Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
In Nepali: माछापुच्छ्रे · Also known as: Fishtail · Machapuchare · माछापुच्छ्रे
Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) owes its name to its twin summit, which from some angles looks like the forked tail of a fish. From Pokhara it appears as a perfect pyramid, the most striking peak on the skyline.
It is considered sacred to Shiva and is closed to climbing. A 1957 British expedition stopped some 150 m below the summit, and no permitted ascent has been made since.
Where to see it
The classic views are from Phewa Lake and Sarangkot, where it appears as a sharp pyramid. From the Mardi Himal trail you walk right beneath its south face; from Machhapuchhre Base Camp in the Annapurna Sanctuary you see the twin 'fishtail' summits clearly. At sunrise the peak often turns gold while the valley below is still dark.
Good to know
Its sacred status is respected by trekkers and local Gurung communities alike. The peak is protected within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Quick answers
- Where is Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)?
- Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)?
- About 6,993 m (22,944 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)?
- For a 3-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 12,500 (≈ US$93) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)?
- October–April for views
- How do I get to Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)?
- Seen from Pokhara, Sarangkot and the ABC and Mardi Himal treks. It is about 32 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) called in Nepali?
- माछापुच्छ्रे
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