will reach Mugling. From here, the road gradually descends along the Seti River valley. The road is mostly paved with a few narrow sections. Similarly, there are also occasional landslide-prone areas. You will have more scenic views of the small villages, terraced farmland, and green hills. The road takes you past notable towns like Bharatpur and Siddhartha Highway junctions. You may also get occasional glimpses of the white Himalayan peaks during the drive. Upon entering the Pokhara Valley, lush green hills and mountains will surround you. You can also see the Phewa Lake and lakeside settlements. You will drive past small settlements such as Naudanda and Lamachaur to reach Pokhara. You will stay overnight in Pokhara.
Alternatively, you can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It is a 25-minute scenic flight offering aerial views of rural landscapes and the towering Himalayas. Please note that flight costs are higher than those for road travel, so the cost will increase. But the flight is more comfortable and convenient. You will reach Pokhara early and have more time to explore the area around it.
Day 03 :
Drive from Pokhara to Dhampus & Tek T5 - 7 KMo Pothana
Trek Distance
5 - 7 KM
Trek Duration
2-3 Hours
Drive Distance
25 KM
Drive Duration
1.5 - 2 Hours
Highest Altitude
1,950 M
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Lodge
After a well-deserved rest in Pokhara, you will start the next part of the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking journey. You will have breakfast and drive to the Dhampus trailhead. The road is mostly paved with some gravel and narrow sections. It winds uphill, passing by small villages, terrace farms, and green hills. Some of the notable villages that you will drive past include Lamachaur, Nayapul, and Kande. It is a scenic drive. The village of Dhampus is a traditional Gurung village with several shops and teahouses. You can see traditional stone houses and green fields in the area. Similarly, you can enjoy sweeping views of Mount Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli from here.
Dhampus village serves as the starting point for the trek. You will leave the village and gradually begin ascending through forests of rhododendron and oaks. The hiking route takes you past small streams and bamboo groves. After trekking for some time, the trail opens to grassy ridges. The open hill ridge offers a clear and panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. You can take a short break at the ridge and enjoy the view. From the ridge, you will continue with your gradual uphill to Pothana. It is a beautiful Gurung village with small teahouses and lodges. The village is also one of the best places to view the grandeur of Mount Machhapuchhre. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Pothana. In the evening, you can enjoy beautiful sunset views with the mountains in the backdrop.
Day 04 :
Trek From Pothana to Australian Camp to Naudanda to Sarangkot
Trek Distance
15 KM
Trek Duration
5 - 7 Hours
Highest Altitude
2,060 M
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Lodge
You will have breakfast in the serene atmosphere of Pothana, while enjoying the beautiful mountain view and terrace fields. The Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking route today takes you through rhododendron forests. You will mostly hike on mixed forest paths and stone-paved staircases. Throughout the trek, you can enjoy the panoramic Himalayan views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. After a steady climb, you will reach the highest point of the hike, the Australian Camp. The landscape also changes from forest to meadows. It is a quiet hilltop that is less crowded than other viewpoints like Poon Hill.
The Australian Camp is an excellent spot to enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding mountain vistas. Similarly, it is one of the best spots to take spectacular photographs of the peaks and the landscapes. After enjoying the views and the tranquil atmosphere, you will start descending. The landscape once again turns into lush forests. After descending for a while, it changes to terrace farmlands and small villages. From open sections, you can see the river and valley views. You will descend to Naudanda, then make a short uphill climb to Sarangkot. The trek route takes you along ridges and open hills. You will spend the night at a lodge in Sarangkot. Thus, in the evening, you can enjoy a quiet sunset with spectacular views of Phewa Lake and snow-capped peaks.
Day 05 :
Trek from Sarangkot to Khahare & Drive to Pokhara
Trek Distance
5 - 7 KM
Trek Duration
2 - 3 Hours
Drive Distance
3-4 KM
Drive Duration
10-15 Minutes
Highest Altitude
1,600 M
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Lodge
You will wake up early in the morning to watch one of the most magical sunrises. Sarangkot viewpoint is one of the best places to watch the sunrise in Nepal. The viewpoint offers a sweeping view of Mount Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and other surrounding mountains. On clear days, you can see multiple 6,000-8,000 M peaks. Similarly, you can also get the view of Pokhara Valley from here.
After enjoying the sunrise, you will have breakfast at Sarangkot and begin your downhill descent. The trekking trail once again descends through forests, small villages, and terraced fields. The trail is mostly dirt tracks, with occasional stone paths. As you descend steadily, the mountain views start to get distant. The trail will take you to Khahare Village, the ending point of the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking journey. You will hop on a vehicle and drive back to Pokhara city. It is a short and scenic drive along the winding valley road. You will stay overnight in Pokhara.
Day 06 :
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Drive Distance
200 KM
Drive Duration
6 - 8 Hours
Flight Hours
25 Minutes (optional)
Highest Altitude
1,400 M
Meals
Farewell dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Today is the final day of the 6-Day Dhampus Sarangkot Trek itinerary. You can take a flight or drive back to Kathmandu as you wish. If you want, you can extend your trip or tour in Nepal with us.
After this short Dhampus Sarangkot hiking, you can add another trek to your list, such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Manaslu Circuit Trek, or the Climbing Peaks. For any adventure you want, we can make the arrangements for you based on your needs and requirements.
Inclusion/Exclusion in Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking
Cost Includes
International airport pickup and drop-off service.
1 Night at Kathmandu on arrival on a BB Plan
2 Nights at Pokhara before and after trek on BB Plan
Kathmandu to Pokhara deluxe tourist bus.
Bus station to the Hotel by car.
Drop to Dhampus Phedi by car.
Trekking permits ACAP.
Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner along the trek).
Lodge accommodation on the way.
An Experience Guide (including his salary, equipment, insurance, transportation, lodging, and food)
Equipment: Down Jacket, Sleeping Bag.
Pokhara to Kathmandu by deluxe tourist bus.
Some dry and fresh fruits.
A token of love from the company.
Farewell dinner.
Cost Excludes
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu.
Travel insurance.
Porter to carry your trekking bags.
Hot and Cold drinks such as: Coke, Mineral Water, Beer, etc.
Personal expenses (laundry, bar bill, telephone, extra helper, battery charge, shower, and boiled water).
Tips for the guide and porter.
Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking Route Map
The Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking route starts from Dhampus. You will drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then to Dhampus, the trek’s starting point. From Dhampus, you will trek to Pothana and then to Australian Base Camp. You will follow the route as follows:
Kathmandu → Pokhara → Dhampus → Pothana → Australian Base Camp
From the base camp, you will begin your descent and stop at different overnight locations:
Australian Base Camp → Sarangkot → Khahare → Pokhara
Download the complete Trek itinerary, inclusions, map & prices in one PDF.
Private Trip Booking
Prefer a more personal journey? Our private packages offer flexible dates, custom itineraries, and dedicated support—perfect for those seeking a tailored travel experience.
The short but action-packed itinerary, which combines scenic trails, spectacular Himalayan views, and cultural experiences, makes the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking unique. Let us elaborate on this in more detail:
Accessible and Scenic Hike
The Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking route is easily accessible from Pokhara. It is a short 1.5-2-hour drive from Pokhara to the hike’s trailhead, Dhampus. Despite the short duration, the journey is highly rewarding. You do not have to plan for long days and weeks to enjoy this scenic route. The trail takes you from the lush valley of Pokhara to the dense forests of rhododendrons, and open, alpine meadow where Australian Base Camp is located. Similarly, you will trek past traditional Gurung villages and green terrace farms. You will come across numerous photo opportunities throughout the trek. It is a perfect trekking destination for adventurers with limited time and beginners looking to start their first Himalayan trek.
Unbeatable Himalayan Panoramas
The 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking offers gorgeous sweeping views without the high altitude sickness risk. Throughout the trek, you will get a glimpse of the vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The Australian Base Camp, which is also the highest point on the trek, offers scenic views. From here, you can get panoramic views of the Annapurna Massif, the Dhaulagiri range, the surrounding green hills, and valleys. It is also an excellent spot to catch beautiful sunrise and sunset views. Similarly, you will also get to witness sweeping sunrise views over the Himalayas from the iconic Sarangkot Hilltop. You can see the glistening vistas of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Ganesh Himal, Lamjung Himal, and Nilgiri. Likewise, you can see the entire Pokhara Valley, including Phewa Lake.
Mini Annapurna Experience
The Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking offers a “Mini Annapurna Experience,” without the need for a long-duration, challenging trek or high-altitude risk. The itinerary compresses the beauty of the Himalayan trek into a shorter, more accessible route. In a span of 6 days, you will travel from bustling city lights to green hills, lush terrace fields, and vibrant forests of rhododendrons and oaks. You will trek through remote, beautiful villages such as Dhampus, Pothana, and Khahare. Similarly, the landscape changes from forests to alpine meadows. It gives a sense of a compact version of the Annapurna Trek experience. From exploring the quiet Australian Base Camp to catching the golden sunrise from the top of Sarangkot, the hike provides a complete and rewarding Himalayan experience in 6 Days.
Rich Cultural Immersion
Another major highlight of the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking is the rich cultural immersion. It is rare for short itineraries to offer vibrant cultural encounters. However, the Dhampus trek provides a simple but meaningful cultural experience. The winding hiking route of the Dhampus Sarangkot Trek takes you past remote and traditional Gurung villages. You will catch a glimpse of stone houses, terraced fields, and prayer flags. The locals residing in these villages still live in their traditional way. You will have a chance to interact with the locals, observe them at work in the field, tending cattles, and in their other daily lives. You will stay at teahouses where you can enjoy home-cooked meals. The hike offers an authentic understanding of Himalayan culture, customs, and hospitality.
Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking Difficulty
The Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking is considered an easy journey, but it is no stroll in the hills. Although the trail is relatively easy, the terrain includes stone steps, dirt paths, and ridgelines. You will need a good footing to overcome them. There are frequent uphill and downhill climbs. You have to hike continuously on stone stairs. The repeated ascents and descents can put strain on your knees. The main difficulty does not come from the altitude but from repetitive terrain.
Most beginners find climbing up and down on stone staircases physically more challenging. It requires strong legs and a pacing strategy. One will find the climb to Dhampus and the ridges between Pothana and Sarangkot to be the most demanding. The weather also influences the difficulty of the Dhampus to Sarangkot Trek. During the monsoon, the heavy rainfall makes the trek muddy or slippery. The humid conditions make climbing uphill sections harder. Hence, it is crucial to choose the right season for a more comfortable hiking experience.
Overall, the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking is a manageable trek without overly demanding challenges or technical sections. The route is well-marked, and there is a good network of teahouses. That said, the trek requires reasonable physical fitness and mental preparation. The hike is more about managing energy and maintaining a steady pace than technical skills. It will test your strength and stamina, but nothing too extreme. It is a perfect trail that requires moderate effort but offers a memorable reward.
Essential Gear and Packing List
Here is a smart packing list for the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking:
Clothing
Warm fleece or down jacket
Windproof/ waterproof jacket
Thermal base layers
Moisture-wicking t-shirts
Lightweight trekking pants
Hiking shorts
Undergarments
Sleepwear
Sunhat or cap
Lightweight gloves
Footwear
Comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes
Sandals or slippers for the evening
Moisture-wicking trekking socks
Warm socks
Gear & Essentials
Backpack (20 – 30 L)
Daypack
Raincover
Trekking pole
Reusable water bottle
Headlamp with extra batteries
Toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, face towel, soap, wet wipes, sanitizer, etc.)
Chargers, power banks, and adapters
First aid kit
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Snacks
Notebook, journal, cards, or games
Comparing Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking Vs Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek Vs Everest View Trek
Feature
Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking
Ghandruk Poon Hill
Region
Annapurna region
Annapurna region
Max Altitude
2,060 M (Australian Base Camp)
3,210 M (Poon Hill Viewpoint)
Duration
4-6 Days
4-5 Days
Total Distance
~30 KM
~40 KM
Difficulty
Easy
Moderate
Altitude Sickness Risk
Low
Moderate
Crowd Level
Low to Moderate
Moderate to High
Accessibility
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and drive to Dhampus
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and drive to Nayapul
Best Views
Spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and sunrise from Sarangkot
Sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range from Poon Hill Viewpoint
Download the complete Trek itinerary, inclusions, map & prices in one PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions For Dhampus Sarangkot Hike
Can beginners do the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking?
Absolutely yes! Beginners can do the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking comfortably. It is a beginner-friendly hike that only requires moderate fitness. The hiking trail is well-marked and relatively easy, with no steep or technical sections. You will mostly hike along forest trails, passing through traditional villages and terraced farms. The pacing of the trip is also steady, and there is no extreme altitude risk. Hence, it is an excellent choice for beginners looking to start their first Himalayan trek.
When is the best time to do the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking?
The best time to do the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable and favorable weather conditions. There is little to no rainfall, so the trails are dry and safe for trekking. Similarly, the skies are clear, offering excellent views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. Summer is the monsoon season in Nepal, so it is best to avoid this season. There is heavy rainfall, and the trails are slippery. A winter hike to Dhampus Sarangkot is possible, but it can get really cold, and there may be snow on the higher trails.
Do I need a guide for the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking?
Hiring a guide is recommended for the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking, although it is optional. The licensed and experienced guide has local knowledge and expertise to ensure your safety during the trek. They are familiar with the hiking route, weather patterns, and local culture. Guides not only help navigate the trail but also manage logistics and share insights into local traditions and lifestyles. They help to make the hike more comfortable, enjoyable, and more rewarding.
What kind of accommodation is available on the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking route?
Simple teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses are available on the Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking route. These accommodations offer only basic facilities, but they are comfortable and safe. The rooms are usually shared, and the bathrooms are communal. Private rooms with attached bathrooms are rare and usually available in larger villages. Most of these stays are run by the locals. Facilities such as internet, hot water/shower, and charging for electronic devices are available at an extra charge.
What permits are necessary for the 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking?
The 6 Days Dhampus Sarangkot Hiking requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Although it is a low-altitude trek near Pokhara, the hiking trail lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, and trekkers must obtain an ACAP permit. The Nepal Tourism Board issues the permit, and they are usually included in the trip package. The ACAP costs NPR 1,000 per person for SAARC Nationals and NPR 3,000 per person for Non-SAARC Nationals. Most Dhampus Sarangkot Trek package includes the permit.
The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a streamlined 8-day version of the classic ABC journey, designed for trekkers who want to visit Annapurna Sanctuary without a long-term commitment. The faster pace is manageable for experienced hikers, but beginners should be ready for a physically demanding adventure. Even with fewer days, the trek still delivers the full Himalayan atmosphere, rugged trails, dramatic scenery, and an authentic mountain feel.
The main difference in this shorter itinerary is that it skips the Ghorepani-Poon Hill section. Aside from that, nothing essential is left out. You still get sweeping views of Annapurna I, II, and III, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding peaks. Condensing the journey only makes it more adventurous and rewarding. So, if you want to complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in less time without sacrificing the core experience, this is an ideal option.
Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek, If you take a quick search across the internet about the shortest and easiest treks in Nepal, the name Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek (also known as Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek) pops up on your screen. This trek is widely popular among the trekking communities for its shorter duration, beginner-friendly nature, and the stunning sunrise view it provides. It is located inside the Annapurna Conservation Area in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The major highlight of this trek is the early hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) to witness the sunrise over the view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
Along the way, you will get to explore the traditional Ghandruk Village along with Tadapani, Ulleri, and others. These villages are renowned for their warm hospitality, catering to trekkers. While enjoying the mountain views, you will also be exposed to the culture of the Gurung people. The other highlight of this trek is the rhododendron forest, which blooms with vibrance during the spring season. If you are seeking the trek to begin trekking, Ghandruk Trek Poon Hill can be it. So, let’s delve deeper into this trekking guide to learn more about the trek.
The Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek is a long, high-altitude journey that combines the classic Annapurna Circuit with a special side trip to Tilicho Lake. The trek starts in the lower foothills around Bulbule and follows the Marsyangdi River past waterfalls and villages like Tal as it climbs into the Manang region. One of the biggest highlights is Tilicho Lake, located at 4,919 M, known as one of the highest alpine lakes in the world. The trail slowly rises to help trekkers adjust to the altitude, passing from green forests and river valleys into the dry, windy landscapes of the high Himalayas near Tilicho Peak.
The trek then crosses the famous Thorong La Passat5,416 M, where trekkers enjoy wide views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After the pass, the trail enters the Mustang region and visits the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple. From there, the route continues down through the deep Kali Gandaki valley to the natural hot springs at Tatopani. The final part of the trek passes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages such as Shikha and Ghorepani and ends with a sunrise view from Poon Hill. This journey offers a complete experience of Nepal’s mountains, culture, and diverse landscapes.
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