Machhapuchhre, Virgin mountain summit in Gandaki Zone, Nepal.
Machhapuchhre is a summit in Gandaki Zone, Nepal, rising to 6997 meters and forming part of the Annapurna range. The two sharp peaks give the mountain its distinctive appearance and make it one of the most recognizable summits in the region.
A British expedition led by Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy Roberts came within 46 meters of the summit in 1957 before turning back out of respect for religious beliefs. The Nepalese government subsequently banned all further climbing attempts to preserve the spiritual importance of the peak.
The summit takes its name from the twin peaks that resemble a fish tail, with Machhapuchhre meaning exactly that in Nepali. Local communities regard the peak as sacred and keep it free from climbing expeditions, making it one of the few protected summits in the country.
Trekkers can view the peak from several points along the Annapurna Base Camp trail, especially during clear mornings. The best visibility occurs during dry seasons when cloud cover stays low and the air remains clear.
The summit remains unclimbed to this day, making it one of the few peaks above 6500 meters worldwide that has never been fully ascended. Even modern climbing techniques and equipment cannot be used here, as the ban remains in place indefinitely.
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