The hike from Pokhara to Australian Camp sounds like a wonderful adventure, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. With mesmerizing mountain vistas and panoramic views of peaks like Mt. Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiuchuli, Annapurna South, and Mt. Manaslu, this hike promises to be a visual delight.
Organized by Firantes, a private hiking trip can be arranged throughout the year, allowing you to choose a convenient time for your trek. Additionally, you have the option to combine this hike with other popular treks in the Annapurna region, such as the Mardi Himal Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Ghandruk Trek, and Poon Hill Trek, based on your preferences and interests.
If you opt to combine the Australian Camp hike with a sunrise view from Sarangkot, your day will begin before dawn as you drive to Sarangkot to witness the stunning sunrise. After enjoying a delightful breakfast at Sarangkot, you will continue your journey by driving to Kande. From Kande, situated at an elevation of 1,700 meters, you will embark on the trek to Australian Camp. The trail will take you through white sandal and rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and charming villages.
On the second day, you will make your way back to Pokhara, savoring the scenic beauty along the way. This route provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, history, and religion, enhancing your overall trekking experience.
Overall, this 2-day hike to Australian Camp from Pokhara offers a fulfilling and immersive trekking experience, combining the wonders of nature with insights into the local way of life.
The original name of Australian Camp is “Thulo Kharka,” which means big pasture. It used to be a place where buffalo and cow herders from nearby villages would bring their herds seasonally. Until the early 90s, it was not well-known or frequently visited by trekkers.
At that time, the popular route to Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (Annapurna Base Camp) from Phedi to Chhomrong was already established, just 15 minutes away to the west of Australian Camp.
In the late 80s, people from Austria discovered the beauty of Australian Camp and would come to camp there for several days. They were drawn to its peaceful and pristine environment, offering stunning mountain views. As the name “Austrian Camp” was difficult for the local Nepalese people to pronounce, it gradually became known as Australian Camp.
This change in name reflects the influence of the Austrian visitors and the local pronunciation, resulting in the adoption of the name Australian Camp. The story behind Australian Camp showcases the blend of different cultures and the remarkable allure of this serene and picturesque location.
The hike to the Australian Base Camp is easy and suitable for people of different ages. You don’t need any prior trekking experience to enjoy this short 2-day trek. It can be done in any season of the year, so you can choose a time that works best for you. Whether you’re a beginner or have some trekking experience, this hike is doable and offers a great adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to explore beautiful surroundings and enjoy nature’s wonders along the way.
The Australian Base Camp trek offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and stunning mountain vistas, making it a highly rewarding experience for trekkers seeking a shorter trek in the Annapurna region.
Our adventure begins with an early morning drive to Sarangkot, which takes approximately 40 minutes. It’s important to arrive before sunrise to witness the breathtaking beauty. We’ll savor the stunning sunrise and morning mountain views while enjoying a delicious breakfast at the top of Sarangkot hill, which stands at 1,565m above sea level.
From there, we’ll embark on a 5-6 hour hike from Sarangkot to the Australian Camp. The trail initially follows a straight path until we reach Kande. However, the journey becomes uphill from Kande as we make our way towards the Australian Camp. Along the way, we’ll pass through picturesque rural villages and dense forests, constantly treated to magnificent views of the Himalayan Mountains.
The Australian Camp awaits us at an elevation of 2,055m. We’ll have some well-deserved rest and enjoy a satisfying meal. In the evening, we’ll witness an extraordinary sunset that will leave us in awe. For accommodation, we can either stay in a hotel or choose the option of spending the night in a cozy outdoor tent, immersing ourselves in the tranquil surroundings.
Alternatively, we have the option to spend the night in the peaceful village of Pothana, which is just a short 15-minute walk from the Australian Camp. This allows us to experience the charm of the village while still being close to our base camp.
Get ready for a remarkable journey filled with breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, and unforgettable moments in the lap of nature.
As the sun rises, we are treated to yet another breathtaking spectacle, painting the sky with vibrant hues. From this vantage point, we are blessed with awe-inspiring views of the magnificent Annapurna Himalayan range and the majestic Manaslu range, home to the 8th highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu, and the 10th highest, Mount Annapurna-I. The scenery is simply outstanding.
After taking in the mesmerizing views, we indulge in a hearty breakfast to fuel our adventurous spirits. Our next destination is the charming village of Dhampus, which is approximately a 1.5-hour hike away. Along the way, we are greeted by splendid vistas of picturesque villages, lush vegetation, and towering mountains. Dhampus itself is nestled at an elevation of 1,694m, offering a tranquil and scenic atmosphere.
Upon reaching Dhampus, we take a well-deserved rest, allowing ourselves to unwind and soak in the serene surroundings. Afterward, we embark on a pleasant downhill hike for about 2 hours until we arrive at Phedi. From Phedi, we board our bus for a comfortable half-hour journey back to Pokhara, marking the end of our unforgettable adventure.
Prepare to be captivated by the natural wonders, immerse yourself in the warmth of the local culture, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime on this remarkable journey.
The Australian Camp hiking trip can be undertaken throughout the year, with each season offering a unique experience. However, it is advisable to avoid trekking during the monsoon season from June to August due to muddy trails and cloudy weather.
Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit. Nature comes alive with vibrant colors as flowers bloom, and the surrounding forests and trails are teeming with life. The weather is pleasant, neither too hot nor too cold, making it an ideal season for hiking. You can enjoy the lush greenery and breathtaking views of the Himalayan range from the Australian Camp and Dhampus Village.
Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures and occasional rainfall. While the trails may be wet, the countryside is lush and beautiful. However, it’s important to be prepared for rain showers and be cautious of slippery paths.
Autumn (September to November) is another excellent season for the Australian Camp trek. The weather is clear and mild, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. The surrounding landscapes are adorned with golden hues as the leaves change color, creating a picturesque setting for your hike.
Winter (December to February) brings colder temperatures, especially during the nights. However, the days are usually sunny and clear, providing stunning panoramic views. The trails are less crowded, allowing for a peaceful and serene hiking experience. Just be sure to pack warm clothing to stay comfortable during the chilly nights.
No matter which season you choose, the Australian Camp trek offers beautiful scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Nepalese countryside.
Acclimatization is not a significant concern for the Australian Base Camp trek as the maximum elevation reached is not very high. However, it is still recommended to take certain precautions to ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience.
Here are a few suggestions for acclimatization during the Australian Base Camp trek:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek to stay hydrated and help your body adjust to the surroundings.
Take it slow: Pace yourself and maintain a steady and manageable hiking speed. Avoid rushing or exerting yourself excessively, especially during uphill sections.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to any signs of altitude-related discomfort such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue. If you experience any symptoms, take necessary rest breaks and communicate with your guide.
Proper nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet and consume nutritious meals during the trek to keep your energy levels up.
Gradual ascent: If you’re combining the Australian Base Camp trek with other higher-altitude treks, make sure to follow proper acclimatization protocols for those specific routes.
While acclimatization is generally not a major concern for the Australian Base Camp trek, it’s always important to be aware of your body’s response to the changing environment. It’s recommended to consult with a professional trekking guide who can provide further guidance and support during your journey.
During the Australian Base Camp hike the altitude does not reach extreme heights. However, it is always compulsory to have insurance coverage for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trip. Even on relatively low-altitude hikes, accidents or unexpected events can occur, and having travel insurance provide you with peace of mind and financial protection. Remember, it’s better to be prepared and have insurance in place, even for shorter and less challenging hikes.
Travel insurance is compulsory for the trek. All the trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate. The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation- including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes.
Trekking members are kindly requested to send their detailed insurance information after trek booking. In case of emergencies, we will be using the insurance policy and informational documents you sent us. It will help us arrange a quick and effective rescue operation, transfer for emergency medical help, etc. Please ensure that your insurance covers all costs incurred during mountain rescue service.
Before buying travel insurance, make sure to call the insurance company and recheck if they have heli-rescue.
We recommend you bring a container for one liter of water. In the teahouses we can buy boiled water suitable for drinking with which to fill our bottles. Another option is to refill the water from the fountains that we find along the way or from the tap of the teahouses themselves, for this we have to count on water disinfectant tablets that we can find in pharmacies.
The Australian Base Camp hike with Firantes was breathtaking. A two-day journey through stunning landscapes led to an awe-inspiring viewpoint. Firantes’ flawless organization and attention to detail made it unforgettable. Sunrise at Sarangkot was simply stunning. A must-do for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Firantes rocked the Aussie Base Camp hike. Views, vibes, and sunrise were unreal. Must for thrill-seekers.
Firantes’ Australian Base Camp hike was epic. Spectacular views, seamless organization. Unforgettable sunrise. Recommended for adventurers.
I embarked on a remarkable two-day hike to the Australian Base Camp in Nepal with Firantes. The experience was beyond my expectations. The agency’s attention to detail, from seamless coordination to knowledgeable guides, was evident throughout. The highlight was definitely witnessing the sunrise at Sarangkot – a breathtaking moment that words can’t capture. The dal baht meal was delicious and authentic, adding to the overall cultural immersion. Firantes, you’ve created a memory I’ll cherish forever.
Le Camp de Base Australien avec Firantes a été une expérience incroyable. Une randonnée de deux jours m’a emmenée à travers des paysages à couper le souffle jusqu’à un point de vue époustouflant. L’organisation impeccable de Firantes et leur attention aux détails ont rendu cette aventure mémorable. La vue au lever du soleil depuis Sarangkot était à couper le souffle. Une expérience à ne pas manquer pour les amoureux de la nature et de l’aventure.