How long is the Australian Base Camp Trek?

Overview of Australian Base Camp Trek Duration

The journey to Australian Camp is one of the best short treks in Nepal, and you may be wondering how long the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is. This beginner-friendly trek offers the most scenic mountain views and traverses through a traditional village of Nepal, which takes around 1-5 days to explore. It was named after most Australian tourists trekking to the Annapurna region, who used it as a campsite in the 1980s. It is the gateway to many popular treks, such as the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and the Annapurna Ghorepani Poonhill Trek.

The perfect option for those who are looking for a short yet rewarding short trek from Pokhara, this trek is a blend of nature, adventure, and culture. If you are planning a holiday trip in Nepal but have a very limited time, join this short trip and enjoy the views of the Himalayas.

Best route for the Australian Base Camp Trek

The Australian Base Camp Trek typically takes 2 to 3 days, depending on your chosen route and the itinerary. It is the perfect short trek from Pokhara to witness scenic mountain views and natural beauty. The Australian Base Camp Trek duration depends upon the starting point and trekking pace. The trek can be started from various points, like Phedi, Ghattekhola, and Kande.

However, the best route for the Australian Base Camp Trek is to start from Kande and ascend through the dense forest and small settlements to reach the Australian Base Camp. After enjoying the time at Base Camp, the next day, descend back via Dhampus, experiencing the local culture and lifestyle. From Dhampus, follow the descending trail through terrace farmlands to reach GhatteKhola to catch a private jeep to Pokhara.

Best Australian Base Camp Trek itinerary from Pokhara

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara (822m) to Kande (1770m) and Trek to Australian Base Camp (2060m) (1.5 hours’ drive and 2-3 hours trek)

This short trek from Pokhara starts after breakfast, driving through the scenic Pokhara-Baglung highway for one and a half hours. Upon reaching the Kande, the trek begins with the slightly descending trail before ascending through the deep, lush forest of oaks and rhododendrons. Along the way, I had encounters with the people of small villages with their own local culture and lifestyle.

After reaching the Australian Base Camp, enjoy your lunch with the beautiful natural landscapes and mountain peaks such as Machhapuchhre (6993m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Hiunchuli (6440 m), and Lamjung Himal(6983m).

Enjoy your golden hour with the magnificent sunset in the evening, setting the picturesque moment.

Overnight stay in the Australian Base Camp.

Day 2: Trek from Australian Base Camp to Ghatte Khola(1100m) via Dhampus Village (1650m) and drive back to Pokhara

Wake up early to witness the sunrise striking the Fishtail Peak. Capture the joyful moment and enjoy breakfast with stunning mountain views and natural landscapes. At around 8 AM, say goodbye to the Australian Base Camp and continue the trek towards Dhampus village. The downhill trail inside the village takes you to Dhampus, a popular village near Pokhara that offers the most scenic mountain views. Besides natural scenery, Dhampus offers cultural exploration in the traditional Gurung community village with its unique culture, tradition, and lifestyle. Afterward, descend towards Ghatekhola for a private jeep drive for 1 hour to Pokhara.

Why should you trek to Australian Base Camp?

• Short and easy trek: Unlike other longer treks in the Annapurna region, this trek doesn’t require any prior trekking experience, making it suitable for beginners.
• Spectacular mountain views: This one-day hike to Australian Base Camp is the activity to witness the scenic natural landscapes and mountain peaks, including Machhapuchhre (6993m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Hiunchuli (6440 m), and Lamjung Himal(6983m).
• Cultural exploration: This short trek from Pokhara offers the opportunity to experience the local culture and lifestyle in a limited time. Experience the culture and hospitality of the Gurung community in Dhampus Village.
• Beautiful Forest trail: The trekking route to Australian Base Camp passes through the dense forests of oaks and rhododendrons. Witness the blooming rhododendrons during March and April, making the surroundings more beautiful. Along the trail, you can also witness the various flora and fauna.
• Sunrise and sunset view: Australian Base Camp is the perfect spot for a magical sunrise and sunset.

Nearby attractions and cultural exploration

Beyond the trek, the Australian Base Camp Trek offers several natural and cultural attractions.

• Dhampus Village: It is a popular village near Pokhara known for its Gurung culture and hospitality. Besides its cultural significance, the Dhampus Trek offers stunning mountain views and natural landscapes.
• Sarangkot: Sarangkot is Popular for its magnificent sunrise view and paragliding in Pokhara. The Australian Base Camp trek itinerary can be extended to the Sarangkot viewpoint, which adds more beauty to the journey with the panoramic views of mountain peaks.
• Pokhara: The tourism capital of Nepal, also popular as the Lake city, Pokhara offers various tourist destinations. Extend the Australian Base Camp Trek with a Pokhara Sightseeing Tour visiting Mahendra Cave, Pumdikot, World Peace Pagoda, and the International Mountain Museum.

When should you do the Australian Base Camp Trek?

The best time to do the 2-day Australian Base Camp Trek is during September to October and February to April. This time of the year offers pleasant weather conditions with clear skies and excellent visibility.

However, this trek can be managed in winter (December to February) and the Monsoon (June to August) season. While these seasons make the trek more challenging, the blooming flowers in the monsoon season and the snowfall in winter make the journey more unique and memorable.

One-day hike to Australian Base Camp from Pokhara

This one-day trek from Pokhara is the perfect gateway to experience the most scenic mountain views and a cultural experience in limited time. You can hike to Australian Base Camp in just one day, with a 1.5-hour drive to Kande and a 2-3-hour hike. The gateway to the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek, the Australian Base Camp is a popular spot to witness the mountain peaks like Machhapuchhre (6993m), Hiunchuli (6440 m), and Lamjung Himal(6983m), along with the sunset and sunrise view.

Family friendly trekking in Nepal

Australian Base Camp Trek is the perfect destination for trekking with families. This short trek is suitable for families with kids and elderly people who want to witness the stunning mountain views and experience the unique culture. The trekking trail involves only 2-3 hours of hiking to the Australian Base Camp, passing through villages, dense forest, and terrace farmlands, making it suitable for all levels and age groups.

Can I combine this trek with other treks in the Annapurna Region?

If you want more adventure and exploration, you can combine and extend this short trek with other popular treks in the Annapurna region. Australian Base Camp trek can be combined with the popular Mardi Himal Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Ghorepani Poonhill Trek.

What to Pack for Australian Base Camp Hike?

Although the Australian Base Camp Trek is short, you need to pack essential trekking gear and items. The right gear and equipment are essential for a memorable trip. Some of the packing list required for the short Australian Base Camp Trek are:

• Sunglasses and hats
• Backpack of 30 -40 litres
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Trekking Poles
• Hiking Pants
• Thermal shirts and trousers
• Sporty T-shirt
• Fleece/down jacket, depending on the weather
• Wind/waterproof jacket
• Pair of socks
• Inners and personal hygiene items
• Electronic items

FAQS

How long is the Australian base camp trek?

Australian Base Camp Trek is 2 to 3 days long, depending on your chosen itinerary and routes.

Where is the Australian Base Camp Trek located?

Australian Base Camp is elevated at 2060 m in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Situated northwest of Pokhara, it is just a 1.5-hour drive to start a trek from Kande (1770m).

How high is the Australian Base Camp?

Australian Base Camp is elevated at 2060 meters above sea level.

Can the Australian Base Camp Trek be completed in one day?

Yes, this day hike from Pokhara can be completed in a day if you are an experienced hiker. Take an early morning, a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Kande, and hike for 2 hours to Australian Base Camp. Enjoy a delicious lunch with magnificent views and return to Ghattekhola via Dhampus, which takes another 2 hours of hiking.

Do I need a permit for the Australian Base Camp Trek?

Yes, trekkers need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) and Trekker’s Information Management System(TIMS) for the Australian Base Camp Trek.

Is there a risk of altitude sickness on this Trek?

Australian Base Camp is elevated at 2060m, there is no chance of altitude sickness. However, drinking a lot of water and walking at a slow pace is always recommended.

Summary: How long is the Australian Base Camp Trek?

The Australian Base Camp Trek is the best short trek in Nepal, offering spectacular mountain views and cultural exploration in just 2 days. Suitable for all levels of trekkers and age groups, including kids and the elderly. In just 2 days of trekking, this short trek from Pokhara is the ideal opportunity to experience nature and culture without a challenging multi-day trek.

If you’re planning your trip in Nepal, the Australian Base Camp Trek can be the perfect option to experience the culture and natural beauty in limited time. Don’t forget to contact us via email or WhatsApp +9779851138871 for Australian Base Camp Trekking.