What I Wish I Knew For Dhampus Australian Camp Trek

The Dhampus Australian Camp Trek is a perfect short trekking option for those seeking stunning views of the Annapurna Range and a peaceful Himalayan experience without venturing too far from Pokhara Tour.

The trek offers a gentle adventure with breathtaking mountain vistas, charming villages, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Gurung community.

This trek is ideal for beginners or those with limited time, as it can be completed in just 2 to 3 days.

Dhampus Australian Camp Trek Overview

Location	Dhampus Village, Kaski District, Nepal
Trek Duration	2-3 Days
Highest Point	Australian Camp (2,050 meters)
Best Time to Trek	March-May, September-November
Difficulty Level	Easy to Moderate
Starting/Ending Point	Kande/Phedi (close to Pokhara)
Accommodation	Tea Houses

1. Scenic Mountain Views
   • The Dhampus  Camp Trek offers panoramic views of the Annapurna Massif, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the majestic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The view from Australian Camp is especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset when the snow-capped peaks glow under the changing light.
2. Cultural Immersion
   • The trek takes you through traditional Gurung villages, such as Dhampus, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the locals and learn about their culture and way of life. The villages are surrounded by terraced fields, adding a picturesque element to the trek.
3. Short and Easy Trek
   • This trek is considered easy to moderate, making it accessible to all age groups and fitness levels. The trail is well-marked, with gradual ascents and descents, allowing for a comfortable trekking experience.

Dhampus Australian Camp Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Pokhara to Kande, Trek to Australian Camp

• The trek begins with a short drive (about 1 hour) from Pokhara to Kande. From Kande, the trail leads uphill to Australian Camp at 2,050 meters. The walk takes around 2-3 hours, passing through forests and offering occasional views of the mountains. Spend the night at Australian Camp, enjoying the views of the Annapurna Range.

Day 2: Trek from Australian Camp to Dhampus, Drive to Pokhara

• After enjoying the sunrise at Australian Camp, you will descend to Dhampus Village. The trek takes around 2 hours, passing through beautiful forests and terraced fields. From Dhampus, you can drive back to Pokhara, which takes about 1 hour.

Optional Day 3:
If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can spend an additional night in Dhampus and explore the village before heading back to Pokhara.

Dhampus Australian Camp Trek Cost

The cost of the trek is relatively low compared to longer treks.

2-day trek

From USD 79–99 per person

• Guide and Porter (optional): USD 20-30 per day for a guide, USD 15-20 per day for a porter.
• Accommodation: Tea houses charge around USD 5-10 per night.
• Meals: Expect to pay around USD 10-15 per day for meals.
• Transportation: The cost of a private vehicle from Pokhara to Kande and back from Dhampus ranges between USD 30-50.

Dhampus Australian Camp Trek Route Map

• Pokhara (Drive) → Kande → Australian Camp → Dhampus → Phedi (Drive) → Pokhara.

Dhaulagiri Circuit trek advice

Comparisons with Other Popular Short Treks

1. Poon Hill Trek
   • The Poon Hill Trek is another short trek that offers fantastic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s slightly more demanding than the Dhampus trek and takes 4-5 days.
   • Trek Duration: 4-5 days
   • Highest Point: Poon Hill (3,210 meters)
   • Difficulty: Moderate
2. Ghandruk Trek
   • The Ghandruk Trek is a short cultural trek that takes you through one of the largest Gurung villages in the region. It’s a 2-3 day trek like Dhampus, offering beautiful mountain views.
   • Trek Duration: 2-3 days
   • Highest Point: Ghandruk (2,010 meters)
   • Difficulty: Easy

Best Time for the Dhampus Australian Camp Trek

The best time to trek to Dhampus and Australian Camp is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

How to Get to the Dhampus Australian Camp Trek

• From Pokhara:
  • The trek begins from Kande or Phedi, which are both about 1 hour away by car from Pokhara. After finishing the trek at Dhampus, you can return to Pokhara by car.

FAQs

1. Is the Dhampus Australian Camp Trek suitable for beginners?
   Yes, the trek is easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families.
2. How long does it take to complete the Dhampus Camp Trek?
   The trek can be completed in 2-3 days.
3. What is the highest point of the trek?
   The highest point is Australian Camp (2,050 meters).
4. Do I need a guide for the Dhampus Australian Trek?
   The trail is well-marked, and it’s possible to do the trek independently, but hiring a guide can enhance your experience.
5. When is the best time to do the Dhampus Australian Camp Trek?
   The best time to trek is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for clear skies and great mountain views.