Duration
1 day
Trip Grade
EASY
Group Size
15
Max Altitude
2,060m
Start
Pokhara
End
Pokhara
Accommodations
-
Locations
Australian Camp, Dhampus
PRICE PER PERSON
(Price varies by group size)
+ 9779846619460
The Pokhara to Australian Camp and Dhampus Hike is one of the most popular day hikes near Pokhara, Nepal, offering a mix of beautiful mountain scenery, traditional Himalayan villages, and forest trails without the need for long‑distance trekking. The hike begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande, where the trail starts its gradual climb through rhododendron forests and terraced fields toward Australian Camp, a scenic ridge known for its panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains.
After enjoying the views at Australian Camp, you continue downhill through lush landscapes to Dhampus Village, a peaceful Gurung settlement where you can experience local culture and hospitality. The hike then ends with a descent to Phedi, from where you take a short ride back to Pokhara Lakeside, making it a convenient and rewarding half‑day or full‑day trek for travelers of all fitness levels.
This hike is ideal for those who want stunning Himalayan views, cultural insights, and fresh mountain air close to Pokhara, and it can be easily completed in one day while offering plenty of photo opportunities and memorable landscapes.
The Australian Camp and Dhampus Village Hike is a scenic short trekking experience near Pokhara, Nepal, offering breathtaking Himalayan views, peaceful forest trails, and authentic cultural encounters in traditional mountain villages. This hike begins with a short drive to Kande and follows a beautiful trail through rhododendron forests, terraced farmland, and Gurung settlements before reaching Australian Camp, a famous viewpoint overlooking the Annapurna Mountain Range and the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak. After enjoying panoramic mountain scenery, the trail descends through forests and villages to Dhampus and continues down to Phedi before returning to Pokhara. The hike combines natural beauty, cultural experiences, and accessible trekking, making it one of the most popular short Himalayan adventures in the Annapurna region.
The hike involves approximately 3–5 hours of walking on well-marked trails with gradual uphill and downhill sections, making it suitable for beginners, families, and travelers with basic fitness levels.
This hike is special because it offers spectacular Himalayan views, authentic village culture, and beautiful forest trails in a single day, allowing travelers to experience the magic of the Annapurna region without committing to a long multi-day trek.
Your journey begins with a convenient private hotel pickup in Pokhara. Sit back and relax as you drive along the picturesque banks of the Seti River, surrounded by lush hills, traditional villages, and terraced farmland. The peaceful drive to Kande, the trailhead, offers your first glimpse of Nepal’s stunning countryside and sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
Our hiking packages are designed to offer full value with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. The total cost is 97$ which typically includes private transportation, experienced local guides, all meals during the trek, teahouse accommodations, and necessary permits. Optional extras such as airport transfers, travel insurance, or extended hikes can be added for an additional fee. Payment is split into a deposit to secure your booking and the remaining balance before the trek starts, with multiple payment options available and secure online gateways. This structure ensures you know exactly what you’re paying for, making your Himalayan adventure stress-free and fully enjoyable.
Preparing properly ensures a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable hiking experience in the beautiful Annapurna region. Since this is a short day hike, you only need lightweight essentials to stay comfortable and protected throughout the journey.
Clothing
Essentials to Carry
Food and Personal Items
Optional but Helpful Items
This short Himalayan hike near Pokhara is perfect for travelers who want stunning Annapurna mountain views without committing to a multi-day trek.
Starting from Pokhara (822m), we drive to Kande (1,770m) to begin our walk. The highest point of your journey is Australian Camp at 2,060m. Because we stay below 2,500m, there is virtually no risk of altitude sickness, making this a safe "stress-free" option compared to higher treks like Annapurna Base Camp.
| Location | Elevation (Meters) | Elevation (Feet) | Trekking Status | Altitude Risk |
| Pokhara | 822m | 2,697ft | Starting Point (Drive) | None |
| Kande | 1,770m | 5,807ft | Trailhead (Begin Walk) | None |
| Australian Camp | 2,060m | 6,758ft | Highest Point (Overnight) | Negligible |
| Dhampus Village | 1,650m | 5,413ft | Cultural Stop / Descent | None |
| Phedi / Ghattekhola | 1,130m | 3,707ft | Trek End Point | None |
The Australian Camp hike is enjoyable throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique beauty and experience in the Annapurna region.
Spring Season (March to May) – Blooming Forests and Pleasant Weather
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Spring is one of the most beautiful and colorful times to experience this trail.
Autumn Season (September to November) – Clearest Mountain Views
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Autumn is considered the best overall season for trekking in Nepal.
Winter Season (December to February) – Crisp Air and Peaceful Trails
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Winter is ideal for hikers who prefer quiet trails and dramatic mountain scenery.
Summer / Monsoon Season (June to August) – Lush Green Landscapes
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Each season offers a different perspective of the Australian Camp and Dhampus hike, making it a rewarding experience any time of the year. The best seasons for the clearest mountain views are Spring and Autumn, while Winter and Summer offer quieter and equally beautiful alternatives.
The Australian Camp and Dhampus hike lies within the beautiful Annapurna Conservation Area, so certain permits and identification documents are required to ensure legal access and support conservation efforts.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
This is the main permit required for hiking in the Annapurna region.
Highlights:
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
The Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card is used to track trekkers for safety and security.
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Documents You Must Carry
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Where to Get the Permits
You can obtain permits from the following offices:
When you book through limestone treks, we will arrange all permits for you.
Following these simple safety tips will help you enjoy a safe and memorable Himalayan trekking experience.
During your trek, you will stay in a traditional Himalayan teahouse, a cozy mountain lodge that provides a comfortable bed and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. These teahouses are an essential part of the trekking experience, offering a unique opportunity to connect with local culture and experience authentic mountain hospitality.
The teahouses feature simple yet comfortable rooms and a communal dining area where trekkers gather to relax, share stories, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The friendly hosts ensure you feel at home while surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery.
You will enjoy freshly prepared, hearty meals that provide the energy needed for your hike. Popular options include Dal Bhat, Nepal’s traditional lentil soup served with rice, vegetables, and pickles, as well as international favorites such as pasta, noodles, pancakes, eggs, and tea or coffee. All meals during the trek are included in your package, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your adventure without worrying about additional costs or arrangements.
This combination of comfortable accommodation and nourishing meals ensures a pleasant, authentic, and memorable Himalayan trekking experience.
Choosing Limestone Treks means selecting a hiking experience that offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic Himalayan culture. Our packages are carefully designed to ensure you can enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains without worrying about logistics, making your journey smooth, relaxing, and truly memorable.
Our experienced and friendly local guides from Pokhara have deep knowledge of the trails, local communities, and mountain environment. They not only ensure your safety throughout the hike but also enrich your experience by sharing stories, cultural insights, and information about the region that you might otherwise miss.
As you hike along scenic forest trails and peaceful mountain paths, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Annapurna range, including the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). These stunning landscapes provide perfect opportunities for photography and moments of quiet appreciation in nature.
We take care of all the essential details, including private transportation, permits, and authentic meals at local teahouses. This hassle-free approach allows you to focus entirely on enjoying the hike, the scenery, and the experience without stress or complications.
Our itinerary is designed with a comfortable pace, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced hikers. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to experience authentic Himalayan culture by visiting traditional villages and interacting with welcoming local communities.
With transparent pricing, professional service, and a commitment to quality, Limestone Treks ensures a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable Himalayan hiking adventure that you will cherish for years to come.
Booking your Himalayan hiking adventure is simple and secure. You can reserve your spot online or by contacting our team directly. To confirm your booking, a deposit is required, with the remaining balance payable before the trek begins. We accept multiple payment methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and secure online payment gateways. Once your payment is confirmed, you’ll receive an instant booking confirmation along with all the necessary trekking details, including itinerary, packing list, and safety guidelines. Flexible cancellation policies are available to provide peace of mind, ensuring a hassle-free planning experience for your unforgettable Himalayan journey.
Our hiking packages are flexible and can be tailored to suit your interests and schedule. You can extend your trek with additional stops at nearby villages, scenic viewpoints, or lakes around Pokhara. Private guided tours, photography-focused hikes, or longer multi-day treks in the Annapurna range region can also be arranged. Whether you want a leisurely day hike or a more immersive trekking experience, we can customize the itinerary to match your fitness level, interests, and travel plans.
