70.08 Nepal: Begnastal : Rupacot Resort: A truly fine experience while very strenuous.

  We thought it might be an idea to list some of the photographs in the order of the hike. We believe it might give a viewer a better idea of this fantastic experience. It was tough (very) but in a beautiful environment. The elevation gain was over 3,000 feet, 2,000 to reach the Retreat from the river separating the two mountains plus more than a thousand feet on the return from the river to our home. The finish, of course, made it more strenuous as the tougher effort was required at one's most weary time. Hopefully, the pictures will provide some perspective.   

  

  One thing that should not be missed is the incredible effort Jen made in completing this hike following her back injury. I have nothing but admiration for her effort, endurance, courage and attitude. I'll leave it at that. 

  Finally, this hike is in another town, Begnas, which we stayed in for 4 days and 3 nights. Effectively, we took a vacation from our 'home' and hiked extensively on all 4 days. Sometimes, we wonder...Suffice to say, we have some interesting photographs from the holiday as well as very tired muscles. 

In the thick of it, the jungle.
After 2 miles, we spot the target, a few meters left of the protruding buildings. Target is the patio where the Coke Zeroes taste better, after a few thousand feet climb. 

  We approach the swing bridge, the low point of the day (although one of the high points of the day). You figure the meaning.
A different perspective.
A scene from the bridge.
Jen crossing as she passed the halfway mark.
After crossing the bridge and moving up the mountain, we gain a wonderful perspective.

Most hikes in Nepal have paths covered in stones and rocks, formal steps and of course, earth. Jen on one of many sets of steps.
Making progress but a long way to go.
That's the 'Are we there yet' look?
We reach higher up and the paths are of earth, covered in leaves, usually a favorite.
We arrive at the luxury hotel, are escorted in by a manager, and partake in light refreshments, otherwise known as Coke Zero.
Until 2pm, the weather was poor for visibility. We missed the mountains, the bridge and valley scenes, from our destination positions.

Two western celebrations that don't fit into the Nepalese calendar.
What's wrong in this picture? Upon arrival we passed this crowd. When departing, they all remained basically where they had been over the past 30 minutes. (The negative side of superb technology then again the views, hikes, sights and activities were obviously mediocre.)
We will complete the hike in blog format with the next publication, effectively, the way down. Meantime, we'll end with some color we noticed on the way home outside a villager home; plus the late, partial appearance of an aspect of the Annapurna Range.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

  Should you still be with us, we have an ancillary blog following this one (not the return journey), but an unusual experience toward the conclusion of the hike. We promise it may be unique.