After Everest Base Camp, Catalina and I chilled out in Kathmandu for a few days then made our way to the Lamjung District to start the 160km/10 day or so Annapurna Circuit. Unlike EBC, at the time you were allowed to do the trek without a guide or porter, so we decided to do the trek unsupported, and we had an amazing time. The circuit was not as crowded as EBC and you go through such diverse landscapes. You start in the lush subtropical lowlands, making your way past small farms and villages where you get a real taste for the local lifestyle. You gradually ascend to pine forests and dramatic mountain ranges with deep canyons everywhere. It did not surprise me that the international canyoning rendezvous (RIC) was held in this area in 2011. The trek eventually climbs to Thorung La Pass at almost 17,800ft, over to arid alpine desert near the Mustang region of Tibetan Plateau. The scenery along this trek was marvelous, and being able to stay in small tea houses along the way was a special experience. This trek is definitely one of my favorites.
