Plan a Trip
Duration
1 Day
Travel Time
1-2 hours
Distance
25km
Vehicle Type
Van
Driver
Included
Group Size
1-6 people Pax
Max. Altitude
1650 Metres
Best Season
Spring
Activity
Day Tour
Highlights of Pokhara to Dhampus Jeep
- Exclusive Jeep transfer: A hassle-free, comfortable glimpse into the Annapurna foothills and the perfect start to your trekking or day tour.
- Himalayan panorama: Take in breathtaking views (Annapurna South, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli) from the comfort of your Jeep.
- Scenic countryside: The journey goes through a typical Gurung village, rice terraces, and pine forest, providing a glimpse of Nepali village life.
- Leisurely 4×4 ride: Travel in a private 4×4 Jeep (like Mahindra Scorpio) with an experienced driver. Both the highway and hilly roads are driven comfortably by the vehicle.
- Cultural immersion: Dhampus and nearby villages are inhabited by friendly Gurung communities. En route, you’ll see local temples, shrines, and farms, and experience Nepalese mountain hospitality.
- Trekking gateway: Dhampus is a popular trailhead for short hikes (to Australian Camp or Pothana) and longer Annapurna treks (such as Annapurna Sanctuary/Mardi Himal).
Introduction of Pokhara to Dhampus Jeep
Begin your journey north from lakeside Pokhara in a comfortable 4×4 Jeep, winding up quiet hillside roads towards Dhampus. This scenic 25–26 km transfer (about 1–2 hours one-way) climbs from Pokhara (820m) to the ridge-top village of Dhampus at 1650 m.
Along the way, you’ll traverse green rice terraces and pine forests, with sweeping views of the Annapurna range – including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and Hiunchuli. Dhampus is a peaceful Gurung village renowned for its beautiful Himalayan scenery and cultural attractions.
Visit our sister company, Alpine Luxury Treks, for luxury vacation packages and trekking journeys. There, you may choose from a variety of carefully planned itineraries.
Itinerary of Pokhara to Dhampus Jeep
Drive to Dhampus
- Pokhara (820m) – Depart your Pokhara hotel or Lakeside lodging in the morning. The Jeep leaves on the Pokhara–Baglung highway (NH3) towards Hemja.
- Hemja (820m) – Around 15–20 minutes later, reach the town of Hemja on Pokhara’s north edge. The road is asphalted now; drive past local shops and fields.
- Countryside Road – The highway transforms into a hill track. Drive for 30–40 minutes along tiny villages (e.g., Dhikur Pokhari) in green fields and forests. Stop for snapshots of landscapes or a roadside stupa.
- Final Drive to Dhampus – The last 20–30 minutes are on a steep mud road, which the Jeep climbs. Switchbacks lead you to the hills and a cooler environment.
- Dhampus (1,650m) – Reach scenic Dhampus village (1650m). There is the end of the ride here. You may stay at a lodge or head onto the nearby trekking trails, all under the unparalleled mountain view.
Activity: 1-2 hours
Max. Altitude: 1650m
Meal: Not Included
Accommodation: Not Included
Includes & Excludes
What is included?
- Private 4×4 Jeep transfer (Pokhara → Dhampus) with English-speaking driver.
- Pick up is from Pokhara (Lakeside/hotel), and drop-off is in Dhampus village.
- All fuel, road taxes, and vehicle insurance.
- Basic first-aid kit and emergency roadside assistance.
- Bottled water and cold towels in the Jeep.
What is not included?
- Meals, snacks, and beverages (eat at local cafés during the journey or bring your own).
- Lodging in Dhampus (book on your own if overnighting).
- Incidentals and travel insurance.
- Driver gratuity (optional 5–10% of the trip price).
- Any trekking permits beyond Dhampus (national park entry fees if proceeding further).
Trip Information
Trip Glance
Short and scenic uphill drive from Pokhara’s lakeside to the ridge-top village of Dhampus. Avoid public transport hassle and start your trek or day trip in comfort.
Base Price: USD 60 per Jeep (one-way, maximum six people)
Travel Time: 1–2 hours
Distance: 25–26 km
Capacity: 1–6 people
Road Facts
- Terrain: Road gradually goes up through Pokhara valley and the lower Mahabharat hills. You’ll experience a mix of switchback turns and forested sections.
- Road surface: Pokhara highway is paved, but after Hemja, the road is rougher (gravel/rock). A robust 4×4 vehicle must be used to drive these unsealed sections safely.
- Condition: In the dry season, the road is fully open; look out for dust and potholes. In the monsoon, parts are muddy or slippery. Even so, the views of the green forest and the cropped fields are worth it.
- Precautions: The driver will take sharp curves and narrow sections. Modest travel speed; you can stretch and appreciate roadside attractions (such as prayer shrines along the road or viewpoints) with frequent stops.
Prepare for the Ride
- Attire: Dress in layers comfortably. Spring/Autumn days are comfortable (15–25 °C). Mornings and late afternoons at 1,650 m are cool, though. A light jacket or a fleece would be sufficient. It is very cold in the village in winter (Dec–Feb).
- Rain gear: Carry a raincoat or an umbrella during the summer monsoon (June–Aug). Roads get muddy. A quick-drying jacket and trousers will be fine.
- Footwear: Good closed shoes or running shoes are advised. The Jeep will drive on gravel or grassy surfaces. Suitable footwear keeps you from slipping on rough terrain, or if you choose to walk on foot.
- Essentials: Bring sunglasses, sunblock, and a hat for protection from the sun when driving on the open roads. Bring water and light refreshments to keep you hydrated and energized throughout your travels. A daypack or camera bag comes in handy for personal effects and cameras.
- Documents: Always carry your passport or Nepali ID card. (No special permits or entrance fees are required to visit Dhampus.) If you combine this with trekking, have your trek permit or TIMS card ready as needed.
- Extras: Nepali rupees (NPR) in small denominations for tea or snacks at roadside cafés. A phone charger/power bank is a great thing to have. Finally, inform the driver if you would like a photo stop – there are many view stops along the way.
Why Book This Package
- Private & Flexible: You determine the pickup time and speed. No waiting around for a public bus – customize stops and duration to your group.
- Time-saving: Complete high vistas and trekking peaks in double quick time. Traveling by road saves hours of walking, and you’ll have more time to discover Dhampus and more.
- Scenic Panoramas: Enjoy unbroken mountain views without tiredness. The jeep road offers lots of photo stop opportunities en route.
- Local Knowledge: Our drivers are locals with experience. They know the road conditions and viewpoints, and can share information on culture and trekking.
- Comfort & Safety: Travel in a sturdy 4×4 with seatbelts. Private Jeeps are safer and more comfortable than public transport or trekking in the rain, particularly without a road.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ’s)
Approximately 25–26 km one way. By private Jeep, the trip usually takes 1–2 hours, depending on stopping and road conditions.
The road offers uninterrupted alpine scenery: terraced rice fields, pine forest, and traditional Gurung villages. On clear days, you can see prominent peaks like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and Hiunchuli. It’s a photographer’s dream road.
Yes, after Hemja, the road is not very wide and is partly rough. A 4×4 Jeep with high clearance makes the ride more comfortable and safer on these mountain roads.
No special permit or entrance fee is required to reach Dhampus. Just pay the transfer fee, and we’ll cover all road taxes. (If you trek deeper into Annapurna Sanctuary or other protected areas later, you may require a separate national park permit.)
For the best vistas of the mountains and good weather, come in spring (Mar–May) or autumn (Sept–Nov). In monsoon season (June–August), the environment is lush green, but the roads may be wet, and visibility could be poor. Winter mornings are fresh; if traveling then, pack warm clothing.
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