Pokhara Trek Review: Australian Camp, Dhampus, Ghandruk (3 Days)

Thinking about a short trek around Pokhara? So, a three-day adventure covering Australian Camp, Dhampus, and Ghandruk could be, that is, just the ticket. Very popular with those wanting a taste of the Himalayas without committing to, you know, a lengthy expedition, it’s almost a walk in the park – with some hills, of course.

Why Choose This Trek?

Why, that is, should you pick this particular route? It’s short and fairly manageable, and typically great for those very new to trekking, like families or people a little short on time. We get it, everyone’s not, that is, up for scaling Everest, but this way, you get truly breathtaking scenery without having to train like a marathon runner. Yet the views are really spectacular, like the Annapurna range stretching out before you, in some respects just awesome.

What Makes it Special?

• Perfect length for beginners.
• Stunning mountain views.
• Opportunity to experience local culture.

Day 1: Pokhara to Australian Camp (via Kande)

We usually kicked off, at the start, with a drive from Pokhara to Kande. More or less, it’s an hour or so, giving you a taste of rural Nepal even before the hiking begins. Now from Kande, it’s almost a pretty straightforward uphill hike to Australian Camp, generally taking about two hours. And that part is where you start to get properly amazing views. That first glimpse of the Himalayas? Basically unforgettable.

The camp itself? Australian Camp’s pretty basic, though cozy guesthouses, yet provide stunning panoramic views. Very worthwhile to take a little wander around at sunset – or sunrise, should you feel like getting up early. The way the sunlight paints the mountains is, like your own painting, but alive. Even though settling into a teahouse is alright, you, should consider talking with others on the trail so, that it does create a sense of camaraderie as it’s truly, kind of an isolated experience.

Day 2: Australian Camp to Ghandruk (via Dhampus)

Day two begins and we start, and it tends to be arguably, quite a treat, the way you begin with the sunrise from Australian Camp, that, is followed by a trek to Dhampus, giving truly awesome views. More or less, it’s another fairly easy walk, alright a bit downhill. Now Dhampus itself is a quaint village that provides really more insights into local life. So too it’s very worthwhile pausing to explore before continuing.

The trek from Dhampus to Ghandruk will tend to be a bit longer, usually five to six hours, a little challenging. Now the trail descends through forests and eventually winds its way, as a matter of fact up to Ghandruk. That village itself is like your very, very pretty Gurung village with stone houses, very, very much that is worth, to take in the local vibe. Should you have time, a little visit to the Gurung museum can be, in some respects great, really giving context to the community and the area.

Day 3: Ghandruk to Nayapul and Back to Pokhara

Alright so, day three: The hike from Ghandruk down to Nayapul? The route takes about three to four hours. Should your knees complain, be prepared for a pretty steep descent, so walking sticks tend to be really helpful. Usually at Nayapul, we would have your transport ready to whisk you actually back to Pokhara. Once you’re back you may want to think a bit, relax, stretch, and maybe go out for a good well-earned meal.

And it needs to be added, so this part offers very amazing glimpses into village life, like your villages feel far less touristy compared to the other stops, alright really providing a peek into rural Nepali life, though seemingly, many trekkers stop here for tea. I mean if time permits, it may be, like, great to experience and observe a little more, even taking pictures with locals! It’s, you know, so respectful to actually build rapport even through, maybe the language barrier.

What to Expect: Terrain and Difficulty

As a matter of fact, this trek falls into the ‘easy’ category, it usually involves several, arguably several uphill and downhill sections. Very comfortable hiking shoes, in particular that provide really excellent ankle support, are key. Should your fitness is pretty decent, you might want to find the trail manageable, but those, more or less who don’t workout so much may want to be really prepared for sore legs! Remember, that the key to, in short a pleasant trekking, may arguably be steady pacing and, I mean enjoying the views rather than rushing.

Essential Packing List

Ok, the packing bit? In essence lightweight and practical is usually where you are going. Bring you warm layers, as a matter of fact the temperatures can fluctuate a bit, more or less depending on the season and elevation. Rain gear is arguably helpful. Good hiking boots? Necessary. Usually sun protection? More or less essential, similarly to that of insect repellent.

Checklist:

• Hiking boots with ankle support
• Warm layers (fleece, down jacket)
• Rain gear
• Sunscreen and hat
• Insect repellent
• Water bottles or hydration pack
• Basic first-aid kit

Best Time to Go

In essence, Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) tend to be ideal times for this trek. That said, that weather’s generally clear, offering optimal views of the mountains. That time frame typically provides you that truly sweet spot, where the views tend to be best without freezing. Though as a matter of fact during monsoon (June-August), you can expect that trails tends to be really muddy, I mean there’s usually lots of leeches. So consider bringing strong insect repellents, that do deter leeches, because actually it may prevent them from latching on.

Tips for a Smooth Trek

Just know, staying hydrated may need emphasis! Be drinking plenty of water, in short to adjust with the altitude. Now pace yourself – actually walking slowly will assist preventing exhaustion and altitude sickness. Yet negotiate the costs beforehand, that, is before acquiring goods, usually to avoid overpaying on services or snacks. Should it matter, supporting local business tends to make them really excited!

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Pace yourself to avoid exhaustion.
• Bargain respectfully before purchasing anything.

Budgeting for Your Trek

Generally, so a tight budget isn’t, that is, required for this trip! We can estimate transport, accommodation, food, permits – it might well hover about $150 to $300, in that case varying depending on your choices. That range’s basically for everything like very bare bones guesthouses through small upgrades in room choices. Having, in fact, flexibility regarding food and rooms is possibly wise; just, so it prepares you if things tend not to work as expected! It seems likely, you may, for instance want to splurge on a meal at that particularly beautiful spot for lunch.