1. Poon Hill (3,210 m)
Poon Hill is one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints, offering sweeping panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s the perfect short trek for those seeking Himalayan beauty without high-altitude risks. From the top, you’ll witness golden sunrises painting peaks like Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri.
- Trek duration: 3–5 days from Pokhara
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Best season: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (October–November)
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Highlight: Sunrise view with layered Himalayan ranges and rhododendron forests
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Tip: Start your hike early morning from Ghorepani to catch the first light at the summit
Poon Hill is ideal for beginners, families, or anyone who wants a short but rewarding trek with unforgettable mountain views.
2. Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is the ultimate Himalayan amphitheater. Surrounded by Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Tent Peak, it offers a full 360° panorama.
- Trek duration: 7–10 days from Pokhara
- Best season: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (October-November)
- Highlight: Sunrise at ABC, when the peaks glow golden
- Tip: Stay overnight at ABC lodges for early morning photography
ABC is the highlight for many trekkers visiting the region and has a once-in-a-lifetime viewpoint.
3. Tilicho Lake Viewpoint (4,919 m)
Tilicho Lake is among the highest lakes in the world. The turquoise waters contrast dramatically with surrounding peaks like Tilicho Peak and the Annapurna massif.
- Trek duration: 3–4 days from Manang (Annapurna Circuit)
- Difficulty: High; requires acclimatization
- Highlight: A serene alpine lake reflecting Himalayan peaks
Tilicho Lake is perfect for trekkers seeking high-altitude adventure and photography opportunities.
4. Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m)
Machapuchare Base Camp offers an up-close view of Machapuchare (Fishtail), one of Nepal’s most iconic unclimbed peaks. The surrounding valleys reveal Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
- Trek duration: 6–7 days from Pokhara
- Highlight: Evening and morning views of Machapuchare
- Tip: Overnight at MBC for better sunrise and sunset experiences
5. Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
Thorong La is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit. From here, trekkers enjoy panoramic Himalayan views stretching from Annapurna to the Tibetan plateau.
- Trek duration: 12–15 days on the full circuit
- Difficulty: Very challenging due to altitude
- Highlight: Breathtaking vistas and the sense of achievement
Thorong La is perfect for trekkers seeking both adventure and dramatic Himalayan landscapes.
6. Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,500 m)
Mardi Himal has become popular for short and moderate treks. Its viewpoint offers a striking perspective of Machapuchare’s ridge, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
- Trek duration: 5-6 days from Pokhara
- Highlight: Sunrise over Machapuchare
- Tip: Quieter than ABC or Poon Hill, ideal for solitude and photography
7. Ice Lake (4,600 m)
Ice Lake, located above Manang, is a pristine alpine lake reflecting Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
- Trek duration: Day hike from Manang
- Difficulty: Moderate; good for acclimatization days
- Highlight: Mirror-like reflections in the lake
Ice Lake is a hidden gem for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.
8. Khopra Ridge (3,660 m)
Khopra Ridge, also known as Khopra Danda, is a quieter alternative to Poon Hill. It offers panoramic views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.
- Trek duration: 6–7 days from Pokhara
- Highlight: Peaceful sunset views and fewer crowds
- Optional side trip: Khayer Lake (4,500 m)
9. Muldai Viewpoint (3,637 m)
Near Ghorepani, Muldai Viewpoint provides views of more than 25 Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.
- Trek duration: 1–2 hours hike from Ghorepani
- Highlight: Sunrise with fewer crowds than Poon Hill
- Tip: Ideal for photography enthusiasts
10. Mohare Danda (3,300 m)
Mohare Danda is a community-managed eco-trail that offers sunrise and sunset views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
- Trek duration: 5–7 days from Pokhara
- Highlight: Tranquil and eco-friendly trekking experience
11. Ghandruk Village (1,940 m)
Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung village with stone-paved streets and Himalayan views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.
- Trek duration: 2–3 days from Pokhara
- Highlight: Combines cultural experiences with scenic viewpoints
12. Sarangkot viewpoint
Sarangkot viewpoint is one of the most popular sunrise spots near Pokhara, offering wide panoramas of the Annapurna range, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri. Easily accessible, it’s perfect for travelers who want Himalayan views without a long trek. From the hilltop, you’ll also see the Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the paragliders soaring across the sky.
- Trek/Visit duration: Half-day trip or overnight stay from Pokhara
- Best season: Year-round (clear skies in Autumn and Winter offer the best visibility)
- Highlight: Sunrise over Annapurna and Machapuchare, plus sweeping views of Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake
- Tip: Reach early morning for sunrise, or stay overnight at a local lodge to enjoy both sunset and sunrise views.
Suggested Itineraries for Viewpoint Hopping
- Short trek (3–5 days): Poon Hill, Ghandruk, Mohare Danda, Muldai Viewpoint
- Moderate trek (7–10 days): Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal Viewpoint, Khopra Ridge
- Extended trek (12+ days): Thorong La Pass, Tilicho Lake, Ice Lake
- Pre/post trek in Pokhara: Sarangkot, Peace pagoda
Travel Tips for Annapurna Viewpoints
- Season: March–May and October–November offers the clearest skies.
- Altitude: Start with lower-altitude viewpoints to acclimatize gradually.
- Gear: Layered clothing, trekking shoes, and sunscreen are essential.
- Photography: Sunrise and sunset provide the best light.
- Local culture: Respect village customs and wildlife regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is better: Poon Hill or Mardi Himal Viewpoint?
Poon Hill is more accessible, whereas Mardi Himal is quieter with closer views of Machapuchare. Choose based on your trekking time and preference for crowds.
When is the best time to visit Annapurna viewpoints?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are the clearest and most comfortable seasons.
Can I see the mountains from Pokhara without trekking?
Yes, Phewa Lake, Sarangkot and Peace Pagoda offer beautiful mountain reflections without trekking.
