Highlights
- Take in panoramic views of the Himalaya from the beautiful Pokhara Valley
- Short, lower altitude treks are perfect for inexperienced hikers & families
- Spend your nights at welcoming guest houses & farm stays
- Experience the customs & culture of traditional Nepali villages
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Fly to Pokhara, Transfer to Kande, Trek to Australian Camp | Australian Camp |
| Day 2 | Trek from Australian Camp to Astam | Astam |
| Day 3 | Trek from Astam to Ghachok | Ghachok |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Pokhara & Departure | Pokhara |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Fly to Pokhara, Transfer to Kande, Trek to Australian Camp
Welcome to Nepal! From the capital of Kathmandu, you'll catch a stunning half-hour flight over the Himalaya to reach the small city of Pokhara. Upon arrival, you'll have time for lunch before meeting your driver for the scenic hour's transfer out of town towards Kande, the starting point of your trek.
A world away from the bustle of Kathmandu, this first stretch of trekking takes you uphill through the Annapurna foothills to reach your first base for the night—a traditional tea house at Australian Camp. While the day's trek is gentle and appropriate for inexperienced hikers and most families, you can also arrange for children under four to be carried in a comfortable porter's basket.
Walking time: Approx. 2 hours
Day 2: Trek from Australian Camp to Astam
After breakfast in Australian Camp, set out along the ridgeline to reach the picturesque village of Astam. Aptly translated as "Sunset Village," this incredible spot boasts amazing views of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Mountain) surrounded by the peaks of the Annapurna section of the Himalaya.
Your destination for the night is a charming, eco-friendly guest house set on a family farm. Kids can try their hand at milking the resident cows and get a feel for farm life before settling into a comfortable cottage for the evening.
Walking time: Approx. 4-5 hours
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Trek from Astam to Ghachok
Awake to spectacular Himalaya views this morning and start the day with a hearty breakfast—your hosts are famous for their buckwheat pancakes and great coffee. Then it's time to hit the trail and follow the ridgeline (or the road if you prefer an easier hike) down to the river. From here you'll continue across a bridge and enter the sprawling village of Ghachok. Strolling through the fascinating settlement, you'll see many different cultural and ethnic groups with different styles of housing and clothing, and gain insight into the daily life of a Nepali village as you exchange smiles with the friendly locals.
Continue up out of the village and contour around the hillside, following an irrigation stream with great views out over the patchwork fields of rice, wheat, buckwheat, and vegetables. To finish off the day's hike, a short but steep descent takes you to a mountain stream, where you can take a welcome dip in the water before a short (but steep) climb takes you back to Ghachok. Wind your way through the streets to reach a charming guest house, where you'll be welcomed by your host for the evening.
Walking time: Approx. 3 hours
Day 4: Transfer to Pokhara & Departure
Bid farewell to your host and the village of Ghachok this morning and make the short drive back to Pokhara. If you have free time to spend in this scenic lakeside town, there's an abundance of activities on offer. Go for a leisurely boat ride on the lake, or visit one of the Tibetan villages that dot the area, where Tibetan carpets and other handicrafts can be obtained while supporting the vibrant refugee community. Hire a bike and cycle along the lakeside, try your hand at tandem paragliding, or just relax and take in the surroundings in one of the many lakeside cafes.
When the time comes, you'll bid the Himalaya farewell and continue your onward journey. Safe travels!
More Nepal Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Nepal? Check out these other Nepal itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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