Overview:

Among the many popular treks that begin from Pokhara, the Dhampus Sarangkot trek is one of the shortest yet most rewarding. The amazing views from the trek are simply unrivaled. You can see the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from this amazing trek. This trek is ideal for all age groups, with beautiful trails, waterfalls, streams, and dense green forests. This trek is perfect for those who are short on time. This is a new addition to the Annapurna region trek.

The trek takes you through several traditional Nepalese villages, including Dhampus, Naudanda, and Kaskikot. Another main highlight of this amazing trek is the stunning sunset and sunrise views you can see from Sarangkot. Most people trek to this place solely for this reason. Let’s look into this amazing short trek in detail in this article.

Some Facts About This Trek:

  • Maximum Elevation: 1650 meters
  • Location: Annapurna Region
  • Trek’s Duration: 3 days
  • Trek’s Difficulty: Easy
  • Trek’s Starting Point: Pokhara
  • Best Time: Autumn and Spring

Highlights of this trek:

  1. Majestic Views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri: From this trek, you can enjoy the amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The snow-capped mountains are easily visible on a clear day from the trailhead.
  2. Short Yet Rewarding: This trek can be completed in 3 days, making it ideal for people with limited time. However, this promises to be an amazing experience. People who cannot walk long distances can also choose this trek as it is not strenuous.
  3. Being a short trek, it is perfect for people who are short on time and beginners as well. This trek starts and ends in Pokhara and requires around two days of time and very little preparation beforehand.
  4. Trekkers can enjoy the paragliding opportunities at Sarangkot, which in itself is a thrilling experience. Paragliding over Pokhara Valley and its beautiful lakes is truly an amazing experience.
  5. Along the way to Dhampus, you can experience changing landscapes from dense forests to snow-capped mountains. The amazing terrains of this region are one of this trek’s major highlights.

Brief Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Pokhara to Phedi & Trek to Dhampus- On the first day of your trek, you’ll start by driving to Phedi from Pokhara, which is a 45-minute drive. Along the drive, you can witness beautiful villages on the outskirts of Pokhara. From Phedi, you’ll start to walk towards Dhampus. You need to walk for 3 hours to reach Dhampus village. The trek is not too strenuous and can be easily completed. You’ll stay overnight at Dhampus on the first day.
  • Day 2: Trek to Sarangkot from Dhampus- After enjoying the amazing morning views from Dhampus, you’ll trek towards Sarangkot. The trek usually takes 5-6 hours and can be leisurely completed. Enjoy the amazing mountain views as you walk towards Sarangkot. In the evening, you’ll arrive at Sarangkot, a village famous for its gorgeous mountain scenery. You’ll stay overnight at Sarangkot on the second day.
  • Day 3: Trek from Sarangkot to Pokhara- On the third day, you need to wake up early in the morning and enjoy the panoramas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machchapuchhre from Sarangkot. After enjoying the views, you’ll descend towards Pokhara. You will arrive at Pokhara after walking for 2-3 hours. You can enjoy the lively streets of Pokhara in the evening. This will end your trek to Dhampus and Sarangkot.
Dhampus Village
Dhampus Village (Source: Wikipedia Commons)

 

Preparation Tips

  1. Physical Fitness: This is a moderate trek, so a basic level of physical fitness will be enough. Cardio exercises like cycling and jogging for a few days before the trek can be helpful.
  2. Hydration: Carry plenty of water, as dehydration can slow you down massively. Be sure to drink water on a regular basis throughout the trek.
  3. Permits: In Pokhara, acquire the ACAP permit, as trekkers are required to have it at all times.
  4. Accommodation: There are plenty of tea houses and lodges available throughout the trek. A guide is also not required for this trek as it is a fairly short journey, and the trail is easily navigable.

Best Time For This Trek

Autumn and Spring are the best times for this trek, as the temperatures are mild and the skies are clearer. Strictly avoid the monsoon, as the rains make the trail very slippery and difficult to walk on. You can also choose the winter as the mountains get more mesmerizing during this time, and this region doesn’t receive heavy snowfall.

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