Mulde View Point Trek or Muldai View Point Trek is a name you either haven’t heard before or you’ve been hearing frequently for some time now. So, if you haven’t heard, it is because it is relatively a newly discovered destination and if you have heard it, it is because a lot of trekkers have been talking about it recently.
The name Annapurna is a familiar word, as Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. But the interesting fact is that it falls within the Annapurna region, which is also a conservation area comprising five districts: Manang, Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi, and Lamjung Districts.
A recently opened route of a hidden gem within the Annapurna region, Mulde View Point Trek can be done in 7 days and is slowly becoming a favorite among trekkers.
It can also be called the Mulde-Poon Hill viewpoint trek. It is a short and sweet trek with remarkable views of the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range. And moreover, a trail that most people have yet to discover, which means you can enjoy a less crowded hike to the mountains.
A more peaceful and spiritual experience. If you want a less commercial trail that gives you an authentic local experience, then this trek is just right for you.
Highlights of Muldai View Point Trek
- An off-beat trail offering a tranquil experience of the mountains without the crowdedness.
- Get the chance to witness a heart-capturing sunrise from two viewpoints, Mulde View Point and Poon Hill View Point.
- Hike through local villages where you can immerse yourself in the indigenous culture of Gurungs and Magars.
- Hiking the trails that fall with the Annapurna Conservation Area, rich in different species of flora and fauna.
- An easy and short trail, very suitable for people with limited time and beginner trekkers.
- Amazing 360-degree views of the mountain ranges of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other mighty peaks.
- The trail leads through the alpine forest of oak and rhododendron trees, which blossom fully during the spring.
- It is a trek that can be done in all seasons and offers different yet spectacular views no matter which season you choose.
Comprehensive Overview: Muldai View Point
The day-to-day itinerary of 7 days of the Mulde View Point Trek begins as most of the treks in the Annapurna Region do: a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
The second day you will find yourself on another bus to Ulleri or Hille, which is about an almost three-hour drive from Pokhara. And from then on the hike begins and we make our way to the cultural hub of a village known as Ghandruk, known for the Gurung community and their native culture.
Ghandruk is not only where you can experience amazing hospitality and the Gurung culture but also a spectacular spot to view the mountains, especially the Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
The next day, we begin our full-fledged trek; it is mostly uphill, so better lace up your boots. Through the verdant forest, the trail offers a scenic front, filled with trees and hills over which sit the snow-white mountains.
The village of Tadapani serves as a meet-point for different trails, which sees a lot of tourists during peak season. But nonetheless, it is quite a beautiful village overlooking the mountains and the sunrise from here is something people do not talk about as much as the Poonhill. But it is equally as beautiful.
On the fourth day, we will divert ourselves to a much lesser-walked trail. You will be completely removed from the commercial trail and will be hiking through a much more peaceful one. The hike is pleasant, with ups and downs and tranquil scenery all around.
After hiking for a few hours and passing by some villages, we reach the destination of the day, Dobato. The following morning, we wake a tad bit early to make sure we reach the viewpoint just in time for the sunrise. The majestic views from the Mulde Viewpoint are jaw-dropping.
You will get to see the Annapurna range, the Dhaulagiri range, Lamjung, Fishtail, Gangapurna, and many other gorgeous peaks in their full glory.
After witnessing a breathtaking sunrise at Mulde View Point, we descend to Ghorepani, another place known for its grandiose sunrise as well. While the sunrise from Mulde ViewPoint has yet to be popularized, Poonhill has been one of the top chosen destinations for both international and domestic travelers.
On the sixth day, we again rise very early and hike to the top of the Poon Hill Station and see the dazzling sunrise over the impressive mountains. After which, we will descend down to Hille and take a ride back to Pokhara, where you can melt all your tiredness by exploring the calm lake city.
On the seventh day, we finally take a bus back to the chaotic but beautiful Kathmandu Valley, thus ending our glorious trek to the Himalayas.
What is so special about the Mulde Viewpoint? Is it worth it?
There are many things to look forward to during this trek. Not only will you be able to get an authentic cultural experience of mountain communities, you will also get to see some of the world’s best sunrises as well.
The snowy peaks are like a cherry on top. There are many things that make the Mulde Viewpoint Trek special and worth every penny and time spent. Here are some highlights.
Mulde or Muldai Viewpoint
The main location itself, of course, will be the top reason why this trek is so special. You will walk an off-beat trail and have a much more peaceful experience and avoid crowds during this trek. And after reaching the viewpoint, the views you get to see will be unlike anything you have ever seen.
At an elevation of 3,637 m, you will get a wide-angle view of the many mountains that surround you from all sides. The golden light of the sunrise will have you holding your breath.
Views of the Majestic Mountains
The expansive view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges is one of the major reasons why people trek in the Annapurna Region. The finest views of Annapurna III (7,555 m), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri Himal (7,061 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Gurja Himal (7,193 m), Dhampus Peak (6,012 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), and other lesser-known peaks will be visible. Particularly the world's seventh and tenth tallest peaks, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna-I, are the ones that catch more attention.
Ghandruk Village
Ghandruk Village is one of the more preserved villages in terms of culture and traditions. The village provides you to witness the Gurung communities in their element, one of Nepal's ethnic groups. The village is often marked as the beginning or ending point of a trek in the Annapurna region.
In addition to providing picturesque views of the Annapurna, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre mountains, the village is renowned for its distinctive architectural design. The maze-like pathways make it all the more interesting and it has some of the best views of Annapurna Range and Machhapuchhre.
Poon Hill Sunrise
Double sunrise is one of the best perks about this trek. Even though we have already seen the sunrise from Mulde viewpoint, the Poon Hill sunrise has its own special part. The panoramic 360° view of the gigantic mountain ranges, including Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Range, Himchuli, Gangapurna, and others, never fails to make your jaw drop.
Engage with the ethnic communities.
Every place you stay will reflect a culture of their own. Even though Gurungs are a little more dominant, you will also be able to find other ethnic groups living and existing in harmony, practicing their own culture. You will get to deeply immerse in the culture and try Thakali and Gurung cuisine, as well as try on a traditional Gurung dress and click pictures for memories in the village of Ghandruk.