Khancoban: Pondage and Snowy Scheme history

Khancoban is closely connected with the Snowy Mountains Hydro Scheme: the picturesque, three-kilometre-long Khancoban Pondage is part of the project, while the Lady Hudson Rose Garden commemorates its construction history. Visitor attractions, roads and trails offer further perspectives on the town. You can get to know Khancoban through its water, local memorials and practical options for outings.

The pondage, swimming pool and local history

Khancoban Pondage is a picturesque, three-kilometre-long lake and part of the Snowy Mountains Hydro Scheme. A concrete boat ramp provides easy access for boats of all kinds; fishing is also possible at the pondage.

The public Khancoban Community Swimming Pool is owned and operated by Snowy Valleys Council. The pool is 25 metres long; the Council’s pool information lists it for the 2026/2027 season. The measurements indicate different scales: the pondage is three kilometres long, while the pool is 25 metres.

The Lady Hudson Rose Garden was originally laid out over several years from 1959, when Khancoban was recognised as a permanent settlement. Len McInnes, who worked for the then Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Authority, was commissioned to design the garden. The garden’s 121 white roses commemorate the people who died during construction of the Snowy Scheme. The garden’s establishment and the roses bring together two local points of remembrance: Khancoban’s recognition as a permanent settlement and the commemoration of those who died during construction.

The Khancoban Visitor Display is located at the Pickled Parrot Providore.

Getting around and outings

The Khancoban Visitor Centre on the Alpine Way is at the western entrance to Kosciuszko National Park. You can get maps and information there; the Centre also sells park passes for visits to the Snowy Mountains. It is also the starting point for the scenic drive from Khancoban to Kiandra. This route is partly closed in winter, so the time of year is relevant to your planning.

The Alpine Way is the main route through the Khancoban area and is open year-round. Along the 108 kilometres between Khancoban and Jindabyne, there are lookouts, campgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails and cycling trails. The route therefore serves as a main road while also offering several opportunities for activities along the way.

The Geehi huts walking track is near Khancoban. You can explore it on foot, by bicycle, on horseback or in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The different ways of getting around give you a practical choice when planning an outing in the area.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Jaspers Brush, Glenfield, Ulmarra, Corlette, Mogo, Running Stream, Lord Howe Island, Murrumburrah.

For the broader travel guide: New South Wales.