At a Glance
  • Duration3 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Trip StyleHiking
  • StartsPokhara
  • EndsPokhara
Highlights

  • Short Scenic Drive from Pokhara – Begin your adventure with a quick and beautiful ride to the trailhead at Kande.

  • Australian Camp (2,060 m) – Stunning ridge-top viewpoint with panoramic views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Lamjung Himal.

  • Sunrise & Sunset Views – Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan colors at dawn and dusk from ridge-top villages.

  • Cultural Villages – Explore Gurung settlements like Dhampus, famous for traditional houses, terraced fields, and warm hospitality.

  • Lunch with a View – Stop at Dhampus for a traditional meal while gazing at snow-capped peaks.

  • Astam Eco-Village – Experience sustainable living and eco-friendly lodges with Himalayan backdrops.

  • Gentle Walking Trails – Easy to moderate trekking route suitable for beginners, families, and older travelers.

  • Perfect for Photography – Capture both close-up mountain views and rural life of Nepal.

  • Low-Altitude Trek – Maximum elevation of just 2,060 m, making it safe from altitude sickness.

  • Relax in Pokhara – End the trek by returning to the lakeside city, with options for boating on Phewa Lake or exploring its vibrant cafés.

The Pokhara Valley Trek is a short yet soul-stirring journey that blends gentle adventure with the serene charm of Nepal’s countryside. Unlike the high-altitude treks that demand days of acclimatization, this route lets you step into the heart of the Annapurna foothills without the pressure of long days or extreme conditions. From the moment you set off from Kande, the trail invites you into lush forests, terraced fields, and ridge-top settlements, each unfolding a new perspective of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks. The first day’s walk to the Australian Camp is a perfect warm-up, rewarding you with sweeping Himalayan panoramas and a peaceful overnight under the stars.

As you continue, the trail meanders through the cultural gems of Dhampus and Astam, where stone-paved paths lead past rustic homes and smiling villagers. These villages offer not only traditional hospitality but also the chance to pause for a slow lunch overlooking the mountains. The trek concludes with a gentle walk down to Hemja before returning to Pokhara, where the calm of Phewa Lake mirrors the snowy giants, you have just admired up close. In only three days, this trek captures the essence of Pokhara: breathtaking mountains, warm culture, and the simple joy of walking through nature’s embrace.

In addition to trekking, Pokhara offers a wide range of adventure activities, including paragliding, bungee jumping, zip-lining, boating, and more. You can combine your trek with thrilling adventures to make the most of your time in Pokhara.

Pokhara offers access to tourist facilities, including foreign currency exchange, ACAP entry permit, visa extension, and flight ticket reconfirmation, all set in a pollution-free environment. Explore Pokhara, a multicultural city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern amenities, promising an unforgettable journey for every traveler.

Who should do the Pokhara Valley Trek?

The Pokhara Valley Trek is ideal for anyone seeking a short yet rewarding Himalayan experience without the demanding challenges of high-altitude trekking. It is especially suited for beginner trekkers, families with children, or travelers with limited time who still want to immerse themselves in Nepal’s mountain landscapes and village life. Because the trek remains at relatively low elevations, it carries minimal risk of altitude sickness. This makes the trek comfortable and accessible for older trekkers or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Photographers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers will find it equally appealing, as the route offers uninterrupted views of the Annapurna range. You will also get opportunities to engage with traditional Gurung villages and witness local lifestyles. Even seasoned trekkers often choose this route as a warm-up or acclimatization trek before tackling longer expeditions. In essence, the Pokhara Valley Trek is for anyone who dreams of walking amidst terraced hills, rhododendron forests, and snow-capped giants—while still enjoying the comforts of short travel days and cozy village teahouses.

What is special about this trip?

What makes the Pokhara Valley Trek truly special is its perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and accessibility within just a few days. Unlike longer and more strenuous Himalayan journeys, this trek offers equally stunning views of iconic peaks such as Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri without requiring intense preparation or weeks of hiking. Each day unfolds a unique charm, witnessing the sunrise over the Annapurna range from Australian Camp, enjoying a traditional meal in the scenic village of Dhampus, and experiencing the peaceful eco-village lifestyle of Astam.

Beyond the mountains, the trek highlights the harmonious way locals live with nature, offering visitors a chance to slow down and appreciate simplicity. Its proximity to Pokhara also means you can seamlessly blend the adventure of trekking with the relaxation of lakeside leisure. In just three days, this trip encapsulates the very essence of Nepal's majestic mountains, warm hospitality, and the serenity of rural life which makes it a truly memorable experience for all kinds of travelers.

You'll Explore
Pokhara and Surrounding - City of Mountain Pokhara
Explore more videos

Itinerary

Customize Trip

Your adventure begins with a short and scenic 1-hour drive from Pokhara to the trailhead at Kande (1,770 m). From here, the trek starts with a steady uphill climb through stone-paved steps and lush forest. The walk is relatively short but can feel a little steep at times, taking around 2–3 hours to reach Australian Camp (2,060 m). Once at the ridge-top camp, you are rewarded with spectacular, wide-open views of the Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Lamjung Himal. The evening is perfect for enjoying the mountain panorama, photographing the sunset, and experiencing your first night in a cozy teahouse surrounded by Himalayan tranquility.

    After breakfast with a mountain backdrop, the trek descends gently towards Dhampus (1,650 m), a beautiful Gurung village about 2 hours away. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional houses, offering plenty of cultural charm along the way. Stopping at Dhampus for lunch provides a chance to enjoy local dishes while admiring close-up views of the Annapurna peaks. Afterward, the journey continues for another 2–3 hours of pleasant walking along ridge-top trails and small village paths until you reach Astam (1,600 m). Known as an eco-village, Astam is a serene and sustainable destination, where you can spend the evening soaking in Himalayan sunsets and learning about the village’s eco-friendly lifestyle.

      The final day begins with a gentle downhill walk through terraced farmlands and rural settlements as you make your way towards Hemja (1,000 m). This section takes around 2–3 hours, allowing you to enjoy the last glimpses of local life and the surrounding landscapes. Upon reaching Hemja, a short 30–40 minute drive brings you back to Pokhara (822 m), where the trek concludes. Back in the lakeside city, you can relax with a stroll along Phewa Lake, enjoy a boat ride, or simply rest and reflect on the memorable journey.

        Essential Information

        Best Season for Pokhara Valley Trek

        The best seasons for the Pokhara Valley Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the Himalayas are at their most breathtaking and the weather is at its most reliable. During spring, the hillsides and forests come alive with blooming rhododendrons, orchids, and a variety of wildflowers, creating a colorful contrast against the snow-clad peaks of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri. Temperatures are mild, with warm days and cooler mornings and evenings, making it ideal for comfortable trekking without the need for heavy winter gear. The clear skies of spring also make it perfect for photography and for soaking in the vibrant greenery and terraced landscapes.

        The autumn season is equally, if not more, spectacular. Following the monsoon rains, the air is washed clean of dust, resulting in sharp, crystal-clear views of the mountains. The weather remains dry and stable, and the pleasant daytime temperatures allow for easy walking along the ridges and villages. Autumn is also the time when Nepal’s major festivals—Dashain and Tihar—are celebrated, adding cultural richness to the trekking experience, with villages decorated, families gathering, and local traditions on full display.

        While winter (December to February) can still be a good option for trekkers seeking quiet trails and fewer crowds, mornings often start with mist, and evenings can get quite cold, requiring extra layers. The views are still beautiful on clear days, but the chill may be uncomfortable for some travelers. Monsoon (June to August), on the other hand, brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and leeches along the forested paths, though it also transforms the valley into a lush green paradise with fewer trekkers around. For those seeking the best balance of natural beauty, stable weather, and cultural vibrancy, spring and autumn remain the ideal seasons to embark on the Pokhara Valley Trek, offering an unforgettable blend of scenery, comfort, and authenticity.

        Pokhara Valley Trek Difficulty

        The Pokhara Valley Trek is considered an easy-to-moderate trek, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers, including beginners, families, and even older trekkers who wish to experience the Himalayas without venturing into extreme altitudes. The highest point of the trek is the Australian Camp (around 2,060 meters), which is well below the altitude where trekkers might face risks of acute mountain sickness. The daily walking hours usually range between 3 to 5 hours, along well-marked trails that pass through forests, terraced farmlands, and charming villages. While there are some uphill and downhill sections—especially during the climb from Kande to Australian Camp or the descent towards Hemja—they are short and manageable with steady pacing. Unlike high-altitude treks in the Everest or Annapurna regions, this route does not require prior trekking experience, though a basic level of fitness helps in enjoying the journey more comfortably. The biggest challenge may simply be adjusting to the uneven stone steps and trails, but with proper footwear and regular breaks, most trekkers find it quite enjoyable. Overall, the Pokhara Valley Trek is a perfect introduction to trekking in Nepal, combining gentle physical activity with breathtaking views and cultural encounters, without the demanding challenges of longer expeditions.

        Packing list for Pokhara Valley Trek

        For the Pokhara Valley Trek, you won’t need heavy-duty expedition gear like on high-altitude treks, but bringing the right essentials will make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Since the trek is short, low-altitude, and relatively easy, the gear list is lighter and focused on comfort, layering, and practicality. Here’s what’s recommended:

        Clothing & Footwear:

        • Comfortable trekking shoes or lightweight hiking boots with good grip (no need for heavy boots)
        • A pair of sandals or camp shoes for evenings
        • Breathable trekking pants and T-shirts (quick-dry materials are best)
        • Warm fleece or down jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in spring/autumn
        • Light rain jacket or poncho (weather in the hills can change quickly)
        • Sun hat or cap, and a warm hat for nights
        • A pair of gloves for chilly mornings

        Gear & Accessories:

        • A small day backpack (20–30 L) for carrying water, snacks, a camera, and personal items
        • Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (filtered water is available in villages)
        • Trekking poles (optional, but useful for descents and uneven paths)
        • Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect against strong mountain sun
        • Headlamp or small torch for evenings in teahouses
        • Light sleeping bag or liner (teahouses provide blankets, but an extra layer adds comfort.)

        Other Essentials:

        • Basic toiletries and personal hygiene items (toothbrush, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, etc.)
        • Small first aid kit with personal medications, band-aids, and blister care
        • Snacks like energy bars or nuts for the trail
        • A camera or phone to capture the stunning landscapes
        • Cash in small denominations (no ATMs along the route)

        Since this trek stays below 2,100 meters, heavy technical gear, crampons, or extreme cold-weather clothing are unnecessary. The key is to pack light but smart, ensuring you’re comfortable during the short walks while still prepared for varying weather conditions.

        3Days
        Price Per PersonUS$499US$599
        1 people x US$499US$499
        Why you should book a HAT trips?
        • Hiking Adventure Staff are loved and cared
          Hiking Adventure Staff are loved and cared

          Hiking Adventure Team is committed to a supportive and enabling working environment. We continue to invest in comprehensive training for our team, with the goal to foster an excellent working atmosphere. We believe that motivated, capable employees are crucial for reaching our shared objectives while providing valuable benefits to the community at large.

        • We Help You Plan Your Journey
          We Help You Plan Your Journey

          We offer you your dream adventure in trekking and tours around Nepal, Bhutan, India, and Tibet. From the thrilling high mountain expeditions to the charm of ancient landmarks and the richness of cultural experiences, we plan the best for your journey.

        • Quality Travel Service Since 2011
          Quality Travel Service Since 2011

          Planning a trip to Nepal? We have been offering premium travel experiences, expert guidance combined with immersive adventure since 2011. From thrilling trekking routes to enriching cultural tours, we promise authentic journeys that leave a mark on your soul.

        • We help build Community-Driven Social Responsibility
          We help build Community-Driven Social Responsibility

          We promote community-based social responsibility through capacity building programs, job creation, and empowerment initiatives. Our customer trust-driven approach cultivates friendships and sustains our thriving travel community.

        Similar Trips
        See all Trips

        Send an Inquiry

        Confused about what to choose? Contact us!

        We are a team of experts in Nepal Travel Industry with over fifteen years of experience. Let's together plan a wonderful holiday for you. Contact us to discuss further for an amazing Travel Itinerary.

        Plan Your Trip

        We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website.

        Privacy Policy