Sarangkot, Nepal: The Ultimate Sunrise and Paragliding Spot Near Pokhara
Sarangkot is a scenic hilltop village located just outside Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital. Perched at an altitude of around 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) above sea level, Sarangkot is famous for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna range, paragliding adventures, and peaceful mountain ambiance.
Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or a nature lover, a visit to Sarangkot is one of the best experiences Nepal has to offer.
Where is Sarangkot?
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Location: 11 km west of Pokhara city
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Elevation: ~1,600 meters
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Access: By car (30–45 min from Lakeside), hiking (~2–3 hours), or cycling for the adventurous
Why Sarangkot is Famous
1. Sunrise Over the Himalayas
Sarangkot is Nepal’s top destination for sunrise photography, offering a panoramic view of:
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Annapurna I (8,091 m)
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Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain)
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Dhaulagiri (8,167 m)
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Lamjung Himal
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And the Pokhara Valley below
Best Time: Arrive by 5:30–6:00 AM to witness the golden hues lighting up the snow-capped peaks.
2. World-Class Paragliding
Sarangkot is among the top 5 paragliding destinations in the world. The thrill of flying above Phewa Lake with the Annapurna range behind you is unforgettable.
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Tandem flights available for beginners
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Flight duration: 20–30 minutes (standard) or up to 1 hour (cross-country)
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Best Season: September to May
3. Hiking & Trekking
You can hike to Sarangkot from Pokhara, enjoying local villages, forests, and scenic ridgelines along the way.
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Popular hiking routes: Pokhara – Sarangkot – Naudanda
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Ideal for: Half-day treks and photography walks
🏨 Accommodation in Sarangkot
Stay overnight to enjoy both sunset and sunrise views in peace.
Popular Hotels & Guesthouses:
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Himalayan Deurali Resort
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Hotel Mountain Garden
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Sarangkot Mountain Lodge
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Annapurna Eco Village
Many offer rooms with balconies or rooftops facing the Annapurna range.
What to Do in Sarangkot
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Watch the sunrise and sunset from the Sarangkot View Tower
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Go paragliding or ultralight flying from the launch point
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Take a jeep ride up the hill or hike the trails
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Visit local teahouses and cafes for traditional Nepali food and tea
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Capture stunning panoramic photos of Pokhara and the Himalayas
Best Time to Visit Sarangkot
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Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies and peak mountain views
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Spring (Mar–May): Blooming rhododendrons and pleasant weather
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Avoid monsoon (Jun–Aug): Cloudy skies and leeches on trails
How to Get to Sarangkot
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By Taxi or Jeep: From Lakeside Pokhara (~30–45 mins)
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By Hike: Start from Sedi Village or Bindabasini Temple area (~2–3 hours)
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Paragliding Drop-off: Flights land near Phewa Lake with transport included
Final Thoughts
Sarangkot is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Pokhara. Whether you’re watching the sun kiss the Himalayas, soaring through the skies, or exploring on foot, Sarangkot offers a soul-stirring experience you won’t forget.