Live Your Best Lives
Sarankot is located in Gandaki, Nepal, northwest of Pokhara. Its high altitude, generally above 1,590 meters, keeps temperatures low year-round. Sarankot is an ideal spot for watching the sunrise, with the Annapurna and Fishtail Peaks being the most famous. Sarankot's climate is highly influenced by its two seasons: the dry season (October to May) and the rainy season (June to September). The best time to visit is from September to November.
Tropical monsoon climate, the best time to travel is from March to May and from September to November.
2 days
The entrance fee to the observation deck is 100 rupees
All day
Sarangkot is a popular hilltop destination in Pokhara, known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, particularly the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It is a popular spot for tourists seeking scenic views, adventure sports like paragliding, and a peaceful retreat from the busy city life. The area is also home to the World Peace Pagoda, an important Buddhist site.
Sarangkot is located about 8 km north of Pokhara city. You can reach the hilltop by taxi or private vehicle in around 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can hike up from the lakeside area, which takes about 1.5-2 hours. There are also local buses and motorcycles available from Pokhara to Sarangkot.
Sarangkot is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. The best time to visit is early in the morning to catch the sunrise and enjoy clear mountain views. The months of September to April offer the best weather and visibility for sightseeing.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Sarangkot or the surrounding area. However, for activities such as paragliding or visiting the World Peace Pagoda, fees apply. Tickets for paragliding and tours can be purchased locally.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting Sarangkot. However, if you plan to go paragliding, it is recommended to book at least a day in advance, especially during peak seasons (October to November).
You can explore Sarangkot in a few hours. If you plan to do paragliding or hike to the World Peace Pagoda, allocate about half a day. For sunrise views and a quick visit to the village, 1-2 hours is sufficient.
Guided tours are available in the Sarangkot area, especially for paragliding and hiking tours. Most guides speak English, and some may also speak other languages like Hindi or German. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but guides can provide information on the history and significance of the area.
Start by reaching Sarangkot early in the morning for the sunrise at the viewpoint. After enjoying the views, head to the World Peace Pagoda for more panoramic vistas. If you're up for adventure, go paragliding. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the village to explore the local culture.
Night visits are not typical for Sarangkot, as the area is mainly known for its sunrise views. However, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere in the evening. There are no light shows or special tours, but the sunset views are equally stunning.
Sarangkot can be crowded during peak seasons, especially in the mornings. To avoid the crowds, visit during the off-peak season (June to September) or go early in the morning during weekdays. Early morning visits offer the best chance to avoid large groups.
Sarangkot is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, but the hilltop can be a bit steep for those with mobility issues. It is recommended to take a taxi or private vehicle to avoid the climb. The viewpoint area is not wheelchair accessible.
Cash is generally preferred for small purchases in Sarangkot, especially in the village area. Some larger establishments may accept cards, but mobile payments and card acceptance are not widespread in remote areas.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan food options are widely available in Sarangkot. Most local restaurants offer vegetarian Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momo, and vegetable curries. Halal food options may be available at select restaurants.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in Sarangkot selling items like traditional Nepali handicrafts, pashmina scarves, jewelry, and paintings. Typical souvenirs include prayer flags, handmade bags, and local wood carvings.
