Nepal | Encountering Heaven in the Land of the Gods

[Annapurna Circuit ACT: My First 5000-Meter Summit] After returning from the ACT, even the smallest things feel like a blessing—taking a shower, using a hairdryer, enjoying heating, or simply breathing properly. And, of course, seeing temperatures without a minus sign in front of them. Traveling during the off-season means fewer crowds, but the trade-off is the bone-chilling cold. (If my face hadn’t been frozen, I might have actually cried.) While trekking through the mountains, I often thought to myself: Nepal truly is a sacred land. The deeper you venture, the scarcer the resources become. In the frozen world of -20°C, the only warmth comes from the precious firewood burned for a few hours in the evening at the dining hall. Returning to the room to sleep is a test of endurance, as there’s no heating at all. Yet, we spent most of our time in the mountains, interacting with the local Nepalese people. In their extremely simple way of life, I saw their contentment and a serene demeanor. Surrounded by the Annapurna range, I too found it easy to feel a sense of simple happiness. Even after returning, I haven’t forgotten. I constantly find myself longing for that place: 🏔️ Gently spinning prayer wheels as I strolled through village streets 🏔️ Turning a corner to be greeted by the breathtaking sight of an 8,000-meter peak 🏔️ Hearing our guide talk about the petite women carrying 60 kilograms of firewood up the mountains daily 🏔️ Listening to the sound of ice cracking on a glacier for the first time 🏔️ Sharing the journey with animals and discovering small temples deep in the mountains The indescribable beauty of walking through the Annapurna range makes me believe that heaven truly exists on Earth. I’m grateful for the clear skies along the way, for the warmth of the mountain lodges with their firewood and delicious food, and for every experience—whether challenging or joyful—they were all the most beautiful moments.