SARANKOT(pokhara)

SARANKOT

Favourite spots:

The long climb up The walk up Sarangkot starts early in the morning at around 4am and takes 3 hours, if you climb from the base (starting at Bindabasini temple); however I took a taxi half way up and it still took me 45 minute to climb to the summit. The climb was strenuous but what makes this magical is the view of the sun rising over the mountains – the higher you get the more stunning the views become. Sarangkot is a small hill that stands at 1592 metres high; it is quite steep but steps have been created to make it easier and safer climbers (there was a mixture of concrete steps and pathway). This is a very popular walk (I call it the poor man’s trek) especially with people not taking part of a multiple day trek. It provides wonderful views of the Annapurna Ranges with the majestic Machhapuhre aka the Fishtail dominating your view. Whilst not the highest mountain it appears that way as it is so close to where you are standing.

What's really great:

The Locals The Nepalese people were very friendly, everyone greets you with ‘Namesta’ and are always curious of your origins. Even if it is to get a sale, they seem very good natured. Pokhara is quiet during the day, but by no stretch of the imagination is it dead. There are always people milling around and by the time evening comes around all restaurant and bars come alive. But truly the best thing about this area is the beauty of the Himalayas. It’s about taking some time out and testing your endurance with a trek, or visiting the temples, stupas or monasteries. Or volunteering on a conservation project. Or even just enjoying being alive and thinking I could be in 'London' now rushing to work on the underground, instead of staring at the face of God. If I ever get a chance to visit Nepal again, I would definitely do a trek, as this feeling has to last for more that a few days.

Sights:

Finally at the top of Sarangkot Barahi Temple Dedicated to the Goddess Barahi is situated on a small island in the middle of Lake Phewa Tal and can be reached by canoe from the docks in Pokhara for about 20 rupees Phewa Tal The water of the lake can be quite still and reflects perfect images of the Annapurna Range. It is the second largest lake in Nepal; canoes (aka doongas) available for rental as well as fishing rods. Tibetan Refugee Camp There are the two villages in near Pokhara to explore; they make a lot of woollen handicrafts, rugs and carpets, as well as running souvenir stalls. But it is also fascinating to here some of their stories. The World Peace Pagoda One of the newer places to watch the sun rise is from the World Peace Pagoda that sits on the high on the hill across from Lake Phewa Tal at an elevation of 1113m. The Seti River Gorge, Mahendra Caves, Mountain Museum and Old Bazaar are also worth a visit.

Accommodations:

Lake views from Sarangkot On the same strip as the restaurant there are also many hotels. The larger ones are on the main road, but as you turn up the streets there are more and these tend to be a little cheaper guesthouse and B&B. If you haven’t books accommodations in the bus park there is a tourist office that can offer some help. They are very knowledgeable about the hotels in the area, but they also recommend that you read the Lonely Planet or Rough Guide. The taxi ride from the bus park is 150 rupees but to be honest it’s probably better to walk, after sitting for all those hours in a bus. The taxi fare is fixed however if you haven’t booked accommodation the driver will probably take you to their hotel and won’t therefore charge you; as they get a commission form the hotel.

Hangouts:

The views are always great I didn't go to any night clubs so I don't know what the scene is like but there are many bars that open late. And it’s just nice to sit and have a drink, but you have to wrap up warm. I did find a few internet shops that were quite cheap and allowed me to while away the hours.

Restaurants:

Views from Sarangkot The main strip contains lots of restaurants, with all types of food. But it is worth trying the Nepalese set meal, all served in little dishes: Flat bread with coconut chutney, Dali soup, Vegetable curry, Chicken curry, Boiled rice; washed down with some Everest or Nepal Ice beer. We tried a few restaurants and bars and they were really good: PARADISE INN – a large restaurant/bar that was quite empty but the food was good. MEERA HOTEL / RESTAURANT - an extensive menu but only tried the breakfast. SILK ROAD BAR. BILLY BUNTER’S ROOF TOP RESTAURANT – serves a decent breakfast at a reasonable price. NEWARI KITCHEN – a varied menu with good local food. PYRAMID RESTAURANT – a fairly large restaurant that serves Mexican and Italian food. PUMPERNICKEL BAKERY set on the lake front in a sick.