Phedi is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of the most stunning landscapes and authentic villages around Pokhara. Its location makes it ideal for short treks, cultural walks, and camping adventures, all offering a genuine taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and local life. Among the options, we particularly like the Easy Dhampus & Astam Village Day Hike for its perfect blend of scenery, ease, and cultural insights. It’s a manageable day trip suitable for most fitness levels, with rewarding Himalayan views and peaceful village stops.
If you’re after a more immersive experience, the 3 Day Dhampus-Sarangkot Trek offers a deeper dive into mountain vistas, local culture, and scenic trekking, all in just three days. For those seeking a night under the stars, the Camping Tour at Australian Camp combines hiking with the magic of mountain sunsets and sunrises, plus the thrill of camping amid pristine nature. Lastly, for travelers with a bit more time, the Day Hike to Astham & Dhampus Village provides a comprehensive day of exploring, culture, and mountain views.
Below, we explore each of these tours in detail, highlighting what makes them special and who they’re best suited for.
1. Pokhara : Easy Dhampus & Astam Village Day Hike
This easy day hike offers a gentle trek from Pokhara to the charming Dhampus Village, with a visit to peaceful Astam along the way. The tour begins with a pickup from Pokhara, followed by a 45-minute bus ride to the trailhead. The hike itself covers about 2.5 hours to Dhampus, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Annapurna range. This route takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages, giving you a glimpse into rural life in Nepal.
The highlight is the walk through serene villages where local families go about their daily routines, and you can capture photos of mountain panoramas or just soak in the tranquility. After exploring Astam, known for its lush terraces and peaceful ambiance, you’ll have another 45-minute bus ride back to Pokhara. The tour is rated 5/5 with glowing reviews. One traveler shared, “I had a wonderful morning, enjoying the flowers, rice fields, and a Himalayan-view lunch — all with a guide who was very patient and friendly.”
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a manageable trek with plenty of authentic scenery and cultural moments but without a long or strenuous hike. The cost of $42 offers great value for a full day of scenic walking and cultural exposure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those short on time but eager to see mountain views and local village life without heavy trekking.
2. Pokhara : Day Hike to Astham & Dhampus Village
If you’re looking for a fuller day of hiking and exploration, this Day Hike to Astham & Dhampus Village is a fantastic choice. Over around six hours, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes to Phedi, the trailhead. The trek takes you through lush forests and terraced farmland, with plenty of opportunities to stop, photograph, and chat with locals.
The tour includes a visit to Astam Village, known for its terraced rice paddies and traditional homes, and a memorable lunch in Dhampus, where you can enjoy stunning mountain vistas. The guide will help you understand local customs and point out key features of the landscape. This experience is rated 5/5, with many travelers remarking on the warm interactions with locals and the exceptional scenery.
This hike suits active travelers who want a comprehensive day of trekking, culture, and mountain views. The $79 price reflects the longer duration and more involved experience, making it a great value for those wanting to spend a day really engaging with the Himalayan hills.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers eager to explore more of the countryside and enjoy authentic village life in Nepal.
3. 1 Night 2 Days Camping Tour at Australian Camp
For those wanting to combine trekking with camping, this Camping Tour at Australian Camp offers a memorable overnight experience amid stunning mountain scenery. Over two days, you’ll trek through beautiful trails with views of giants like Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna. The tour begins with a pickup from Pokhara and a drive to the trailhead, followed by hikes through lush green hills and scenic forests.
The highlight is the chance to camp under the stars at Australian Camp, famous for its spectacular sunset and sunrise views. During the night, you’ll experience a quiet wilderness atmosphere, far from the bustle of the city. The next morning presents more mountain vistas and cultural insights from the Gurung communities, which are renowned for their hospitality and traditions. The tour has a 4.6/5 rating, with reviewers mentioning the incredible scenery and peaceful ambiance.
This option suits adventurous travelers who want an overnight escape into nature with manageable hiking each day. The price of $107 makes it a good deal considering the camping experience, mountain views, and cultural encounters.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a short outdoor adventure with the thrill of sleeping under the stars and enjoying mountain sunrises.
4. From Pokhara: 3 Day Dhampus-Sarangkot Trek
At the top of our list, the 3 Day Dhampus-Sarangkot Trek offers a comprehensive trekking experience in just three days. Starting from Pokhara, you’ll trek through lush landscapes, small villages, and terraced fields, with ample opportunities to learn about local customs and lifestyles. The trek includes staying at spots like Australian Camp, where panoramic Himalayan views are part of everyday life.
The third day features a sunrise view from Sarangkot, renowned for its spectacular mountain vistas. Guests rave about this trek’s balance of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and manageable length. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper experience without committing to weeks of hiking. The $180 price includes all logistics, accommodations, and guides.
Reviewers highlight the majestic mountain views and the chance to see the local Gurung culture. “The trek delivered everything I hoped for — stunning sunrises, peaceful villages, and lovely people,” one traveler remarks.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers wanting a multi-day trek with mountain vistas and culture without an extensive commitment.
How to Choose Your Phedi Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, time availability, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a quick taste of mountain scenery with minimal effort, the Easy Dhampus & Astam Village Day Hike is perfect. If you want to spend more time hiking and exploring, the Day Hike to Astham & Dhampus offers a more in-depth adventure.
Those interested in camping should look at the Camping at Australian Camp for its overnight experience, while the 3 Day Dhampus-Sarangkot Trek suits travelers seeking a more comprehensive trek with mountain vistas and cultural insights.
In choosing, also think about your budget and whether you want a shorter or longer trip. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak trekking seasons from September to November and March to May.
Final thoughts
Phedi offers a range of tours that cater to different interests and fitness levels, from relaxing day hikes to multi-day treks and camping adventures. If you’re pressed for time, the Easy Dhampus & Astam Village Day Hike is an excellent way to enjoy Himalayan views and rural life in one manageable day. For those with more time, the 3 Day Dhampus-Sarangkot Trek provides a richer experience.
Whatever your choice, booking early and preparing for varied terrains will ensure you get the most out of your visit to Nepal’s beautiful hills.