Hi Anita, I got back in mid December from doing the Annapurna Circuit. We didn't meet a single Maouist until Gorephani and Poon Hill, as we were trekking late in the season and most had gone back to thier own areas. They took the normal 1000 rupee donation (we didn't quibble - we'd met an Israeli idiot who'd came close to trouble when he refused to pay them). They were fine and will leave you alone or talk to you about thier cause if you show interest. The west side of the circuit is much more heavily Maouist populated, Beni (west of Pokhara) is totally Maoist controlled.
However, there are a lot of police and army roadblocks on the road between Pokhara and Kathmandu, and that route is a pain in the ass to travel currently, as it takes approx 11 hours to do it now rather than 7. You have to keep getting off the bus for armed police checks and walking up through the checkpoints so they can see your passport. This causes massive traffic jams. Also, they occasionslly commandeer your bus for transport so you find yourself squashed into your seat by 18/20 armed police or army guys all carrying sub machine guns. It is a bit scary but they won't cause you any trouble. For them it's an easy way to get from one place to another as their own vehicles get shot at by Maouist groups. I would suggest flying internally if you can, as it's less hassle at the moment. However, the bus journey is a good adventure if you are in the mood for one. Be prepared for the Nepali's incredible driving skills - NOT!! If you fly, avoid Royal Nepali Airlines, they are very unreliable.
Finally, it's been one of the coldest winters they've had in the AP Circuit area for a while. When we went over the Thorong La it was minus 30 degrees. Flippin cold!! I took really good thermal underwear thinking I wouldn't need it, I'm bloody glad i did take it as at one point, it didn't come off me for 5 days. My sleeping bag wasn't quite warm enough and it goes down to minus 10. I eventually found a fleece liner for it in Manang which made a lot of difference.
It's the most amazing walk in the world, so have a wonderful time.
If you want any more info or would like to chat about it at all, email me. But don't not go, unless the foreign office/embassy tell you not to. The Maouists do leave tourists alone, as they provide income for the hill people. But don't travel alone - I personally don't think it's safe for women on their own at the moment. I wanted to walk the whole circuit on my own but I'm glad I took a porter guide now. For a whole load of reasons.
Good luck and enjoy.
<spits with demented jealousy>
