The Sunset Village Trek (Astam-Dhampus)

Twenty five minutes drive takes us to the town of Milan Chowk. From here we begin our gradual uphill trek through the chestnut forest with views across the Hemja and Mardi valleys, before we arrive at the village of Jijharka where we stop for refreshments at the local store. From here we continue walking for another hour on to Astam. Astam offers 360 degree views of the entire Pokhara, Hemja, and Mardi valley with backdrop majestic views of the Annapurna Range offering one of the most spectacular places to view a sunset and sunrise in the Himalayas. It also provides a great insight into rural village life of Adhikari, Brahimins dwelling in these mid-hills for generations. This day hike is very relaxing and rejuvenating.

After breakfast we take a gradual walk to Dhampus, passing through small villages and terraced farms. Dampus is inhabited by various ethnic groups including Gurungs, Brahmin’s, Chhetri’s and Dalits. The village of Dhampus offers spectacular mountain views of the Annapurna Range. You can enjoy a cup of masala tea, meditate and be inspired by the snow capped Himalayas. Dhampus is also famous for spectacular sunsets and sunrises. Approximately 3 hours of walking. After lunch we will continue trekking for 1.5 hours gradually uphill through lush mid-Himalayan forests until we reach Australian Camp where we will spend the night. Australian Camp offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna’s, Machhapuchhare and the Lamjung Himal. Approximately 5 hours of walking.

After breakfast, we will make a steep descent to Khare (1700m). From Khare, we will take a local bus to Naudanda where we will take gradual ascent through the village of Kaskikot until we reach Sarankot. Along the way, we will see panoramic views of the Himalayas, terraced farming, rural villages, and views of the Pokhara valley, Phewa lake and the Peace Pagoda. Sarankot is one of the most popular destinations for sunset and sunrise. We will stay in Sarankot for sunset and take 30 minutes drive back to Pokhara.