Dhampus and Sarangkot Ridge Trek
- 3 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- All Round Year (Spring Mar-May & Autumn Sep-Nov recommended)
We guide a compact three-day walk across Gurung ridges above the Pokhara Valley, taking in Annapurna and Machhapuchare views.
At a glance
Trip overview
Our Dhampus and Sarangkot Trek offers a direct introduction to hill walking in the Annapurna region without requiring high-altitude preparation. Over three days, we lead you along stone staircases, terraced farm fields, and forest tracks populated by rhododendrons, oaks, and pines. This route suits families, school groups, and travelers seeking a condensed introduction to Himalayan landscapes and rural Gurung culture.
We begin our journey from Pokhara, driving briefly to Phedi before climbing onto the ridge that cradles Dhampus village. Throughout the walk, we maintain views of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Gangapurna, and the distinct fin of Machhapuchare. We cross local settlements where agriculture shapes daily routines and traditional practices remain active.
The final leg brings us to the vantage point of Sarangkot for early morning light over the peaks before descending back to Pokhara. While the walking distances are manageable, expect continuous stone steps on the ascents and descents that test knee stability and lower leg endurance.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Machhapuchare and Annapurna Views
We observe close-up profiles of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, and Machhapuchare from ridge camps.
Gurung Culture
We walk through traditional hill villages inhabited predominantly by the Gurung community.
Sarangkot Sunrise
We witness the early morning light strike the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges from the Sarangkot viewpoint.
Subtropical Forest Trails
We ascend shaded paths lined with rhododendron, pine, and oak trees above the Pokhara basin.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Pokhara to Dhampus Phedi and Trek to Dhampus Village
Meals: B
Day 1
Pokhara to Dhampus Phedi and Trek to Dhampus Village
Meals: B
We depart Pokhara by private vehicle for the brief drive to Phedi, the base of Dhampus Hill. Our ascent begins immediately on stone steps that climb through terraced farm fields and scattered homesteads, offering early perspectives over the valley floor.
We continue our upward walk through mixed forest cover until we reach the high ridge of Dhampus village at 1520 m. Here, we settle into a local teahouse for the night while our team prepares meals against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Day 2
Dhampus to Sarangkot
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Dhampus to Sarangkot
Meals: B / L / D
We set off after breakfast, following undulating ridge paths that dip through small settlements and wooded sections. Our route provides shifting angles on the Annapurna massif and the Pokhara Valley below as we make our way toward the western slopes of Sarangkot.
We arrive at Sarangkot after five to six hours of steady walking, checking into our lodge in time to watch the late afternoon light settle over the surrounding hills and valleys.
Day 3
Sarangkot Sunrise and Walk to Pokhara
Meals: B
Day 3
Sarangkot Sunrise and Walk to Pokhara
Meals: B
We rise before dawn to reach the Sarangkot viewpoint for the sunrise over the Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna mountain ranges. After taking in the morning panorama and breakfast at the lodge, we begin our descent down the hill trails leading back toward Pokhara.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop off by private car
- Meals During Trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Government license holder mountain guide
- Three cups of hot beverage a day during the trek
- TIMS Card and ACAP Permit fees
- Pokhara to Phedi transport by private car
- Two nights accommodation in local lodges on trek
- Fresh fruit during the trek
Not included
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Meals in cities
- Personal bar bills, bottled water, hot showers, and battery recharge fees
- Tips for our guide and support staff
Before you go
Good to know
Fitness expectations
This is classified as an easy trek, but it involves substantial climbing on stone steps. We recommend prior walking practice on stairs or hills to prepare your leg muscles for the daily ascents and descents.
Accommodation on the route
We stay in local family-run teahouses and lodges along the ridge. Rooms are basic with twin-share beds and shared sanitary facilities, providing a comfortable and authentic mountain stay.
Drinking water
We advise carrying a reusable water bottle and utilizing water purification tablets or drops. Bottled water can also be purchased at teahouses along the way.
Local currency
Bring sufficient Nepalese Rupees in cash for personal expenses such as hot showers, battery charging, and hot drinks, as electronic payment methods are not available on the trail.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy trekking bootsEssential
Footwear
Broken-in boots with good ankle support for stone staircases.
Thermal base layerEssential
Clothing
Useful for cool morning and evening temperatures on the ridge.
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Clothing
Protection against unexpected mountain showers.
Trekking poles
Camping
Helpful for preserving knee joints during steep stone descents.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Camping
For carrying drinking water combined with purification tablets.
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Clothing
Protection against strong daytime sun exposure on open ridges.
Headlamp with extra batteriesEssential
Safety
Necessary for early morning walks to sunrise viewpoints like Sarangkot.
Passport and permit documentsEssential
Documents
Required for checkpoint checks along the route.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.ACAP Entry Permit
PermitAnnapurna Conservation Area Project entry permit required for all visitors entering the region.
TIMS Card
PermitTrekkers' Information Management System card for tracking and safety.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum altitude reached on this trek?
We reach a maximum elevation of 1520 m at Dhampus village.
Do I need previous trekking experience for this trip?
No prior experience is necessary. The daily walking hours are manageable, though you should be comfortable walking on stone steps.
What permits are required for this trek?
We secure the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card on your behalf.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
We accommodate you in standard twin-share teahouses and lodges run by local families along the ridge.
Can I charge my electronic devices during the trek?
Yes, most teahouses offer device charging services, though they may charge a small local fee for electricity.
How do we travel from Pokhara to the trailhead?
We provide a private car to transfer you from Pokhara to Phedi where the walking trail begins.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 3 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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