Mulde Hill and Poon Hill Trek – Best Sunrise Viewpoints in Annapurna Region

Day 01: Drive to Kimche (1,610m) & Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)

Your journey begins with a scenic 2.5-hour drive from Pokhara, passing through Naudanda, Kande, Lumle, and Nayapul before reaching Kimche. The landscape alternates between terraced fields, small rivers, and views of the Annapurna foothills. Kimche is a small Gurung village with traditional stone houses. From here, the trek to Ghandruk takes about 2 hours along well-maintained stone steps and gentle paths.
Along the way, you pass tiny hamlets such as Syauli Bazaar and Chane, offering views of Modi Khola Valley. As you ascend, the peaks Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre begin to appear dramatically.
Ghandruk itself is one of the most famous Gurung villages in Nepal—known for its slate-roofed houses, rich Gurung culture, and stunning mountain panorama. You can explore the Gurung Museum, walk narrow alleys, and enjoy traditional cuisine. Sunset views over the mountains are spectacular, with golden hues over Annapurna South. This village is also an important recruitment area for Gurkha soldiers and has a calm atmosphere perfect for acclimatization. Overnight in a teahouse with warm hospitality.

Day 02: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,600m)

The trail from Ghandruk to Tadapani is scenic and forested, taking about 3–4 hours. You begin by climbing gradually above Ghandruk, passing through Bheri Kharka, Komrong, and Komrong Danda. The first section includes stone steps and forested walkways with excellent views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli behind you.
After Komrong Danda, a long descent leads to Komrong Khola, a small riverside point where you cross a wooden bridge. From here, the trail climbs steadily through dense rhododendron, oak, and magnolia forests. This region is known for abundant birdlife and is especially colorful during spring when rhododendrons bloom in red and pink shades.
As you ascend, you pass a few small teahouses in forest clearings such as Chauthari and Gurung Hill. The final stretch to Tadapani is a pleasant forest walk with occasional clearings that reveal close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Tadapani itself is a small settlement perched on a ridge, famous for sunrise views over the Annapurna range. It sits deep within the forest, giving it a remote, peaceful atmosphere. Overnight at a teahouse overlooking stunning mountain scenery.

Day 03: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato (3,350m)

This is one of the most beautiful forest trails in the Annapurna region. From Tadapani, the path leaves the main Ghorepani route and enters the quieter, less-traveled trail to Dobato. You first pass through dense rhododendron forest, gradually climbing to Meshar Danda and then Isharu Village—a small place with a few teahouses where locals often graze yaks and buffalo.
From Isharu, the trail continues through moss-covered trees, wooden bridges, and lush undergrowth before reaching Nagaethanti, a peaceful forest point. The area is known for wildlife—monkeys, Himalayan birds, and occasionally deer.
A steep section brings you to Dobato, an emerging trekking spot located on a high ridge. As you approach, the forest opens up to spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail. Dobato itself is quiet, cold, and incredibly scenic with only 2–3 lodges.
The highlight here is the proximity to the Muldai Viewpoint, which you will visit the next morning. The evening in Dobato is peaceful, with breathtaking sunsets over the Dhaulagiri range and a feeling of complete wilderness. Overnight in Dobato.

Day 04: Muldai Viewpoint (3,637m) & Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m)

You start early with a 35–45 minute hike to Muldai Viewpoint, a spectacular 360-degree panorama offering views of over 20 Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Fishtail, and Gurja Himal. This viewpoint is considered quieter and even more impressive than Poon Hill. After enjoying sunrise, return to Dobato for breakfast.
The trail then descends toward Deurali (3,090m), passing through Banthanti, Tili Kharka, and rhododendron forests. You walk along ridgelines with frequent glimpses of the mountains. From Deurali, the path gradually descends to Ghorepani, passing Duerali Pass and entering blue-roofed teahouse settlements.
Ghorepani is a lively village surrounded by dense forests and known for its traditional Magar culture. You can explore the village and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Most trekkers prepare for the next day’s sunrise hike to Poon Hill, but you have already enjoyed Muldai Viewpoint, making this day more relaxed.
Views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna loom above the village, creating a stunning backdrop. Overnight at a comfortable teahouse in Ghorepani.

Day 05: Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ulleri – Hile; Drive to Pokhara

This final day is long but rewarding. Early morning, you hike about 1 hour to Poon Hill (3,210m), Nepal’s most famous sunrise viewpoint. The panorama includes Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Fishtail, glowing golden in morning light.
After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, the trail descends steeply through forests to Nange Thanti and then to Banthanti. From here, the path continues down stone steps through Ulleri Village (1,960m), a large Magar settlement famous for its long staircases—over 3,000 stone steps.
You walk through traditional houses, terraced farms, and open landscapes as you descend toward Thirkedunga, crossing several waterfalls.
The last gentle section takes you to Hile (1,480m), where your trek ends. After lunch, you drive back to Pokhara for about 2.5 hours along the Bhurungdi and Modi Khola valleys.
This day offers a perfect blend of mountain scenery, culture, and rewarding downhill trekking, ending with a comfortable return to Pokhara.

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

Best Season to Visit

The most favorable time for the Mulde Hill and Poon Hill Trek is from October to December and March to May. During these months, the skies are clear, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare peaks. The weather is generally mild and comfortable for trekking, and the chances of rain are low. Monsoon season, from June to September, is not recommended as trails become slippery and visibility is often poor. Winter months bring cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations, so warm clothing is essential.

Trek Difficulty and Duration

The trek is considered moderate in difficulty and is suitable for beginners who maintain a basic level of fitness. It usually takes four to five days, covering a round trip of approximately 40–50 kilometers. The trails involve gradual uphill climbs, forest paths, and stone steps. While not technically challenging, trekkers should be prepared for long walking hours and variable terrain. Adequate preparation and pacing oneself are important for a safe and enjoyable journey.

Starting Point and Route

Most trekkers begin the journey from Pokhara, a popular tourist hub with easy access by road or domestic flights. From Pokhara, the trek starts with a scenic drive to the trailhead at Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village. The route then passes through small villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests, eventually reaching Ghorepani and the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. The trail offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural encounters along the way.

Accommodation

Along the trek, accommodation is available in tea houses and lodges. These lodges are simple but comfortable, often providing warm meals, hot drinks, and basic bathroom facilities. Staying in local lodges gives trekkers a chance to experience the hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities, making the journey more memorable. It is advisable to carry some cash as most lodges do not accept cards.

Food and Water

Food during the trek is mainly traditional Nepali cuisine. Meals like dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos, noodles, and soups are commonly served, often accompanied by seasonal fruits. Drinking water should always be purified or bought bottled to avoid waterborne illnesses. Carrying reusable water bottles and water purification tablets is recommended for convenience and sustainability.

Packing Essentials
Trekkers should pack comfortable trekking boots with good grip, layered clothing for changing weather, and a rain jacket and a windproof jacket. Other essentials include hats, gloves, sunglasses, trekking poles, a flashlight, sunscreen, a basic first-aid kit, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Proper packing ensures comfort, safety, and preparedness for unexpected weather changes.

Health and Safety

It is important to maintain good hydration, pace yourself, and take breaks as needed. Trekkers should carry a first-aid kit including medications for headaches, cold, and mild altitude sickness. Avoid alcohol or heavy meals before long trekking days. Traveling with a licensed guide is recommended for navigation, safety, and local insights, particularly in remote areas.

Local Culture

The trail passes through villages inhabited mainly by Gurung and Magar communities. Trekkers are encouraged to respect local traditions and customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or temples. Engaging politely with locals, asking permission before photographing people, and trying local food are excellent ways to enrich the trekking experience.

Permits and Regulations

A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) are required to trek in this region. These permits help maintain conservation efforts and ensure trekkers’ safety. Guides and travel agencies usually assist with obtaining permits, which should always be carried during the trek.

Communication and Connectivity

Mobile network coverage is limited in remote areas along the trek, although major villages may have some signal. Travelers are advised to download offline maps or carry a local SIM card for emergency communication. This ensures safety and helps in navigation without relying entirely on network coverage.

Photography Opportunities

The trek offers numerous opportunities for photography. Sunrise at Poon Hill provides spectacular mountain vistas, while terraced fields, forest trails, and traditional villages are perfect for capturing the local lifestyle. Carrying a camera with extra batteries and memory cards ensures you can document every special moment.

Fitness Preparation

While the trek is accessible to beginners, some preparation and fitness training are recommended. Regular walking, hiking, or cardio exercises a few weeks before the trek can improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and make the experience more enjoyable. Proper training also minimizes the risk of injuries along steep or uneven trails.

Environmental Responsibility

Trekkers are encouraged to respect nature by not littering and avoiding single-use plastics. Carry all waste back to lodges or designated disposal points. Preserving the environment helps maintain the natural beauty of the region for future trekkers and supports the sustainability of the Annapurna Conservation Area.