The breath-taking view of the most striking Himalayan peaks on one side and the view of Pokhara city on the other, Sarangkot in my memories is the most popular viewpoint in Nepal. Have there been clouds, Sarangkot in my list would surely have a redo. Guess my prayers worked! Here is a trick for you, tag prayers to your bucket list otherwise clouds are perfect spoilsports!
Reaching this stunning site is the easiest and the shortest hiking hill from Pokhara city contrary to dragging oneself out of bed early in the morning. Getting up early around 5 am is an award here in Pokhara. 30 minutes’ drive was truly awesome and fun-loving from Pokhara but alternatively, you can opt for walking or trekking trails to Sarangkot. You can even hire a scooter in Pokhara and follow the signboards to Sarangkot for great fun exploring surrounding at your own pace. Once you reach the top, a 360-degree view of the diverse landscape of Pokhara Valley is beyond words. Interestingly, if you look around the viewpoint, the local Nepali people offer their terrace to view the sunrise with a cup of tea at a nominal charge.
When the first sunrays glaze, the light show here is incredible as the most striking Himalayan peaks with a count close to 30 ranging from 6000 meters (20,000 feet) to 8000 meters (26000 feet) turn bright pink to orange and finally to white; I could remember Annapurna I, Annapurna II, the triangle peak of Machhapuchhare, Lamjung, Dhaulagiri, fishtail mountain and so.
Walk back down to Pokhara is yet another best recommendation for the simple reason is to witness the most scenic panorama. During the picturesque drive, you will pass through the rural villages and forests. The driver will keep entertaining you with loads of stories while your eyes are being busy with impressive mountain views.
Sarangkot also offers an awesome opportunity for paragliding enthusiasts. That sunny day, the sky was full of drifting colourful paraglides, sailing over the Himalayas and the Phewa lake. Surprisingly, after the sun has warmed up by mid-morning, some of these paragliders directly land in the hotel landing site for check-in after checking out from Sarangkot hotel. This seems an interesting activity to explore if you plan to stay overnight in Sarangkot.
By the way, don't forget to sip a hot chai or coffee at the sprawling tea stalls just near the viewpoint. This for sure will etch your experience of Sarangkot for ages.