Photo: Mattinbgn / CC BY-SA 3.0
Nestled in the Snowy Mountains at the edge of Kosciuszko National Park, Khancoban is a quiet alpine village that feels a world away from the coast. Originally a hydro‑electricity construction town, it’s now a serene base for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting along the upper Murray River. With its crisp mountain air, laid‑back pubs, and easy access to some of New South Wales’ best high‑country scenery, Khancoban rewards travellers who take the road less travelled.
Highlights & What to See
- Kosciuszko National Park – The park’s western edge is right on Khancoban’s doorstep; drive up to Dead Horse Gap for panoramic views or walk the Thredbo River Track.
- Khancoban Pondage – A peaceful lake perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and trout fishing; keep an eye out for platypus at dawn and dusk.
- Murray River 1 Power Station – Take a guided tour of this impressive underground hydro‑electric facility to understand the region’s Snowy Scheme history.
- Khancoban to Tom Groggin Walk – A gentle riverside stroll through snow gum forests and grassy flats, ideal for birdwatching and picnics.
- Scenic Hill Lookout – A short climb rewards you with sweeping views over the village, the pondage, and the distant peaks of the Main Range.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors find one full day enough to explore the village and its immediate natural attractions, from the pondage to a short national park walk. If you want to hike a longer trail (like the full Dead Horse Gap walk) or fish the Murray, plan for two days. Khancoban also works well as a relaxed overnight stop between Jindabyne and the Hume Highway.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Jindabyne – The main Snowy Mountains hub, 45 minutes east, with lake activities, dining, and ski‑town energy.
- Thredbo – Year‑round alpine village offering chairlift rides, summer hiking, and winter skiing, just over an hour away.
- Corowa – A historic Murray River town with wineries and paddle‑steamer cruises, about 90 minutes north‑west.
- Tooma Road & Cabramurra – Australia’s highest town, accessible via a scenic drive through pine plantations and high‑country pastures.
- Khancoban to Yarrangobilly Caves – A 90‑minute drive through Kosciuszko leads to limestone caves and a thermal pool.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Jindabyne — Tim J Keegan / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Thredbo — Picturesk / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Corowa — Mattinbgn / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Cabramurra — Baileyfreestone / CC BY 3.0
- Yarrangobilly Caves — Colin Henein / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Kosciuszko National Park — MrActiniuM / CC BY-SA 4.0