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Fishtail Mountain is one of Nepal’s most recognized peaks within the Annapurna region, where the local name is Machhapuchhre. It stands at 6,993 meters (22,943 feet) and is a stunning peak attracting thousands because of its magnificence and beauty. The Himalayas showcase Machhapuchhre as their most gorgeous peak. However, it has remained unclimbed, contributing to the mountain retaining its raw beauty.
The first and only climbing history of the Fishtail dates back to 1957. A British team led by Wilfrid Noyce attempted to scale the mountain but turned back just 150 meters below the summit. They respected the locals’ beliefs and the government’s request and returned without reaching the summit.
As it has remained unclimbed, Machhapuchhre Peak continues to entice and mystify mountaineers. The peak is massively significant for the local Gurung people and Hindus, who consider it the holy abode of Lord Shiva. Thus, it also attracts numerous worshippers due to its deep religious values. Due to its spiritual and cultural significance, the Government of Nepal has prohibited climbing the peak. Let us dive more into the details of the Fishtail Mountain!
Table of Contents
The Enchanting Beauty of Machhapuchhre
The Nepalese name Machhapuchhre refers to “Fishtail” in English, which describes the peak’s two finished summits like a fish’s tail. Machhapuchhre impresses all observers with its distinctive peak layout alongside its rugged ridges and white mountain peaks. Its unique layout gives a stunning view from warm tourist locations like Pokhara. During sunrise and sunset, the mountaintop appears as a breathtaking vision where the sky displays colors ranging from red to gold.
The Sacred Fishtail Peak
Machhapuchhre is a sacred peak for the Gurung ethnic community that lives in the surrounding area, and for Hindu devotees. The fishtail shape of the mountain is also considered a symbol of purity. Mountaintop climbers have yet to defeat this sacred Himalayan peak, which remains untainted as a divine symbol of beauty because of its religious status. Climbing the Fishtail is seen as a disrespect to the gods. To retain the purity and sacred values of the holy mountain, it is prohibited to climb the peak. The Government of Nepal has designated Machhapuchhre as an off-limits peak.
Cultural And Religious Significance
Machhapuchhre is culturally and religiously significant to both the Hindu and Buddhist faiths. Hindu people believe Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s most important divine beings, resides in Machhapuchhre. They believe that Lord Shiva meditates on top of the mountain, so climbing the peak means offending the deity. Meanwhile, local Buddhists consider the mountain a sacred space where divine energy resides.
The Gurung people regard the mountain as a guardian and protector. It is a significant spiritual landmark for them. During various rituals and festivals, they pray and also make offerings to Machhapuchhre for protection, prosperity, and fertility. Thus, the peak has massive significance for Hindus and Buddhists alike. As a result, it remains one of the unclimbed mountains in Nepal.
Geographic Location Of Machhapuchhre
Fishtail Mountain is located in the Gandaki province of the Kaski district. It lies in the north-central part of Nepal and stands tall at 6,993 meters. The peak’s geographic coordinates are 28.4947° N, 83.9462° E. Machhapuchhre is 25 kilometers to the north of the well-known tourist center of Pokhara. It is part of the Annapurna Sanctuary, a glacial basin surrounded by steep walls of ice and rocks.
The peak lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest conservation area. The area boasts diverse wildlife habitats, trekking paths, and a rich array of flora and fauna. It is located between the Annapurna and Mardi Himal trekking trails, making it the primary destination for trekkers in the region.
Trekking Around Machhapuchhre
Machhapuchhre stands out among visitors, even though climbing this mountain remains strictly prohibited in the Annapurna region. Two top trekking trails leading to the magnificent views of Machhapuchhre Peak are the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) trek.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
During the ABC trek, visitors enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire Annapurna massif, as Machhapuchhre is one of its many peaks. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. It takes 7 to 12 days to complete the journey. Usually, the starting point of the journey is Nayapul, but it can vary depending on the itinerary. During the trek, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Fishtail. Moreover, the Machhapuchhre Base Camp is a key stop right before reaching the Annapurna Base Camp.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC)
The Machhapuchhre Base Camp Trek is a fresh hiking path that allows travelers to view the mountain up close as it guides them through picturesque settlements, rolling fields, and vibrant rhododendron woodlands. The base camp sits right at the foothill of the towering Mount Machhapuchhre, in the Annapurna Sanctuary. It takes 5 to 7 days to complete the trek to the base camp. You can get a very close and personal view of the Fishtail. Similarly, you can witness enticing views of other mountains like Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli.
Experience And Fitness Required
Journeys to the Fishtail Mountain region support tourists with various degrees of experience through their selected activities. Pokhara, Sarangkot, and Ghandruk do not require any trekking experience before visiting, so they welcome all travelers.
Adventure seekers must be in good physical condition to trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) or Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) because the paths include difficult landscape features, challenging uphill climbs, and extended walking days.
Trekkers who are new to trekking can do these trails after building sufficient endurance through training and preparing for altitude adaptation. Travelers who hire local guides to accompany them throughout the journey gain a more enriched and safer trekking experience. They must be in good health and have reasonable fitness to overcome the challenging trails leading to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Trekkers can undertake exercises and training to build and improve their fitness for the journey. They must focus on cardiovascular, strength-building, and endurance-building exercises. Hiking, jogging, running, cycling, and swimming are excellent for cardio and endurance-building. Similarly, squats, lunges, planks, deadlifts, and step-ups can help with strength-building. Mental fitness is equally important as physical fitness. So, trekkers must build strong mental resilience and positivity when trekking in the Annapurna region.
Best Time To Visit Fishtail Mountain
Fishtail Mountain, also known as Machhapuchhre, is one of the most enchanting and revered peaks of Nepal. Situated in Annapurna, this mountaintop features a unique fishtail summit with snow-ribboned peaks. However, trekkers must carefully decide on their travel window to witness Fishtail Mountain in its complete magnificence.
The spring months from March to May and the autumn months from September to November represent the optimal time to visit Machhapuchhre. These seasons present favorable weather, mild temperatures, and excellent visibility for stunning panoramic views. Summer or monsoon from June to August and winter from December to February are off-season for trekking, but hold a unique charm. Here is a brief on each season:
Spring (March to May)
| Elevation | Daytime temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
| 2000 – 3000 meters | 10°C to 20°C | 0°C to 5°C |
| 4000 + meters | 0°C to 10°C | -5°C to -10°C |
The perfect time to witness the beauty of Machhapuchhre is during the spring season. It is the ideal time to visit and trek to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Horizontal temperature during this time span is mild coldness, which creates excellent trekking conditions. Light snowfall can occur during early spring, but it slowly melts as the weather gets warmer. Visiting during spring allows you to see the spectacular rhododendron blooms that decorate the hillside with their brilliant coloration. Machhapuchhre Mountain, along with the Annapurna massif, stands in full view because of the perfect visibility conditions.
Autumn (September to November)
| Elevation | Daytime temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
| 2000 – 3000 meters | 12°C to 22°C | 2°C to -7°C |
| 4000 + meters | 0°C to 8°C | -5°C to -10°C |
A perfect time to see Machhapuchhre is in the autumn when rains have ceased and skies become crystal clear. The season immediately follows the monsoon or summer, delivering sharp air conditions and pleasant weather. You can also enjoy exceptional mountain visibility. The weather in autumn is the most stable, with moderate temperatures. Around the time of lower humidity, travelers and trekkers enjoy the excellent views of the Himalayas because of clearer atmospheric conditions. Autumn provides visitors the dual advantages of enjoying their trek while witnessing major Nepali holidays, Dashain and Tihar.
Other Seasons (Winter & Monsoon)
| Seasons | Elevation | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
| Winter | 2000 – 3000 meters | 5°C to 15°C | -2°C to 3°C |
| 4000+ meters | -5°C to 5°C | -10°C to -15°C | |
| Summer/ Monsoon | 2000 – 3000 meters | 15°C to 25°C | 10°C to°C 15°C |
| 4000+ meters | 5°C to 12°C | 0°C to 5°C |
Tourists should plan their Nepal travel during spring or autumn, since winter from December to February and monsoons between June and August present unique challenges. Trekking during winter comes with dangerously cold temperatures. Snow accumulates heavily in higher altitude areas, making many trekking paths virtually impossible. Despite the freezing temperature and cold weather, you can experience a peaceful environment. You can witness breathtaking snow-covered landscapes that remain free from crowds.
Visitors experience the worst travel conditions in the summer/ monsoon season. The torrential rain and slippery tracks, combined with reduced sight due to clouds covering the area, make it hazardous to trek to Machhapuchhre. Additionally, there is the risk of landslides and mudslides during summer, which can block the roads and trekking trails.
Must-Visit Places Near Fishtail Mountain
Fishtail Mountain, which Nepalese locals call Machhapuchhre, is one of the most stunning peaks in Nepal. It attracts adventurers, mountain lovers, naturalists, and trek enthusiasts worldwide. Although the sacred mountain is off-limits, numerous breathtaking vistas, cultural sites, and trekking options surround it. During a visit to Machhapuchhre, you should see several amazing attractions, which are as follows:
Pokhara
Those who seek Fishtail Mountain adventures must first arrive at Pokhara. The second-largest city of Kathmandu serves as the entrance to the Annapurna region and the starting point of several treks. This lakeside city sits at 827 meters and allows visitors to glimpse the majestic Himalayas through its scenic landscapes. Similarly, you can experience boating on Phewa Lake and thrilling activities, including paragliding and zip-lining, in the city. Tourists can experience both tranquility and thrill in the tourist hub of Pokhara with the World Peace Pagoda and Devi’s Fall among its cultural sites.
Ghandruk Village
The Gurung village of Ghandruk provides visitors with a beautiful setting to experience local cultural traditions and customs. The Village perches at 2,000 meters elevation, offering complete views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna. It takes 4 to 5 hours to drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk. The permanent dwellers embrace visitors with their friendly nature and warm hospitality. During your stay at Ghandruk, you can visit the Gurung Museum, which presents local traditions and historical heritage. The village is the starting point and ending point for famous treks like Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and more.
Poon Hill
Travelers seeking a challenge-free experience that provides rich cultural experiences should explore Poon Hill as their hiking destination. The Poon Hill Trek is also short and easy venture for beginners and trekkers of all level. Lots of trekkers opt for Poon Hill because its accessible route leads to this Himalayan viewpoint within a short period. You will trek through the dense rhododendron forests while passing by charming villages and terrace farms. The Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210 meters elevation offers one of the most magical sunrise views between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Sarangkot
Sarangkot is a premier location that delivers perfect sunrises across the Himalayan mountain range. It is located at an elevation of 1600 meters and takes around 45 minutes from Pokhara. Tourists who travel a brief distance from Pokhara will find this hilltop location, which presents unobstructed views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges. The high point of Sarangkot attracts numerous visitors because it also offers them the chance to participate in paragliding, experience breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and take spectacular photographs. You can fly from Sarangkot over Phewa Lake, villages, and Pokhara city.
Jhinu Danda Hot Spring
Many trekkers prefer to finish their treks through the Annapurna region with the perfect hot spring experience at Jhinu Danda Hot Springs. Visitors can find natural hot springs near Jhinub Danda village at an altitude of 1780 meters, which provide relaxation and panoramic mountain landscapes. The hot spring lies about a 15 to 20-minute walk downhill from the village. It sits beside the Modi Khola and consists of three natural stone pools. The hot water is also believed to have natural healing properties. There is no better way to relax your tired muscles after trekking for long hours in hot water surrounded by lush riverside forest.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is an excellent way to get a close view of Machhapuchhre. The arduous yet satisfying route takes adventurers through stunning rhododendron woodlands, agricultural terraces, and picturesque villages to reach the 4,130-meter base camp. Trekkers who travel to that location get breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and other surrounding mountain peaks. The Annapura Base Camp is one of the most popular trek destinations in Nepal.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC)
People interested in the ultimate vision of Fishtail Mountain should make a trip to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). From 3,700 meters, MBC presents the finest, most up-close views of the mountain summit. The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek features Machhapuchhre Base Camp, an excellent acclimatization stop before moving deeper into Annapurna Sanctuary.
Are you looking for the Fishtail Mountain region trek? Then you can check the following package.
How To Reach Fishtail Mountain?
From Kathmandu to Pokhara
Visitors who wish to see Machhapuchhre up close should first visit Pokhara, as it is the starting point for exploring the Annapurna region. People visiting Pokhara can choose from several trekking paths, such as the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Mardi Himal trek, and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp Trek, which present outstanding summit views.
You can take either the roadway or the airway from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Both cities are well-connected by road and air, so you can choose either depending on your budget and preference.
Roadway:
You can take a local bus, tourist bus, or private vehicle from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Depending on the road condition and traffic, it can take 6 to 8 hours. The local buses are cheaper but crowded, less comfortable, and slower. These buses make frequent stops along the way for travelers to get on and off. They can cost anywhere from NPR 700 to NPR 1000 per person. However, they provide an authentic traveling experience.
Tourist buses are more expensive but still budget-friendly than taking a local bus. They are more comfortable and convenient and cost NPR 1200 to NPR 2500 per person, depending on the service. Hiring a private vehicle (car or jeep) is the most comfortable roadway transportation. It is faster but also expensive. Similarly, it is also more convenient. Unlike local or tourist buses, you can make convenient stops for refreshment along the way. The price can vary depending on the vehicle size.
Airway:
The fastest and most comfortable transportation mode is via air. It takes around 25 minutes to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Various airlines such as Yeti Airlines, Buddha Air, and Shree Airlines conduct frequent flights between the two cities. Taking a flight to Pokhara is also the best way to enjoy the aerial views of the diverse landscapes and mountain panoramas. The cost can vary depending on the season, i.e., the flight price is higher during the on-season (spring and autumn), and there are seasonal discounts in the off-season (summer and winter). There is a chance of flights getting delayed or cancelled during the off-season.
Starting the trek from Nayapul or Ghandruk
From Pokhara, you can choose either Nayapul or Ghandruk as your starting point for the trek to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
From Nayapul:
It takes around two hours to get from Pokhara to Nayapul via private or shared jeep. You will drive on the Baglung Highway, and upon reaching Nayapul, you will start your trek. The trail from Nayapul will go through notable villages like Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, and Dovan to get to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The trek duration is between 7 and 10 days.
From Ghandruk:
Driving from Pokhara to Ghandruk takes around four hours. You can hire a private jeep or take a shared jeep. You will drive on the Baglung Highway and begin trekking from Ghandruk. The route to Machhapuchhre Base Camp from Ghandruk is shorter. The trek duration is between 5 and 7 days. You will pass notable villages from Chhomrong and Dovan to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Trekking Permits and Guides
It is mandatory to hire a licensed guide for trekking in the Annapurna region as of April 2023. You can hire a licensed and experienced guide through a government-registered trek agency. Similarly, you must obtain two trekking permits to trek to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Those permits are as follows:
TIMS (Trekker’s Information Management System) Card
The TIMS card is a compulsory permit for trekking in all regions of Nepal, except for the Everest region. While applying for the card, trekkers must provide their complete personal information, trek itinerary, trek details, and emergency contact. You can obtain the permit through a registered trek agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The costs are as follows:
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 1000 per person
- Non-SAARC Nationals: NPR 2000 per person
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit)
To trek to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp, trekkers must access the trail through the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is a protected area, so you must obtain the entry permit to access the area. You can get the permit from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The ACAP costs:
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 1000 per person
- Non-SAARC Nationals: NPR 3000 per person
Conclusion
The majestic Fishtail Mountain, or Machhapuchhre, stands beyond its geographical status as it symbolizes the nation’s environmental greatness and religious vitality.
Travelers exploring the Annapurna region must visit this landmark because it offers a pristine summit, beautiful features, and cultural value. Machhapuchhre creates an unshakeable impression on everyone who observes it far away or up close while trekking its surrounding landscapes.
