Muldai Viewpoint Trek – 4 Days

muldai-trek
  • Duration4 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Maximum Altitude 3,637m
  • Activity Hiking
  • Group Size 1 - 20
  • Accommodation Teahouse
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Best Season march-May September-November

Muldai Viewpoint Trek is a relatively undiscovered gem that offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, all within a short and peaceful 4-day trek. Tucked quietly above Ghorepani and Poon Hill, the Muldai Viewpoint (3,637m) delivers a tranquil Himalayan experience away from the crowds, yet rich in natural beauty and cultural depth.

Unlike the busy trails of more commercial treks, Muldai’s path winds through serene forests, remote Gurung and Magar villages, and blooming rhododendron forests, especially vibrant in spring. The viewpoint itself offers a 360° Himalayan panorama including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and more, just with fewer people around to share the view. This makes it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking solitude, scenery, and an authentic connection with the Nepali Himalayas.

Who Should Do the Muldai Viewpoint Trek?

This trek is perfect for those who want off-the-beaten-path adventure without committing to long or strenuous expeditions. It’s ideal for:

  • Beginner trekkers with good basic fitness
  • Nature lovers who want silence and solitude
  • Photographers seeking new perspectives
  • Couples, families, or solo travelers wanting a 4-day scenic escape
  • Anyone who’s done Poon Hill and wants something quieter but equally stunning

Since the trail doesn’t go beyond 3,637m, it’s safe from altitude sickness, making it very accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Is Muldai Viewpoint Suitable for Beginners?

Absolutely. The Muldai Viewpoint Trek is perfect for beginners, families, solo travelers, and photographers looking for a short but rewarding trekking experience. With a maximum elevation of just 3,637 meters, it’s low-risk for altitude sickness and does not require any previous trekking experience.

If you are reasonably fit and able to walk 5–6 hours per day on undulating trails, this trek is for you. It's also ideal for:

  • Those with limited time who still want a full Himalayan experience
  • Photographers and sunrise chasers
  • People seeking peaceful alternatives to crowded routes like Poon Hill
  • Couples and honeymooners looking for scenic, romantic escapes

What Makes the Muldai Trek So Special?

The Muldai Trek is about intimacy with nature and the mountains. Unlike other treks where you share viewpoints with dozens of others, here you’ll often find yourself alone with the peaks, soaking in the serenity. The trail is rich with biodiversity, birds, deer, wildflowers, waterfalls, and mountain silence.

It’s also culturally immersive. Along the way, we interact with local villagers, walk through centuries-old forests, and eat food made from ingredients grown just a few meters away.

Why Is the Muldai Viewpoint Trek One of Nepal’s Best Short Treks?

Because it combines seclusion, breathtaking scenery, and manageable trekking days, the Muldai Trek is perfect for those seeking a meaningful experience in a short timeframe. It offers better mountain visibility than even Poon Hill, with far fewer trekkers.

For those craving the magic of the Himalayas without the chaos of the crowd, Muldai is a peaceful answer. In just 4 days, we experience everything: deep forest trails, local culture, and one of Nepal’s most underrated sunrise spots.

Highlights
  • Stunning Himalayan Panorama from Muldai View Point (3,637m) with views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and more.
  • Magical Sunrise Experience over 20 snow-capped peaks with a peaceful, crowd-free setting.
  • Short and Moderate Trek, ideal for beginners and those with limited time (typically 4–5 days).
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Trail, offering a quiet, less-commercialized trekking experience.
  • Cozy Teahouse Accommodations with local hospitality and home-cooked meals.
  • Connects with Popular Routes, like Ghorepani–Poon Hill and the Annapurna Base Camp trail, for flexible itineraries.
Itinerary

We begin our adventure with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk, a charming Gurung village filled with traditional stone houses, vibrant culture, and mesmerizing views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. After a warm welcome and some hot tea, we start our gradual ascent through forested trails rich with birdlife and mountain aromas. As we ascend, the trail becomes denser with rhododendron and oak trees, especially enchanting in spring when flowers bloom in red, pink, and white. After several peaceful hours, we reach Tadapani, perched atop a ridge surrounded by forest. From here, sunset views of the Himalayas take our breath away as we enjoy dinner in a cozy teahouse.

  • Max. Altitude:2,630m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:4–5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trail takes us even deeper into silence and nature. After breakfast, we leave behind the main trail and head into the untouched wilderness, walking through ancient rhododendron forests where nature whispers with every breeze. We gradually gain altitude as we reach Dobato, a peaceful stop with just a few lodges but incredible views. On clear days, even from Dobato, we can catch glimpses of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. The peaceful atmosphere here is something few trekkers get to enjoy. We sleep early tonight, anticipating the sunrise adventure awaiting us tomorrow.

  • Max. Altitude:3,420m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5–6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Before dawn, we wrap up in warm jackets and hike with headlamps through the forest to reach Muldai Viewpoint, just a 45-minute to 1-hour climb from Dobato. As the sky starts to glow, the entire horizon unfolds, the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges shine gold, with Mt. Manaslu even visible on the clearest mornings. There are no crowds, just us, nature, and the Himalayas in full glory. After capturing unforgettable photos, we descend back to Dobato for breakfast, then begin our descent through dense forests and village paths toward Ghandruk. We walk slowly, passing gentle streams, birdsong, and occasional mountain goats. Arriving in Ghandruk, we enjoy our final night with incredible views and a well-deserved rest.

  • Max. Altitude:3,637m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6–7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast and a short village walk, we say goodbye to the mountains and board our vehicle back to Pokhara. The drive winds past terraced fields and river valleys, and though we leave the mountains behind, their presence will stay with us forever.

  • Max. Altitude:1,940m
  • Time:Drive – 2.5 to 3 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departure Dates
Select a Departure Month
Trip Date PriceStatus 
Start DateStartsSep 12, 2025End DateEndsSep 15, 2025PriceUS$0StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsSep 17, 2025End DateEndsSep 20, 2025PriceUS$0StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsSep 23, 2025End DateEndsSep 26, 2025PriceUS$0StatusAvailable
Useful Info

What Is the Best Time to Do the Muldai Viewpoint Trek?

The best time to enjoy the Muldai Viewpoint Trek is during:

Spring (March–May)

This is when the trail comes alive. Rhododendrons bloom in red, pink, and white, transforming the forests into magical corridors. Wildlife is active, and the skies are generally clear in the mornings.

Autumn (September–November)

The most popular time for clear, uninterrupted mountain views. Post-monsoon skies are crystal clear, with golden hues during sunrise and sunset. The trail is dry, the air is crisp, and the visibility is unbeatable.

Winter (December–February)

You can still trek in winter, and snow-capped landscapes make it even more picturesque. However, trails may be slippery and mornings freezing. A good sleeping bag and winter gear are necessary.

Monsoon (June–August)

Not recommended. Trails get muddy, visibility is poor, and leeches are common. However, if you love solitude and lush greenery, it’s still doable with proper rain gear.

What Type of Accommodation Can You Expect on the Trek?

Accommodation on the Muldai Viewpoint Trek consists of local teahouses—simple mountain lodges offering basic but clean and cozy rooms. Most have twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. In remote spots like Dobato, facilities are more limited, so carrying a sleeping bag and headlamp is highly recommended.

Teahouse owners are friendly, and meals are served in a warm dining room heated by a wood stove. You’ll find a set menu of Nepali and Tibetan meals like dal bhat, noodles, pasta, fried rice, momos, and chapatis. Beverages like milk tea, lemon honey ginger, and even beer are often available at an extra cost.

What Makes Muldai Viewpoint Special Compared to Poon Hill?

Many trekkers have heard of Poon Hill, but very few know that Muldai Viewpoint offers a higher and wider panoramic view, without the crowds. Located just about an hour's climb from Dobato, Muldai rewards you with:

  • Unobstructed 360° views of Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, and even Manaslu
  • Fewer trekkers, which means more personal space for photography and reflection
  • A peaceful, meditative atmosphere with more natural forest trails
  • The feeling of being in a remote Himalayan sanctuary, not a tourist hotspot

What Permits Are Required for the Muldai Trek?

To trek in the Annapurna region, you’ll need:

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) – NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 25)
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card – NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 15)
    These can be arranged by your trekking agency or obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

What to Pack for the Muldai Viewpoint Trek?

Here’s a quick essentials checklist:

  • Warm layers (especially for early mornings at the viewpoint)
  • Down jacket and windproof outer shell
  • Gloves, hat, and thermal wear
  • Trekking shoes with good grip
  • Headlamp (Dobato has limited electricity)
  • Water bottles and purification tablets or LifeStraw
  • Sleeping bag (3-season or warmer recommended)
  • Snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, trekking poles (optional)

Pack light but smart. You won’t need technical gear, but being warm and dry is essential.

 

FAQs

  • It’s easy to moderate. Daily walking ranges from 4 to 6 hours with manageable ascents.

  • Yes, but hiring a local guide enhances the experience and helps support the local economy.

  • Basic mobile network coverage exists in Ghandruk and Tadapani. Dobato is more remote, with limited or no signal.

  • Yes, in Ghandruk and Tadapani. In Dobato, hot water may be available for an extra cost, or not at all depending on the season.