Trekking · Nepal
Australian Camp & Dhampus Trek
An easy 1–2 day ridge walk near Pokhara to Australian Camp (2,060 m) and Dhampus, with close Annapurna and Fishtail views.
The Australian Camp and Dhampus trek is the easiest of Nepal's short treks — a gentle 1–2 day ridge walk from Pokhara to a grassy camp at about 2,060 m with strikingly close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. It is the perfect first taste of trekking: low, short and scenic, with comfortable teahouses and a famous sunrise.
Overview and highlights
Australian Camp, also called Thulokharka, sits on an open meadow ridge above the Gurung village of Dhampus. The highlights are the dawn light on the Annapurnas and Fishtail, the easy stone-paved trail, and the relaxed lodge culture on the ridge. The walk pairs naturally with the nearby Panchase trek on the next hill, and it shares the lower trailhead area used to start the Mardi Himal trek and the Annapurna Base Camp route.
Itinerary
A typical 2-day plan from Pokhara:
| Day | Stage | Approx. altitude |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive to Kande, trek up to Australian Camp | 2,060 m |
| 2 | Sunrise, trek via Dhampus, drive back to Pokhara | 1,650 m |
Strong walkers can complete the loop in a single long day.
Difficulty and fitness
This is the easiest trek in the region. The altitude is low, daily walks are only two to four hours, and the trails are well maintained, so it suits families, children and first-time trekkers. There is no risk of altitude sickness here, though it is always good to understand altitude sickness before heading higher elsewhere in Nepal.
Best time
Autumn (October–November) gives the crispest Fishtail and Annapurna sunrises, while spring (March–May) is warm with rhododendron colour on the climb. Because the trek is so short and low, it is enjoyable in winter too, when the air is cold but clear. The monsoon brings cloud and obscured views.
Permits and cost
The trail lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need the ACAP permit (around USD 25) and a TIMS card (around USD 17–20). It is very cheap: with such short days, on-trail costs are minimal beyond a night's lodging and meals, plus transport to Kande. For kit and seasons, see our Nepal trekking guide.
Getting there
The trek is staged from Pokhara with a short drive to Kande on the road toward the Annapurna trailheads. The lodges at Australian Camp and Dhampus are among the most comfortable short-trek teahouses near Pokhara, with good food and sunrise terraces. For another gentle ridge option, try the Royal Trek.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Australian Camp and Dhampus trek?+
It is one of Nepal's shortest treks, usually done in 1 to 2 days from Pokhara. A common plan is a short drive to Kande, a couple of hours' walk up to Australian Camp for the night, and a descent through Dhampus the next day.
How high is Australian Camp?+
Australian Camp, also known as Thulokharka, sits at about 2,060 metres on an open ridge. From its meadow you get exceptionally close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, especially at sunrise.
Is the Australian Camp and Dhampus trek good for beginners?+
Yes, it is ideal for first-timers, families and anyone short on time. The altitude is low, the daily walks are only a few hours, the trails are well made, and the lodges are comfortable, yet the mountain views rival far longer treks.
What permits do I need for this trek?+
The trail lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need the ACAP permit, around USD 25, plus a TIMS card, around USD 17 to 20. Both are quick to arrange in Pokhara. Fit walkers can also do the whole Kande to Dhampus loop as a long day hike.
