This might be one of my favorite day hikes in Nepal. I set off from Pokhara to explore Dhampus and Australian Camp—two peaceful mountain villages with chai stops, Himalayan views, and quiet forest trails that felt worlds away from the city. Come hike with me.
Sipping Chai with the Himalayas in Sight
Some hikes leave you breathless from the elevation. Others from the views. My day hike to Australian Camp and Dhampus Village, nestled in the lower Annapurna foothills, did both—and then handed me a warm chai to recover with.
Starting from Pokhara, I set out with a local guide who not only led the way but helped me avoid tourist traps, like the “random guard posts” that sometimes overcharge unsuspecting foreigners for trail access. With his help, everything felt smooth and respectful—like I was being shown a secret path rather than just following a marked trail.
Through Villages, Forests, and Pastures
We passed through stone-paved paths, terraced farms, and lush forest trails as the city noise faded behind us. Along the way, I saw children running barefoot, giggling and chasing each other, while elderly villagers tended to goats and millet fields, flashing warm smiles or quiet nods as we passed.
There’s a hum of everyday life in these hills—so different from the buzz of Pokhara—and something deeply grounding about walking through it. You’re not just a tourist on a trail; you’re a guest passing through someone’s home.
Australian Camp: Chai with a View
When we reached Australian Camp, I was instantly struck by the panorama: Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) stood dramatically to the north, its distinctive pointed summit piercing the sky. In the distance, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri shimmered in the afternoon light.
We stopped for chai at a quiet teahouse, sipping slowly while soaking in the 360-degree views. Australian Camp was originally a training site for foreign trekkers—hence the name—but today it offers some of the best accessible views in the region without the crowds of Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp.
The Trail to Dhampus
From there, we continued to the village of Dhampus, a serene spot perched above the Pokhara Valley. It’s known for its vantage points, with postcard-worthy views of the Annapurna range, Manaslu, and even Lamjung Himal on a clear day.
We passed viewpoints where eagles soared overhead, and I couldn’t resist stopping for dozens of photos. Each curve in the path revealed another jaw-dropping view. It’s a reminder of how compact yet immense Nepal feels—the mountains are always just a step away.
Local Life and Meaningful Travel
The hike took just a day, but it offered so much more than just steps and scenery. It was a glimpse into traditional Gurung village life, into the kind of natural beauty that stops you mid-sentence, and into the generosity of local people and guides who keep these trails alive and thriving.
Tips for Your Day Hike to Dhampus & Australian Camp
- Hire a local guide: They can help you avoid scams, find hidden routes, and coordinate your return transport.
- Start early: The morning light over the mountains is unbeatable.
- Bring small cash: For chai, snacks, or souvenirs at the teahouses.
- Wear layers: It gets chilly with the elevation gain and wind.
- Respect village life: Greet people with “Namaste,” and don’t enter private property without asking.
This hike may not be the longest or most famous in Nepal, but it’s one of those rare, perfect days where everything clicks: warm people, grand views, and hot chai in hand.
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