Silk Route

Day 19 - Thr 3 Apr 08

Pokara

Up at 05:00 to get up the top of the hill to see the sunrise over the Annapura range at Sarangkot. The drive up was 'interesting' as the tiny car only had just enough power to get it up the steeper parts. After paying $20 there was still a 50R entrance fee that we had to pay, that and the cold shower (despite promises of 100% hot showers) did not put me in a good mood. At the top of the hill there are a number of tourists standing around waiting. I must admit I wasn't expecting much as there was a lot of mist on the way up, but we had climbed above most of it.

The views in my opinion weren't that good, and the views from Pokara last night were better. Anyway we then departed on our hike, the first bit was a tough climb up to a military observation post with good views of the mist filed valley way below and the mountains above. Unfortunately the mountains are getting more and more cloudy.

Sarangkot ticket

The hike was about 11km and we came across farms and even a small village - all the kids were out looking for cash or some sweets. Caught a taxi back into town. Tried to plan what to do next, but the train we wanted to take in India is full, so that means we have to stick to plan 'a' and stay a bit longer in Nepal. Made it out to the island at the centre of the lake using one of the local boatmen. Another good thunderstorm at 16:00, but that means we might get a clear view of the mountains tomorrow. supper was at the steak house, okay, but no great shakes.