The Annapurna region of Nepal is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks, and incredible trekking experiences. One of the highlights of trekking in this region is the chance to witness some of the most awe-inspiring mountain views in the world.
Whether you’re on a short trek or a more extended journey, the Annapurna region offers several iconic viewpoints that reward trekkers with panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and stunning sunrises.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region, providing details on their altitudes, the treks that lead to them, and the majestic views they offer.
Poon Hill (3,210 meters / 10,532 feet)
Poon Hill is one of the most famous and accessible viewpoints in the Annapurna region, renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views. Located at an altitude of 3,210 meters, this viewpoint is a highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
The early morning trek to Poon Hill is rewarded with a panoramic vista that includes some of the highest and most beautiful peaks in the world, such as Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Machapuchare (6,993 meters), and Nilgiri (7,061 meters).
As the sun rises, the first light of day casts a golden glow over these majestic peaks, creating a mesmerizing scene that has made Poon Hill one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal.
The viewpoint itself is easily accessible, making it a favorite for trekkers of all levels, including families and those looking for a relatively short and moderate trek in the Annapurna region.
Mulde Viewpoint (3,637 meters / 11,932 feet)
Mulde Viewpoint is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, offering a quieter and less crowded alternative to Poon Hill. Situated at an altitude of 3,637 meters, Mulde Viewpoint is part of the Khopra Ridge Trek, a route that takes you through remote villages and beautiful landscapes.
The viewpoint provides a stunning 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, with clear views of peaks such as Annapurna South (7,219 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Hiunchuli (6,441 meters), and Machapuchare. The serene and peaceful atmosphere at Mulde Viewpoint makes it an ideal spot for trekkers seeking solitude and uninterrupted views of the Himalayas.
The trek to this viewpoint is moderately challenging, and the effort is richly rewarded with some of the most spectacular mountain views in the region.
Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,500 meters / 14,763 feet)
Perched at an altitude of 4,500 meters, Mardi Himal Viewpoint is one of the highest and most rewarding viewpoints in the Annapurna region.
This viewpoint is the crowning glory of the Mardi Himal Trek, a relatively new and less crowded trekking route that offers stunning close-up views of the sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the entire Annapurna Massif.
The trek to Mardi Himal Viewpoint takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows and rugged terrains. Once you reach the viewpoint, you are treated to an awe-inspiring vista where the majestic peaks seem almost within reach.
The serene and unspoiled environment at Mardi Himal Viewpoint, combined with the panoramic views, makes it a must-visit destination for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Annapurna region.
Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet)
Thorong La Pass, standing at an impressive altitude of 5,416 meters, is not only the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek but also one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the Annapurna region.
This pass offers trekkers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna III (7,555 meters), Gangapurna (7,455 meters), and Khatung Kang (6,484 meters).
The view from Thorong La is particularly rewarding after the challenging ascent, with the vast, snow-covered landscape stretching out before you in all directions.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest trekking routes, and the experience of crossing Thorong La Pass is a highlight that combines the thrill of high-altitude trekking with some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the Himalayas.
Ghandruk (2,012 meters / 6,601 feet)
Ghandruk is a picturesque Gurung village located at an altitude of 2,012 meters and is one of the key viewpoints on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The village offers stunning views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, making it a favorite stop for trekkers.
Ghandruk is not just about the views; it is also rich in culture and tradition, with traditional stone houses, terraced fields, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The sunrise view from Ghandruk is particularly spectacular, with the first light of day illuminating the peaks and creating a stunning backdrop against the charming village.
Ghandruk is often the starting or ending point for trekkers on the ABC trek, and its combination of cultural richness and natural beauty makes it a must-visit viewpoint in the Annapurna region.
Ice Lake (4,600 meters / 15,091 feet)
Ice Lake, located at an altitude of 4,600 meters, is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, offering some of the best views for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.
This pristine alpine lake is surrounded by towering peaks, including Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Annapurna IV (7,525 meters), and Gangapurna, making it a perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The hike to Ice Lake is a challenging acclimatization hike from Manang, but the effort is well worth it. The lake itself, often frozen or partially frozen depending on the season, reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.
The Ice Lake viewpoint is an excellent side trip for those trekking the Annapurna Circuit, providing an unforgettable experience of the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 meters / 12,139 feet)
Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) is a stunning viewpoint located at an altitude of 3,700 meters, serving as a key stop on both the Mardi Himal Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
From MBC, trekkers are treated to an up-close view of the iconic Machapuchare, also known as Fishtail Mountain, which is revered for its distinctive shape and spiritual significance in Nepal.
The viewpoint also offers spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna Massif, making it a dramatic and awe-inspiring destination for trekkers.
The setting at Machapuchare Base Camp is truly remarkable, with the towering peaks surrounding you on all sides, creating a sense of being at the heart of the Himalayas.
Whether you’re trekking to Annapurna Base Camp or exploring the Mardi Himal route, MBC is a viewpoint that offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the Annapurna region.
Dhaulagiri Viewpoint (3,800 meters / 12,467 feet)
Dhaulagiri Viewpoint, located at an altitude of 3,800 meters on the Khopra Ridge Trek, is another lesser-known but incredibly rewarding viewpoint in the Annapurna region.
This viewpoint offers a jaw-dropping view of Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), the seventh-highest mountain in the world, along with the entire Dhaulagiri range. The viewpoint also provides panoramic views of other prominent peaks, including Annapurna South and Nilgiri, making it a must-visit destination for trekkers seeking solitude and unspoiled natural beauty.
The sunrise from Dhaulagiri Viewpoint is particularly magnificent, with the golden hues of the morning sun casting a warm glow over the massive Dhaulagiri. The trek to Khopra Ridge is off the beaten path, offering a unique and tranquil trekking experience, and the views from Dhaulagiri Viewpoint are among the most spectacular in the Annapurna region.
