70.10 Nepal: A walk from Lakeside to Shanti Stupa and onto Shiva Temple returning the same way.

We might say this scene epitomizes so much of what we experience in the region.

Jen heading up the steps on the way to Shanti Stupa, our first real halt and time for a drink and brief rest.

Approaching Shanti Stupa above on the right before heading to Shiva at the peak.
  While I admit it does sound a little odd, maybe a lot odd, each occasion on the slopes turns out to be a special opportunity, at times, a privilege. Obviously, some are better than others, more taxing, less interesting, affected by moods and yet, even the apparently mediocre occasion seems special. I consider us most fortunate we have developed that feeling, the reward, what I would consider a blessing, in our hiking experiences.   

  Today's outing which commenced with more than mile walk toward a bus route, 6 minutes on the bus, 7 minutes further to the trailhead on foot, an hour to reach Shanti Temple through the various villages on a non-stop very steep climb, a brief halt for tea/coffee at our lady-friend, a quick hello to Amil with an exchange of 'nonsense' just above the Stupa, followed by another tough climb to reach Shiva Temple, our turn-around point. As taxing as it is, it never fails to stimulate, challenge, make us sweat and uplift us to a degree that is, as often mentioned, difficult to describe. It always seems that every other part of the day following, provides an extension of those good feelings developed on the slopes. Upon arriving at the destination top, it's always good to have met the challenge and look forward to a rest, some breakfast and/or hot beverages and a return to the bottom and home. 

  Today's hike, more than that, was one that we looked particularly forward to undertaking, and it worked out even way above expectations. Our stop included a breakfast at a new restaurant for us with the usual good exchanges with the people and employees. Suffice to say, everything was ideal about the day. We think the pictures are indicative of the views and above all, Jen was terrific health wise, (all other ways, too) once again. There's really not much more one could wish for in a hiking experience.  

Jen stops for a breather after a particularly steep section. The Annapurna Range is glorious with the peak of the highest showing.
Lord Shiva sits as he awaits the arrival of many visitors who travel by car, motor bikes, scooters, buses and the occasional couple on foot. (There are very few hikers in Pokhara...in at least our last 3 outings, we have yet to come across one. Go Figure!)
A view of Pokhara (a part) as we get higher.
A view of Fewa Lake with the backdrop of heavy clouds shielding the Annapurna Range.
The morning was particularly cloudy and misty and then it cleared.
Jen is well into part-2 of the hike.
Meantime, in the interests of scouting ahead in search of any hazards, he takes a taxi to the top to ensure Jen has a safe passage.
Mesmerized by the setting.
Another sight of part of Pokhara, but this time showing Shanti Temple for some perspective.
Jen continues onwards and upwards.
Jen is in Shiva territory while the clouds block the massive range completely.
A view of Lord Shiva from just above Shanti Stupa prior to the disappearance of the thick mist. Our approach is from his rear, left side.
Probably the high (altitude) point of the day with the Stupa in view for perspective.
Looking down at Fewa Lake with a village in the foreground. A 'fancy' hotel sits upon the peak below.
We'll rest now as we glow in the light and color shed upon us from this wonderful experience. We are at Shanti level with Sarangkot across the lake.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey