Nar Phu Valley Trek
Trip Overview
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a secret gem in Nepal’s far-off Annapurna area. During this 16-day journey, you get to visit the old Tibetan villages Nar and Phu, famous for their wonderful culture and views of the mountains. It’s ideal for people who have hiked before and wish to avoid crowds while exploring the authentic charm of the Himalayas. From Jagat, the trail goes up through deep valleys, expansive grasslands, and areas that look like the Tibetan Plateau. You will admire the high mountains on your hike, including Mount Kang Guru, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II. A notable part of the trek is hiking over two high mountain passes: Kang La Pass (5,320m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416m), which is counted as one of the world’s highest trekking passes.Â
You will visit the ancient monasteries and stone houses and experience the standard Tibetan Buddhist lifestyle. This is why it remains one of the most intact places in the country; until 2003, it had been forbidden to other people.
In short, the Nar Phu Valley Trek is a challenging but rewarding journey that combines spectacular mountain scenery, rich culture, and true Himalayan adventure.
What Can You Expect From the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is not your typical Himalayan hike. It’s an adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched regions. Here’s what you can expect from this once-in-a-lifetime journey:
Raw Natural Beauty: You will witness jaw-dropping views of peaks like Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, and Mount Kang Guru. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn paints the hills in gold.
Authentic Cultural Encounters: Ancient Tibetan traditions are found everywhere in the villages of Nar and Phu. You’ll find stone homes, people herding yaks, ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and people living traditionally.
Challenging High Pass Crossings: Climb over two big high-altitude passes, Kang La (5,320m) and Thorong La (5,416m). The journey is not easy, yet it is worth it for the fantastic scenery and a strong feeling of accomplishment.
Fewer Crowds, More Solitude: The Nar Phu Valley Trek is peaceful and solitary because there are not many trekkers. It’s best if you prefer a more intimate and less touristy way of trekking.
Spiritual and Scenic Highlights: After finishing the trek, you can visit Muktinath Temple, go to ancient monasteries, and soak in the hot springs at Tatopani.
A Real Adventure: The hikes will include rough paths, high points, and different weather, but you’ll gain memories you’ll never forget.
Other Related Treks in Nar Phu Valley
If you’re planning the Nar Phu Valley Trek or simply exploring more Himalayan adventures, there are several incredible routes in the Annapurna region worth considering. From high-altitude lake treks to culturally rich trails, these options can complement or extend your trekking journey:
- Annapurna Circuit Trek: You can join this trek with Nar Phu for a longer journey over high passes.
- Tilicho Lake Trek: Hike to one of the world’s highest lakes and enjoy the beautiful scenery of glaciers.
- Upper Mustang Trek: Visit the isolated desert kingdom in the north of Annapurna, which shows strong Tibetan influence.
- Manang Valley Trek: A shorter trip that helps you get used to the altitude before you attempt Nar Phu.
- Thorong La Pass Trek: Go over the well-known high-altitude pass (5,416m) and get to Muktinath and the Kali Gandaki Valley.
Kang La Pass Trek: A worthwhile trek from Nar village that is less crowded and offers fantastic views of the Annapurna range.
Trip Itinerary
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our affable representative will meet, greet and help you transfer to the hotel. Once you have checked in, you can relax and rejuvenate after the travel. You can visit the surrounding streets or rest in a nearby cafe if you have time. In the evening, you will meet with your trekking guide, who will brief you about the trek and check your gear. At that time, you can purchase or rent any equipment. You will also have a welcome dinner of Nepali cuisine, an excellent start to your adventure in Nepal.
- Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin-sharing basis).
On this day, you are free to organize the special permits needed to do the Nar Phu Valley Trek. You will require your original passport and two passport-size photographs to process the permit. As the issuance of permits is done on working days only, you spend this time getting all the official documentation in order before the trek commences. Our team will take care of the permits, so you can rest or discover Kathmandu independently or take an optional guided tour to visit the UNESCO-listed sites. If you are interested, this cultural tour can be organized at an additional charge.
- Highlights: Permit preparation day; rest and explore the local area at your own pace
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu with modern amenities and breakfast included
This day, you leave the busy streets of Kathmandu and head toward the mountains. The scenic route offers us green hills, rivers, and pretty villages in the countryside. As you go higher, the air gets cooler, and the views become more amazing. You will stop for meals and take short breaks along the way. You arrived in Dharapani, a small mountain village in the Manang region, after a tiring day of driving. You will also get time to stroll around and enjoy the serene environment before spending the night in a tea house.
- Highlight: Scenic countryside drive. Enjoy changing landscapes from valleys and rivers to forested hills and mountain villages.
- Drive Duration: 8 to 10 hours
- Accommodation: Tea house in Dharapani
The trail this day is an old mule track; however, the more dramatic the view, the higher you get. Leaving the lower villages and their traffic behind, you steadily climb to 2,500 meters and enter the tree line. Provided the weather is clear, you will have fantastic views of the Manaslu range throughout the trip. Then, you will have a short tea break at Lata Manang, and then you will carry on your quiet stroll to Koto- a silent village and the entry point to the isolated Nar Phu Valley.
- Highlight:Â Beautiful mountains and quiet climb of Manaslu. A calm walk through forested trails with stunning Himalayan backdrops.
- Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 14 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Koto
You will start off the day by checking in at the government check point and then proceed towards Dharmasala. The path winds up through pine forests, with a number of exciting suspension bridges. You will see the landscape, the climate and the culture change as you ascend in altitude. The local way of life and language start having heavy Tibetan influences. In the evening, you will arrive at Meta, a quiet village that offers a magnificent view of the sunset over the faraway Annapurna ranges.
- Highlight: Tibetan-influenced culture and forest dramatic paths. Cultural and picturesque walk across the varying scenery.
- Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Distance: Approx. 15 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Meta
The current path takes us further into the distant and mystical Nar Phu Valley- a place that was restricted to foreigners until recently. You will stroll on the bank of a small river, peaceful and beautiful nature. Cliffs, unusual rock shapes and indications of an unchanged Tibetan way of life will be revealed to you as you slowly gain altitude. In a few hours, you arrive at Phu village, perched prettily on a rocky hillside above a broad green valley. There is time to explore or hike up to the ancient Buddhist monastery overlooking the village.
- Highlight: Remote Tibetan landscapes and arrival at mystical Phu village. An unforgettable trek into a culturally rich and isolated region.
- Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Distance: Approx. 16 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Phu
After a hearty breakfast in Phu, you begin our scenic trek toward Nar, tracing a path through the quiet, windswept village of Khyang. As you move ahead, the landscape becomes more dramatic, featuring narrow gorges, cascading waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and open alpine meadows. The trail becomes more remote and peaceful, with fewer trekkers in sight. Our final stretch is a steady uphill climb that takes us to the hidden village of Nar, tucked beneath snowy mountains and known for its strong Tibetan Buddhist traditions, warm hospitality, and beautifully preserved culture.
- Highlight: Breathtaking trek through gorges and waterfalls with views of Pisang Peak.
- Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 12 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Nar
You will have breakfast in Phu and then start our beautiful walk to Nar. This trail leads us through the small village of Khyang, which is very quiet and has good views of the mountains. You will cross profound gorges waterfalls and traverse spectacular cliffs, with Pisang Peak rising high in the distance. The terrain widens and opens up as you approach Nar. You are greeted by the village with Tibetan-style houses, prayer stones, and friendly people. You will conclude the day in a warm tea house where you can rest and have a warm meal.
- Highlight: Breathtaking trek through gorges and waterfalls with views of Pisang Peak.
- Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 12 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Nar
This day is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek. You will begin early in the morning to cross the high Kang La Pass, which stands above 5,000 meters. The sharp climb-up needs patience and time. Nevertheless, the panoramas that open at the top are worth all the efforts, including expansive views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Pisang Peak. After enjoying the scenery, you start our long downhill walk to the picturesque village of Ngawal. With some luck, watch out for rare wildlife, including Himalayan blue sheep or snow leopards!
- Highlight: Epic mountain views from Kang La Pass (5,322m) and the chance to spot rare Himalayan wildlife
- Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours
- Distance: Approx. 15 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Ngawal
On this day, you will leave behind the high-altitude desert of the Tibetan plateau and descend into the lush Annapurna Valley. On the route, you visit Braga to tour its old monastery and have panoramic shots of the Annapurna ranges. Then, you climb a little way to the bustling village of Manang, with its bakeries, shops and teahouses. It is an ideal site to have a rest, regain strength, and watch the culture of the place during the trek.
- Highlights: Visit Braga Monastery and reach the bustling village of Manang with views of Annapurna.
- Trek Distance: 4 to 5 hours Distance: Roughly 10 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Manang
Leaving the green valley behind us, you will start the day by steadily climbing uphill out of Manang into a rockier, alpine environment to Tenki. The higher you climb, the thinner the air and the more desolate the landscape. Look out on rocky slopes to find Himalayan blue sheep. You then make a slow ascent and arrive at Letdar, where you will rest and give your bodies some time to acclimate to the high altitude before the Thorong La Pass.
- Highlight: Scenic high-altitude trek with chances to spot Himalayan blue sheep
- Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Distance: Approx. 10 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Letdar
Our day starts early as you will leave Letdar and head to Thorong High Camp. You ascend and descend a couple of times, following the trail along the Marsyangdi River. You then pass a small wooden bridge, have a quick lunch at Thorong Phedi and then climb steeply and rockily to High Camp. When there, rest, keep warm and keep alert for any symptoms of altitude sickness. We suggest going to sleep early in anticipation of the following day's big challenge, which is crossing the Thorong La Pass.
- Highlight: Strenuous high-altitude walk with scenic panoramas and acclimatization at High Camp
- Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 8 km
- Accommodation: Tea house at Thorong High Camp
You will start early from High Camp to witness a spectacular sunrise over the towering peaks of Gangapurna, Annapurna, Thorong, and Khatung Kang. You gradually climb up to Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769 ft), the trek's highest point, and quite an unforgettable experience. You ascend to the top and start the long downhill walk to Muktinath (3,800m / 12,467 ft), a holy pilgrimage site sacred to the Hindus and the Buddhists. You then visit its old temples and spiritual ambience and drive to Jomsom (2,715m / 8,907 ft) by scenic jeep (about 1 hour) and spend the night there.
- Highlight: Cross Thorong La Pass and visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath before driving to Jomsom.
- Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Distance: Approx. 15 km
- Accommodation: Tea house in Jomsom
After breakfast, you will take a short 25-minute scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, flying over deep valleys and snow-covered peaks. After landing at Pokhara, you will have the remaining day to rest or stroll around this wonderful lakeside town. If you are interested, you can also take a guided sightseeing tour to places such as Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and the World Peace Pagoda (optional and at an additional cost).
- Highlight: Scenic mountain flight from Jomsom to the tranquil lakeside city of Pokhara.
- Flight Duration: Approx 25 minutes
- Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Our return to Kathmandu starts with a tourist bus journey that leaves at 7:30 a.m. The journey by drive is through picturesque countryside, riverside highways and hills, and gives a final farewell to rural Nepal. The next day, you will be free to relax in Kathmandu until 6:00 p.m., when we will take you out to a special farewell dinner to celebrate the end of your trek and to hear all about your amazing adventure.
- Highlight: Scenic countryside drive and farewell dinner with your trekking team
- Drive Duration: 6 to 8 hours
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Note: In case 3-star hotels are full during high season, we will offer similar accommodations with a tourist-standard level of hygiene and service.
FAQs
What support is available if I struggle physically during the trek?
If you’re having difficulty due to altitude or exhaustion, our team will slow the pace, arrange extra rest stops, and even modify the itinerary if needed. The guide may arrange immediate care or emergency evacuation in case you need it; your health is the priority.
What if I have a pre-existing medical condition? Can I still do the trek?
Yes, but you have to tell us in advance about any pre-existing conditions. Then our team will be able to prepare and the guide will know what to observe. We would suggest you to meet your physician prior to the trek and keep essential medications with you at all times.
What is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
Nar Phu Valley Trek is an off-the-beaten-path and culturally diverse trekking trail in Annapurna, Nepal. It leads you across isolated Tibetan-influenced villages, spectacular mountain scenery, and high passes, such as Kang La, which provides adventure and seclusion.
How difficult is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
Nar Phu Valley Trek is graded as moderate to strenuous because of its remote nature, high altitude passes such as Kang La (5,320m) and the fact that it involves long days of trekking. It is recommended for trekkers who are fit and have prior experience in high-altitude trekking.
How long does the Nar Phu Valley Trek take?
Nar Phu Valley Trek takes 10-12 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization requirements. Fit trekkers take up to 8 days to complete it. It is also possible to extend the trek and combine it with the Annapurna Circuit.
What is the best time to do the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
The most appropriate time to undertake the Nar Phu Valley Trek is between spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons guarantee clear skies, stable weather conditions, and beautiful views of the mountains. The paths are more agreeable, and villages are bustling with local culture.
Do I need a guide for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
Yes, the Nar Phu Valley Trek requires a licensed guide because it is a restricted area in Nepal. You will also need to hike with at least one guide and get a special permit, which a registered trekking agency does. It is not possible to go alone without a guide.
What permits are required for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
To hike the Nar Phu Valley, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is mandatory, which means that you have to go with a licensed guide and at least one more individual. You also require an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Unless you are doing the trek in combination with the Annapurna Circuit, a TIMS card is not compulsory.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
Altitude sickness is a possibility on the Nar Phu Valley Trek, yes, because of high passes such as Kang La (above 5,300 meters). To minimize the risks, it is necessary to acclimatize properly, hydrate, and pace. You should learn to listen to your body and inform your guide about any symptoms you experience instantly.
Can I combine the Nar Phu Valley Trek with other treks?
Yes, it is possible to combine the Nar Phu Valley Trek with the Annapurna Circuit Trek to make a longer and more difficult trek. A combination of remote valleys, high passes and varied landscapes are on offer here. The route is taken by many trekkers who want to enjoy the cultural diversity of Nar Phu and the classic Annapurna area.
What makes the Nar Phu Valley Trek unique?
Nar Phu Valley Trek is special because it opens up a remote and restricted region where not every trekker goes. Thus, it has managed to keep its original Tibetan culture and villages. It provides dramatic scenery of deep gorges, high mountain passes, and excellent views of peaks such as Annapurna II and Kang Guru.
| No. of Pax | Starting Price |
| 1-2 | USD 1600 |
| 3-4 | USD 1575 per person |
| 5 | USD 1500 per person |
| 6+ | USD 1400 per person |
Book Now
Price Includes
- Airport Pick up/drop
- 2 nights accommodation in kathmandu & 1 nights in Pokhara at tourist standard hotel
- Sightseeing in around kathmandu valley by private vehicle and a professional city guide
- All inclusive trek such as Ground transportation, necessary permits entrance fees, professional guide, porter/porters, and their expenses including their insurance and equipments
- Accommodation at lodges en route
- 3 Meal a day With cup of tea/coffee
- Flight Ticket from Jomsom to Pokhara for you and Guide
Price Excludes
- Beverages
- Tips
- Your insurance
- Personal/natural expenses
- Food in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
Related Trips
Get Best Deals with Instant Booking
Hot Deals
Everest Base Camp Trek - 14 Days
Tsum Valley Trek
