About Nar Phu Valley Trek - Nar Phu Valley to Annapurna Circuit Trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek | Kang La Pass

Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s adventure and amazing treks in Nepal. Being said as the hardest trek, it has it all to wow all the travelers and trekkers globally. Lying between the serene Annapurna Region and Manaslu Region, Nar Phu Trek allows exploring the Himalayan wilderness mixed with the Buddhist culture at its best

With 2022 destined to be a revolution in the trekking paradigm, Nar Phu Valley Trek has a lot of expectations from every traveler. Nar Phu is a hidden gem of Nepal, and people are now noticing its authentic natural aura.

Overview - Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek goes through the high peaks, glaciers, remote villages, rocky areas, canyons, and farmlands. You get a sense of natural beauty mixed with the ethnic gorgeousness embodied by the most scenic trails. The Nar Phu Trek starts with the arrival in Kathmandu, followed by fun sightseeing around the capital city. It is also the day to brush up on the basics regarding “how to do a Nar Phu Trek?” A drive to Jagat declares the start of the long 19 days trek.

A minimum 7-8 hours hike passes through Dharapani, Koto, Meta, and Phu Gaon. You meet many awesome people during the long trek and chill with them in the village. Listening to the ancient Himalayan tales from the inhabitants is the perfect way to dive deep into the history of the gorgeous natural wonder. Acclimatization at Phu Gaon and Nar is the most amazing way to take a rest and be prepared for the trail ahead.

In addition to this, the Nar Phu Valley Trek highlights come at the later stages of the trek. You get to visit Manang along with Thorong La Pass. Considered the desert of Nepal, Manang gives you a whole new perspective on Nepal. The odd yet unique landscapes in Manang make your journey worth your time and money. The Nar Phu Valley Trek Map comprisesKang La Pass, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, and Jomsom. These places somehow have a place on each Nepali’s travel bucket list. Jomsom and Muktinath are two of Nepal's most desirable places to visit. People from all around the world want to come here.

The best way to explore the Himalayan wilderness in the eye-wooing landscapes while being surprised by the mountain views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Machhapuchhre makes Nar Phu Trekking a must-do trip in Nepal. Nepal’s underrated yet gorgeous trek is Nar Phu Valley Trek, with the 19 days Nar Phu Trek having the best Nar Phu Itinerary. All the spots you get to put your foot on are some of the elite places in the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Best Time to go on a Nar Phu Valley Trek with its different variations

Nar Phu Valley Trek, as already mentioned, is one of the most underrated yet incredible treks in Nepal. Going there at the best time allows you more areas to explore. The weather and condition of the roads also impact whether you get difficulty during the trek or not.

The best time to go on a Nar Phu Trek is between March and November. The weather is not so extreme, and the trail condition is very good. It makes the trek far more enjoyable. Moreover, you also enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains such as Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Machhapucchre without any obstruction of clouds.

All in all, You can go to a Nar Phu Trek at any time of the year. But for the best experience, going there in the best months is better. There are many variations in the Nar Phu Valley Trek, including 12 days, 14 days, 16 days, and 19 days. If you have enough time for trekking and want the best trek experience, 21 days Nar Phu Valley Trek is the best option out of all brought to you by Himalayan Asia Treks.

Highlights

  • Diving deep into the most unexplored and underrated region of Nepal
  • Enjoy the most awesome views of mountains such as Annapurna I, Annapurna II and Machhapuchhre
  • Experience the Tibetan culture mixed up with authentic Nepali culture
  • With Nar Phu Trek 2022, the post-COVID time guarantees an undisturbed natural habitat for so long
  • Visit the pristine blue water lake and the religious pilgrimage of Nepal- Muktinath
  • Explore the lower edge of Mustang- Jomsom also famous for apple production
  • Wonderful Thorung La Pass.

Day to Day Itinerary

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. You'll have some time to relax, recover from your journey, and explore the bustling city. In the evening, we meet your trekking guide and fellow trekkers, and receive a briefing about the upcoming adventure.

  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu

Today, after an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Khudi. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and offers spectacular views of rural Nepal, terraced fields, lush forests, and picturesque villages. We pass through bustling markets and quaint towns before reaching Khudi.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea House
  • Location: Khudi.
  • Altitude: 2626m

Your trekking adventure officially begins today as you leave Khudi behind and start your trek towards Chamje. The trail takes you through dense forests, along with the Marshyangdi River. We cross suspension bridges, encounter local settlements, and experience the unique blend of culture and nature that defines this region. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Chamje
  • Altitude: 1560m

Continuing along the Marshyangdi River, we trek through a mix of forests, waterfalls, and rugged landscapes. The trail gradually ascends, and you'll pass through the village of Tal before reaching Dharapani. This village is a gateway to the Annapurna Circuit and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Dharapani
  • Altitude: 1881m.

Today's trek takes you deeper into the Nar Phu Valley as you leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail. We pass through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced fields. The landscape starts to change, and you'll notice a shift in the cultural influences as you enter the restricted Nar Phu region. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Koto
  • Altitude: 2610m

Leaving Koto, we will gradually ascend through dense pine forests, crossing several suspension bridges. The trail offers panoramic views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges. As you gain altitude, we will start to experience the Tibetan Buddhist culture more prominently.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Meta
  • Altitude: 3560m.

Today's trek takes you to the enchanting village of Phu, which is perched high above the Phu Khola. The trail offers stunning views of rugged landscapes, unique rock formations, and remote monasteries. As you reach Phu, we will be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local villagers and get a glimpse into their traditional way of life.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Phu
  • Altitude: 4250m

This day is set aside for acclimatization in Phu. You can explore the village, visit the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, interact with the locals, and take short hikes to higher altitudes to aid in acclimatization. This rest day is crucial to ensure your body adjusts well to the increasing altitude.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Phu
  • Altitude: 4250m

Leaving Phu behind, you'll retrace your steps for a while before branching off towards Nar Phedi. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Himlung Himal and other peaks. Nar Phedi is a small village where we will spend the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Nar Phedi
  • Altitude: 3490m

Today, you'll continue your journey to Nar Village, the last major village before crossing the Kang La Pass. The trail takes you through stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditional stone houses. As you approach Nar Village, you'll be welcomed by its unique architecture and rich cultural heritage.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Nar Village
  • Altitude: 41110m

On this challenging day, we will embark on a thrilling trek that takes you through the magnificent Kang La Pass, standing at an impressive elevation of 5,240 meters. The journey begins with an early start, as you ascend through rugged terrain, crossing rocky paths and ascending steadily towards the pass. As you reach the summit of Kang La Pass, you'll be greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and other majestic giants.

The descent from Kang La Pass leads you into the picturesque village of Ngwal, nestled at an altitude of 3,675 meters. Ngwal offers a serene and authentic Himalayan experience, with its traditional architecture and warm hospitality from the local community. The trek takes around 7 hours in total, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural richness of the region.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Ngwal
  • Altitude: 3675m.

Leaving Ngwal behind, your trek continues as you make your way to Pisang. The trail takes you through captivating forests, charming villages, and terraced fields that showcase the traditional farming practices of the locals. Along the way, you'll witness the distinctive architecture of the region's monasteries and chortens. Pisang, situated at an altitude of 3,300 meters, is renowned for its stunning views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. The approximately 6-hour trek provides ample opportunities to interact with the local culture and soak in the natural beauty of the area.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Pisang
  • Altitude: 3300m

Continuing your journey, we will trek to Manang, a significant stop on the Annapurna Circuit. The trail leads you through arid landscapes and presents awe-inspiring vistas of the Annapurna range. As you approach Manang, you'll notice the transition into a more Tibetan-influenced culture, with distinctive architecture and cultural practices. The village of Manang, located at 3,500 meters, is a hub for trekkers and climbers, offering necessary amenities and a chance to acclimatize before venturing further into the higher altitudes.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Manang
  • Altitude: 3500m

This day is dedicated to acclimatization, crucial for adapting to the high altitude and minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. You have the option to explore the local area, hike to higher elevations, or simply rest in Manang. Engaging with the local culture and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains can provide a fulfilling experience.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Manang
  • Altitude: 3500m

The trek resumes with a hike to Yak Kharka, a charming grazing area at an altitude of 4,090 meters. As you ascend higher, the landscape transforms, showcasing alpine meadows, yak pastures, and rugged terrain. The stunning vistas of Annapurna III and Gangapurna serve as a backdrop for this exhilarating journey.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Yak Kharka
  • Altitude: 4090m.

Your trek leads you to Thorong Phedi, located at an altitude of 4,420 meters. The path takes you through challenging terrains, and as you approach Thorong Phedi, you'll be surrounded by towering peaks. This stop serves as a preparation point for the upcoming Thorong La Pass crossing.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Thorong Phedi
  • Altitude: 4420m.

On this challenging day, you will embark on an exhilarating trek from your current location to Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. The journey begins with an early morning start, as you ascend towards the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world at an altitude of 5,416 meters. The trail gradually gains elevation, offering awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes.

The trek involves traversing rocky terrain and possibly encountering some snow depending on the season. As you reach the summit of Thorong La, a sense of accomplishment and breathtaking vistas await you. You can take some time to soak in the stunning vistas and capture memories with your camera.

From Thorong La, the trail descends steeply towards Muktinath, passing through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages. Muktinath is a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its ancient temples and natural springs. Upon arrival, you can explore the sacred temple complex and its surrounding areas, taking in the spiritual ambiance and unique cultural features.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House.
  • Location: Muktinath
  • Altitude: 3800m

After a spiritually enriching experience at Muktinath, we will continue your trek to Jomsom. The trail descends through the Kali Gandaki Valley, famous for its barren landscapes, unique rock formations, and strong winds. As you walk along the trail, we will pass through charming villages and interact with local inhabitants, giving you a glimpse into their way of life.

Jomsom is a significant town in the region, often referred to as the gateway to the Upper Mustang region. It's known for its distinctive apple orchards, strong gusts of wind that pick up in the afternoons, and the stunning backdrop of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. Upon reaching Jomsom, you'll have some time to relax, explore the town, and immerse yourself in its culture.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Jomsom
  • Altitude: 2743m.

We will bid farewell to the trekking trails and take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. This flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, providing a unique perspective of the landscapes you've been trekking through.

Upon arriving in Pokhara, a city known for its natural beauty and serene lakes, you'll have a free day to unwind and explore at your leisure. You can take a leisurely stroll along the tranquil Phewa Lake, visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum, or simply relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this charming city.

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Pokhara

On this day, you'll leave Pokhara and return to the bustling capital city of Kathmandu. You have the option to either take a scenic flight or a comfortable drive, both of which provide their own unique experiences. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can use the remaining time to do some last-minute shopping, explore the city's vibrant markets, or simply relax at your accommodation.

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu.

As your journey comes to an end, we have some final moments to reflect on your trekking adventure and the incredible experiences you've had in the Annapurna region. Depending on your flight schedule, we will be transferred to the airport for your departure from Nepal. This marks the conclusion of your memorable trekking expedition and cultural exploration in the majestic Himalayas.

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Location: Kathmandu.

What's Included

  • Three Star hotel on BB basis in Kathmandu , Pokhara and Jomsom.
  • All necessary trekking permits such Nar Phu special permit, Annapurna conservation area permit, TIMS card, etc.
  • All accommodation during trek
  • Three times meals a day during the trek
  • Complementary duffel bag.
  • Government registered professional local guide.
  • Porter ( 2 guest : 1 porter)
  • First-aid kit
  • Ground transport as per itinerary.
  • Drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara by bus
  • Guide and Porter's insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
  • Rescue arrangements if necessary
  • Agency service charge and tax/VAT
  • Optional Kathmandu Half Day City Tour and cultural program with dinner.
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
  • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc
  • Tips to staff

Useful Information

Things to know Nar phu Valley Trek 

What is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a popular trekking package in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek takes you through the remote and less-explored Nar Phu Valley, located to the north of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the traditional Tibetan culture, stunning landscapes, and high mountain passes.

How long is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The duration of the Nar Phu Valley Trek varies depending on the itinerary and the pace of the trek. Generally, it takes around 10 to 14 days to complete the trek. This includes the time for acclimatization, exploring the Nar and Phu villages, and crossing high passes like Kang La Pass.

What is the difficulty level of the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. The trail involves walking on rugged terrain, crossing high passes, and dealing with altitude variations. The highest point of the trek is Kang La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,320 meters (17,450 feet). Prior trekking experience and a good level of physical fitness are recommended.

What permits are required for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

To trek in the Nar Phu Valley, you need to obtain the following permits:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers the Nar Phu Valley.
  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area, so you need a special permit known as the Restricted Area Permit.

When is the best time to do the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The best time to do the Nar Phu Valley Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making trekking conditions favorable. During the spring, you can witness blooming flowers and lush green landscapes, while autumn offers excellent mountain views after the monsoon season.

What are the accommodation and food options during the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Accommodation during the Nar Phu Valley Trek is mainly provided in teahouses or guesthouses along the trail. These teahouses offer basic facilities like a bed, blankets, and shared toilets. However, the availability of teahouses may be limited in the Nar and Phu villages, so camping might be required in those areas. Regarding food, you can find a variety of dishes at the teahouses, including Nepali, Tibetan, and international cuisine. It is advisable to stick to vegetarian options and drink purified or boiled water to avoid any health issues.

Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

While it is not mandatory to hire a guide or porter for the Nar Phu Valley Trek, it is highly recommended, especially if you have limited trekking experience or prefer to have assistance along the way. A guide can provide valuable information about the route, culture, and help with navigation, while a porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek comfortably. Hiring a local guide or porter also contributes to the local economy and ensures a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

Are there any altitude-related risks during the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Yes, there are potential altitude-related risks during the Nar Phu Valley Trek. The highest point of the trek, Kang La Pass, reaches an altitude of 5,320 meters (17,450 feet). It is important to acclimatize properly by ascending gradually and taking rest days at higher elevations. It is also recommended to drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise, and be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty breathing. If any severe symptoms occur, it is crucial to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical help.

Can I combine the Nar Phu Valley Trek with other treks in the region?

Yes, it is possible to combine the Nar Phu Valley Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region. The most common combination is to start the trek from Besi Sahar and follow the classic Annapurna Circuit route until Koto, where you branch off towards the Nar Phu Valley. After completing the Nar Phu Valley Trek, you can either retrace your steps or continue the trek along the Annapurna Circuit to Jomsom or Muktinath. Combining different treks allows you to explore more diverse landscapes and extend your trekking adventure.

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