Experience Astam, Dhampus & Australian Camp in One Short Trek
The Astam Village Trek 2 Days is one of the best short treks near Pokhara, combining stunning Himalayan views with authentic Nepali village life. This easy trek passes through Australian Camp and Dhampus before finally reaching the overnight stop at peaceful Astam Village. Along the way, travellers encounter both natural beauty and local culture, making it a perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience nature and village life in just two days. Known as the Dhampus Astam Trek, this route is ideal for beginners, families, and photographers. Moreover, it offers easy Annapurna treks with breathtaking mountain panoramas.
Astam Village Trek – Overview
Trip Duration: 1 night, 2 days
- Max Altitude: 2060m
- Start: Pokhara
- End: Pokhara
- Difficulty: Easy
- Transportation: Private Vehicle
- Accommodation: Private Room in Tea Houses
- Group Size: For individuals, friends, and family members. All our treks are private.
- Meals: All included
Note: This trek does not require any trekking permits.
Astam Village Trek – Price
Price per person (with food): USD 170
Private treks, shared savings
All our treks are private — designed for individuals, friends, and families rather than large fixed groups. If you happen to know other travellers who would also like to join the same trek on the same dates, we’d be more than happy to take you all together — this brings the per-person cost down for everyone. Likewise, if we come across other travellers interested in the same trek and dates, we’ll be glad to suggest the option to you as well. If you are already travelling as a group of more than one person, just let us know and we’ll provide you the exact price per person based on your group size. Either way, we’re happy to help make your trek more affordable.
What’s Included in the Astam Village Trek
- Trekking guide
- Trekking poles
- Food (meals include only the main course and tea or coffee) It doesn’t include starters or desserts.
- Private lodgings
- Hot shower
- Mineral water
- A first-aid kit or Medical kit
- Toilet paper
- Transportation: Private car with pick-up and drop-off service from your hotel in the Lakeside area.
What’s Excluded
- Alcoholic beverages or soft drinks
- However, a porter isn’t included. If you need a porter, we can provide one for an extra fee.
- Wifi
- Cell phone charging
- Hot drinking water
- Your personal expenses
- Personal Travel Insurance.
Highlights of the Astam Village Trek
- Stunning Himalayan views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal
- Scenic Australian Camp Trek route through Dhampus and Astam Village
- Peaceful landscapes of rhododendron forests, terraced fields & local villages
- An authentic cultural experience with Gurung and Brahmin communities
- Spectacular sunrise and sunset views from Dhampus and Astam. Equally important, these moments are among the most memorable parts of the trek.
- Short, easy trek from Pokhara – no permits required. Additionally, it saves both time and cost for travellers.
- It is ideal for beginners looking for easy Annapurna treks.
Best Time for the Astam Village Trek
This trek can be enjoyed all year round, but each season offers something different. From October to November, the skies are crystal clear and the Annapurna views are at their most dramatic. Meanwhile, March and April bring warm days and blooming rhododendron forests along the trail. Winter, from December to February, offers quiet trails and sharp mountain views, though you will need warm layers for the cold mornings in Astam and Dhampus. In contrast, during the monsoon months of June to September, clouds often hide the peaks, yet the rice terraces turn a brilliant green and the villages are at their most peaceful.
Astam Village Trek Route Map – Dhampus & Australian Camp Trek
Detailed Astam Village Trek Itinerary – 2 Days
Day 1 – Pokhara to Astam Village (1522M) via Australian Camp (2060M) & Dhampus (1650M)
Drive Duration: Approx. 1 hour
Duration: Approx. 6-6.5 hours walk
We’ll start the day with a 1-hour drive from Pokhara (822 m) to Kande. After that, we’ll begin our hike to Dhampus village through Australian Camp. Australian Camp sits at around 2,060 meters and is a popular stop on the Australian Camp Trek. In addition, it provides stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna Range, including Machhapuchhare and Lamjung Himal. You can relax with a cup of masala tea, meditate, and also enjoy the snow-capped Himalayas.
Afterward, the trail continues towards Dhampus village with scenic surroundings. Once in Dhampus (at approximately 1,650 meters), we’ll have a refreshing lunch. Dhampus is home to various ethnic groups like Gurungs, Brahmins, Chhetris, and Dalits. In addition, it offers a spectacular mountain panorama of its own. As a result, many trekkers stay longer here just to watch the evening light on the peaks This section of the route is also popular among families and those looking for easy Annapurna treks without long climbs.
After a lunch break, we’ll continue our journey to Astam village. Astam, at an elevation of about 1,522 meters, provides a 360-degree view of Pokhara, Hemja, Mardi Valley, and the majestic Annapurna Range. Moreover, Astam offers peaceful surroundings, traditional village life, and panoramic Himalayan scenery. Altogether, the walking duration for Day 1, including breaks, is around 6 to 6.5 hours. It provides a fulfilling yet manageable trekking day.
Day 2: Astam Village (1522m) to Pokhara via Melbot
Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours walk
Duration: Approx. 45 min. drive
The second day begins with a descent from Astam village to Melbot. Meanwhile, you’ll enjoy a scenic route that captures the essence of the region. Along the way, we pass through chestnut forests with mesmerizing views. Additionally, we immerse ourselves in the cultural nuances of the area. The hike concludes at Melbot, from where we’ll drive back to Pokhara in a private car for a comfortable return. Finally, this completes the unforgettable two-day Dhampus Astam Trek. This adventure not only provides a physical challenge. At the same time, it promises an immersive experience of the natural and cultural wonders of the Himalayan region. In total, expect 2 hours and 30 minutes of walking and 40–45 minutes of driving.
- Please note that the trekking duration mentioned for each day is an approximate estimate and can vary depending on individual hiking paces, weather conditions, and other factors. Nevertheless, the trek remains suitable for all fitness levels. Similarly, packing wisely ensures comfort during the trek.
👉 “If you don’t have enough time for a two-day trek, we also offer a one-day hike to Australian Camp and Dhampus, along with other beautiful day hikes in Pokhara.
Personal Supplies for the Astam Village Trek
The personal supplies you require for this trek will totally depend on which season you choose to trek. For example, winter trekkers may need extra layers, while summer trekkers can pack lighter.
Headgear
- Sun hat or scarf
- Winter hat
Face protection
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Face/body wipe
Hand wear
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight winter gloves
Body wear
- Hiking shorts
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Hooded rain jacket or wind shell
- Fleece jacket
- Lightweight cotton pants
- T-shirt ( bring lightweight wool)
- Polypropylene Underwears
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
Trekking Footwear
- Hiking boots or sport shoes
- Thick & light socks( take an extra pair of thick and light socks)
- Sandals
Essential gears
- Backpack or day pack bag
- Thermal bottle
- Medium-size drying towel
Hygiene
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Face wash
- Body wash
Personal accessories
- Money
- Watch
- Cell phone
- Camera
- Power Adapters and Chargers
Extra supplies
- First aid kit (Note: The guide will carry a first-aid kit on the trip. However, personal kits and medications are highly recommended.)
- Lip Guard
- Notebook and pen.
- Mosquito Repellent spray
- Moleskin for blister
👉 Furthermore, read more about the Annapurna Conservation Area from the official Nepal Tourism Board.
Why Choose the Astam Village Trek?
The Astam Village Trek 2 Days is one of the most rewarding short treks near Pokhara. In fact, it is perfect for travellers who want to combine culture, nature, and stunning Himalayan views in a limited timeframe. Unlike longer treks in the Annapurna region, this Dhampus Astam Trek route requires no permits.
Each stage offers something unique, from the viewpoints of Australian Camp and Dhampus to the serene atmosphere of Astam Village. Moreover, it ensures that both nature and culture are equally rewarding throughout the journey. Most importantly, whether you are a beginner, a family, or a photographer, this trek promises a rich cultural and natural experience. Furthermore, the route is designed to be enjoyed without strenuous climbs. Overall, among the many easy Annapurna treks, this 2-day adventure stands out for its cultural charm and close proximity to Pokhara. And if two days is more than you have, our shorter walk through Dhampus and Astam in a single day covers similar scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions – Astam Village Trek
Do I need a permit for the Astam Village Trek?
No, this trek does not require any trekking permits. The route through Australian Camp, Dhampus, and Astam lies just outside the permit zones of the Annapurna region. As a result, it is one of the most hassle-free short treks near Pokhara.
How difficult is the trek from Kande to Astam?
This is one of the easy Annapurna treks suitable for all fitness levels, with around 6 to 6.5 hours of walking on Day 1 and only 2.5 hours on Day 2. In addition, the trails are well-maintained village paths with no steep or dangerous sections. Therefore, beginners with basic fitness can complete it comfortably.
Can children do this trek?
Yes, this trek is very family-friendly and children who can walk a few hours are welcome. Moreover, the walking pace is always adjusted to the slowest member of the group, and our treks are fully private. For younger children, we can also arrange a porter for an extra fee.
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