Dhampus Village Trek
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Trek Details
Max Altitude:
The maximum altitude for the Dhampus village trek itself is around 1,750m (5,741 ft), but if you extend the trek to include the popular Australian Camp, the maximum elevation reaches approximately 2,060m (6,758 ft), offering stunning Annapurna views with very low risk of altitude sickness.
Location: Nepal (Annapurna Foothills Region)
Estimated Price: $250-$600 (Depending on package, group size and desired number of days, excursions and amenities).
All treks are customizable.
Number of days: ~ (shorter directly from Pokhara or combine days)
Season:
The best seasons for the Dhampus Village trek are Spring (March-May) for rhododendrons and lush greenery, and Autumn (September-November) for clear skies, stable weather, and stunning Annapurna views, with pleasant temperatures. Winter (Dec-Feb) offers snow-capped peaks and fewer crowds but is colder, while Monsoon (June-Aug) brings rain, slippery trails, and cloudy skies, better suited for keen photographers.
The Dhampus Village Trek is a short, scenic hike near Pokhara, Nepal, ideal for beginners, offering stunning sunrise/sunset views of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges (Machhapuchhre/Fishtail prominent), through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages like Dhampus & Australian Camp, known for rich culture, warm hospitality, and easy-to-moderate trails with cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Key Highlights
Breathtaking Views: Panoramic vistas of Annapurna South, Fishtail (Machhapuchhre), Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri peaks.
Cultural Immersion: Experience Gurung culture, traditional stone houses, and warm local hospitality.
Diverse Landscapes: Walk through rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and terraced farms.
Accessibility: Relatively easy, suitable for families and those with less trekking experience, often done as a 1-3 day trip from Pokhara.
Typical Route & Experience (Day Hike Example):
-Drive to Kande: Start with a short drive from Pokhara.
-Hike to Australian Camp: An uphill walk through forests to reach Australian Camp for incredible mountain panoramas.
-Descend to Dhampus: A gentle downhill path leads to Dhampus village, known for its open views and traditional setting.
-Explore & Return: Spend time in the village, enjoy local food, then trek down to Phedi for a drive back to Pokhara.
Itinerary
Days 1-2:
Arrive in Kathmandu, sightseeing, and preparation. Welcome dinner with guide.
Day 3: Flight/Bus to Pokhara
Day 3: Pokhara to Dhampus (Drive & Trek)
Morning drive from Pokhara to Phedi (or Kande).
Trek uphill on stone steps through forests and terraced fields to Dhampus village (approx. 3-4 hours).
Explore the Gurung village, enjoy the close-up Annapurna views, and stay overnight in a lodge.
Day 4: Dhampus to Sarangkot (Trek & Views)
After breakfast, trek towards Australian Camp (optional, for morning views) or directly to Sarangkot.
The hike to Sarangkot takes about 4-5 hours, offering panoramic mountain vistas.
Overnight in Sarangkot to witness the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas.
Day 5: Sarangkot to Pokhara (Sunrise & Descent)
Wake up early for breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and Pokhara Valley.
Enjoy breakfast and then trek down to the lakeside (Phewa Lake) or take a short drive back to Pokhara.
Days 6/7: Return back to Kathmandu or to next planned region/excursion.