Hi Richard! The descent is fairly steep, though what makes it complicated is that it is constantly steep with minimal flats, putting a lot of pressure on your knees. I recommend bringing high quality knee braces as you can only buy quite cheap ones on the trail. As you are going in the next month which is the high season the tea shop should be open and horses should be available, I did it in one of the quieter months. Also I have had previous issues with hiking downhill and my knees in the past. If you would like send me through an email ( backpackerswanderlust@hotmail.com ) as I have a pdf version of the Annapurna circuit guide book I can send you. It has heaps of info and will help you prep for your journey :)