Crossing the first suspension bridge through Nayapul on the first day of the trek along the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Circuit in Nepal.

Trekking through the lush lowlands on the way to Syauli Bazar; the upward climb begins the following day.

The cold waters of the Modi Khola (‘Khola’ is Nepalese for ‘River’) offer a refreshing swim after the first day of walking.

The trek from Syauli Bazar to Ghandruk in Nepal – 800m – is renowned for its number of steps.

After a huge climb, the Ghandruk Guest House is a sight for sore trekkers’ eyes.

Looking over Old Ghandruk. This village is well worth a few hours’ exploration. It is also home to many of the famous Ghurka soldiers.

prayer flag at Ghandruk Guest House, silhouetted at sunrise.

Up to Tadapani. The constant climbing has its many rewards, with beautiful surrounds to accompany trekkers.

Fallen rhododendron flowers add vibrant colour to the track on the way to Tadapani, along the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Circuit in Nepal.

The rhododendron season is probably one of the most spectactular times to be on the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Circuit.

The rising sun struggles to penetrate the heavy mountain mist at Tadapani.

Heading north to Bayeli Kharka, trekkers head deeper into lush rainforest.

Above the treeline – and away from the crowds of the Annapurna Circuit – on the way to Bayeli Kharka.

Bayeli Kharka Lodge, one of the community-run lodges developed with assistance from Peregrine Adventures.

Mighty Dhaulagiri lit up by the rising sun, looms in the distance beyond Bayeli Kharka.

Crossing a small footbridge on the way to the community lodge at Upper Chistibung.

Upper Chistibung Lodge. This community lodge is quite new – and, for trekkers, sheer luxury!

The yak. When you envision Nepal, you cannot help but think about this high-altitude beast of burden.

The most welcome sign on the Circuit after a day’s trekking to the lofty heights of Khopra Ridge.

This yak herders’ shelter has probably the best view from Khopra Ridge, surrounded by some of the world’s tallest peaks.

The moon shines bright in the pre-dawn light on Khopra Ridge on the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Circuit in Nepal.

A trekker on a snow-covered hill above Khopra Ridge is dwarfed by the immensity of Dhaulagiri in the distance.

Mission accomplished: Trekkers, guides and porters celebrate reaching the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Circuit’s high point.

Touching the sky on the way down from Khopra Ridge. The view stretches forever.

Self-sufficiency rules in the high country of Nepal. This near-new tea house is a fantastic stop on the descent to Swanta.

Hard work and no complaints: Nepal’s porters are a gift from the gods for trekking groups.

A sea of colour greets visitors to Swanta on this day as an inter-village volleyball tournament takes centre stage.

The transport of food and goods between villages is simple but very effective throughout the region.

The scenery doesn’t let up on the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Circuit. This sublime view was awaiting us on the last day.