63:17 Nepal: Pokhara: Sarangkot 2, it hardly gets better, except...when it does.

  It was the second climb of this rather tough hike from lake level to the peak of Sarangkot. While it's difficult to omit similar pictures from the last hike, we might have got this right in the sense they are mostly different. Nevertheless, Jen reckons I am able to differentiate pictures by minute degrees such as, for example, 'that tree lost some leaves after our last visit'. I'm not certain but I have a sneaky suspicion that this is not a compliment to me. Then again, I might be a trifle too sensitive. Yeah right! 

Having cleared the air, watched the clouds spread, and rid myself of my inhibitions temporarily, I find the views, scenery, and challenges nothing short of spectacular. For the record, Jenni's determination on these tough hikes has been admirable. 

I make enough noise about lakes and reflections, but I understand why. Anyway, this situation depicts tranquility, we think.
Jen passed the entrance of the cable station. Note the plaque. It was opened in 2073. Huh? We've seen the future and it's not getting better. (Sorry to pass on that information, friends). 

The issue is that the current year in Nepal is 2081 so we are living in the future and on our return, we'll be 57 years younger. It now makes sense why the hikes have been so tough. We were a lot older. In fact, I celebrated my 129th birthday in Nepal. Looking forward to regaining our youth...then again, maybe not.
Dogs spend their waking hours being open and honest; therefore, surely it makes sense to let sleeping dogs lie. The first section will take us through the jungle, mostly under the cables, before we split off to the right while continuing upwards.
After 30 minutes walking from the road along the lake, we enter the jungle.
Along the trail, we spot below the building to the side of where Jen was 'dog-tired' (see above).
A first for us. Shanti Stupa reflects off the lake surface.
The view of the lake and city from this position never fails to lift the spirits while always forcing one to lift the feet, too...well, two feet.
So many deceptively tricky climbs and declines, especially during the monsoon season. The sun will disappear shortly and return.
Looks like he's stepping out but probably for the camera only. Jen will resume supporting him down the slopes.
Another small reflection off the lake with the colorful village in the forest below.
We mentioned earlier how erratic the weather can be during this season. Passing through a village close to the top.
The reality of the hike in many places as 'boy blue' tries to be a man.
The trudge continues...Cui Bono?
At the cafe on top of the mountain, we met two delightful Israeli women, Sharon and Ronit.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

A treat, as we had not seen Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) in 2 weeks because of clouding. A mere, close on 22,000 feet, altitude. It is forbidden to climb this mountain as it is a holy site. Phew! The building, "Le Glamour", is one we point out frequently (from the mountain on other side of the lake) as we reach it and continue higher to a place above Methlang.