Wednesday, February 18, 2026

70.24 Nepal: A Brief (very) introduction of two magnificent but tough hikes...Rupakot Resort at Begnas Lake, and Sarangkot Tower via Methlang. (A day-in-between.)

Section: 1...Sarangkot hike. 

Love it.
After 1.25 hours, Jen enters Methlang (bottom of photo.) heading for a visit to our 'breakfast friends'. After departing from the restaurant, we have near on 2 hours climb to Sarangkot Tower. It sits on the peak in the background. Notice the 'big' mountain to its right. (By the way, we view the tower on the peak from our bedroom...will show a photograph another time.)
  To reach Sarangkot Tower from Lakeside, one must climb at least 2,900 feet. However, there are places when one has to drop-down, therefore, losing elevation, and having to regain it later. This adds another 300 feet at least, making a net gain of 3,200 feet. Of course, there are many routes that one can take so the numbers will vary depending on the selected path. 

  We enjoyed a wonderful day on this tiring climb (ask Jen) and tricky descent. Our route, briefly, began at our front door near Lakeside, heading up through the jungle to Methlang (an indirect hike). Thereafter, we cut across the hills toward and through the villages and approached the peak from the east. The walk (climbs?) through the villages is one of our favorite types of hiking, particularly in Nepal. Upon reaching the peak and after enjoying a rest, we headed down south passing through other villages and entered a jungle. Actually, the day was spectacular. I found that I could hardly rest as I was excited just being there and feeling alive. The day was enhanced further by the interactions with friends made and others who have their own charm, never forgetting the kids who are most entertaining. They keep us young(ish). 

Lake, city, island temple, and mountains served on a platter.
Approaching the tower from the east.
Distractions along the route. Spot the trunk (trees), not the elephant though, that comes later.
Jen climbs the steps on the latter part of the hike to the Tower. At rear is where we commenced the second part of the hike, that is, in Methlang.
We arrived at last, visiting the Sarangkot Tower and Ganesh Idol or idle elephants.
Section 2: Hike up to Rupakot Lake and Resort in Begnas. 

The bridge crosses Rupakot Lake, the Annapurna Range creates a border.
Jen climbs and climbs and appears to be going round the bend of the tree trunk. Lake below.
Another section of the Annapurna. The villages have spectacular views of the range.
Jen stands before the bridge and contemplates her options...to swim, walk, or turn around. She settles to keep her cap on her head.
From the Rupakot Resort patio, the telephoto brings in a small section of the bridge and lake below. 
  Jen stands on the patio after a 3,000 feet elevation day (the balance still to come). For a woman who could not even walk during October and part of November, I stand before her in amazement and wonder. I also hope she'll carry me over the tricky parts that await us. In front of her is Begnastal (lake). On her left, is Rupakot Lake (left hand points to it).
Earlier, a typical day on the stones, rocks, sand and steps.
At last, standing and feeling like a million Rupees on the patio of the Resort. It truly is a wonderful feeling after quite an effort.
Jen returning from Rupakot Resort which sits atop the mountain in the rear. One can make out the buildings at the top of the photo'. We cross over three mountains to reach the summit.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

A little early evening treat from the Himalayas.

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