The Annapurna Circuit is one of the main reason for coming to Nepal. This is a world famous trek that draws hikers from all across the globe. I first heard about it in India. I ran across several groups of people that had done it, exclaiming that it was one of the best things they’ve done on their trip. This trek takes around 17-21 days, although I have heard of people doing it in 16. It showcases some of the best scenery in Nepal and takes us as high as 5416m, or 17,769 feet, nuff said.

Our preparation for the Annapurna Circuit was done mainly in Kathmandu. In the tourist area the streets are lined with outdoor stores selling fake northface, mountain hardware, mammoth, etc gear all aimed to get travelers prepared for the various trekking. I still had my boots that I first got in Dublin so I was mainly looking for clothing and some insulation. I had sent my down sleeping bag home a long time ago since I have been traveling in perpetual summer season. So now I find myself for the first time ever in a winter situation.

Christine and I hunt around pretty much all of the stores around the area. It gets to a point where I get stores mixed up and cant remember which prices correspond with which store. In our shopping I discover that there are various grades of the fake stuff and I opt to get the best quality fake gear. I end up getting a pair of waterproof/wind blocking trekking pants, a soft shell jacket, a synthetic shirt, fleece jacket and a LED headlamp. All of this comes to less than 100 USD.

In addition to gear I also have to purchase two different cards in order to trek anywhere in the Annapurna range. One is for access to trek that area and the other is insurance for the trek, which includes emergency evacuation. There are checkpoints throughout the circuit where you check in and the rangers keep track of trekkers in this manner.

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