Australian Camp Trek

The journey to the Australian Camp Trek begins in Pokhara, a charming city located in the western part of Nepal. From Pokhara, you will travel via the Pokhara-Baglung Highway headed westbound towards Kande, the starting point of Australian Camp Trek. This distance from Pokhara to Kande is 30 kilometers, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Lakeside. Our private vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in Pokhara, and you will be driven to Kande. Your hiking journey will begin from Kande as you head eastward, taking the foot trail through the village.

History of Australian Camp

Previously, Australian Camp was known as “Thulo Kharka,” which generally means “big pasture.” This Australian Camp was located to the east, while to the west, there is a famous trekking trail that leads to the Annapurna Sanctuary or Annapurna Base Camp. In the 1980s, Thulo Kharka was not a popular destination. The distance from the Australian Camp to the Phedi-Dhampus-Pothana-Deurali-Landruk-Chhomrong route was just a 15-minute walk.

It is believed that during the late 1980s, a group of tourists from Austria found it extremely beautiful. The place offered a breathtaking mountain view, the natural surroundings were surreal, and they fell in love with the place. They often visited and camped there at Thulo Kharkha. Since then, the locals started calling it an Austrian Base Camp. It was very confusing and challenging for Nepali people to pronounce Austria, and they named it an “Australian Base Camp”. This is how the Australian Base Camp got its name.

Cultural Highlights and Local Experiences in Australian Camp Day Hike

The Australian Camp Trek offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the local communities located in the outskirts of Pokhara. Along the trekking route, you will encounter villages inhabited by different ethnic groups, such as the Magar, Gurung, and Brahmin communities. Take the time to interact with the locals, learn about their way of life, and sample their delicious traditional cuisine. This cultural exchange will undoubtedly enrich your trekking experience. Also, adding icing on top of the cake are mighty Himalayan mountains that remain within your sight all throughout the Australian Camp Dhampus Trek.

Australian Base Camp Trek Route

Australian Camp Dhampus Trek is a short hike that begins from Pokhara, offering a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Starting from Kande, the trek begins with a steep ascent, which may challenge even the fittest trekkers. However, the effort is well worth it as you make your way through dense forests, passing by traditional farmhouses and experiencing the warm hospitality of the local communities.

As you continue your trek, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Australian Camp, a picturesque campsite surrounded by the Himalayas. Here, you can witness the magical sunrise over the mountains, painting the sky with hues of red, orange, and pink.

The panoramic views from the Australian Base Camp are truly awe-inspiring, with Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna, and Mt. Machhapuchhre dominating the horizon. The locals call the Australian camp “Thulo Kharka,” which means big pastureland for buffalo and cows. In the past, this camp used to serve as a camping ground for trekkers, venturing for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The duration of your trek from Kande to Australian Camp is about 1.5 hours through easy-going foot trails.

From the Australian camp, you will further make your way towards Dhampus, another prominent village in the foothills of the Annapurna mountains. The trekking duration is about 1 hour, and you reach a hilly hamlet snuggled with teahouses. Dhampur portrays a typical Gurung and Magar village which has been built for tourists. There are lots of accommodation and dining options in Dhampus and this will be your final destination before starting your return. Lots of trekkers name this trek the Dhampus Australian Camp trek, owing to the destinations included.

You will have your lunch at Dhampus, witnessing the amazing Himalayan views of the north. Post-lunch, you will begin your descent journey towards Phedi, where our vehicle will be waiting for your arrival. From Phedi, another 30-minute drive will take you to Pokhara and to your hotel, where your Australian camp trek ends.

The duration of the Australian Camp Trek can differ, but it can be completed in as little as a day, making it a perfect weekend getaway. However, for those who wish to immerse themselves in the beauty of the region, we can customize the Australian camp trek itinerary based on your preference.

Pokhara to Australian base camp distance

The distance from Pokhara to the Australian Base Camp is approximately 35 kilometers. The distance from Pokhara to Kande, which is the starting point of the trek, is around 26 kilometers. The road from Pokhara to Kande offers an hour-long, mesmerizing journey where you’ll drive alongside the free-flowing Seti River.

Your hike toward the Australian Base Camp begins at Kande, covering a distance of around 8 kilometers. You will encounter innocent and extremely hospitable people as you trek through colorful forests and charming villages before reaching the base camp. Additionally, you will be treated to stunning views of the Annapurna mountain ranges along the way.

Trek start and End

This trek will start after your breakfast at your Hotel and bring you back to your Hotel after the trek.

Transportation

A private vehicle will come to pick you up at your Hotel and drive to Kande in 40 minutes to 1 hour. The trek will end at Phedi, and from Phedi drive back to your Hotel 30 minutes by private vehicle.

What to wear

The highest elevation of this trip is 2060m. You need to wear a light jacket, hiking shoes, a hat, a small bag, trousers, a T-shirt, a bottle of water etc. If you are doing this trip in the monsoon, you are recommended to bring Umbrella.

Available for this trek

Himalaya Trip organizes an Australian camp day hike every day. You can do a private hike with your family and friends. It is also possible to join with a group.

Australian Camp Trek Map

Himalaya Trip ensures that each of its clients receives a comprehensive map of Australian Camp Trek. A map serves as a crucial tool for navigating the trail, strategically planning the trek, and gaining a thorough understanding of the terrain. Possessing a detailed map and having the ability to interpret it correctly can be a lifesaver in the event of any uncertainties that may arise during the trekking expedition.

​Cost of Australian Camp Trek

Australian Camp Trek cost is dependent on the itinerary you choose. Our standard itinerary involves a day hike to Australian Camp and Dhampus and returning in the evening. This Australian Camp Trek package includes ground transportation, a trekking guide, and lunch for your trekking journey. Himalaya trip offers an Australian Camp day hike package for USD 35 to USD 55, depending on group size. If you have any personal preference for an Australian camp trek, we can custom design the itinerary and quote in accordance with your trek.

​Trek Difficulty

The Australian Camp Trek is considered to be a moderately easy trek, suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The highest point of the Australian Camp trek is around 2060 meters, making it accessible for those without prior hiking experience. Australian camp remains one of the best beginner treks for people. You can venture on this trek regardless of your previous experience, gender, physical ability, and endurance capacity.

Best Time to Trek Australian Camp

The best time for Australian Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally clear and stable, offering the best visibility of the mountains. The spring season brings vibrant rhododendron blooms, adding a splash of color to the landscape. Autumn, on the other hand, offers mild temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal time for trekking. Furthermore, winter months ranging from December to February are also good for this trip. Since the elevation is low, winter months don’t have any weather effects in the terrain of the Australian camp as well.