Australian Camp is a small cluster of lodges on a ridge with views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre. It lies above Pokhara in the Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill region, at about 2,060 m. The short, easy overnight trek from Kande is popular for a sunrise view without heading far into the mountains.
Altitude: about 2,060 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Australian Camp is and why trekkers stop
Australian Camp sits on a ridge reached by walking up from Kande, a roadside village near Pokhara. Our route pages link it with Kande, Pothana, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp and Badal Danda. Most visitors treat it as the high point of a short overnight, sleeping there for sunrise and returning next day. Others use it as a starting point for longer ridge walks toward the forest and High Camp. Weather often decides how long groups linger.
What the camp is like
Expect a handful of simple lodges on open ground with terraces, a dining room and benches for viewing. The main attraction is the morning light on the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre when the sky is clear. Facilities are basic, so rooms are small and bathrooms are shared. Evenings are quiet, and the cool air makes a hot drink welcome. The camp is not wild camping, despite the name, and lodges handle meals and beds.
Altitude and how you may feel
Australian Camp is higher than Kande and lower than the forest and High Camp stops, so the sleeping altitude here is modest. Most people feel well, apart from the effort of the climb. Altitude illness is unlikely at this level, but it can occur on higher ridge itineraries, so drink water and mention any headache or nausea to your guide. If symptoms worsen, descend. Plan to arrive in daylight so you can settle before dark.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Bring warm layers, a rain jacket and a headlamp for the pre dawn walk to the viewpoint. Meals are simple, with rice, noodles and eggs typical, and carrying small cash helps. Check the forecast, because cloud can hide the view. Because it is a short, easy overnight, it suits families and first-time trekkers, but keep to the trail and leave no rubbish. If you plan to continue to Pothana or the camps beyond, tell your lodge early.
Stage guides that pass through Australian Camp
These day-by-day guides start or end at Australian Camp, with walking times, ascent and where to sleep.
- Pokhara to Australian Camp trek: stages, altitude and time
- Kande to Australian Camp trek: altitude, time and route
- Australian Camp to Badal Danda trek: stages, altitude and time
- Australian Camp to High Camp trek: stages, altitude and time
- Australian Camp to Low Camp trek: stages, altitude and time
- Australian Camp to Forest Camp trek: altitude, time and route
Common questions
Is Australian Camp a short trek?
Yes. It is a short, easy overnight trek from Pokhara with a sunrise view. Walkers usually climb from Kande, sleep at the camp and return the next day.
What can I see from Australian Camp?
The lodges sit on a ridge with views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre. Clear mornings give the best light, while cloud often builds later in the day.
Can I continue beyond Australian Camp?
Yes. Trails lead on to Pothana, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp and Badal Danda. Times vary with pace and trail conditions, so plan extra days if you want to go further.
