Nepal · Trekking

8-Day Annapurna Foothills Trek with Australian Camp and Bandipur

8 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu
02 Enjoy a scenic drive to Pokhara through rivers, valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages
03 Trek to Australian Camp and Dhampus with breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range
04 Experience the cultural charm of Bandipur, a tranquil Newari mountain village with panoramic Himalayan views
05 Relax in Sarangkot and Kathmandu with time for shopping, sightseeing, and final memories of Nepal

Sarangkot-Australian Camp Trek in the foothills of Annapurna Himal offers the chance to visit hill villages and experience the cultural life of the people who live there. As the elevation stays below 2,000 metres, it is not a strenuous trek. The weather along the route is generally quite warm except in December and January, and snow is not expected. The trail is widely used by local people and traders, with many tea shops along the way and the famous Machhapuchhre peak often in view, making it ideal for travellers interested in photography and birding.

The trail is steep and follows a stone staircase for around 2 hours before reaching Australian Camp, located on the ridge and offering incredible views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Thamel Exploration

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, with a warm welcome, transfer to the hotel, and a leisure day.
Look around Thamel and stay overnight in a 3-star category hotel, with an introduction and briefing about the tour program.

Bed and breakfast.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02

Scenic Drive to Pokhara

After breakfast, a scenic drive of approximately 5 to 6 hours will take you to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara. The views along the road are dramatic, with rivers, valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages. In your leisure time, you can shop and look around Lakeside.

Bed and breakfast.

Overnight in hotel.

Day 03

Drive to Kande and Trek to Australian Camp

After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Kande (1,706 m), which takes approximately a couple of hours, and then trek to Thulo Kharka (Australian Camp, approximately 2,000 m) for about 2 hours. The trail is steep and follows a stone staircase for around 2 hours before reaching Australian Camp, located on the ridge and offering incredible views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal.

With B / L / D. Overnight at tented camp.

Day 04

Jungle Trail Trek to Dhampus

From Australian Camp, hike down and continue through a perfect jungle trail filled with the chirping sounds of birds.
The trek continues to the beautiful village of Dhampus and takes approximately one and a half hours. Dhampus village lies on the Annapurna trekking trail and is blessed with majestic views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range. The village is attractive, with several slate-roofed houses. This trek is best for those wishing to experience Nepal's mountain scenery and ethnic culture in a short time.

With B / L / D. Overnight at tented camp.

Day 05

Hike to Naudanda and Drive to Sarangkot

After breakfast, a 3-hour hike takes you to Naudanda, first descending the hill and then climbing uphill to Naudanda. The scenery is beautiful, with gorgeous views of Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna Himalayas.
A one-and-a-half-hour drive from Naudanda will take you to Sarangkot, which offers a tremendous view over the incredible Himalayan range and Pokhara Valley.

B / L / D. Overnight at a tented camp.

Day 06

Drive to the Historic Village of Bandipur

Bandipur is a picturesque and romantic mountain resort with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal.
From this scenic town, you can see the mighty Marshyandi River rushing down through lush terraced rice fields. Bandipur is an ancient mountain village inhabited by the local Newari people, who are famous for their craftsmanship, reflected in the many beautifully featured and carved buildings. This medieval town remains largely untouched by modernization, and you can enjoy the peacefulness and tranquillity of life in the foothills of the Himalayas.
We will stop for lunch at the Highway Restaurant, which has a beautiful riverside view, before arriving in Bandipur.

B / L / D. Overnight at tented camp.

Day 07

Return to Kathmandu

Free and easy time for last-minute shopping and rest in Kathmandu after checking into the hotel.

Bed, breakfast, and lunch. Overnight in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 08

Final Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, if time remains, enjoy shopping and wandering around Thamel.
Then drive to the airport with beautiful memories from Nepal.

Where this trip takes you

Australian Camp ridge, Annapurna Himalayan Range, Sarangkot and Pokhara Valley

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 2 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis as per the itinerary
City tour in Kathmandu with guide by private vehicle
Entry fees when sightseeing in Kathmandu
National Park Trekking/Entry Permit
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) registration fee
Round trip / internal flights / overland transport / if needed / as per the itinerary
Accommodation in guest houses/lodges during the trek
Three meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) a day during the trek and seasonal fresh fruit after every dinner
Qualified and experienced trekking guide and porter services
Transportation, accommodation, meal allowance, equipment, and insurance for trekking staff
All the official paperwork and all applicable government taxes
Airport transfers for internal flights
Farewell dinner with a typical local cultural program
Airport pick-up on arrival and drop-off on departure

What's Not Included

Meals other than breakfast when staying in hotels
Personal expenses and bar bills
Client's travel insurance
Tips and gratuities

What to bring

Sunscreen: High SPF to protect your skin from sunburn.
Insect repellent: To ward off bugs during the trek.
Camera: To capture the breathtaking landscapes.
Headlamp/flashlight: Bring extra batteries for nighttime use.

Know before you go

Fitness Level: Ensure you are in good physical condition. Trekking can be strenuous, so regular exercise and acclimatization are key.
Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast for your trekking dates. Conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so be prepared for all types of weather.
Altitude Awareness: Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms. Gradual ascent and proper hydration can help mitigate risks.
Permits: Make sure you have the necessary trekking permits and documentation. Check in advance about requirements for your specific route.
Cultural Respect: Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and respect local communities and their practices.
Packing Smart: Pack light, but ensure you have all the essentials. Layering your clothing will help you adjust to changing temperatures.
Local Currency: Carry some local currency for small purchases, as many places may not accept cards.
Stay Connected: Mobile service may be limited in remote areas. Inform family or friends about your itinerary and expected return.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek. If you plan to refill from natural sources, consider bringing water purification tablets.
Emergency Preparedness: Know the nearest medical facilities and have a plan in case of emergencies. Travel insurance that covers trekking activities is highly recommended.
Sleeping bag, down jacket, and rucksack are available if required.