Machapuchare
Mountain Sacred Nepalese peak near Annapurna massif, officially unclimbed
A double-peaked summit in the Annapurna range, Machapuchare (Fishtail) is sacred and officially unclimbed. Trekkers and photographers use the Pokhara region for classic views and access to Annapurna trekking routes.
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Machapuchare is a striking mountain in Nepal’s Annapurna range, known for its double-peaked, fishtail-shaped summit and sacred status to local communities. Its summit reaches approximately 6,993 metres, making it a prominent and much-photographed peak in the Annapurna massif.
The mountain’s dramatic north face and twin summit lobes are visible from viewpoints around Pokhara and from trekking routes into the Annapurna Sanctuary. It is not part of the commercial climbing objectives because the Nepalese government has prohibited climbing to respect its sacred status.
Machapuchare has been a landmark for mountaineers and trekkers since the early 20th century; limited reconnaissance and approach climbs were made in the mid-20th century but no sanctioned summit has been recorded. The peak’s protected status and visual prominence have contributed to its symbolic importance in Nepali mountain culture.
Geographically Machapuchare sits immediately north of Pokhara within the Annapurna Conservation Area, rising above the Modi Khola valley and forming part of the Annapurna massif in central Nepal. Well-known viewpoints for the mountain include Sarangkot and other ridges above Pokhara.
- Elevation and profile: Summit elevation is widely cited as 6,993 metres, with a distinctive twin-peaked, fishtail-shaped summit that is visually prominent from Pokhara and the Annapurna foothills.
- Climbing restriction: Climbing is effectively prohibited and the peak is considered sacred by many local communities; the mountain remains without an officially recorded successful summit ascent.
How to Get to Machapuchare #
Machapuchare (the Fishtail) is approached as part of treks in the Annapurna region. Travelers normally fly or bus to Pokhara (the nearest city), then drive or jeep to trailheads such as Phedi or Nayapul and trek into the Annapurna Sanctuary area to get close views of Machapuchare.
Note that Machapuchare is a sacred peak and climbing it is prohibited; access is by foot on trekking routes rather than by vehicle.
Tips for Visiting Machapuchare #
- For the clearest views of Machapuchare and the Annapurna range, watch sunrise from the Sarangkot viewpoint above Pokhara or from Poon Hill on the Annapurna foothills - early morning light usually offers the sharpest visibility.
- Machapuchare is a sacred peak and climbing to its summit has been prohibited by the Nepalese government; respect local rules and avoid any expedition that claims to summit the mountain.
- If you plan any trekking in the Annapurna area, obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card before you start - they are required for many trails and checkpoints.
Best Time to Visit Machapuchare #
Aim for spring (Mar-May) or the post‑monsoon autumn window (Oct-Nov) for the clearest mountain views and best trekking conditions.
Weather & Climate near Machapuchare #
Machapuchare's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with freezing summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -21°C to 1°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -21°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -10°C and lows of -21°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -18°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -5°C and lows of -15°C. The driest month with just 1 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -12°C. Almost no rain, partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -8°C. The driest month with just 1 mm, mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -6°C. The wettest month with 97 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -6°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -17°C. Almost no rain.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -19°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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