Dhampus Trek: 2-Day Pokhara Hike with Australian Camp Views

Summary

Pokhara to Dhampus Trekking: Gurung Culture & Himalayan Views

If you want real mountain views without losing days on long trails, this Dhampus trek is perfect. You’ll meet locals, taste home-cooked food, and sleep where you can see Annapurna from your window. It’s quick but feels authentic—ideal if you’re short on time but still want that Nepal trekking experience.

What’s the experience like?

The ride out of Pokhara was quiet that morning—just the hum of our van and a few roosters calling somewhere behind the roadside tea stalls. At Phedi, we hopped out, boots crunching on gravel, and started up the stone steps. The air smelled like damp earth and wood smoke. Our guide, Suman, pointed out tiny terraces stacked above us—some already green with new rice shoots. We passed a woman carrying a basket of firewood strapped to her forehead, who gave us a quick nod and a shy smile.

By the time we reached Dhampus village, my shirt was sticking to my back but the breeze felt cooler. Kids were playing marbles near the trail; you could hear their laughter echo off the hills. The view opened up suddenly—Annapurna South and Machapuchare just sitting there in the haze. That evening at our lodge, dinner was dal bhat with spicy pickles, and we watched the clouds roll over the peaks until it got too dark to see much else.

Next morning after a simple breakfast (eggs, chapati, sweet tea), we set off through rhododendron woods toward Pothana. The path was soft underfoot, pine needles everywhere. We stopped for lunch in Pothana—a plate of noodles at a small guesthouse where an old radio played Nepali pop songs. From there it was another hour or so to Australian Camp. There’s this big open field up there—someone had rigged up a swing from an old tree branch—and some trekkers were kicking around a football with their guides. It felt peaceful; you could just sit on the grass and watch clouds drift past Annapurna.

The last day was easy—a gentle walk down to Kande through more forest, birds calling overhead. Our driver met us by the road with cold water bottles ready (honestly felt like luxury after two days of hiking). Back in Pokhara by lunchtime, legs tired but happy I’d squeezed so much into such a short trek.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Drive and trek to Dhampus

• Drive to Phedi and trek to Dhampus

Day 2 — Trek to Australian Camp

• Trek to Pothana and Australian Camp

Day 3 — Trek to Kande and drive back

• Trek to Kande and drive to Pokhara

Top questions

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

Yes—it’s not too tough and most people with average fitness can do it. There are some uphill sections but plenty of breaks along the way.

What kind of accommodation will we have?

You’ll stay in basic mountain lodges—clean rooms with simple beds and shared bathrooms. Meals are home-style Nepali food.

Do I need special permits?

No worries—the required ACAP Permit and TIMS card are included in your booking.

Can I join if I have health issues?

This trek isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, heart problems, or during pregnancy due to uneven terrain and altitude changes.

What’s included

Your trip covers an experienced trekking guide, all ground transport (pick-up/drop-off), two nights’ lodge accommodation in Dhampus and Australian Camp, plus all necessary permits (ACAP & TIMS). Meals during trekking days are available at local lodges along the route.