66.09 Nepal: Kristi Village and then up to the peak at Mattikhan View Tower, nothing short of spectacular.

We have been undertaking new hikes regularly in this region. Each seems to surpass the previous one in quality although that would be Jeffrey expressing the usual irrational exuberance. Nevertheless, he would deny it vehemently, but then again, what would you expect. Having made this statement, we both agree that the seemingly extreme sentiments expressed later in this publication and elsewhere are nevertheless modest despite the written (typed) words. 

A bridge over 'anything but troubled waters'. We arrive on the south-east side of Pokhara and head down in order to cross the riverbed before heading up to the peak. The mountain is inhabited, but sparsely, with both steps and rough sandy paths/trails, occasionally crossing the winding road to the top. Expressed succinctly, it's pure Nepal.
Shortly over the bridge, we reach the first home on the trail and a young dog comes on strong boosted by confidence of its mother close by but chained. I feel a bit sorry for the dog if Jen becomes her usual "aggressive" self.
A bird's eye view of the big mountain. Machupuchare takes a bow; it never ceases to stun us. Even at this relatively low level where we stand, the sights are amazing. It's worth repeating that the Annapurna Range reaches 26,200 feet at its highest peak. Bear in mind, the highest mountains in the contiguous United States plus Hawaii are at 14,500 feet. These ranges are not just high but seem to reach heights that the mind (ours) cannot comprehend. It feels as if the peaks are far higher than one's expectation or perception of where they should be. While standing below them, we realize we are not seeing illusions but at the same time, they appear unrealistic. We included one more of the range at the end which reveals to us the artistic nature of these giants.
'I don't know about you, but I detect a slightly rebellious stance in the young woman below'. The locals, both residents and workers in the groves, watch for what seems to be a brewing potential showdown. It may be termed a 'live western' for the locals. In the distance, toward the right, on the peak sits Shiva Temple (See previous blog). (By the way, the giveaway, besides the facial expression, are the hands on hips.)
In Nepal, one never knows what one will see next. This guy is emulating a monkey. Why? We don't know. Truth be told, I'd like to be emulating him.
After some time, we spot the peak which is and was intimidating. We acquired over 3,000 feet. One can make out the towers in the glare. Jen faces to the right possibly planning a change of plan. A smart move for a rational person. (Notice where the hands are placed, as mentioned earlier.)
We reached the solid steps section which was nice after the rough path but nevertheless, pretty steep. In the background, mere hills.
A decent view of Shanti Stupa, a frequent hike we undertake, sitting on a mountain across the way, lower left. In the middle is another tough hike to Sarangkot and at rear, the awe inspiring Machapuchare. On each occasion we witness this range, we feel blessed. Emotional about it, you may think. Absolutely. It is one of our most awe inspiring sights and privileges. You can even see the building frequently shown under the cableway on the way to the Sarankot Peak.
She just keeps going not unlike an energizer bunny. In between the stepped sections, a wise-guy thought it appropriate to give us a taste of potholes, mud and hidden underfoot probably thinking we might be bored.
Jen reaches the peak, not to the sound of any fanfare. Much of the city on view below including Shanti Stupa on the crest.
Nice view of the city, a 'little background' plus the airport runway. We live close to the water, to the west (left) away from the congestion...in a fashion. We flatter ourselves.
On the way down, we stop for some spiritual refreshment as well as to pick a few oranges. I can't understand why it 'hits a spot' but I really like this photograph. Quite like the young woman, too. Aha! That's the real reason.
Part way up the mountain, we notice another temple across the way (See picture below.)
Ten days later, we visit the temple on a smaller peak seen from the picture above.
Another view, a different section of the Annapurna Range. Close to the peak, we did some rough scrambling through the bush.

Toward the peak, a village community lives close to heaven, although we might keep the cows and dung out of the backyards. One fellow would not accept 'no' for an answer, after he invited us into his garden to look around as well as to pick oranges for us. It's typical Nepal hospitality...to their credit.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

We alluded to the mountains earlier as to their artistic nature. Many of the scenes we've witnessed appear ghost-like. The mountains are just there, not linked or tied to any material substance, almost as if floating, yet immobile, in space. Others appear as if not real, almost artificial; rather, much like the Artist painted them in the sky, the latter a mere canvass to capture the Artist's expressions. Frankly, to repeat ourselves, we spend many a day in the presence of occurring miracles or at least, it's our perception of such (ברוך השם).

Walking...um...working to bridge the communications barrier. Unfortunately, the signs aren't that enlightening for us.

More privilege. Goodnight! 

 Addendum: *** We should add that Maude Alge often writes to us about the painting analogy...perceptive lady. 

Maude and Theo clothed our family throughout our school days, the days of uniforms, from their store in Highlands North, Johannesburg.