The Annapurna Circuit -From rice paddies to high mountain passes The Annapurna Range remains one of the most daunting in the world. Annapurna was first climbed by a French expedition and is one of the most coveted and dangerous of the 8000 meter peaks. The complete circumnavigation of the massif takes roughly three weeks and allows for a gradual climb to the high point of the trek, the Thorang Pass, at 17'768 ft (5'416 meters) before descending to Muktinath on the other side. From here we can look out across Tibet far in the distance. If you only do one trek in Nepal, this is the one. From the foothills of Kathmandu to the mineral world of the high mountains, the biodiversity of the Annapurna circuit is incredible. The first few days are spent traversing the sub-tropical areas where rice paddies and banana trees dominate the landscape. A gradual climb through many villages and hamlets follows, with stunning views of the range on most days. After a gradual descent back to Pokhara we spend a day on the lake to relax and enjoy the fine meals from the terrace of our lake-side hotel. All of our nights are spent in the relative comfort of mountain lodges where our meals are taken. Porters are provided to carry everything for you but a day pack with water and the essentials for a day's walk. The level of comfort has changed incredibly over the last decade and on most nights, a shower is the norm. Our rest days are situated in larger lodges with hot showers and the best apple pie in Asia. This trek is for both the beginner and the advanced trekker but all you really need to know is how to put one foot in front of the other. Alpine Interface hopes to see you on the trail.