Pokhara : Day Hike to Astham & Dhampus Village

Pokhara, a picturesque Nepali city nestled between the Himalayas, offers a captivating day hike that unveils the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Set out on a journey through lush landscapes, encounter friendly locals, and indulge in authentic Nepali cuisine as you explore the charming villages of Astham and Dhampus. With breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges, this hike promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you yearning for more. But the true allure lies in the unique experiences that await those who dare to venture beyond the beaten path.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Phedi.

Key Points

• Experience a scenic day hike to the traditional villages of Astam and Dhampus in Pokhara, immersing in local culture and natural beauty.
• Enjoy a comfortable package that includes private transfers, an experienced guide, and a delicious Nepali cuisine lunch.
• Explore the historic Astam Village, interact with local communities, and admire breathtaking views of the Annapurna range.
• Relish a lunch with panoramic mountain vistas at a renowned teahouse in Dhampus Village.
• Benefit from flexible booking, free cancellation, and the opportunity to reserve without upfront payment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

This day hike to Astham and Dhampus Village in Pokhara offers an opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes and traditional villages of the region.

Priced from €66.66 per person, the 6-hour hike provides excellent value, with savings of up to 8% compared to the standard rate.

The tour features a free cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Plus, the reserve now and pay later option enables participants to secure their spot without upfront payment.

With a focus on immersing visitors in the local culture and natural beauty, this day hike promises an engaging and memorable experience.

Itinerary and Experience

The scenic drive to Phedi through picturesque landscapes sets the stage for the day’s adventure.

From there, the trek to Astam begins, with an ascent through lush forests and terraced fields offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges.

Upon arrival at Astam Village, explorers can enjoy the local culture, enjoy refreshments, and soak in the panoramic vistas.

The journey then continues to Dhampus, a mix of uphill and downhill sections revealing breathtaking landscapes.

Lunch at a Dhampus teahouse allows guests to savor local cuisine while admiring the captivating mountain views and vibrant culture.

Highlights of the Hike

Trekking through the lush forests and terraced fields, hikers are treated to stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges.

In the traditional Astam Village, they’ll enjoy the local culture and interact with friendly residents.

The hike to Dhampus offers breathtaking vistas, and the lunch at a teahouse there provides an opportunity to savor authentic Nepali cuisine while taking in the captivating mountain panorama.

The descending trail to Hemja showcases beautiful landscapes and small settlements, capping off a day filled with cultural discovery and natural splendor.

From start to finish, this day hike is a true highlight of any Pokhara adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The day hike package includes round-trip private car transfers, an experienced guide, a Nepali cuisine lunch, and all applicable taxes and service charges.

It doesn’t cover personal expenses, beverages, or gratuities. This ensures travelers can fully enjoy the cultural and natural highlights of the trek, without worrying about additional costs.

The inclusions provide a well-rounded experience, allowing participants to explore the scenic landscapes, interact with local communities, and savor authentic Nepali cuisine during the hike.

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Booking and Availability

Typically, travelers can check the availability of this day hike for different starting times. To book the experience, they’ll need to select the number of participants and the preferred date.

The operator offers flexibility, allowing customers to reserve their spot without upfront payment. This "reserve now, pay later" option makes it convenient for travelers to secure their place on the hike.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, customers can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can get a full refund if their plans change.

Scenic Drive to Phedi

The scenic drive to Phedi takes travelers through picturesque landscapes, offering a captivating prelude to the day’s hike.

Along the way, you will witness the serene countryside, dotted with lush vegetation, terraced fields, and small settlements.

The winding road provides ample opportunities to admire the natural beauty of the region, with the majestic Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges serving as a stunning backdrop.

This scenic drive not only sets the tone for the adventure but also allows visitors to enjoy the local environment, preparing them for the cultural and natural experiences that await in the Astam and Dhampus villages.

Exploration of Astam Village

Upon reaching the village, you will embark on a captivating exploration of Astam. They’ll wander through the quaint streets, marveling at the traditional architecture and the friendly locals going about their daily lives.

The exploration offers a glimpse into the community’s rich cultural heritage:

• Visitors can visit the village’s ancient temples and shrines, learning about the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs.
• They’ll have the opportunity to interact with the villagers, gaining insights into their time-honored agricultural practices and cottage industries.
• Exploring the local teahouses, you will savor authentic Nepali cuisine and enjoy the vibrant social fabric of the community.
• The scenic vantage points within Astam provide breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges.
• Throughout the exploration, you will appreciate the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Astam residents.

Lunch at Dhampus Village

After exploring the charming Astam Village, the hike continues on to Dhampus, where participants enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local teahouse.

The teahouse in Dhampus is renowned for its captivating mountain views and vibrant cultural atmosphere. Hikers savor a delicious lunch featuring authentic Nepali cuisine, allowing them to enjoy the local culinary traditions.

As they dine, they’re treated to stunning vistas of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges, which create a breathtaking backdrop for the meal.

This lunch break not only replenishes the hikers’ energy but also offers a unique opportunity to further appreciate the beauty and culture of the Dhampus Village.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or special meal. The tour operator offers a variety of meal options and is happy to accommodate dietary requirements with prior notice.

Is the Guide Fluent in English?

Yes, the experienced guide who leads the hike is fluent in English, ensuring clear communication and a seamless experience for participants throughout the day’s activities.

Are Walking Sticks or Trekking Poles Provided?

Trekking poles are not provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own. The experienced guide can advise on the need for additional hiking equipment based on the terrain and weather conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water for the hike. The tour includes lunch, but additional personal refreshments are allowed and encouraged to have on hand during the trek.

How Fit Do I Need to Be for This Hike?

The hike is suitable for most fitness levels. It involves moderate ascents and descents, but the overall pace is relaxed. As long as you have a reasonable level of physical fitness, you should be able to complete the hike comfortably.

Recap

This enchanting day hike offers a chance to take in Pokhara’s natural beauty and local culture. From the scenic drive to Phedi to the interactions with friendly villagers in Astam and Dhampus, this journey promises a memorable adventure. With breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges, it’s an experience not to be missed.

You can check if your dates are available here: