Exploring the area around Pokhara gives you an opportunity to experience what it is like trekking in the Himalayas. The region is about 30 kilometers northwest of Pokhara, closer to Mount Fishtail and Annapurna Himalayas. The trail winds through the scenic and popular teahouse settlement of "Australian camp" and follows the ridge through Dhampus to Astam village. Most of the route is scenic with charming villages, terraces glistening with seasonal crops across the sweeping valley that is walled in to the north by gigantic snow peaks. First, climb to the ridge and then follow the ridge to Astam village. There are several options of driving to the highest point and making the trip shorter and the route can be customized as per your walking interest.
Accommodation:
Spend the first night at Australian camp overlooking the Himalayas. This is a small teahouse settlement in the Rhododendron forest above Dhampus village. These teahouses are well established and have professionally catered to trekkers for over 15 years. The accommodation will have an attached toilet and bathroom with hot shower.
The second night in Astam village will be spent at "Annapurna Eco Village Resort" which has simple yet comfortable rooms with attached bathroom / toilet. The hilltop resort and the village adopts eco-friendly measures of reusing water, rainwater harvesting and organic farming.
Guides:
A professional, licensed and experienced trekking guide will lead the walking. There will be porters to carry luggage to each day's destination who can offer a deeper perspective on Nepalese lifestyle, culture and stories from the mountains.
Meals:
Meals are not included in this package but it is possible to order meals in the teahouses and pay directly. These teahouses serve simple but delicious international cuisines.
Trek Itinerary:
Day 1: Drive to Naudanda and hike to Australian camp
Drive for about half an hour to Naudanda in the western valley rim of Pokhara, walk gradually down to the stream and climb to Dhampus in 2 hours. Walk another 1 hour to Pothana village and stop for lunch. After lunch, walk 30 minutes to Australian camp for the overnight stop.
Day 2: Trek 4 hours to Annapurna Eco village Resort in Astam
Enjoy breakfast in the morning with a view of the Himalayas. Later walk along the scenic ridge to Astam village. Check in "Annapurna Eco Village Resort". Enjoy the organic meals and learn about the organic farm, village and the eco-friendly measures they are undertake.
Day 3: Trek 2 hours down to the highway and drive back to Pokhara