Trekking the Annapurna Circuit
Starting the Journey
Trekking the Annapurna Circuit from Jagat to Birethanti in December was unforgettable. I quickly came to love the simplicity of trail life—just walking, eating, and sleeping for two weeks. Each day followed a steady rhythm. There was deep satisfaction in moving forward with only a pack on my back and the mountains ahead. Moreover, the clear skies and crisp air made conditions perfect. The climbs tested our stamina, but the beauty of the Himalayas made every step worth it.
Support from Our Guide and Porters
Our guide, Surya, made the trek even better. He looked out for us, reminded us to stay hydrated, and helped us adjust to the altitude. In addition, his knowledge of the region and culture added richness to every stop. If you plan to trek here, hiring a licensed guide in Nepal can make a big difference.
The porters impressed us too—not only with their incredible strength, but also with their nonstop humor. In the evenings, we gathered around teahouse fires, played cards, and laughed at their endless jokes. That warmth and camaraderie became just as important as the walking itself.
Food and Fuel on the Trail
We quickly adopted Dal Bhat as our daily fuel—and we never grew tired of it. The mix of lentils, rice, and vegetables powered us through long hikes. Now I fully understand the saying: “Dal Bhat power, 24 hour.”
Meals also gave us time to pause, enjoy the scenery, and share stories. Sometimes we ate in lively villages, other times in quiet teahouses perched on the mountainside. For more on local food, check Nepali cuisine on Lonely Planet.
Crossing Thorong La Pass
Crossing Thorong La Pass was the hardest part of the trek, but also the most rewarding. We moved slowly through the thin air. Finally, at the top, mountains stretched in every direction and left us speechless. You can read more about Thorong La on Lonely Planet.
Afterward, we descended into Muktinath. It felt like stepping into a new world. The landscape changed, and so did our mindset. With each step down, a sense of achievement grew.
The Final Stretch
Walking all the way to Birethanti, we welcomed the return to lower altitudes. Yet, we also felt nostalgic. The trek had challenged us, inspired us, and quieted our minds.
Ultimately, it became a rhythm of mountains, trails, and footsteps—just one after another. For more information on trekking routes, visit the Nepal Tourism Board’s official page.
—Josh and Morgan, UK
