Muldai Hill Trek
Overview
The Muldai Hill Trek is an off-the-beaten-path trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Offering a refreshing and quieter alternative to more popular trails like Poon Hill, this trek provides stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, and the chance to experience vibrant local cultures and unique landscapes. The trek takes eight days and is accessible to beginners with a moderate fitness level. Below is a detailed, day-by-day breakdown of the itinerary.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by the trek organizer’s representative and transferred to your hotel. The evening is free for rest, but you will gather around 6:00 PM for a brief meeting where the trek program will be outlined. If time permits and you wish to explore more, you can opt to stay an additional night in Kathmandu to do sightseeing or shop for trekking essentials.
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara
After a night in Kathmandu, you will take a short flight to Pokhara. The scenic flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, making the journey a delightful experience. Once in Pokhara, you will transfer to your accommodation for an overnight stay at the Moonlight Resort. In Pokhara, the tranquility of the surrounding lakes and mountains is sure to inspire excitement for the trek ahead.
Day 3: Drive to Ghandruk, Trek to Tadapani
On this day, you will drive to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village that sits at an altitude of 2,012 meters. Ghandruk offers impressive views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. After arriving, you will start the trek toward Tadapani, which lies at 2,630 meters. The trek will take around 6-8 hours and you will stay overnight in a local lodge. The evening will be spent resting and soaking in the surrounding natural beauty.
Day 4: Trek to Dobato
The following day, the trek continues as you head toward Dobato, situated at an altitude of 3,420 meters. The trek to Dobato takes approximately 6-8 hours, with stunning views along the way. As you walk through dense forests, you may encounter a variety of flora and fauna. Upon reaching Dobato, you will stay in a local lodge for the night, preparing for the ascent to Muldai Hill the next day.
Day 5: Hike to Muldai Viewpoint, Trek to Ghorepani
Day 5 is one of the most exciting days of the trek, as you will hike to Muldai Viewpoint (3,637 meters). The viewpoint offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and it is an ideal spot for sunrise and sunset views. After enjoying the views, you will descend toward Ghorepani, a popular stop on several Annapurna trekking routes. The trek to Ghorepani will take around 8-10 hours, and you will stay in a local lodge overnight.
Day 6: Trek to Ulleri
On this day, you will trek to Ulleri, located at a lower altitude than Ghorepani, at 1,960 meters. The descent will take 8-10 hours, offering the chance to witness the changes in vegetation and landscape as you move down. The trek offers glimpses of the terraced fields, local villages, and vibrant flora, including rhododendron forests. Once in Ulleri, you will take a private transport to return to Pokhara, where you will stay at the Moonlight Resort.
Day 7: Fly Back to Kathmandu
After returning to Pokhara, you will take a flight back to Kathmandu. The flight offers another opportunity to enjoy aerial views of the mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will transfer back to your hotel, where you can rest and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. This day provides time to relax after the trekking adventure.
Day 8: Departure from Kathmandu
On the final day of your trek, after breakfast, you will be transferred to the Kathmandu airport for your departure. The trek concludes, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Muldai Hill Trek, the majestic views, and the unique cultural experiences.
Conclusion
The Muldai Hill Trek is perfect for trekkers seeking a quieter, less-crowded experience while still enjoying magnificent Himalayan views and the opportunity to explore the local cultures of the Annapurna region. The trek’s moderate difficulty makes it suitable for beginners, and the relatively short trekking days allow you to appreciate the landscape without feeling rushed. With diverse flora and fauna, charming villages, and some of the best mountain views in Nepal, this trek is an ideal choice for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.