Pothana is a ridge stop in the Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill region, on the foothill trail that links Kande, Australian Camp, Dhampus and the forest beyond. At roughly 1,900 m it is a common first-day or second-day waypoint for short treks from Pokhara and for the longer climb toward the High Camp.
Altitude: about 1,900 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Pothana is and why trekkers stop
Pothana lies on the ridge above the road, reached from Kande via Australian Camp. Our guides describe a short overnight where you walk up from Kande on day one, then follow the ridge to Pothana and Dhampus on day two before descending to Phedi for the drive back. It also appears on longer itineraries that continue into the forest camp and the High Camp, so trekkers stop here to rest or sleep.
What to expect at Pothana
Expect a small settlement on the ridge with teahouses and lodges, terraced fields below and forest above. The mood is quiet, especially compared with the lowland roads. Some jeeps can drive further up in certain conditions, so the road may reach nearby, but it depends on weather and surface. Footpaths are mostly steps and earth tracks. On clear mornings, views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre can be seen from the ridge, though cloud often arrives later.
Altitude and how you may feel
At about 1,900 m, Pothana is higher than Kande and lower than the forest camp and High Camp, so the sleeping altitude rises if you continue upward. Most people feel only tired legs. Altitude illness is unlikely at this level, but it can strike higher on longer itineraries, so keep drinking water and tell your guide about headache or nausea. If symptoms worsen, descend. Climbing early in the day helps avoid midday heat.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodges offer simple rooms, shared dining and standard trekking meals. Bring small cash, a rain jacket and a warm layer for the evening, since ridge winds can feel cool. Because Pothana can be a one night stop or a pause, confirm your plan with the lodge so they can prepare food. Carry enough water for the climb and refill with purified supplies. If you finish via Dhampus and Phedi, arrange a vehicle in advance to avoid waiting at the roadhead.
Common questions
Where is Pothana on the Australian Camp route?
From Kande the trail climbs to Australian Camp, Pothana and the forest. Pothana is a ridge waypoint beyond Australian Camp, and it also connects to Dhampus and Phedi.
Can I do Pothana as a short trek?
Yes. A common plan walks up from Kande on day one, then follows the ridge to Pothana and Dhampus on day two and descends to Phedi for the drive back.
Do jeeps reach Pothana?
Our guides say some jeeps can drive further up to Pothana in certain conditions. Road surface and weather vary, so confirm with your driver before relying on a vehicle.
