Manungkot has quickly been discovered to be a beautiful hilltop viewpoint in Tanahun District that is hidden away with mountain fans, adventurers and explorers calling it Nepal's best-kept secret. It’s a natural observation deck at 1,000 meters above sea level, and we’re able to see all of the major peaks in the Himalayas like Annapurna, Machhapuchchhre, and Dhaulagiri, as well as the sight of clouds floating lazily in the valleys below.
Manungkot is just 43 kilometers from the beautiful Pokhara City - then there’s 165 kilometers from the Kathmandu Valley. The newly blacktopped roads mean it is quickly reached by all types of vehicles or by foot with a scenic hike that takes somewhere around 1 to 3 hours. The popularity of Manungkot treasures stemmed during the pandemic when hundreds of people made the trek each day to escape city life; and especially in the winter when the fog displays in the valleys below began to appear frequently.
What makes Manungkot unique is the beautiful views of the sun rising and setting below the Himalayas; it’s how the local communities have embraced the tourism aspect, all the while serving their native traditional foods, such as dhido and gundruk, and telling visitors the mythology about the ancient sages that once lived there. The foothills of Manungkot is traditionally important because it is also said to be the birthplace region of the most beloved Nepali poet, Bhanu Bhakta Acharya.
October to February is the best time to visit Manungkot, and it is the ideal combination of breathtaking, true natural wonder; and embracing the authenticity of local culture where you experience world-class views of mountains with world-class Nepali hospitality
Reasons Manungkot should be your next adventure
This unbelievable viewpoint allows you to have "front row" views of some of Nepal's most iconic peaks – Annapurna, the perfectly shaped Machhapuchchhre (Fishtail), massive Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Lamjung, and Hichuli all visual plentifully across the horizon in nature's very own amphitheater. From here, you can see the Seti and Modi rivers snaking their way through the valleys far below, appearing as a gleaming silver string in the landscape.
The magic happens at sunrise and sunset, when the light catches the mountains in a way which almost hypnotizes. During winter mornings, you have the added surprise of waking above a sea of clouds, literally floating on air. Access is refreshingly simple - the road gets you here from Damauli, or you can walk and stretch your legs if you prefer to go that way.
And, if breathtaking views are not enough, you will taste genuine local food such as dhido, gundruk and traditional chyaang which gives you a real item of timestamp to the mountain culture. Along with that, there is a kind of cultural layer to your visit - you are in the area associated with Bhanu Bhakta Acharya, Nepal's beloved national poet and the birthplace for Bhanu.
When to Visit to Manungkot View Tower
The ideal time to visit is between October to February when nature is showing off. You enjoy the benefits of autumn with clear blue skies that will allow you to see the far-dark shadow of the broom in your distance, whilst in winter the mornings are a whole other level, where you may find yourself standing above a thick bedroom of fog covering the valleys below; giving you the feeling of floating above the clouds, and feeling invincible. It is during these cooler months that remove any doubts about Manungkot being one of Nepal's most magical viewpoints.
Mountain Experience at Manungkot
The hilltop gives you some unique experiences that are worth the adventure. You will see sunrise and sunset on the mountain - literally turning the whole range into a field of gold! Then there are the views, the panorama where you can see towering peaks and winding rivers far beneath your feet! The eco-friendly 1-3 hour trek from Damauli becomes part of the adventure, as you make your way step by step higher into this mountain paradise.
If you want to keep the magic going, why not camp out and spend a whole 24-hours under a sea of stars? It is hard to beat the experience of the mountains in the west and enjoy it so close to prominent cities! Our amazing host families will share their authentic flavors with traditional meals and delicious homemade drinks that honour the taste of local mountain food! The area also lends itself to exploring the surrounding cultural treasures and heritage sites to enhance your foothill adventure!
All activities blend seamlessly, giving you a comprehensive experience - a hilltop is an excellent experience integrating local culture, natural beauty and a feeling of peace that you only get at the top of a mountain.
Geography and Nature
The hill plateau is part of the Lesser Himalayas and features unique rock formations and alternating ridges of gentle slopes and bluffs. Pines, rhododendrons, and oak forests are featured as part of the native flora along the trekking trail. Spring wildflowers are mostly white, yellow, and purple, bringing livelines to the landscape with a splash of colour. There are seasonal wildflowers like primrose and wild orchids along the trekking trails that are of interest to photographers or nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife
Inhabitants of the area include small mammals like Himalayan squirrels, langurs, and birds including the Himalayan monal, mountain pigeons, parrots, and dozens of species of sunbirds. Birdwatching is best done in the early morning hours when migratory birds are known to be mostly passage merchants passing through the peaks of the Lesser Himalayas, leaving good opportunities to find them somewhere.
Adventure Opportunities
There are paragliding and zip-lining options from the nearby hills, which would allow for aerial vistas of the plateau of Manungkot and the valleys to the North, South, East, and West. The plight to the hillside and onwards to steep trails that will take you to nearby villages offers amazing multi-day treks that allow visitors to combine cultural experiences with mountain explorations.
Photography Opportunities
The panoramic sunrises and sunsets can feature Annapurna and Machhapuchchhre at the same time in a photograph. Fog layers in winter months can provide wonderful opportunities for landscape photographs, especially rivers snake through the valleys below.
Local Festivals & Events
Along the way, in local village festivals like Dashain or Tihar, cultural programs and presentations of traditional dances from groups in the area can be found most days along the route. There are many seasonal fairs and upcoming festivities that will allow visitors to sample native handicrafts, music, and food, within specific seasonal fests or activities.
Sustainable Tourism
Local citizens have set up eco-friendly and culturally themed homestays, and sustainably managed rubbish collection to maintain the environment of the hilltop location. It is recommended that visitors follow “leave no trace” principles to help keep the landscape and cultural landscape natural and authentic.
Connectivity & Safety
Mobile networks are available throughout most of the trail, but you may find your signal drops out when you are close to the summit. Tramping is usually safe, but for those tramping in winter and/or in foggy weather conditions first aid kits and emergency contacts are recommended.
Attractions Nearby
Some short detours are planned for visits to memorials of Bhanu Bhakta Acharya, feature historic temples, and include smaller cave sites with ties to local mythology. The next river valleys, Seti River Valley and Modi River Valley both offer trekking or day trip opportunities for nature lovers and appreciators.
Unique Experiences
From the location of Manungkot and in surrounding areas, the night skies are virtually awesome and excellent for stargazing as per the low levels of light pollution.
Some of the local guides are able to organize early morning yoga and/or meditation sessions for whomever may be interested and seeking authentic spiritual experiences.
These details insert significance for each of nature, adventure, culture, and sustainable tourism, therefore reflecting positively on Manunkot's marketing to each of those aspects and a larger potential market.
Last Thoughts
Manungkot is more than a site to view. It is where the natural landscape, mythic landscape, and cosmic landscape of lived life converge. What draws visitors in is the clouds below their feet, mountains in the distance, and place-based local flavors on the table for consumption. The site brings together stasis and motion. As a travel destination, Manungkot shines as one of Tanahun's highlight travel destinations.
FAQ about Manungkot view tower
1. How do I get there?
You can drive or take some form of transport to Damauli (43km from Pokhara or 165km from Kathmandu), then either drive up the paved road from Alaiinche or hike for 1-3 hours by a newly made hiking trail that is beginner friendly and goes through villages and forests.
2. When should I go?
December to February for the famous "above the clouds" fog experience (although mid-morning is best). October-November is the best for crystal clear, blue skies and views of the mountains. Avoid the monsoon season unless you don't mind rain.
3. Where are you going to sleep?
There are basic hotels and homestays located near the viewpoint or you can stay in Damauli and make an early morning trip to see the sunrise. You can also camp if you want to sleep under the stars.
4. What about food?
You will see local places that will serve you some traditional dishes of the mountains like dhido, gundruk, and chyaang. There will also be simple Nepali meals. You will be able to get some tea and snacks from some small shops.
5. Is it crowded?
It may be busy on the weekends, especially in the winter when Nepalis escape the cold and head to the area; weekdays are better and quieter, and the off season is noiselessly peaceful.
6. What shall I pack?
Warm layers for those cold mornings, comfortable hiking shoes, camera, water, snacks, and rain gear if you are going in the monsoon.
7. Is there a fee to enter?
No fee to enter - there is a view point that everyone can access.
8. Can I drive the whole way up?
Yes, the road is paved and accessible to almost all vehicles if you choose not to hike.
9. Do you have any cultural context or stories?
The location is tied to poet Bhanu Bhakta Acharya birthplace, as well as local stories of ancient sages, adding a cultural experience to your mountainous visit.