Australian Camp / Dhampus

4.9

90+ Google reviewsrated 4.9 by 90+ travellers on Google5+ years guiding5+ years guiding in the Himalaya30+ countriesGuests from 30+ countriesLocal-born guidesBorn-and-raised local guides

Trek at a Glance

Price From

Contact for pricing

Duration

1–2 days

Trip Grade

Easy

Max. Altitude

2,065m

Best Season

Year-round (best Oct–May)

Group Size

1–10 pax

Region

Annapurna

Accommodation

Lodge / Tea House

Meals

B / L / D

Start / End Point

Pokhara

Permits

ACAP, TIMS card

Australian Camp / Dhampus Overview

Itinerary designed by Rohit Timilsina, Co-Founder & Lead Guide Verified local guide

A gentle overnight trek out of Pokhara with one of the best sunrise views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South, perfect for beginners and families.

Australian Camp offers a unique experience for those with a day to spare in Pokhara who wish to immerse themselves in the mountains rather than simply observe from the lakeside. The hike begins at Kande, a short drive north of the city, climbing through forest and small settlements to a ridgeline camp at around 2,065m.

The round walk to Australian Camp and the adjacent village of Dhampus takes 5-6 hours, serving well as either a day trip or an overnight stay. The views are among the best accessible from Pokhara without a multi-day commitment, with Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) directly in view alongside Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna II, IV, and Lamjung Himal on clear days. Sunrise and sunset from the camp are particularly stunning as the low angle of light casts a golden glow on the snow faces.

Dhampus village presents a genuine glimpse of local life with its traditional stone houses, allowing visitors to experience the culture without commercial pressures. Homestay accommodations can be arranged. Staying overnight offers the opportunity to catch a breathtaking sunrise from the ridge, which is highly recommended for those with limited time.

Who this trek is for: This trek is suitable for anyone in Pokhara looking for a genuine Himalayan view from a ridge rather than a rooftop, ideal for all fitness levels, families with children, older trekkers, and individuals acclimatising for longer treks. There are no technical challenges or altitude concerns, making it great for photographers or those interested in experiencing sunrise.

Australian Camp / Dhampus Highlights

Sunrise over Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
Easy trail suitable for first-time trekkers
Traditional Gurung hospitality at Dhampus
One overnight in a mountain teahouse

Australian Camp / Dhampus Itinerary

Day	Itinerary
Day 1	Drive to Kande, hike to Australian Camp and Dhampus (2,065m)
Day 2	Sunrise from the ridge, return to Pokhara (823m)

Day 01: Drive to Kande, hike to Australian Camp and Dhampus (2,065m)
Day 02: Sunrise from the ridge, return to Pokhara (823m)

Your Trek Is Prepared & Led by a Local Guide

Govt. License #1497

Rohit Timilsina

Co-Founder & Lead Guide · 6K Nepal Treks

Hi, I'm Rohit Timilsina

I started 6K Nepal Treks to give travellers the trek I would want myself: small groups, honest prices and a guide who actually knows the trail. I have guided across the Annapurna, Manaslu and Everest regions for over five years, and I design every itinerary on this site personally.

“Whether it is your first teahouse trek or your tenth Himalayan expedition, I want you back home telling everyone it was the best trip of your life.”

Govt. License #14974.9★ from 90+ reviews30+ countries guidedHighest guided: 5,416m

Meet the full team

Australian Camp / Dhampus Cost & What's Included

Here is exactly what this guided package covers. We price it per departure, so ask us for a quote for your group size and dates.

What is included in this trek package?

Accommodation

Twin-sharing accommodation in tea houses or local lodges throughout the trek
Hotel accommodation on nights before and after the trek where applicable (breakfast included)

Meals & Drinking Water

All standard meals on the trail (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with one hot drink per meal
Purified drinking water throughout the trek (filter or purification tablets)
Seasonal fruits when available

Transportation

All ground transfers by private or shared tourist vehicle as per the itinerary
Domestic flights where explicitly noted in the itinerary

Guide and Staff

Experienced, first-aid trained, government-licensed, English-speaking lead guide
Assistant guide for groups of 7 or more
One porter per two trekkers for carrying main luggage (up to 10 kg per person)
Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and insurance for all trek staff

Permits

All required trekking permits and conservation-area fees for the route
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card where applicable
All permit paperwork arranged before the trek starts

Safety and Support

Comprehensive first aid kit including pulse oximeter for daily altitude checks
Emergency oxygen on treks above 4,000m
24/7 operational support from our Pokhara office
Trip completion certificate

What is excluded in this trek package?

Flights & Visa

International flights and airport departure tax
Nepal entry visa (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days, on arrival at Kathmandu airport)

Insurance & Personal Gear

Travel insurance with high-altitude and emergency helicopter evacuation coverage (mandatory)
Personal trekking gear, clothing and footwear

Meals Outside the Trail

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara before and after the trek
Any beverages including alcoholic drinks, bottled and boiled water

Other

Tips for trekking staff and drivers (recommended but not included)
Hot showers, WiFi, and charging fees at tea houses
Any personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or souvenirs
Any additional costs caused by natural disasters, political disturbances, or flight delays
Any items not explicitly listed in the Price Includes section

Private departures, your dates

We run this trek as a private trip on the dates that suit you. Tell us when and we will confirm availability.

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Australian Camp / Dhampus Reviews

4.9★ from 90+ Google Reviews

Trekkers guided from 30+ countries.

“We did Austrian Basecamp with Rohit. I thought it was going to be a short and predictable trek but I was surely wrong. We went up and stayed for the night and on the next day we did a long return going through some of the most stunning views I've ever seen in my 37 years of life. I don't think that would have been possible without the guidance of Rohit. Also it's really nice to share with him, he is friendly, respectful and chill. And he knows everything about Nepal, its mountains and its flora and fauna.”

Arturo Cuevillas ★

Australian Camp Trek · Jan 2026

5.0

“I recently embarked on the Dhampus-Pothana-Australia Camp trek with Rohit, and it was an experience I'll cherish forever. From the very beginning, Rohit's easygoing nature and ability to connect made the journey incredibly enjoyable. Our conversations ranged from deep discussions about spirituality, mountains, and cultures to sharing our mutual love for rock and metal music. Overall, trekking with Rohit was an incredible experience. His warmth, knowledge, and passion for the mountains truly enhanced the trip.”

Fahad Rahman ★

Dhampus-Pothana-Australian Camp · 2025

5.0

See reviews from all our treks

Why Book With 6K Nepal Treks

Licensed & Insured

Registered with Nepal Tourism Board, TAAN and NMA. Fully insured for trekking, climbing, and high-altitude emergencies.

Expert Local Guides

Every trek is led by a licensed, first-aid trained Sherpa or Gurung guide, born and raised in these mountains.

Safety First

Pulse oximeter and emergency oxygen carried on all high-altitude treks. Helicopter evacuation protocol on standby.

Small Groups

Maximum 12 trekkers per group, and one porter per two guests whenever porters are part of your package. You are a person, not a tour number.

Fair & Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees. Every quote itemises exactly what your package covers and what it does not, so nothing lands on you at the trailhead.

Responsible Travel

Fair wages for all staff, eco-friendly practices on the trail, and direct support for the mountain communities we work with.

Know Before You Go

This is an Easy-rated hike with an altitude gain of approximately 500m over 1.5-2 hours on a well-maintained trail with no technical sections. The maximum altitude of 2,065m does not pose altitude concerns for those arriving from Pokhara. Total walking time for the circuit is 5-6 hours, suited for average fitness levels including those who do not regularly exercise. The main physical demands involve the steady uphill gradient during the ascent and stone steps during the descent to Phedi. Good footwear is recommended, though trekking poles are not necessary.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) are required. The ACAP costs NPR 3,000 for foreigners and NPR 100 for SAARC nationals per person. The TIMS Card is NPR 2,000 for independent trekkers and NPR 1,000 for groups per person, available at Nepal Tourism Board offices in Pokhara. Our team handles all permit paperwork.

At 2,065m, Australian Camp presents no altitude concerns for trekkers arriving from Pokhara (823m). The ascent is gradual, and the maximum elevation is comfortable for all fitness levels. No acclimatisation considerations apply, and a normal hydration routine will suffice.

Australian Camp features several teahouses with reasonable menus including tea, coffee, dal bhat, noodle soups, and omelets. The views from the teahouses' terraces enhance the experience. Dhampus offers simple guesthouses and homestays run by Gurung families, providing home-cooked meals. The overnight stay in Dhampus is one of the most authentic experiences close to Pokhara, with no camping required.

The following is a solid starting point for most multi-day treks we run. Adjust for the season and the maximum altitude of your specific route. Shorter, lower-altitude hikes need far less than this full list. For the key insulation items (down jacket and four-season sleeping bag) we offer rental in Kathmandu or Pokhara for USD 35 each.

General

Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (rental available: USD 35)
Insulated down jacket (rental available: USD 35)
Daypack, 30 to 45 litres, with rain cover
Sleeping bag liner

Head & Face

Sun hat or cap
Beanie or knitted hat for colder mornings and evenings
Buff or neck gaiter
Sunglasses with full UV protection
Headlamp with spare batteries

Upper Body

Technical base layer shirts, two
Technical long-sleeve shirts, two
Fleece or synthetic mid-layer
Waterproof and windproof shell jacket

Lower Body

Hiking pants, two pairs
Technical base-layer leggings for cold mornings
Waterproof or windproof outer shell pants
Comfortable pants for evenings in the teahouse

Hands

Lightweight liner gloves
Insulated outer gloves for high altitude or winter conditions

Feet

Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support, broken in before the trip
Hiking socks, three to five pairs
Liner socks if prone to blisters
Comfortable shoes or sandals for evenings
Microspikes recommended November to March on routes above 4,000m

First Aid & Medications

Personal prescription medications
SPF 50+ sunscreen and SPF lip balm
Blister care, plasters, and antiseptic cream
Electrolyte sachets or tablets
Note: our guides carry a comprehensive group first aid kit with pulse oximeter

Other Essentials

Passport, two passport-sized photos, and photocopies of travel documents
One-litre reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
Trekking poles (strongly recommended)
Small toiletry kit, quick-dry towel, and toilet paper
High-protein snacks for the trail (bars, nuts)
Waterproof dry bag for documents and electronics

We provide a free duffel bag at your pre-trip meeting, used for luggage carried by the porter. The duffel stays yours afterwards.
One porter is assigned per two trekkers. The duffel bag should weigh no more than 10 kg / 22 lbs per person.
Always carry your own daypack with essentials: cash, documents, water, camera, rain gear.
Non-trekking luggage can be stored securely at your hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Down jacket and four-season sleeping bag are available for rent at USD 35 each. Loss or damage reimbursement is USD 100 per item.

Guide & Porter Services

Every trek is led by a government-licensed, English-speaking lead guide who is also trained in first aid and high-altitude emergency response. For groups of seven or more we add an assistant guide. Porters are assigned one per two trekkers, each carrying up to 10 kg of your main luggage so you only carry a daypack. All staff wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and insurance are fully covered in the package price.

Accommodation Bookings

We pre-book every night's accommodation before you start, so you never arrive at a full teahouse during peak season. Nights before and after the trek are in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara with breakfast included. On the trail you stay in tea houses or local lodges on a twin-sharing basis, with the best available rooms in each village. Private rooms and en-suite bathrooms are available where offered, usually at lower altitudes.

Transportation Arrangements

All ground transfers are arranged by private or shared tourist vehicles as specified in the itinerary. Airport pick-up and drop-off are included. Where a domestic flight is required (for example, Kathmandu to Lukla for Everest, or Jomsom to Pokhara for Mustang routes), the round-trip fare is covered in the package. We monitor flight and road conditions daily and adjust logistics proactively when weather or landslides affect the schedule.

Equipment Rental

A four-season sleeping bag and an insulated down jacket can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara at USD 35 per item for the duration of the trek. Trekking poles, microspikes, and additional layers are also available on request. We supply a 75-litre duffel bag for you to keep at your pre-trip briefing. A full packing checklist is sent after you book so you can pack with confidence.

Insurance Requirements

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for every trek we operate. Your policy must explicitly cover trekking at the maximum altitude of your route and include emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation. Please send us a copy of your policy at least two weeks before departure. We cannot start the trek without confirmation of valid coverage. This is for your safety and ours.

Good to know. Arrive in Pokhara at least one day before departure so there is time for your pre-trip briefing and any last-minute gear hire. We can store spare luggage while you trek.

FAQs for Australian Camp / Dhampus

The two prime seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendron forests. Autumn delivers the clearest skies and most stable weather after the monsoon washes the air clean. Winter treks are possible on lower-altitude routes but cold; the monsoon (June to August) brings rain, leeches at lower elevations, and obscured mountain views.

No specific prior experience is required, but a good level of cardiovascular fitness is essential. You should be comfortable walking five to seven hours per day on uneven terrain for consecutive days. Regular hiking, running, cycling, or stair climbing in the months before departure makes a real difference.

Permits depend on the route. Most Annapurna treks need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) plus a TIMS card. Everest requires a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and a Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee. Restricted areas like Manaslu and Upper Mustang need a separate Restricted Area Permit. All permit paperwork is arranged by our team before your trek starts.

Altitude sickness (AMS) is possible above 3,000m. Our itineraries include graduated ascent profiles and dedicated acclimatisation days where needed. Our guides carry a pulse oximeter for daily altitude checks and emergency oxygen on routes above 4,000m. All guides are first-aid trained and will adjust the pace, rest, or descend whenever necessary. Descent is the only reliable cure for AMS and we do not negotiate on that decision.

Our standard package covers accommodation in tea houses or lodges, all meals on the trail, ground transfers, domestic flights where the itinerary requires them, a licensed English-speaking guide, porter support, all permits, and safety equipment. Not included: international flights, Nepal visa, travel insurance, personal gear, and beverages outside meal times. See the full Price Includes / Excludes breakdown on each trek page.

Absolutely. Every itinerary can be extended with rest days, shortened where possible, combined with side trips, or rebuilt around specific dates and fitness levels. Contact us with your preferences and we will propose a tailored itinerary.

Free cancellation applies up to 30 days before the trek departure date. Cancellations within 30 days may incur a fee to cover non-refundable permits, domestic flight bookings, and porter commitments. We will always do our best to reschedule rather than cancel outright.

Private guided departure

Contact for pricingWe price this trek per departure. Tell us your group size and dates and we will send a per-person quote.

Travelling as a bigger group? Message us for a group rate.

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Free cancellation up to 30 days

No booking fees, 30% deposit

Licensed operator (#1497)

Contact for pricing