Easy Day hiking to Dhampus and Australian camp

Introduction

This easy day hike from Pokhara to Dhampus and the Australian Camp promises a chance to escape the city’s buzz and step into the tranquil beauty of Nepal’s mountain scenery. With a manageable duration of around 8 to 9 hours, it’s designed for those who crave a scenic outing without the strenuous effort of more challenging treks.

We love the stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, the chance to walk through lush rainforests, and the authentic village encounters. One thing to keep in mind is that this is a guided, group activity—so if you’re looking for complete solitude or a more rugged adventure, you might find it a little gentle. This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, beautiful day out that combines nature, culture, and spectacular vistas.

Key Points

• Accessible for most travelers, with a relaxed pace and a guide to navigate routes.
• Stunning 360-degree views of Himalayan peaks from the Australian Camp.
• Authentic village experience in Dhampus, a peaceful Himalayan settlement.
• Value-packed with transportation, guide service, and all fees included in the price.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for nature lovers and those new to trekking who want a manageable, scenic experience.

Exploring the Full Experience

What the Tour Offers

This tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Nepal’s mountain scenery and village life without requiring advanced trekking skills. Starting with a pick-up from your hotel in Pokhara, the journey begins with a comfortable drive to Kande, the common starting point for many Himalayan hikes. From there, you’ll walk through low Himalayan rainforests, experiencing the lush greenery and fresh mountain air, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

The Journey to Dhampus

The trek from Kande to Dhampus takes around three hours. Here, you’ll find a peaceful Himalayan village that offers a glimpse into local life. Our guide, Ravi Voldy, is known for his friendly manner and expert knowledge, making the trek both enjoyable and informative. As you ascend, you’ll notice the landscape changing, with the forest giving way to charming villages and terraced fields.

Reviewers mention that the hotel in Kathmandu was a highlight, but on this hike, it’s the peaceful surroundings and natural beauty that steal the show. Expect to pass through verdant forests, where you might see local villagers tending to their fields or livestock.

Reaching the Australian Camp

After a short descent from Dhampus, the trail continues to the Australian Camp, located approximately 2000 meters above sea level. This spot rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayan ranges, including glimpses of iconic peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. It’s a prime photo opportunity, and many visitors comment on how mesmerizing the vistas are—truly the highlight of the day.

From the Australian Camp, you’ll hike back to Kande, a walk of about three hours, where a vehicle will wait to return you to Pokhara. This loop offers a perfect balance of forest trails, village visits, and panoramic mountain views.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Dhampus Village

Known for its scenic mountain views and friendly locals, Dhampus provides an authentic Himalayan village experience. The houses are traditional, and the atmosphere is peaceful, making it an ideal spot to relax and take photos. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see how villagers live in harmony with their rugged environment.

Australian Camp

Perched at a high elevation, this camp offers a sweeping view of the Himalayas—something you won’t forget. The experience here is less about trekking and more about soaking in the scenery. It’s a popular spot for photography and quiet reflection, away from the hustle and bustle.

Returning to Pokhara

The journey back is straightforward, with transportation arranged to ferry you from Kande to your hotel, completing an effortless and scenic day.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Logistics

A key advantage of this tour is the included air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable start and end to your day. The drive from Pokhara to Kande, where the trek begins, takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic, offering a relaxed start.

Guided Experience

With a licensed English-speaking guide, you’ll gain insights into local culture and mountain landscapes, enriching the experience. The guide also handles all the navigation, so you can simply enjoy the views and the walk.

Price and Value

Priced at $72.88 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering that transportation, guide, and all taxes are included. You’ll also avoid hidden costs, as all fees are covered, except for food and drinks—so bringing some snacks or a packed lunch might make your day even better.

Duration and Group Size

The timing of 8 to 9 hours makes this a full but doable day trip. As a private tour, your group will have personalized attention, allowing for a more flexible pace or additional stops if desired.

Authentic Travel Experiences From Reviews

One reviewer in July 2020 described the trip as “wonderful” and highlighted how much they enjoyed the peaceful hotel location and the overall experience. Their comments reflect how the peaceful mountain environment is a significant part of the appeal, along with the spectacular mountain vistas.

Another aspect noted indirectly through reviews is the importance of having a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Ravi Voldy is praised for making the trip enjoyable and providing useful insights, which makes the trek more engaging and less about just walking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hike is best suited for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed way to enjoy Nepal’s natural scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who are not looking for strenuous trekking but still want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.

It’s also ideal for those who want an authentic village visit combined with breathtaking views without the complexity of multi-day treks or camping. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Nepal’s landscapes, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a manageable, scenic day out from Pokhara, this hike to Dhampus and the Australian Camp delivers impressive mountain vistas, local culture, and a relaxing pace. The included transportation and guide make it easy to enjoy without fuss, and the views from the Australian Camp alone make it worthwhile.

While it’s not a challenging trek, the experience offers a genuine taste of Himalayan life and scenery, making it suitable for most fitness levels and ages. Whether you’re after stunning photo opportunities or a peaceful escape into nature, this tour balances value, ease, and visual splendor beautifully.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The entire trip lasts about 8 to 9 hours, making it a full-day activity that fits comfortably into a travel itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed as an easy walk through forests and villages, suitable for most fitness levels and those new to trekking.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a licensed guide, and all fees and taxes. Food and drinks are not included.

How long is the trek from Kande to Dhampus?
It takes approximately three hours to walk from Kande to Dhampus, mainly through lush Himalayan rainforests.

What can I expect at the Australian Camp?
You’ll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayan ranges, with perfect photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private experience, exclusively for your group, offering a more personalized and flexible outing.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider individual mobility as the walk is gentle but involves some climbing.

What about cancellation?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Are vegetarian or special dietary needs accommodated?
Food is not included, so you have the opportunity to bring snacks or arrange meals as you prefer.

This easy day hike from Pokhara to Dhampus and the Australian Camp offers a relaxed yet fulfilling Nepalese mountain experience, perfect for those wanting natural beauty with minimal fuss.