The last few days have been tough. The trekking was much harder than I ever thought it would be however the views of the Annapurna mountain tops made it completely worth it. 

The trek was over 4 days. The first day was pretty mild, I had no problems trundelling up the hills looking at some amazing views. There were waterfalls to die for all along the trek, the snow tops create streams that fall for what seem miles. 

We stayed in the cutest guest house. It was approx £2 a night with hot water and reasonable food. I felt the cold for the first time in weeks and loved being able to wrap up. More to the point I was actually able to use the thermals I’d be lugging around with me!

 The second day we walked up a famous set of steps. There was 4000 of the ruddy things. But that was only one set. There was at least double that afterwards. It was intense. The worst thing was knowing that we would have to walk the same back down. It was a round circuit but nonetheless it was not encouraging.

When we got to the top it was worth it. The town was buzzing. Probably about 400 people around the placee all staying overnight to get up to watch the sunrise at Poon Hill. I also found my new favourite beverage, Rum Hot Chocolate. It was delicious and helped me drift off for the early rise.

 4.30 starts never seem normal. But it was worth it. It felt as if I was part of some kind of Mecca. We all walked up a steep incline which took a the good part of what seemed like an hour. I had piled on the layers as it was pretty cold but had to take them off one by one due to getting very warm with all the steps.

It was worrth it.

It was like a comunitty up there. Everyone had made it and most of us knew it was a once in a lifetime experience. Everyone was offering to take pictures of each other, patiently waiting to get the best shot. There were people holding sentimental flags and tears of joy were dotted around us. A truly wonderful experience and a definately highlight of my trip.

They also served hot drinks. No rum for me this morning, but I may of accidently put the cup in my bag for a keepsake. If I ever return, I promise I’ll take it back ;0)

The next 11 hours were hard. Managed to get back down after probably being one of the last ones there. (It was so magical it was hard to say goodbye). It was a really long day. 14 hours in total and it was up & down the whole way. What was nice is that all the lovely people I talked to and met on top of the hill we met en route which really helped keep up morale. 

The day took it’s toll on me though and made me very aware of how un-fit I am. I was struggling to walk. We didn’t quite make it to the villiage intented but it was getting dark. I was in bed by 8pm. 

The next morning I woke to this site.

Simply breathtaking. 

It was a long way down from this point. A two hour journey took what seemed to be four. My legs had completly seized up and I was really struggling. I did however make it (of  coarse). At the bottom we got a jeep to take us back due to it being a huge festival in Nepal. 

It  was truly an amazing experience. One that I’ll never forget.

My next adventure is much more personal and private. I am booked into a buddhist monastrey for a 10 retreat. I feel both nervous and excited but it’s something I know will be very important to me.

I’ll see you on the other side!!

Much Love to you all,

C.xx