63.07 Nepal: Pokhara: The hikes have been spectacular, the views equally so. A Big 5 hiking panorama selection.

Seldom seen from Pokhara at this time of year: Fish Tail. (See end for one our favorites of the 'Tail'.)
  This blog illustrates by way of a limited set of photographs, an introduction to some spectacular times on and around the mountains of Pokhara, these last few days. Truth be told, the feelings we both seem to be experiencing are of attaining a fuller understanding of the land and people, loving the hiking, enjoying the sights immensely and relishing in the atmosphere. At the same time, we are pushing our aging muscles perhaps a little more than we anticipated. While the weather has been much better than expected, the level of humidity is well outside anything we have experienced, perhaps ever. 

  Another way of expressing ourselves is to state that it always seems that the more difficult or strenuous the challenge, the greater the reward, satisfaction and personal elevation. It is no surprise as it has proven to be a fact from our history and experience. Add to the unusual or at least different atmosphere of being in Nepal, that the presence of very few tourists is making it much quieter, and our coming to understand different cultures over the years a little deeper, it all combines to provide something special in our lives. That things can change negatively is reality and always a worry but, in the meantime, being outside a confused western environment is proving to be most uplifting once again. 

  Earlier blogs (and no doubt future ones), deal with some of the human relationships and quirks experienced and those that will develop. Whether one is involved with storekeepers, our various landlords, bus conductors, waiters and even strangers, the 'bonds' that develop in these encounters are uplifting notwithstanding most will fade quickly. I'm going off a little but one of the occasions I enjoy is shopping at a particular vegetable store. The proprietor is a youngish woman who is about to give birth. We hardly communicate in words because of the language barrier but I might be presumptuous in saying that we have a wonderful understanding. Who would have thought our visits to a tiny, crowded (crates and cartons), dusty, vegetable store would be memorable occasions. Some might think 'the kid' is losing it...probably correct.   

Part of the great Annapurna Range, the world's 10th highest.
Partway up the trail/forest path, we catch sight of the Shiva Temple, our intended destination by way of Shanti Stupa.
Getting closer, as Jen gazes up after passing the Shanti Stupa a few minutes earlier.
'Bingo'. Lord Shiva.
Jen arriving in Pumdikot via trails, jungle paths, steps, all steep climbs, to offer greetings. It being a Monday in July, it is a form of holy festival, hence a large crowd. Fortunately, the path/trail was empty. 

 On a previous hike, we pass Devi's Falls and take a peek. Staggering, especially because we are in the monsoon season.

For perspective, a view of Shanti Stupa from across the lake and the opposite mountain.
A view of Shanti Stupa from just below Shiva Temple as we commence our return to groundlevel.
Jen approaches the stupa from the rear after dropping 1,000 feet or so from the higher temple.
From across the way above Methlang, 4 icons are on display, including the two temples in the distance.
The water coloring and patterns of Phewa Lake are once again varying.
'Flower power'...as we look down toward Lakeside, Pokhara.
A view from on high.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

'Fish Tail' in its glory, a different angle and as close as we could get in early evening, during a previous trip.

Provides a perspective of the lake, valley, mountains and the sprawling city, we think, including Shanti Stupa. 

...and some of the struggle. The sign of course reads, "Keep off the wet grass".