“Watch the Himalayas wake up—one golden ray at a time.”
Just 30 minutes from Pokhara’s Lakeside lies Sarangkot, the most iconic sunrise viewpoint in Nepal. Perched at an altitude of around 1,600 meters, this hilltop offers unobstructed, panoramic views of the Annapurna range—including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu on clear mornings. But Sarangkot is more than just a lookout—it’s an experience of silence, sky, and sublime mountain light.
🏔 Why Visit Sarangkot Viewpoint?
“The best seat in Pokhara comes with a Himalayan front row.”
Sarangkot is where travelers go to witness dawn breaking over the Himalayas. As the first sunlight hits the snow-capped peaks, the entire skyline turns into a palette of gold, orange, and rose—creating an unforgettable start to your day.
- 🌄 Famous for sunrise and sunset mountain views
- 🏔 Captures Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail
- 🪂 Starting point for paragliding flights over Pokhara Valley
- 📸 One of the most photographed viewpoints in Nepal
🛤 How to Reach Sarangkot
🚗 By Road:
- 25–30 minutes by taxi or scooter from Lakeside
- Road is paved but narrow; early departure is recommended (around 4:30–5:00 AM for sunrise)
🥾 By Hike:
- 1.5–2 hour hike from Lakeside or Pame (moderate uphill with steps and scenic stops)
🧭 Local Tip: Reach by 5:30 AM during peak season to secure a good spot—sunrise waits for no one!
🔭 What You’ll Experience
- View Decks: Multiple platforms with 180° visibility of peaks and the valley
- Tea Shops: Local stalls offering hot tea, coffee, and light snacks
- Drone & Photography: Popular among professional photographers—carry a tripod for long exposure shots
- Paragliding: Many flights launch from here down to Pokhara Valley—book in advance!
📅 Best Time to Visit
- October to April: Clear skies and crisp air = best mountain visibility
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Views are often clouded, but you may catch dramatic light after storms
📝 Travel Tips
- 🧥 Bring a warm jacket—mornings can be chilly even in spring
- 🎟 A small entrance fee (~Rs. 50–100) may apply at the view tower
- 🚫 Avoid weekends and holidays for a less crowded experience