Life is good! i just got back from treking three weeks in the anapurna region of the himalayas. it was an amazing trek that took us through all sort of different topography, vegetation, cultures, etc. it was amazing to start in the tropical lowlands, pass through dry and sparce midlands, accross pine covered hillsides and eventually up to rocky highlands. thorong la pass, at 17,770 feet, was the highest point, but there was plenty of up and down involved along the way.
we also cruised over to what is called the anapurna sanctuary which is a huge amphitheatre surrounded by 10 monstrous peaks that are over 20,000 feet high. the night we stayed there was just before the full moon and the mountains where lit up all night. it was incredible!
most of the treks in nepal are "tea house treks." Instead of packing in all your camping gear and food you stay at small teahouses that have beds and small restaurants. our group, 4 americans and two english, always searched out the small tea houses with the best views. Most of the time we ahd the palce to ourselves. one of the highlights of the trip was spending time in the kitchen, around a small fire, waiting for dinner. the views of the 20,000 feet peaks made a great background for a cup of tea or coffee in the morning as well as for reading a good book on a clear afternoon (I think i finished about eight books on the trek).
We averaged about 6 hours of walking a day and estimate that we covered about 200+ miles on the trek. weather, for the most part, was excellent with the majority of days lacking even the slightest hint of clouds. arriving back in pokhara after 21 days led to much heavy indulgence in meat and cheese dishes, virtually unobtainable on the trek. after the initial onslaught on various eating establishments i needed a couple of days to recover from my food and drink induced coma.
back in katmandu, i am planning my next step. if we are not able to put together a team to conquer one of the 20,000 foot peaks i may check my self into a week long yoga and meditation course.....get in touch with the "inner self."
