TREK OVERVIEW:
Trip Duration: 1 night, 2 days.
Max Altitude: 1568m
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.
TREK HIGHLIGHTS:
Experience the beauty of the Annapurna region with breathtaking Himalayan views from Australian Camp, Dhampus, and Astam Village. Enjoy a peaceful escape into nature, walking through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Dhampus village, known for its warm hospitality and panoramic mountain scenery. Discover the tranquility of Astam Village, a hidden gem offering an authentic Nepali village experience with spectacular Himalayan landscapes. This short and easy trek from Pokhara is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a serene Himalayan getaway.
Astam Village Trekking Map
ITINERARY:
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande (1700 m) in a private car and hike to Dhampus (1650 m) via Australian Camp (1980 m) and then to Astam Village (1522 m)
Drive Duration: Approx. 1 hour
Duration: Approx. 6-6.5 hours walk
We’ll start the day with a 1-hour drive from Pokhara (820 m) to Kande. From Kande, we’ll begin our hike to Dhampus village through Australian Camp. Australian Camp, situated at around 1,980 meters, provides stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna Range, including Machhapuchhare and Lamjung Himal. You can relax with a cup of masala tea, meditate, and enjoy the snow-capped Himalayas. 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, and it offers spectacular views of the Annapurna Range. Dhampus is also renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and sunrises.
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. It’s one of the most spectacular places to witness a sunset and sunrise in the Himalayas. Astam also gives insight into the rural village life of Adhikari and Brahmins, who have lived in these mid-hills for generations. The total walking duration for Day 1, including breaks, is around 6 hours to 6.5 hours.
Day 2: Astam Village (1522 m) to Pokhara (820 m) 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, offering a scenic route that captures the essence of the region. As we trek down the trails, we pass through chestnut forests with mesmerizing views and 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, completing the unforgettable 1-night, 2-day Astam Village hike. This adventure not only provides a physical challenge but also promises an immersive experience of the natural and cultural wonders of the Himalayan region. Approximately 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.
INCLUDES:
- 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 (pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel)
EXCLUDES:
- No alcoholic beverages or soft drinks
- A porter isn’t included. If you need a porter, we can provide one for an extra fee.
- Sleeping bag (we rent sleeping bags for an additional fee).
- Wifi
- Cell phone charging
- Hot drinking water
- Your personal expenses
- Personal Travel Insurance.
PERSONAL SUPPLIES FOR THE TREK:
The personal supplies you require for this trek depend on the season in which you are trekking.
Head
- Sun hat or scarf
- Winter hat
Face
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Face/body wipe
Hands
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight winter gloves
Body
- Hiking shirts
- 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
Footwear
- Hiking boots or sport shoes
- Thick & light socks( take an extra pair of thick and light socks)
- Sandals
Essential gear
- Backpack or day pack bag
- Thermal bottle
- Medium-size drying towel
Toiletries
- 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