The Annapurna Region (Nepal)

Ever since Maurice Herzog's classic account of the Annapurna region, climbers and backpackers have put the "Annapurna Circuit" firmly on the map as perhaps 'the' classic of all Himalayan treks.

Whether you decide to take the 21 day "circuit" around the Annapurna massif or take the 10 day shortened trek and go the other way round and fly out of Jomson, the scenery that you will encounter is breathtaking.

Poon Hill, offers magnificent views of the Annapurna and Dhaulgiri ranges, both boasting several 8000 metre peaks. It's absolutely spectacular at dawn. From your base at Ghorepani, ascend the famous ridge just before 4am to catch the dawn over the Himalaya just after 6.... a sight that will etch itself in you forever.

Don't be suprised to find a crowd of over a hundred at the top, not to mention a welcome makeshift tea stall to warm your mits around in the early morning cold....If cloud and mist cloak the Annapurna's, just be patient, and it will lift to give one of the most awe inspiring views there are on this planet...

Heading further north up the Kali Gandaki valley, the trail drops steeply from Ghorepani into the deepest gorge in the world....just 40kms seperate Dhaulgiri from Annapurna 1, both towering over 8000m.

Ascending gently towards the Tibetan trade villages of Tukushe, Kagbeni and Jharkot, the scenery changes from lush sub tropical vegetation to a dry, lunar landscape as approach the High Tibetan Plateau. The views coming into Kagbeni and Jharkot, surrounded by high altitude desert and the stark Nilgiri peaks soaring over 7000 metres will leave you wondering whether you've just walked onto the set of an oriental version of "Name of the Rose."

Accomodation on the trial is suprisingly good. Most backpackers travel light with just a sleeping bag and stay in teahouses for less than $2 a night. The food is absolutely incredible. All the guesthouses have a wide variety of menu's, ranging from local steamed dumplings know as Momo's to Mexican, Pasta, and even Apple Pie... just gorge yourself after a tough days walk on delicious cakes at the German Bakery in Jomsom.

What to take: Essential to take good worn in walking boots, four season sleeping bag and a down jacket. Gortex rainwair, head torch and warm gloves. Travel light, remember, you have to carry your own pack, unless your hire porters!

When to go: Trekking season runs from October to April. Views are obscured by monsoon cloud in the summer months.

How to get there: I flew with Qatar Airlines into Kathmandu for £515. It's an 8 hour, hair raising bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara along
winding roads. Hiring a four wheel drive will cost about $60 and may be a good bet between four or more.