The Annapurna sanctuary

 I was driven one morning to some high point to watch the sun rising over the Annapurna range of mountains. Pokhara is the trailhead for the trek to the Annapurna mountain range, its a series of high peaks. Annapurna I at 26,000 feet was first climbed by a Frenchman, Maurice Herzog. I have his book, 'Annapurna", a very impressive account of the preparation and the ascent on Annapurna I. Somewhere in the middle is a peak called 'Machhpuchare' or in English, 'fishtail'. The Nepalese considered this peak as sacred. Though there was an attempt to climb it years ago, it has never been conquered and now it is considered to be a sacred mountain and climbing expeditions are forbidden.

At the base of the viewing area are little stalls set up to sell food and souvenirs.