Kate Little

In 2017, I journeyed to Nepal to trek to Annapurna Base Camp in the Himalayas. While many hikers choose Everest Base Camp, I was drawn to Annapurna for its breathtaking scenery and quieter, less-traveled path. The nine-day trek began in Pokhara, a picturesque town with a sparkling lake cradled by the towering peaks of the Annapurna range. The view alone was enough to take your breath away.Instead of camping, we stayed in charming tea houses, simple lodges with warm showers and hearty local meals. The trek tested me at times, with steep trails and rugged terrain, yet every challenge was rewarded with stunning landscapes, remote mountain villages, and the grandeur of snow-capped peaks stretching across the horizon.One unforgettable afternoon, we came across a schoolyard where children were playing volleyball. We joined their game, hikers against kids, and though we lost, the laughter and joy of sharing in their everyday life made it an extraordinary moment.We experienced the full spectrum of mountain weather, from blazing sun to sudden rain showers, booming thunder, sharp hail, and crossing rivers swollen with melting snow. Each element added to the sense of adventure. When I finally reached Annapurna Base Camp, standing beneath the massive peaks, I was overwhelmed with emotion and a profound sense of accomplishment.That feeling of triumph stayed with me and inspired my next challenge: climbing Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak,