Pickup from Pokhara
Your adventure begins in the morning with a hotel pickup from Pokhara Lakeside. After breakfast, your private cab and guide meet you and drive towards the trailhead.
On the way, you travel through the lush Pokhara Valley. Moreover, you will enjoy paddy fields, green hills, and glimpses of rural life. The route passes through Hemja, a charming village known for its welcoming community. Once you reach Dhital, the Dhampus hike from Pokhara officially begins.
👉 Note: If your hotel does not provide breakfast, we will gladly serve a fresh one before departure.
Begin Hike to Astam Village
The Astam Village hike starts at Dhital. The trail passes terraced farmlands, chestnut groves, and shaded forest paths. Furthermore, the path ascends gradually, offering panoramic views of the valley and nearby peaks.
This section takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. In addition, there are multiple stops for short rests, photography, and nature appreciation. Along the way, you may see farmers at work, grazing animals, and children playing. Consequently, this walk provides an authentic glimpse into rural Nepalese life.
Arrive at Astam Village
Upon reaching Astam Village, take a refreshing break at a local tea house. Here, you can enjoy tea or coffee while soaking in uninterrupted Himalayan vistas.
Astam is a cultural highlight of the short trek from Pokhara. Above all, it gives you the chance to interact with the Gurung community, explore traditional homes, and learn about their customs and daily life.
Hike from Astam to Dhampus
From Astam, the trail continues uphill along open ridges and wooded paths. As a result, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchare, and Hiunchuli.
The hike takes 2 to 2.5 hours. Therefore, it remains moderate and suitable for beginners. Dhampus is famous for its Gurung culture, terraced farms, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Walking through the village, you’ll meet friendly locals and discover many spots perfect for landscape photography.
Lunch and Rest in Dhampus
Stop at a local tea house to enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch such as dal bhat or noodles. Moreover, you can gaze at snowcapped peaks while relaxing. Some tea houses also serve homemade snacks and drinks, allowing you to experience authentic Nepali hospitality.
Descend to Phedi
After lunch, begin the descent to Phedi. The trail follows stone steps, forested paths, and village lanes. Furthermore, the walk takes only 1 to 1.5 hours.
The route is gentle enough for beginners. In addition, it offers more chances to capture photos and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Drive Back to Pokhara Lakeside
At Phedi, your private cab awaits to take you back to Pokhara Lakeside. The drive provides a final chance to admire rolling hills and valley views.
You will arrive in the late afternoon or early evening. Consequently, you will still have time to relax by the lake, explore local markets, or enjoy a meal in Pokhara.