The Australian Camp trek usually takes one night and two days from Pokhara. You drive to Kande or Phedi, climb for two to three hours, stay near the camp, watch the sunrise and walk down via Dhampus.
One night or a long day
Australian Camp can be done as an overnight trip, or as a long day trip if you start early. Staying overnight is better, because sunrise is the main reward. Heights and times below are approximate.
Option 1: overnight from Pokhara
Drive from Pokhara to Kande or Phedi in about 45 minutes. From Kande, walk up through forest to Australian Camp in two to three hours, arriving by early afternoon. Spend the evening on the ridge, wake before dawn for the sunrise, and walk down to Dhampus or Phedi in the morning, then drive back.
Option 2: a two-day loop
Walk up from Kande to Australian Camp on day one. On day two, follow the ridge to Pothana and Dhampus and descend to Phedi for the drive back. This variation gives you more walking and more village life.
Option 3: a longer link
Experienced hikers sometimes continue to Landruk or the Panchase ridge for a three-day walk. The extra days add forest and views, but also steeper sections.
What to bring
Carry water, a rain jacket, warm layers for the morning and a head torch. Cash for the lodge is needed.
Sunrise timing
Wake about an hour before sunrise, wrap up warm and walk to the viewpoint a few minutes from the lodge. The colour changes quickly, so be ready with a camera. After sunrise, return for breakfast and let the mist clear before descending.
Choosing a trailhead
Kande is the quickest start, with a short drive from Pokhara. Phedi has the staircase to Dhampus and offers a longer climb. Your guide can recommend the best choice for your group.
Common questions
- Can I do it in one day? Yes as a long day trip, but a night is better.
- Which start is best? Kande is most common.
- What do I carry? Water, warm layers, a head torch and a rain jacket.
Notes
See the difficulty guide.
