Muldai View Trek
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Trip Overview
The Muldai View Trek is the ultimate answer for adventure seekers who crave the spectacular panoramas of the Annapurna region without the commercial crowds of Poon Hill.
Rising to an elevation of 3,637 meters (11,932 ft), Muldai View Point offers a superior, unobstructed 360-degree vantage point of over 25 Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Annapurna I (8091m).
Unlike the busy main trails, this route takes you through the quiet, moss-draped forests of Dobato and the rugged ridges of the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is a moderate-level trek that combines the rich cultural tapestry of Ghandruk’s Gurung heritage with the raw serenity of high-altitude ridges.
Perfect for those who want a “wilder” feel while still enjoying the comfort of teahouse trekking, this journey delivers arguably the best sunrise in the Himalayas.
Trip Highlights
- Superior Panoramic Views: Witness a stunning 360-degree sunrise from Muldai View Point (3,637m), seeing Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fishtail, and Hiunchuli closer and clearer than from Poon Hill.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Trail: Trek through the secluded “Dobato” route, a pristine trail renowned for its ancient rhododendron forests that bloom in vibrant pinks and reds during spring.
- Authentic Gurung Culture: Explore Ghandruk, a model Gurung village with traditional stone-slate houses, and visit the local museum to understand the lifestyle of the brave Gurkhas.
- Wildlife Encounters: Walk through the quiet sanctuary of the Annapurna Conservation Area, where you have a higher chance of spotting Langur monkeys, Musk deer, and the colorful Danphe (Himalayan Monal).
- Diverse Terrain: Experience a constantly changing landscape, from the terraced rice fields of the lower valleys to the alpine ridges and mossy, fairy-tale forests near Dobato.
Short Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Kathmandu to Pokhara
Drive to Ghandruk and Trek to Tadapani
Tadapani to Dobato
Muldai View Point and Trek to Ghorepani
Ghorepani to Hile and Drive to Pokhara
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Departure
Full Itinerary
Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Trek Nepal Himalayas representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel.
After settling in, you will have a pre-trip meeting to introduce your guide and check your gear. The rest of the day is free to explore the vibrant, chaotic energy of Thamel’s streets, lined with trekking shops, bakeries, and temples.
This is the perfect time to exchange money and pick up any last-minute snacks for the trail.
The journey to the lake city of Pokhara takes approximately 6–7 hours by tourist bus. The drive winds along the Trishuli River, offering views of white-water rafting and terraced farmlands.
As you approach Pokhara, the massive bulk of the Annapurna range and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain come into view.
Once in Pokhara, enjoy a relaxing evening by the serene Phewa Lake. You can take a boat ride or dine at one of the lakeside restaurants.
The adventure begins with a 3-hour jeep drive to Ghandruk, the largest Gurung village in the region. From here, the trek begins with stone staircases winding through dense forests.
The trail to Tadapani is a steady ascent, passing through Bhaisi Kharka. You will walk beneath a canopy of oak and rhododendron trees, listening to the sounds of nature.
Tadapani sits on a ridge and offers a magnificent close-up view of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre, especially at sunset when the peaks turn golden.
Today, you leave the main commercial trail and head north towards the hidden gem of Dobato. This section is the highlight for nature lovers.
The path is less defined and feels wilder, winding through an enchanting forest often shrouded in mist and draped with moss. As you gain altitude, the trees thin out, opening up views of the Dhaulagiri range.
Dobato is a small settlement with basic but cozy teahouses. The silence here is profound, a stark contrast to the busy trails below. You will arrive in time to explore the ridge and acclimatize.
You will wake up before dawn for the 30-minute hike up to Muldai View Point. The reward is breathtaking: a sunrise illuminating over 25 peaks, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, with the Kali Gandaki gorge (the world’s deepest) visible below.
Unlike Poon Hill, you will likely share this view with only a handful of others. After soaking in the panorama, return to Dobato for breakfast.
The trek then descends through the forest to join the main trail at Ghorepani. The evening in Ghorepani is lively, as it is a major junction for trekkers.
The final day of trekking involves a long descent. You will drop down the famous stone stairs of Ulleri—over 3,000 steps that will test your knees.
The trail passes through the villages of Banthanti and Tikhedhunga, crossing swaying suspension bridges over the Bhurungdi Khola.
Once you reach Hile or Nayapul, a private jeep will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara (approx. 2 hours). Celebrate the completion of your trek with a shower and a celebratory dinner in Pokhara.
Retrace your journey back to the capital on the tourist bus. Alternatively, you can opt for a 25-minute scenic flight (at an additional cost) to save time.
Back in Kathmandu, the afternoon is yours to spend on souvenir shopping or visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple).
In the evening, Trek Nepal Himalayas hosts a farewell dinner with cultural performances to celebrate your successful journey.
Your trip concludes today. A representative will transfer you to the airport 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
You leave Nepal with a camera full of photos and a heart full of memories from the Muldai View Trek.
Price Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara (B&B plan).
- All ground transportation (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by tourist bus; Pokhara-Ghandruk and Hile-Pokhara by private jeep).
- All teahouse accommodation during the trek (Twin sharing basis).
- Three meals a day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with tea/coffee.
- Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide and porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permits.
- Staff salary, insurance, equipment, and food.
- First aid kit and oximeter for daily health checks.
Price Excludes
- Nepal Entry Visa fee ($30 for 15 days / $50 for 30 days).
- International airfare.
- Travel and Rescue Insurance (Mandatory).
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Personal expenses (WiFi, hot showers, battery charging, boiled water, bar bills).
- Tips for guide and porter (Expected culture in Nepal).
Trip Information
Best Season & Weather
The Muldai View Trek is best experienced during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). In Spring, the trail is magical as the rhododendron forests explode into red, pink, and white blooms, and temperatures are mild (10°C to 20°C during the day).
Autumn offers the clearest skies and sharpest mountain views, with stable weather and crisp air. Winter (December-February) is doable but cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing at Dobato and Muldai, so heavy gear is required. Monsoon (June-August) is generally avoided due to leeches and obscured views.
Visa Requirements & Costs Getting a visa for Nepal is straightforward for most nationalities. You can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will need a valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity) and a passport-sized photo (or you can use the digital kiosk).
The cost is $30 USD for 15 days, $50 USD for 30 days, or $125 USD for 90 days. It is highly recommended to bring the exact cash in USD, although major currencies are accepted. You can also fill out the online form 15 days prior to arrival to save time.
Accommodation
Standards Accommodation on this trek consists of Tea Houses (mountain lodges). In villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani, the lodges are well-established with comfortable twin beds, electric blankets (in some), and Wi-Fi. However, in Dobato, accommodation is more basic and rustic.
Rooms are small with plywood walls, and you will likely use a shared squat toilet. The dining halls are the communal hub, heated by a central wood- or yak dung-burning stove in the evenings, creating a cozy atmosphere for meeting other trekkers.
Cultural Etiquette
The Annapurna region is home to the Gurung and Magar people. When greeting locals, place your palms together and say “Namaste”. Always walk clockwise around stupas, mani walls, and prayer wheels.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it is respectful to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), especially in villages. Do not take photos of locals without asking for permission first. Remove your shoes before entering a monastery or a local’s home.
Money & ATMs
Cash is king in the mountains. There are no ATMs on the trail after Pokhara. You must withdraw sufficient Nepali Rupees (NPR) in Kathmandu or Pokhara to cover your personal expenses.
Plan for approximately $20–$30 USD worth of NPR per day for extras like Wi-Fi (approx. 300-500 NPR), hot showers (300-500 NPR), charging electronics, chocolate bars, and beer.
Credit cards are rarely accepted on the trail, and if they are, a high surcharge (4-5%) applies.
Equipment List
Since the Muldai View Trek reaches 3,637m, you need gear that handles both warm valley days and freezing morning ridge walks.
Clothing:
- Head: Sun hat, warm wool/fleece beanie, neck gaiter (buff).
- Upper Body: Moisture-wicking base layers (2), insulating mid-layer (fleece jacket), windproof/waterproof hard shell jacket, down jacket (rated to -10°C).
- Lower Body: Trekking trousers (convertible are great), thermal underwear (for sleeping/mornings), waterproof over-trousers.
- Hands: Lightweight liner gloves, warm outer gloves.
- Feet: Broken-in waterproof hiking boots (essential), camp shoes/sandals, 3-4 pairs of merino wool hiking socks.
Equipment:
- Backpack: Daypack (30-40L) for carrying water, camera, and layers.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated to -10°C or -15°C (usually rentable in KTM/Pokhara).
- Hydration: 2 reusable water bottles (1 liter each) or a hydration bladder.
- Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for the steep stone steps (Ulleri) and knee support.
- Headlamp: Essential for the pre-dawn hike to Muldai View Point (bring spare batteries).
Personal & First Aid:
- Sunglasses (UV protection).
- Sunscreen (SPF 50) and lip balm.
- Water purification tablets or a filter (reduce plastic waste).
- Personal medical kit: blister plasters (Compeed), painkillers, Diamox (for altitude; consult a doctor), throat lozenges.
- Portable power bank (charging is expensive on the trail).
Frequently Asked Questions
It is considered a moderate trek. While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, you need a reasonable level of fitness.
You will be walking 4–6 hours a day. The trail involves steep stone staircases (common in Annapurna) and some rugged forest paths near Dobato.
If you can hike for 5 hours with a light daypack, you can do this trek.
The risk is low but present. The highest point is Muldai View Point at 3,637m. Most itineraries, including ours, ascend gradually, allowing your body to acclimatize.
Staying hydrated and walking at a slow, steady pace (“bistari, bistari”) is key. Our guides are trained to monitor your oxygen levels daily.
Yes, but it is better if you hire a licensed guide. This is for your safety and to support the local economy. Joining a group or hiring a private guide through an agency handles all permit logistics for you.
Poon Hill (3,210m) is famous but often overcrowded, sometimes with hundreds of trekkers at sunrise. Muldai View Point is higher (3,637m), offering a wider, more impressive panoramic angle of the mountains.
The trail to Muldai (via Dobato) is much quieter and passes through more pristine natural areas than the busy trade route to Ghorepani.
Yes. You can buy bottled water (not recommended for environmental reasons) or boiled water at teahouses.
The best and cheapest option is to bring refillable bottles and use water purification tablets or a filtration system. There are frequent taps and streams where you can fill up and treat your water.
Grace Educational Organisation
The Grace Educational Organisation is a government-registered charity dedicated to empowering students in Nepal through education.
With a 100% donation policy, every contribution directly supports the children and schools, providing essential resources like supplies, infrastructure, and extracurricular programs.
This initiative fosters a transparent connection between donors and students, ensuring every action leaves a lasting impact.
The Nuwakot School, located in a picturesque rural setting, is one of the beneficiaries of this mission.
By visiting, you witness these students’ educational journey and become part of a transformative effort to uplift the community.
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