The Journey:
1-Day Option: The Quick Express
Start your day with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande, the starting point of your trek. From here, a moderate 2-hour climb takes you through lush forests to Australian Camp at 2,060 m, a wide grassy plateau offering 180° Himalayan panoramas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Fishtail (Machhapuchhre). After soaking in the views, descend via Dhampus Village, a traditional Gurung settlement with slate-roofed houses and terraced fields. Stop for a warm Himalayan tea in Pothana Village before returning to Phedi for your drive back to Pokhara and drop-off at your hotel.
2-Day option with overnight stay at Australian Camp:
Begin with a morning pickup from your hotel in Pokhara and a drive to Phedi, the starting point of your trek. Ascend via Dhampus Village, taking your time to enjoy the forest trails and village life, before reaching Australian Camp at 2,060 m. Witness the golden sunset over the Annapurna range and spend the night in a mountain lodge under the stars. On Day 2, wake early to watch a breathtaking sunrise, then slowly descend to Kande, soaking in the Himalayan views one last time, before driving back to your hotel in Pokhara.
Why This Circuit?
The Best “Effort-to-View” Ratio: Achieve 180° Himalayan panoramas with just a moderate climb, skipping weeks of trekking.
Cultural Immersion: Walk through living villages and experience authentic Gurung culture—from traditional farming to tales of British Gurkha soldiers.
Flexible Adventure: Perfect for those short on time but high on spirit. Whether you choose the 1-day express or 2-day overnight, enjoy a complete mountain experience—sunset, sunrise, and village life.
Itinerary Options:
Option A: 1-Day Express (The Quick Escape)
08:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel in Pokhara
08:15 AM: Drive to Kande, trek starting point
09:00 AM: Begin 2-hour hike to Australian Camp
11:30 AM: Lunch with 180° Himalayan views
01:30 PM: Gentle descent to Dhampus Village
03:30 PM: Descend to Phedi and drive back to Pokhara, arriving at your hotel in the late afternoon
04:15 PM: Drop back to your hotel in Pokhara
Option B: 2-Day Trek with overnight stay at Australian Camp.
08:00 AM Day 1: Pickup from your hotel in Pokhara
08:15 AM: Drive to Phedi, trek starting point
09:00 AM: Trek via Dhampus to Australian Camp (2,060 m)
Evening: Enjoy sunset over the Annapurna range and overnight in a mountain lodge
Day 2: Wake for a breathtaking sunrise, descend to Kande, and drive back to Pokhara, arriving at your hotel
10:00 AM: Hike down to Kande
11:30 AM: Drive back to Pokhara
01:00 PM: Drop back to your hotel in Pokhara
Quick Facts:
Duration: 1-Day Express (~7 hours) or 2-Day Overnight
Best For: Culture enthusiasts, photographers, and peace-seekers
