Dhampus and Australian Camp
In Nepali: धम्पुस र अस्ट्रेलियन क्याम्प
Dhampus is a Gurung village on a ridge north-west of Pokhara, and Australian Camp is a meadow nearby, named after an early trekking group, with lodges and an uninterrupted view of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna II.
Starting at Kande or Phedi, you can walk up in two or three hours, watch the sunset and sunrise, and be back in Pokhara the next day — perfect for families or those short on time. It is also the start of the Mardi Himal trek.
What to see and do
Walk up through forest and terraces from Kande or Phedi, watch sunset and sunrise over the Annapurnas, and stroll the Gurung village of Dhampus. From Australian Camp you can continue to Pothana and Landruk, or start the Mardi Himal trek.
Good to know
ACAP permit needed. Lodges at Australian Camp are simple with tent options. It is ideal as a first taste of trekking or for families with children.
Quick answers
- Where is Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- Dhampus and Australian Camp is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- About 1,650 m (5,414 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- Dhampus and Australian Camp is in or right next to Pokhara, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Pokhara, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Pokhara.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- October–April
- How do I get to Dhampus and Australian Camp?
- 45 minutes by road from Pokhara to Kande, then 1–2 hours' walk. It is about 17 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Dhampus and Australian Camp called in Nepali?
- धम्पुस र अस्ट्रेलियन क्याम्प
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