This trek through the Annapurna region offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, panoramic mountain views, and off-the-beaten-path exploration. It takes you to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village, through dense rhododendron forests to the Muldai Viewpoint, and along the serene trail to Mohare Danda, an alternative to the popular Poon Hill. This trek is ideal for those seeking breathtaking Himalayan landscapes while avoiding crowds, and it provides a deep dive into local life with comfortable tea house accommodations along the way.
Muldai to Mohare Dadha Cultural Trek
- Duration: 12 Days
- Diffculty Level: Moderate
- Destination: Nepal
- Best Time: Mar-May | Sep-Dec
- Activity: Cultural Trek
- Max. Altitude: 3636m
Highlights
- Cultural Immersion: Explore traditional Gurung villages like Ghandruk, visit the Gurung Museum, and witness local cultural performances.
- Panoramic Mountain Views: Experience stunning sunrises at Muldai Viewpoint and Mohare Danda, offering 360° views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and beyond.
- Less Crowded Trails: The Muldai Dobato and Mohare Danda sections are quieter alternatives to the more crowded Poon Hill trek.
- Diverse Landscapes: Trek through dense rhododendron and oak forests, terraced farmlands, and scenic mountain ridges.
- Pokhara’s Charm: Relax by Phewa Lake, explore Lakeside, and enjoy the vibrant ambiance before and after your trek.
Itinerary
As your plane descends into Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you are welcomed by the sight of Kathmandu’s busy streets, ancient temples, and the surrounding hills. The capital city, a melting pot of cultures and traditions, serves as the perfect introduction to Nepal. After clearing immigration and picking up your bags, you will be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the city’s vibrant tourist hub. This area is filled with trekking shops, cozy cafés, and historic temples. If you have time, you can visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) or Durbar Square, both of which offer a glimpse into Nepal’s rich history. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at a local restaurant, where you can try Dal Bhat—a meal you will soon become familiar with during your trek.
Early in the morning, you will leave Kathmandu and head towards Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region. If you choose to take a tourist bus, the drive will take 6-8 hours, following the winding roads along the Trishuli River, passing small villages and lush hillsides. While the road is bumpy at times, the changing scenery keeps the journey exciting. If you prefer to fly, you can reach Pokhara in just 25 minutes, offering a spectacular aerial view of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Pokhara, the fresh mountain air and calm waters of Phewa Lake create a peaceful atmosphere. You can spend the afternoon boating on the lake, hiking up to the World Peace Pagoda for a panoramic view of the city, or simply relaxing at one of the cafés along Lakeside, watching the sun set behind the mountains.
After an early breakfast, you will take a 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul, where your off-road journey begins towards Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village nestled in the hills. The drive can be bumpy but is filled with stunning views of green hills and terraced farmlands. Upon reaching Ghandruk, you will be greeted by the majestic sight of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak). The village is known for its well-preserved Gurung culture, traditional houses, and stone-paved alleyways. You can explore the Gurung Museum, which showcases the history, attire, and way of life of the local people. In the evening, if available, you may witness a traditional Gurung dance performance, giving you a deeper appreciation of their culture. Ghandruk is one of the largest Gurung settlements in Nepal, and spending the night here is a highlight of the trek.
Leaving behind the charming village of Ghandruk, you will begin your ascent towards Tadapani, following a trail that takes you through dense rhododendron forests, winding paths, and small streams. This section of the trek is particularly beautiful during the spring season (March-May) when the rhododendrons bloom, covering the landscape in shades of red, pink, and white. Along the way, you will encounter small tea houses where you can take a break and enjoy a cup of Nepali tea. The higher you climb, the more dramatic the mountain views become, with Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South appearing even closer. After about 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach Tadapani, a small settlement perched on a ridge with incredible views of the surrounding peaks. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink, making it a perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's journey.
This day takes you off the typical trekking route as you head towards Muldai Dobato, a lesser-known but spectacular viewpoint in the Annapurna region. The trail winds through quiet forests, untouched landscapes, and occasional clearings that provide glimpses of the towering peaks. Unlike more popular trails, this route is peaceful, allowing you to fully connect with nature. The final section involves a moderate climb, leading to Dobato, a small settlement with basic tea houses. As this area sees fewer trekkers, the tea houses are simple but welcoming. You will fall asleep under a sky filled with stars, eagerly awaiting the breathtaking sunrise the next morning.
The day begins early as you embark on a 30-45 minute hike to Muldai Viewpoint (3640m) before sunrise. As the first light of day illuminates the snow-capped peaks, you will be rewarded with a 360° panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, including Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. After soaking in the views and taking plenty of photos, you will return to Dobato for breakfast before starting the descent to Swata. The trail to Swata passes through forests and open pastures, providing a relaxing contrast to the previous day's climb. Upon reaching Swata, you will settle into a tea house and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
The next three days will take you through some of the most scenic and culturally rich sections of the trek. From Swata, you will make your way to Ghorepani, a famous village known for its proximity to Poon Hill, one of the most visited viewpoints in Nepal.
However, instead of the crowded Poon Hill, you will take the lesser-known trail to Mohare Danda (3300m), which offers similar views with fewer trekkers. Here, you will witness another magical sunrise and sunset, gazing at the golden peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
The trail then descends through lush forests and charming villages, eventually reaching Hile or Ulleri, where you will spend your last night in the mountains.
On your final trekking day, you will make your way down to Nayapul, where a jeep will take you back to Pokhara. After days of walking, arriving in Pokhara feels refreshing—you can indulge in a massage, enjoy a lakeside meal, or even try paragliding if you're feeling adventurous.
You will either fly or take a bus back to Kathmandu, where you can do some last-minute shopping in Thamel before preparing for your final departure.
As you board your flight home, you will carry with you unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, the kindness of the local people, and the sense of accomplishment from completing this incredible trek.
What's Included
- Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist Bus
- Private transportation from Pokhara - Nayapul - Pokhara
- Two nights accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu
- Two nights accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara
- Accommodation in a Tea House in the Trekking area
- All standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)during the trek
- Government-licensed trek leader (guide), an assistant trekking guide for 12 or more trekkers. 1 Porter for every two Travelers.
- Guide and Porter's salary, food, and accommodation
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
- Certificate of Appreciation
- Farewell Dinner at the end of the trek in Kathmandu
What's Excluded
- International flight airfare
- Nepal Entry Visa Fees for multiple entries on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport- (15 days - $25-30, 30 days- $40-50, and 90 days- $100-110)
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Tea / Coffee and Hot water
- Extra night accommodation, meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival or late departure, and early return from the trek.
- Personal like shopping and bar bills.
- Personal clothing and gear
- Travel Insurance has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation along with medical coverage
- Tips for Guides and Porters
- Additional costs due to delays caused by unforeseen circumstances outside company control like landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc
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