Short Day Trek: Pothana & Australian Camp from Pokhara

Imagine waking up in Pokhara, looking out over the shimmering lake, and then spending a day walking through forests, terraced fields, and mountain villages, all while soaking in some of Nepal’s most breathtaking Himalayan vistas. For just $88 per person, this 8-hour guided trek offers a chance to experience Nepal’s natural beauty and local culture without the long commitment of a multi-day expedition. Led by friendly guides from CAN Travels, the journey takes you from the lowlands around Pokhara to the height of Australian Camp, perched at over 2,000 meters. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (the famous Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and even the Manaslu range.

What we especially appreciate about this trek is its balance of ease and spectacle. It’s perfect for families or those new to hiking—no need for advanced mountaineering skills—yet the scenery makes it feel like a real Himalayan adventure. Another highlight? The opportunity to see traditional Gurung villages and their charming houses, which give a sense of authentic mountain life. Our guide, Dev, shared stories about the local villages, making the experience even richer.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a shorter trek, so if you’re craving a deep immersion into the mountains, you might find it a bit limited. It’s definitely a half-day adventure, best suited for travelers with limited time or those wanting a gentle introduction to trekking in Nepal. Overall, if you’re curious about Himalayan scenery but don’t want to commit days on the trail, this is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli, with unobstructed mountain panoramas at the Australian Camp.
• Accessible Trek: The hike is rated as easy to moderate, suitable for families and beginners.
• Cultural Experience: Pass through traditional Gurung villages, providing insight into local village life.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Pokhara, with a well-organized itinerary.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Relax in peaceful tea houses, enjoying mountain views and fresh air.
• Value for Money: For $88, this guided hike offers a lot of scenic and cultural value in a manageable day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out from Pokhara

Your day begins with a hotel pickup—a simple yet smart way to start, ensuring you don’t have to worry about transportation. Your guide, who speaks English fluently, will meet you with a name card, making the morning feel personalized and stress-free. The drive along the scenic Pokhara-Baglung highway takes about an hour, giving you your first glimpses of terraced fields, local villages, and the looming Himalayas behind.

Sitting comfortably in the vehicle, you’ll notice how the landscape transitions from lakeside bustle to rural tranquility. We loved the way the scenery changed, from busy streets to quiet countryside, setting the tone for a relaxed, nature-focused day.

Trek to Australian Camp

The trek begins at Kande, at 1770 meters, a popular starting point for many Himalayan hikes. From here, the trail ascends gradually through stone steps and lush forests—think rhododendrons and pines—offering a gentle warm-up for the day. The forestry here is thick, and the shade offers relief from the sun, making it an enjoyable hike even if you’re not an avid hiker.

The highlight of this part is reaching Australian Camp, at 2,050 meters, which is famous for its spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. We loved the unobstructed panoramic scenery that greeted us—stunning peaks of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre, with the distant silhouette of Manaslu. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a little rest. Many travelers mention how this spot provides “wide, unobstructed views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Manaslu ranges,” making it a true mountain paradise.

We took some time here to sip tea at a local teahouse, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping countless photos. The quiet, peaceful setting is ideal for relaxing and appreciating the mountain majesty.

Trek from Australian Camp to Pothana

After relaxing at the viewpoint, the trail winds gently downward through forested slopes to Pothana, at 1,890 meters. The walk offers a different perspective on the landscape, with views of terraced fields and small villages as you descend. Pothana is a quaint Gurung village, with traditional houses that give a glimpse into mountain life. The rhododendron forests around here add bursts of color, especially in the spring.

Lunchtime is at a local teahouse, where you can enjoy simple, hearty Nepali fare with mountain views. Many reviews mention how “lunch with the Himalayan backdrop was a highlight,” confirming that this is a great spot for a meal in the mountains.

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Return Journey

Post-lunch, the hike continues downhill back to Kande, taking roughly 1.5 hours. The descent offers a different experience—more forest, different angles of the hills, and a chance to see local life from a new perspective. This part of the trail is quite scenic, with a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for reflecting on the day.

From Kande, a short drive returns you to Pokhara, arriving in late afternoon or early evening. The ease of transportation and the well-organized itinerary make this an effortless adventure.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trek is ideal for beginners, families, or travelers with limited time who want a taste of Himalayan scenery without the physical or time commitment of multi-day treks. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic outing that combines natural beauty and local culture, this tour hits the spot. It’s also perfect if your schedule is tight but you still want to experience a mountain viewpoint and see Gurung villages.

Price & Value Analysis

At $88, this trip offers very good value. It includes hotel pickup, guiding, transportation, and a scenic hike with stunning views. Compared to longer treks or more intensive tours, this one is economical, especially considering the quality of the scenery and the convenience. For those who might not want to spend multiple days on the trail but still crave Himalayan vistas, the price is justified.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes and hiking clothes—layers are best to adapt to changing weather.
• Early spring (March-May) and autumn (September-December) are the best seasons, offering clear skies and warm days.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, due to the nature of the trail.
• Expect about 8 hours, including transportation, walking, and breaks, so plan for a full day.
• Since the hike is rated easy to moderate, most travelers should find it manageable, but always listen to your body.

The Sum Up

This short day trek from Pokhara to Pothana and Australian Camp strikes a nice balance between effort and reward. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a scenic, culturally enriching experience without the challenge of longer hikes. The views are genuinely stunning—a highlight for anyone wanting to see the Himalayas up close—while the villages and forests add authenticity to the journey.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Nepal or just looking for a peaceful escape into the mountains, this tour offers a gentle yet captivating taste of Himalayan life. Its convenience, affordability, and focus on natural beauty make it a worthwhile addition to your Nepal trip.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, it’s rated as easy to moderate, making it suitable for families and older travelers who are comfortable walking on gentle trails.

How long is the drive from Pokhara to Kande?
The drive takes approximately 1 hour, offering scenic views along the way.

What are the highlights of the trek?
The main highlights are the panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and the Gurung villages along the route.

Are meals included?
Lunch is served at a local teahouse at Pothana, giving you a chance to enjoy mountain views while eating.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes, hiking clothes, and layers to adapt to weather changes are recommended.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, but the best months are March to May and September to December for clear skies and good weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

Is transportation included?
Yes, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and arrange transportation back at the end of the day.

How crowded does it get?
While it’s a popular route, the trail is spacious enough to avoid feeling crowded, especially if you go early or later in the day.

This guided trek offers a perfect mix of Himalayan scenery, local culture, and manageable effort—an experience that leaves many travelers feeling refreshed and inspired by Nepal’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: