Tour Overview

Trip Code
DE-0014
Starting Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Kathmandu
Max Altitude
4,500m / 14,764ft
Duration
17 Days
Country
Nepal
Trip Grade
Moderate
Activities
Trekking
Best Season
Spring and Autumn

Also known as the rhododendron trek, Nepal’s newly opened Mulde Peak Trek is one of the hidden gems. This trek weaves through the heart of the Annapurna region and shares parts of its trail with the more renowned Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill treks. What makes the Mulde Peak Trek unique is not just its quiet trails but the magical views it offers from two spectacular vantage points — Mulde Peak at 3,367 meters (11,932 ft) and Poon Hill at 3,210 meters (10,532 ft). These two viewpoints present an unmatched panorama of some of Nepal’s most famous Himalayan giants, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Mt. Hiunchuli, and the distinctive Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) peak. And, you can complete this journey within 17 days including 12 days of trekking.

Details

Mulde Peak Trek is a dream for nature lovers, especially for those who appreciate seasonal beauty. This peak trek has earned the nickname “The Rhododendron Trek,” and for a good reason as well. The trail leads you through dense, blooming rhododendron forests that blaze with color during the spring season, usually from March to early May. This is when the trail turns into a natural corridor of reds, pinks, and whites, creating a dreamlike experience as you walk through flower-lined paths surrounded by misty hills and chirping birds. Here at Destiny Excursions, we highly recommend doing the trek during this time for the full experience, but this trek can be done year-round, offering beauty in every season.

The journey to Mulde Peak begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. From here, the trail gently climbs through classic stone stairways, traditional Gurung villages, and stepped farmlands. As the altitude increases, the terrain transitions into rich forests filled with oak, bamboo, and rhododendron trees. Along the way, you shall pass through peaceful villages like Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Dobato, all of which offer warm hospitality and cozy teahouse accommodations. These teahouses provide essential comforts like hot showers, high-speed Wi-Fi, and delicious local meals, including the famous Dal Bhat and other traditional Nepali dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

The highlight of the trek, without a doubt, is standing atop Mulde Peak at sunrise. As the sky slowly glows with the first light of dawn, the massive snow-capped peaks start to shimmer in gold and crimson hues. Compared to the more crowded Poon Hill viewpoint, Mulde Peak remains quieter and less commercial, giving you a more serene and immersive mountain experience.

The Mulde Peak Trek is moderate in difficulty and suitable for all age groups with average fitness levels. It’s a perfect fit for travelers who want a short trek with high rewards, combining stunning views, rich culture, and peaceful trails. It also serves as a great warm-up or acclimatization trek for those planning higher-elevation adventures in Nepal later on.

So, if you’re looking for a lesser-known route that delivers everything from magical forests to majestic peaks, the Mulde Peak Trek with Destiny Excursion awaits you. It’s not just a journey through the hills — it’s a celebration of natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful exploration in the heart of the Himalayas.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore Kathmandu’s cultural and historical sites
  • See diverse and rare Himalayan flora and fauna
  • Ideal trekking route for novice trekkers
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Gangapurna, Himal Chuli, and other prominent peaks
  • Easy and scenic trekking experience on the southern flank of the Annapurna range
  • Witness breathtaking sunrise views from Mulde Peak and Poon Hill
  • Experience traditional hospitality at mountain tea houses en route

Points of Attraction

Although the Dhampus Trek is short in duration, it provides you with a focused dose of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a serene Himalayan atmosphere. Located in the Annapurna district, Dhampus Trek is ideal for you if you wish to experience a moderate adventure without going too deep into the wild from the city. Panoramic mountain views and friendly local culture make every bit of this trip leave an indelible mark on one’s mind. The following are the key points of interest for the Dhampus Trek:

Scenic and Natural Attractions

  • Mulde Viewpoint (3,637m): A hidden gem with 360-degree views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhare, and dozens more peaks glowing in golden hues at sunrise.
  • Poon Hill (3,200m): An iconic sunrise viewpoint with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs.
  • Rhododendron Forests: Walk through dense, blooming rhododendron forests that blaze with color during spring — reds, pinks, and whites creating a dreamlike corridor of flowers.
  • Khayer Lake (4,500m): A sacred high-altitude lake nestled below towering peaks, revered by Hindu pilgrims.
  • Hidden Lake (4,372m): A remotely situated alpine lake bordered by prayer flags and mythology.

Cultural and Heritage Attractions

  • Ghandruk Gurung Village: Explore Gurung heritage, a local museum, and stunning backdrop of Annapurna South from one of the region’s most celebrated villages.
  • Khopra Danda and Eco-Community Lodges: Experience eco-friendly tourism ventures along the quieter trails of Mohare and Khopra.
  • Swanta Village: Rural ambiance, apple orchards, and warmth in an offbeat hamlet.

Adventure and Trekking Highlights

  • Sunrise at Mulde Peak: Quieter than Poon Hill and more serene — watch the massive snow-capped peaks shimmer in gold and crimson as dawn breaks.
  • Khopra Danda Ridge Walk (3,660m): Exposed ridgeline with commanding views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak.
  • Mohare Danda (3,300m): A peaceful ridge with beautiful mountain scenery and far fewer crowds than the classic Poon Hill route.

Stay and Experience

  • Tea house stays throughout: Cozy mountain lodges with hearty meals, hot showers, and Wi-Fi in villages like Ghandruk, Tadapani, Dobato, and Ghorepani.
  • Local Meals on the Trail: Dal bhat and fresh local dishes prepared from organic ingredients at each stop.
  • Pokhara Lakeside: Start and end the trek with the serene atmosphere of Phewa Lake, cafes, and mountain views.

Itinerary

Elevation: 1,342m

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted with a warm “Namaste” by our friendly representative. They will escort you to your private transfer through the busy streets of Kathmandu, past temples, rickshaws, and colorful markets. You will reach your hotel, where you can check in and have a bit of time to freshen up. In the evening, please join us for a welcome dinner. The dinner is a standard Nepali set including steamed rice and lentil soup (dal bhat), homemade pickles, seasonal vegetables, and a dessert of curd or sweet rice pudding. We will also arrange a cultural show with live traditional music and folk dance.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Welcome Dinner

Elevation: 1,342m

The second day is dedicated towards trek briefing, preparation, and permit arrangements. After a warm meal, you will meet your trek leader for a detailed orientation about the trail, safety practices, altitude awareness, and an equipment check. If needed, we will guide you to local gear shops in Thamel for any last-minute purchases. Later in the day, you head towards the Nepal tourism board for arranging all of the required permits, which can be done within a few hours.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 822m

After breakfast, we take a short but scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurnas. If the skies are clear, you get your first aerial glimpse of the snow-capped Himalayan giants, including Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Lamjung Himal. You will be transferred to your hotel near Phewa Lake after arrival. You can spend the rest of the day on a relaxing boat ride on the lake, walk around the serene Tal Barahi Temple, or simply relax in a lakeside cafe.

Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,940m

We leave Pokhara this morning and drive about 3 hours along winding mountain roads to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village clinging to the side of a hill with spectacular views of the Annapurna range. Having arrived at Ghandruk, check into a comfortable teahouse and have lunch with views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. In the afternoon, stroll the village’s cobbled lanes and traditional stone homes, visit the Gurung Museum, and get a glimpse of the local way of life.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,630m

You enjoy a fine breakfast, lace up your hiking boots, and set off on the trail to Tadapani. The trail takes an ascending route through an enchanting forest of blooming rhododendrons (if in spring), moss-covered trees, and birdsong. We take lunch at Bhaisi Kharka, a peaceful rest stop in the woods. The trek is a mix of gradual climbs and steeper ascents with cool woodland air and teasing glimpses of mountain vistas through the trees. As we approach Tadapani, the forest opens up to reveal heart-stopping views of Machhapuchhre and the surrounding peaks.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,400m

We begin the day with a warm breakfast and hit the trail toward Dobato. The path becomes steeper as we climb through lush rhododendrons and bamboo forests. Keep your eyes open as you might spot Himalayan langurs, colorful pheasants, or deer darting through the underbrush. We stop for lunch at Isharu, a small cluster of teahouses nestled among the trees. After lunch, a short climb reveals stunning close-up views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and other towering peaks. From Isharu, it’s about two more hours of walking through alpine terrain before we reach Dobato.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,050m

We start before sunrise with a short 30-minute uphill hike to Mulde Viewpoint, one of the best-kept secrets of the Annapurna region. From this quiet ridge, you can witness a 360-degree Himalayan panorama of peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, South, Machhapuchhre, and dozens more peaks glowing in golden hues. After soaking it all in, we return to Dobato for breakfast and begin our 4-5 hour trek to Pode Danda. The trail goes through quiet forest ridges, opening occasionally to sweeping valley views. There are no teahouses on the way, so we trek straight through until we reach Pode Danda.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,975m

After breakfast, you leave your bags behind and take a light daypack for a 2-hour uphill hike to Hidden Lake (4,372m), a serene and sacred alpine lake revered by Hindu pilgrims, with ancient shrines, fluttering prayer flags, and views of snow-dusted ridges. After returning to Pode Danda and grabbing our gear, we trek down through rhododendrons and pine forests toward Upper Chistibang, stopping for lunch at Bayeli along the way. By late afternoon, you reach Upper Chistibang, a cozy spot nestled among the hills.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,660m

The trail ascends steeply for about 3 hours as we leave the forest and emerge into the open alpine ridgeline of Khopra Danda. This location offers some of the most dramatic views of the entire trek. From your teahouse veranda, you can gaze across deep valleys and watch Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak stretch across the horizon. After lunch, you are free to explore around the ridge or simply rest with a warm drink while soaking in the sunset.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,660m

We rise early and prepare for a challenging yet rewarding full-day hike to Khayer Lake (4,500m), a sacred high-altitude lake nestled below the towering peaks. The trail is long — around 8-9 hours round trip — with steady climbs, occasional staircases, and spectacular scenery. You shall pass the Khayer Barah Temple along the way. Upon reaching the lake, we pause to reflect and enjoy our packed lunch beside its shimmering, ice-fed waters. After soaking in the solitude and serenity, we return to Khopra Danda for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,270m

This day’s trail descends steeply as we leave the high ridges behind and enter forested slopes and fertile valleys. The 5-6 hour journey brings us into Swanta Village, a charming settlement known for its terraced fields, apple orchards, and traditional lifestyle. We stop for lunch at a riverside tea house before continuing along the trail that winds through small farming hamlets and thick greenery. Swanta is a wonderful place to observe local life, villagers tending to crops, kids playing in the fields, and warm smiles all around.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,861m

We descend briefly this morning and cross a scenic suspension bridge, then begin a steady uphill climb for about 3 hours to reach the colorful village of Ghorepani. The trail is filled with dense forests and scattered tea houses, and by now the trail becomes a bit busier as it connects to the classic Poon Hill route. In Ghorepani, you can unwind, enjoy the sunset views, and prepare for tomorrow morning’s sunrise trek. This bustling village offers cozy teahouses and panoramic viewpoints.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,300m

You wake up before dawn for the short but rewarding hike up to Poon Hill (3,200m), where you shall catch a brilliant sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. After sunrise, we continue on lesser-known trails through rhododendron forests toward Mohare Danda (3,300m), a quieter and equally scenic ridge. This area is part of a newer eco-community trek and offers another stunning perspective of the mountains without the crowds.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 822m

You start your last day of trekking by descending through forested trails to reach Ulleri (1,960m), a picturesque village situated on hillside terraces. It takes approximately 2 hours to the end of the trail, where a private jeep awaits. From Ulleri, we spend approximately 3 hours driving to Pokhara, where a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and the serene environment of Lakeside await. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Elevation: 1,400m

We wake up early in the morning and enjoy breakfast, then fly back to Kathmandu. On a clear day, you may have a glimpse of the mountain peaks for the last time from far above. After going back to the capital, transfer to your hotel and spend a peaceful afternoon. You may visit local craftsman shops or learn about Kathmandu’s cafe culture.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,400m

It is a free day to enjoy Kathmandu as you prefer. You may purchase souvenirs like pashmina, prayer flags, and singing bowls in Thamel or stroll through old alleyways in Bhaktapur or Patan for hidden temples and timeless architecture. If you’re interested, we can also arrange an optional local cooking class, a guided food walk, or even a relaxing Ayurvedic massage.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,400m

It’s goodbye on this day. After breakfast and final goodbyes, our staff will drop you at the airport about 3 hours before your international flight. As you soar out of the Kathmandu Valley, look back at the Himalayas and the memories you’ve created.

Overnight:

Meals: Breakfast

Trek Route

What's included

  • Welcome dinner hosted by our team on the first night.
  • Standard city hotel accommodation with breakfast.
  • Tea house or lodge stays during trekking routes.
  • All meals mentioned in your itinerary — breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
  • Domestic flights for both clients and trekking staff as stated in the plan.
  • Private transportation for airport pickups and all other transfers.
  • Experienced guide and porters with flights, meals, accommodation, insurance, and equipment.
  • All required permits and entry fees for trekking regions and conservation zones.
  • First aid kit for emergency use during the trip.
  • Single Room Supplement shared equally if necessary.

What's excluded

  • International airfare, Nepal visa costs, and airport taxes.
  • Insurance policy covering accidents, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Any service or activity not specified in the itinerary.
  • Personal equipment or trekking gear rentals.
  • Personal expenses, including laundry, bar bills, or bottled water.
  • Additional lodge fees for hot water or charging devices.
  • Tipping for guides, drivers, or hotel staff.
  • Expenses from travel delays, cancellations, or weather conditions.

Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this is a perfect trek for first-timers with fair fitness levels to accommodate gradual altitude gain and decent walking hours. It also offers comfortable tea house lodgings.

The most popular times are spring (March-May) for blooming rhododendrons and autumn (September-November) for blue skies and stunning mountain scenery.

You'll enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), and many other Himalayan summits.

Yes, you will need to secure the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, both of which are arranged by Destiny Excursion.

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Starting From:

US$1831

No. of peoplePrice per person
1 Pax$ 2890
2-3 Pax$ 1831
4-5 Pax$ 1685
6-7 Pax$ 1702
8-9 Pax$ 1615
10 Pax$ 1568

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