Up the Stone Steps to Australian Camp: A Himalayan Day Hike From Pokhara
A swift ascent from Pokhara into front-row Himalayan views—stone steps, tea houses, and a meadow facing giants.
The trail wastes no time. From the roadside at Kande, stone steps tilt into the trees and the hillside rises as if testing your intent. Morning mist slips between rhododendron trunks. A white wagtail skitters along a handrail, and somewhere uphill the wind clears its throat. This is the quick way into the Himalaya’s front row—a half-day push to Australian Camp, a grassy saddle perched around 2,050 meters with a king’s-view sweep of Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas, and Machhapuchhre’s unmistakable fishtail. The mountains do not loom so much as they supervise, steady and watchful, letting you earn every meter.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early for Clear Views
Clouds often build by late morning, especially in summer. Aim to reach the meadow by 10 a.m. for your best shot at a full panorama.
Steps Can Be Slick
Stone stair sections grow slippery after rain. Grippy soles and careful foot placement make the ascent and descent safer.
Carry Cash for Tea Houses
There are several lodges at the top, but mobile payments are rare. Bring small Nepali rupee bills for tea, snacks, or lunch.
Extend to Deurali
If you have time and energy, add 30 minutes to reach Deurali Pass for broader valley views toward the Modi Khola corridor.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise viewpoint near the meadow’s upper edge for a quieter angle on Machhapuchhre
- •Short extension to Deurali Pass for twin valley views toward the Modi Khola
Wildlife
Himalayan bulbul, Gray langur
Conservation Note
This area sits at the fringes of the Annapurna Conservation Area, a pioneer of community-based conservation—pack out all waste and choose tea houses that minimize single-use plastics.
Thulo Kharka translates to ‘big pasture,’ reflecting its heritage as seasonal grazing ground for Gurung herders; its lodges grew alongside the rise of trekking in the Annapurna region.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Rhododendron blooms, Stable morning views
Challenges: Afternoon clouds, Variable trail moisture
March to May brings blooming forests and mild temps. Start early to beat cloud build-up and enjoy crisp mornings.
summer
Best for: Lush greenery, Quieter trails
Challenges: Monsoon rain, Leeches and slick stones
June to early September is monsoon. Expect wet conditions, limited views, and vibrant forests; waterproof layers are essential.
fall
Best for: Clear skies, Far-reaching mountain vistas
Challenges: Popular season crowds, Strong sun at altitude
Late September to November offers the best visibility and comfortable temps—prime time for photography and big panoramas.
winter
Best for: Sharp visibility, Cool, crowd-free mornings
Challenges: Chilly winds, Shorter daylight
December to February can be cold but clear. Dress in layers and plan for earlier turnarounds.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Lightweight Hiking Shoes with Good GripEssential
Stone steps can be slick; traction matters more than heavy boots for this short ascent.
Trekking Poles
Helpful for managing the steep stair sections and easing pressure on knees during the descent.
Packable Rain ShellEssential
Monsoon showers roll in quickly; a lightweight shell keeps you dry and warm.
Sun Protection (Hat, Sunglasses, SPF 30+)Essential
Clear fall skies mean strong UV at altitude; protect skin and eyes.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Australian Camp?
From Kande, plan on 2–3 hours round-trip hiking time depending on pace, plus time for photos and a meal at the top.
Do I need a permit for this day hike?
For a simple out-and-back to Australian Camp via Kande, permits are often not checked. If you continue toward Dhampus, Deurali, or into the Annapurna Conservation Area proper, carry an ACAP permit (and TIMS if trekking longer).
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Unlikely at roughly 2,050 m, but pace yourself, hydrate, and listen to your body if you’re coming from sea level.
Are there places to buy food and water on the trail?
Yes. Tea houses at Australian Camp serve hot meals and drinks; carry cash and bring a reusable bottle to refill with filtered or boiled water.
Can children or beginners do this hike?
Yes. It’s suitable for fit beginners and families comfortable with steady uphill steps and a few hours on trail.
What about transportation from Pokhara?
Most travelers hire a private car or join a guided tour for the 45–60 minute drive to Kande and pickup after the hike.
What to Pack
1) Lightweight hiking shoes: grippy soles handle slick stone steps. 2) 1–2 liters of water: refill at tea houses with filtered/boiled water. 3) Packable rain shell: monsoon squalls and wind at the meadow are common. 4) Sun hat and sunscreen: UV is strong when the skies clear.
Did You Know
Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) is considered sacred and has been off-limits to climbers since the 1960s; no confirmed ascent of its summit has ever been recorded.
Quick Travel Tips
Carry small Nepali rupee notes for tea houses; cards are rarely accepted. Leave Pokhara early to avoid midday clouds. Download offline maps—cell coverage can fade in the forest. In monsoon, apply leech prevention (salty water or gaiters) and check ankles after the hike.
Local Flavor
Post-hike, celebrate back in Pokhara’s Lakeside with a plate of steaming momos, a hearty dal bhat, or a bowl of thukpa. Pair it with ginger lemon honey tea or a cold Everest beer while paragliders stitch patterns over Phewa Lake and the Annapurnas glow in the last light.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Pokhara International Airport (PKR). Trailhead: Kande, about 25–30 km/45–60 minutes by car from Lakeside Pokhara. Cell service: Patchy on trail; better at the meadow. Permits: Not typically checked for a day hike to Australian Camp via Kande; ACAP/TIMS needed if extending deeper into Annapurna.
Sustainability Note
Stick to stone steps and established paths to reduce erosion, carry a reusable bottle to minimize plastic waste, and support tea houses that use local produce and fuel-efficient stoves.