TRIP OVERVIEW:
Trip Duration: 1 night, 2 days.
Max Altitude: 1568m
Start: Pokhara
End: Pokhara
Difficulty: Easy
Transport: Private Vehicle and local bus
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.
Highlights of the Astam village trek:
Astam and Dhampus are typical Nepali mountain villages in the Annapurna region. They offer a real taste of village life in Nepal, giving visitors an authentic experience. The stunning views of the Annapurna Range make a beautiful backdrop, providing unmatched mountain scenery. The incredible sunsets and sunrises over the Himalayas add to the charm of these villages, creating a captivating atmosphere that stays with those who visit. Astam and Dhampus are perfect for travelers looking to escape the peaceful and beautiful life of a Himalayan village.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande (1700 m) and hike to Dhampus (1650 m) via Australian Camp (1980 m) and then to Astam Village (1522 m):
We’ll start the day with a 1 hour and 30-minute 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:
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 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.
What’s included:
- Trekking guide
- Trekking poles
- Trekking map
- A first-aid kit or Medical kit
- Food (meals include only the main course and tea or coffee) It doesn’t include starters or desserts.
- Private lodgings
- Hot shower
- Water purification tablets
- Mineral water
- Toilet paper
- Transportation (pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel)
What’s not included:
- 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
- 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