Dhampus to Tolka to Landruk Ridge Trek

A ridge-to-ridge Annapurna foothills traverse that most Pokhara visitors miss entirely. From Dhampus village (reached after a 45-min climb from Phedi), the trail continues along the ridge through Tolka and descends to Landruk — a traditional Gurung village with staggering face-on views of Machapuchre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna South massif. This is a one-way hike best done with a vehicle drop at Phedi and pickup at Landruk (possible by jeep from Birethanti on the river road, ~25 km from Nayapul). The ridge section between Dhampus and Tolka stays high, with views of the Pokhara Valley to the south and snowcapped peaks filling the north. Landruk itself is one of the most photogenic villages on the Annapurna circuit — stone-paved lanes, traditional stone houses, and terraced fields cascading to the Modi Khola below. Many people start the Australian Camp trek and wonder what lies further along the ridge. This is it. Entry permit: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area) fee — NPR 100 Nepali / NPR 1,000 SAARC / NPR 3,000 foreign, paid at the checkpoint. TIMS abolished 2023. Licensed guide mandatory.