Top Things To Do at Pokhara: Hike to Australian Base Camp

Pokhara, Nepal’s stunning lake city, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, but one stands out above the rest – the hike to the Australian Base Camp. This exhilarating journey rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Traversing lush forests and traditional Gurung villages, the 6-hour guided trek promises an unforgettable experience. But the real question is, are you ready to embark on this incredible mountain adventure?

Contents show

Key Points

Set out on a 6-hour guided hike through lush forests and terraced fields, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Explore traditional Gurung settlements and immerse in the local culture during the trek.
Capture Instagram-worthy photos of Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the surrounding landscape.
Benefit from the expertise of an experienced English or Japanese-speaking guide who provides cultural insights.
Prepare for the physical demands of the hike by wearing comfortable shoes and packing sun protection and snacks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Hike

The hike to Australian Camp from Pokhara offers a scenic journey through lush forests and terraced fields, providing panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

The 6-hour guided hike starts with a scenic drive to Kande, followed by a trek through traditional Gurung settlements. Hikers can enjoy optional stops for lunch and capture Instagram-worthy moments of the Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake.

The hike isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users. Hikers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and snacks for energy during the trek.

Love being outdoors? Check out these other hiking spots we've covered in Ghandruk

Itinerary Details

The itinerary for the hike to Australian Camp from Pokhara begins with pickup from hotels at Lakeside Pokhara, offering 6 different pickup locations to accommodate travelers.

After a scenic 105-minute drive to Kande, the guided hike commences through lush forests and terraced fields, with stops at:

Australian Camp
Dhampus
Phedi

An optional 1-hour lunch break is available.

The tour concludes with return transportation to 6 different drop-off locations back in Pokhara.

Throughout the journey, hikers can expect panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and opportunities to interact with traditional Gurung settlements.

Highlights and Experiences

What makes the hike to Australian Camp from Pokhara so special? Hikers will be treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

Along the way, they’ll visit traditional Gurung settlements and capture Instagram-worthy photos of Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake.

The guided tour with an experienced English or Japanese-speaking guide provides valuable insights into the local culture and environment. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals during the hike.

With the stunning natural scenery and cultural experiences, this excursion offers a well-rounded adventure for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Pokhara.

Important Considerations

Although the hike to Australian Camp from Pokhara offers stunning scenery and cultural experiences, it may not be suitable for everyone.

Travelers should be aware of a few important considerations:

Physical Capability: The hike, which takes around 6 hours, may be challenging for those with back problems or mobility issues.
Weather Conditions: Hikers should be prepared for the elements, including sun exposure and potential rain, and pack appropriate gear.
Dietary Needs: While an optional lunch stop is available, snacks are recommended to maintain energy levels during the trek.
Environmental Impact: Smoking is prohibited to preserve the natural surroundings.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the hike to Australian Camp from Pokhara have generally provided positive feedback on the tour.

Based on reviews, the overall rating stands at 4.5 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciated the attentiveness of the guide and the scenic views along the way.

While some found the stone steps tiring, they were still satisfied with the overall experience. Travelers valued the guidance on the hiking route and the opportunity to interact with the local Gurung communities.

Although the stone steps were tiring, travelers were still satisfied with the overall experience, valuing the guidance and culture.

The combination of panoramic mountain vistas and culture seems to have made for a memorable adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Ghandruk

Getting to the Starting Point

The hike to Australian Camp begins with a scenic drive from Lakeside Pokhara, taking approximately 105 minutes to reach the starting point at Kande.

The transportation service includes:

Pickup from 6 convenient locations around Lakeside Pokhara.
A comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle for the drive.
Friendly and knowledgeable English or Japanese-speaking guides to accompany the group.
Drop-off at the same 6 locations after the hike is completed.

This seamless transportation ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing hikers to focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and memorable journey ahead.

What to Expect on the Hike

After reaching the starting point at Kande, the guided hike to Australian Camp begins.

The trail winds through lush forests and terraced fields, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Hikers will visit traditional Gurung settlements, providing a glimpse into the local culture.

The journey includes traversing some steep stone steps, which can be tiring, so snacks are recommended for energy.

Although not suitable for certain groups, the well-guided tour ensures an enjoyable and memorable experience, with ample opportunities to capture Instagram-worthy moments of the stunning Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

The hike to Australian Camp does not allow pets. The tour operator specifically states that the activity is "not suitable for… people with… wheelchair users." Bringing a pet would likely disrupt the guided group hiking experience.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There’s no minimum group size requirement for this hike. Hikers can sign up for the tour individually, and the group size will vary based on how many people have booked for that day’s departure.

Do I Need Prior Hiking Experience for This Trek?

No prior hiking experience is required for this hike to Australian Camp. The trail is well-marked, with an experienced guide leading the way. As long as you’re moderately fit, you can enjoy this scenic trek through Pokhara’s forests and villages.

What if I Have Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, let the operator know in advance. They’ll work to accommodate your needs, such as providing alternative meal options during the optional lunch stop. Be sure to bring any necessary medications or snacks.

Can I Purchase Additional Gear/Equipment On-Site?

No, the tour doesn’t offer the option to purchase additional gear or equipment on-site. Travelers are advised to bring their own suitable hiking attire and supplies before the start of the hike.

The Sum Up

The hike to the Australian Base Camp offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure with breathtaking mountain views. Trekkers can expect a scenic drive, a challenging but rewarding 6-hour hike, and cultural insights from a knowledgeable guide. With proper preparation and the right gear, this trek is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Pokhara region.