66.11 Nepal: Shiva Temple, Shanti Stupa, an overnight visit in an attempt to capture the Annapurna Range 'sunbathing'.

Generally, we undertake strenuous hikes; it appears this meets the criterion.
Annapurna Range across the lake and lesser mountains; Jen once again meets the challenge. Attagirl!
"Good Morning, Annapurna."
"Hello, Jenni and Jeffrey."     (Annapurna 1, 26,595 feet.)
  There are times one does not understand the feelings one experiences. It seems to happen often to us in the wilderness. This is further exacerbated in Nepal. Today was another such occasion as we watched in awe as the sun rose, revealing a large section of the Annapurna Mountain range, something which has proved to be a knock-out when not elusive. What is the feeling? It's difficult to explain, even to understand oneself. Perhaps it's a feeling of humility, of awe, one in which a person feels one has not earned such privilege of comprising part of the natural world or at least more specifically, not deserving the right to observe/witness the miraculous sights and happenings occurring before us.   

Ten days ago, we took a 2-day break from our apartment once again and headed for a small lodge above Phewa Lake, across from the lesser mountains before the Annapurna's. We view the latter range from many different positions, including mountain peaks of some of the great hikes we've undertaken in the Pokhara region, at least a half-dozen. During that earlier period, the clouds became a little jealous and kept the range out of sight. We decided to try the visit again but for a single night only. That afternoon, the clouds had obviously traced our movements, and did a replay, blocking the mountains from view. Nevertheless, we were optimistic as we awaited sunrise, impatiently.     

  Rumor has it the Annapurna's had a fallout with the clouds and threatened to prevent them from resting upon their crests, ridges and peaks should they not allow it opportunities to bask in sunlight more often. They were rather dissatisfied remaining covered after long winter nights when wishing to grasp the early morning light and resulting warmth. If nothing else, the range is far from vain. As beautiful as they know they are particularly while covered in snow, they are quite comfortable revealing their somewhat harsh underbelly, as a matter of speaking. The tension was almost palpable. 

  We are favored to have had many opportunities to witness the beauty of the range (and many others); this day was no exception. Nevertheless, as fortunate as we found ourselves, yet again, we realized we inhabit this beautiful world temporarily. We are here at the whims of nature and sporadic dangerous human behavior, and of course, the discretion of the 'Master of the Universe', while we ourselves contribute relatively nothing to the beauty surrounding us and the engulfing miracles. As occurs frequently, we felt overwhelmed, almost as if we needed those clouds back again so we could shield our embarrassed faces. One could only try to convince oneself that perhaps we are favored to at least absorb and benefit indirectly from such miraculous happenings even as temporary, non-contributing visitors. 

  Perhaps we should look at it from a different perspective. It's an unusual blessing of receiving much, yet giving little in return. No! That doesn't seem valid. Could it be a show of faith and trust in humans? Perhaps, it's a blessing for services still to be rendered, payments in advance. Maybe the invoice is in the mail (or somewhere in the airwaves.) 

   Is the price of life an end to life?

After sunrise, we head on higher where we were fortunate to meet and have discussions with a number of Nepalese people, who are all living abroad. Phewa Lake below and across the way is the strenuous hike to Sarangkot Tower.
The struggle continues, stepping out and up. In Nepal if you're not climbing, you're descending...there's no level ground (mostly). 

  Hard not to stare...and stare.
Machapuchare: Always space for a favorite, the majestic mountain.
The sunlight meets dust and hazy air.
Jen is about to reach the peak where Lord Shiva sits.
This was a moment when I extended a warm welcome to our new 'mates', a Nepalese couple who had emigrated to Australia some years back. They now go by the names of Sue and Didi. Delightful couple!

Sarangkot Tower visible clearly.
Jen discovers a pleasant surprise as we stop for coffee at the top. 

 Big mountains at rear, little Sarangkot Tower in front, clearly lit. Our regular challenge.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

Lord Shiva, a different form of test for us. (See below for perspective.)
At the more than halfway mark, we see Lord Shiva, our target.