Nar-Phu Valley Trek - 18 Days

  • View of Nar-Phu Valley trek
  • Nar-Phu Valley Trek

Highlights

  • Exotic hidden villages “Nar and Phu”
  • Off the beaten path trekking trails
  • Many ancient monasteries and stupas
  • Crossing the Kang-La Pass 5,306m/17,408ft
  • Crossing the Thorang-La Pass 5,416m/17,764ft
  • Visit Muktinath, home to the famous Muktinath Temple
  • High snow-peaks, rustic villages, and high-altitude yak grazing settlements
  • Enjoy great views of Annapurna I, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, and many others
  • Experience a part of the Tibetan plateau that extends down into Nepal
  • Witness a Tibetan-derived culture, with unique and colorful prayer stones
  • Duration18 Days
  • Max. Altitude5416m
  • Trip GradeModerate
  • Group Size - 10
  • Meals Breakfast in Kathmandu/Pokhara. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • Accommodation3-star Hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara, Best Available teahouse during the trek

Are you looking for something new and adventurous? Then High Route Adventure’s Nar-Phu Valley Trek is it for you! This newly opened trekking route takes place on the northern side of the Annapurna Himalayas and takes you to the recently discovered region of the Nar-Phu Valley. Trek through virgin trails, off the beaten path deep into an untouched Himalayan wilderness. The Nar-Phu Valley trekking follows the Annapurna Circuit up until forking off north towards Meta.

With this amazing trek in Nepal, you’ll not only get to see some amazing Himalayan mountain ranges but also a lot of Tibetan-Buddhist culture. From stupas and monasteries to small gompas, the Nar-Phu Valley trek holds nothing back! Furthermore, this incredible trek in the Annapurna region is combinable with other trekking routes such as; The Manaslu Circuit trek, and the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilichio Lake. If you’re up for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure with High Route Adventure, then book today the Nar-Phu Valley trek of 18 days and discover the best of the Annapurna Himalayas!

What can you expect?

This exciting trek in Nepal’s Annapurna trekking region has its unique features, a mix of raw Himalayan nature, and ancient Buddhist cultures. Also, during the Nar-Phu Valley trek High Route Adventure takes you over two high-altitude passes; The Kang-La (5,306m/17,408ft) and the Thorang-La (5,416m/17,769ft). Just imagine the views from these two high-altitude mountain passes! In order to get used to the higher altitude for crossing the Kang-La Pass, we hold an acclimatization day in Nar village. This not only lets us take a break to rest but also helps to prevent AMS and Acute Mountain Sickness.

In the main spotlight is the world’s 10th highest mountain, the Annapurna I at a height of 8,091m/26,545ft. Besides this, on clear days you can see over one hundred different mountains and peaks during the full Nar-Phu Valley trek in Nepal. High Route Adventure’s Nar Phu Valley trek is considered the perfect experience for nature lovers who desire something different and new during their trek in Nepal. You can expect to see those iconic Himalayan snow peaks, high-altitude grazing settlements, ancient villages, the secluded Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, high alpine valleys above Phu, and many more during the Nar-Phu Valley trek.

High Route Adventure guides you through this amazing and newly discovered region! Many trails and paths are still undiscovered in this trekking region and offer a great opportunity to those who love adventure and untouched landscapes. See some of the highest mountains in Nepal such as; Mt. Machhapuchhare (Mt.Fishtail) 6,999m/22,963ft, the Annapurna massif, Mt. Dhaulagiri range, Mt Manaslu 8,163m/26,781ft, Mt. Tilicho 7,134m/23,406ft, and Mt. Lamjung 6,983m/22,910ft during the Nar-Phu Valley trek!

Nar-Phu Valley Trek

So how to get to the Nar-Phu Valley? This trek in Nepal starts officially from Chyamche (Chamje) (1,430m/4,692ft) after a 9-hour scenic drive from Kathmandu, and hikes largely on the same trail as Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trail heads more north to Koto (2,600m/8,530ft) and Meta (3,560m/11,680ft) from where we start to enter the Nar-Phu Valley heading further upstream. Divided into two sections, first, we reach Phu Goan (4,080m/13,386ft) (Goan meaning village in Nepali) afterward we head for Nar village (4,110m/13,484ft) and ultimately we head to Ngawel (3,660m/12,008ft) via the Kang-La Pass (5,306m/17,408ft).

From here there are two options available to end the Nar-Phu Valley trek. One is the shorter version which takes you from Ngawel to Pisang and to Beshisahar from where we can drive back to Kathmandu. The other is a more classical and longer version, and that is to head back on the Annapurna Circuit trail and continue to Manang, from where we can head to and cross the Thorang-La Pass (5,416m/17,764ft) (one of the world’s highest mountain passes) to reach Muktinath and Jomsom. From Jomsom, we can take a morning flight to Pokhara, and ultimately drive back to Kathmandu to end the Nar-Phu Valley trek. High Route Adventure follows the classical trekking route which you can find in our itinerary just below.

Is this trip the right fit for you?

  • The Nar Phu Valley trek reaches a high pass of 5,416m at Thorong La Pass and 5,306m at Kang La Pass requiring prior high-altitude trekking experience. Being above 3,000m for days, acclimatization is key.
  • As you trek 5-6 hours daily across steep trails, a high level of cardio fitness and endurance training is required to prepare your legs.
  • October-November and March-April are the best times to trek. But the remote region can see harsh weather even during these months. Proper cold-weather clothing is essential.
  • Accommodation is very simple guesthouses or homestays in remote villages with no modern amenities. Be prepared for basic conditions with no heating or running water.
  • No previous technical climbing expertise is required. However, some exposure to hiking on snow and ice would be advantageous in case of icy trail conditions.
  • Nar Phu trek permits are limited since it is an isolated region. So, you need to book several months in advance through a licensed agency to secure permits.
  • With suitable high-altitude trekking experience, fitness level, and cold weather preparedness, the Nar Phu Valley trek is an achievable goal for adventurous trekkers seeking a remote Himalayan experience.

What makes this trip enjoyable for you?

  • The stunning mountain scenery of the Annapurna region is incredibly beautiful. Watching the landscapes change each day of the trek is mesmerizing.
  • Getting to experience the ancient Buddhist culture and traditional villages of the Nar people is a rare treat. Their artistic and spiritual traditions are captivating.
  • Crossing the high Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass is a major accomplishment. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular Himalayan views from the top.
  • The sense of remoteness in Nar Phu Valley, untouched by crowds, allows you to connect more deeply with nature and local culture.
  • Learning about the history and legends of ancient monasteries like Phu and Tashi Lhakhang Gompa from the monks is fascinating.
  • Trekking through pine forests to lush green valleys and then barren high mountain terrain showcases stunning contrasts.
  • Being warmly welcomed into local homes and trying authentic food and drink like tsampa and chang reflects wonderful hospitality.
  • Completing this challenging off-the-beaten trek will give you a real sense of achievement and discovery.

Are you looking to combine the Nar-Phu Valley trek, or are you more interested in the short version of the Nar-Phu Valley trek? Then don’t hesitate and request us during your booking to book the short version or to combine this trek with either the; Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilichio Lake or the Manaslu Circuit trek. Or just send us a quick inquiry using the quick inquiry form that you can find on this page. Book today with High Route Adventure on the Nar-Phu Valley trek, and head into an untouched Himalayan adventure!

Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

    • Pick up and meet & greet at the airport
    • Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu
    • Overnight stay at your hotel

    Traveler’s note: The airport is just a few minutes away from Thamel, the main touristic area of Kathmandu, where most of the hotels, souvenir shops, and restaurants are located. Try out the Nepalese MoMo, a traditional dumpling and a staple of Nepalese Cuisine!

    Altitude: 1350m
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu/Trip preparation

    • Breakfast at the hotel
    • Pick up by our tour guide
    • Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Swayambunath Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Hindu Temple, Boudhanath Buddhist Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square
    • Drop of back at your hotel
    • Detailed trip briefing and preparation
    • Overnight at your hotel

    Traveler’s note: Did you know the Thamel is filled with trekking gear and backpacker shops? Here you can buy or rent some last-minute trekking gear for your trip!

    Altitude: 1350m
    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 03: Drive to Chyamche (Chamje)

    • Hotel Breakfast and check out
    • Drive with a local bus to Beshisahar
    • Transfer to a more comfortable jeep
    • Jeep ride to Chyamche (Chamje)
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that from the Kundi you can see some of the first views of the Manaslu Mountain Range, just south of Mt Manaslu you can see the Ngadi Himal 7,871m/25,824ft and the Himalchuli 7,893m/25,896ft. A bit to the left you get to see the Lamjung Himal 6,983m/22,910ft. Near Chyamche (Chamje) we get to see one of the longest waterfalls stretching about 202m/663ft!

    Altitude: 1,430m/4,692ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 04: Trek to Dharapani

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Start today’s trek by crossing the suspension bridge
    • Follow the trail passing various villages
    • A bit further ahead is Dharapani
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Altitude: 1,860m/6,102ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 05: Trek to Koto

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Follow the trail into the pine forest
    • Trek to Bagarchhap village
    • Continue to Timing
    • Head on to Latamarang
    • Reach at Koto
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Today Mt. Manaslu 8,163m/26,781ft the world’s 8th highest mountain comes in view!

    Altitude: 2,600m/8,530ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 06: Trek to Meta

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Today after breakfast we check our permits
    • Follow the Seti Khola riverbank
    • Pass by Dharmasala
    • Trek up a Tibetan plateau to reach Meta Village
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 07: Trek to Phu Goan

    • Breakfast and departure
    • The trek today leads along rivers and across suspension bridges
    • Head to Kyang village
    • Continue along the Phu Khola River
    • Reach at Phu Goan
    • Explore around Phu Gaon
    • Hike up to the Takshi Lhakang Monastery
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the guesthouse

    Altitude: 4,080m/13,386ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 08: Trek to Nar

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Start by heading to the Mahendra Pul bridge
    • Cross the high suspension bridge over the Lapche River
    • Continue along the trail to Nar by passing various stupas
    • Reach at Nar
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Altitude: 4,110m/13,484ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 09: Acclimatization and preparation at Nar

    • Breakfast
    • Explore around Nar village
    • Witness the culture and lifestyles of the locals
    • Acclimatization hike to get used to the upcoming altitudes
    • Evening preparation for crossing the Kang-La Pass
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Altitude: 4,110m/13,484ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 10: Trek to Ngawal via the Kang-La Pass (5,306m/17,408ft)

    • Early breakfast and departure
    • Climb up the Kang-La Pass
    • Enjoy the incredible views from ontop the pass
    • Head down to Ngawel
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Altitude: 3,660m/12,008ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 11: Trek to Manang

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Head for Paugh village
    • Climb slightly uphill to Mungli
    • Continue on to reach Manang
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Today you’ll get to see incredible views of the Annapurna Mountain Range!

    Altitude: 3,500m/11,482ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 12: Trek to Yak Kharka

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Continue through Manang village by crossing a stream
    • Head towards Tenki village and climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley
    • Follow the Jarsang Khola
    • Head by a small village called Ghunsa
    • Reach at Yak Kharka
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that Ghunsa Village is a cluster of mud rooftop buildings made in an ancient style of local architecture! Today you’ll get to see yaks grazing in the meadows with some horses.

    Altitude: 4,110m/13,484ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 13: Trek to Thorang Phedi

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Trek uphill towards Thorang Phedi
    • Pass Ledar village and ascend furthermore
    • Traverse through towering cliffs to reach Thorang Phedi
    • Explore around Thorang Phedi
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Today you can enjoy the views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan among others

    Altitude: 4,600m/15,092ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 14: Trek to Muktinath via the Thorang-La Pass (5,416m/17,764ft)

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Head up to the Thorang La pass, one of the highest passes in the world
    • Cross the mountain pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath)
    • The trail becomes more barren and the landscape becomes more of a Wild West
    • Continue on the downhill to Muktinath
    • Arrival in Muktinath
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that the Thorang-La Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in the world! Muktinath famous for its Temple with 108 water sprouts is said to have a healing and cleansing effect to all who take a dip in its holy water. This pilgrimage site is visited a whole year long by both Hindus and Buddhists.

    Altitude: 3,800m/12,467ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 15: Trek to Jomsom

    • Breakfast
    • Visit the Muktinath temple with its 108 water sprouts
    • Start to trek by descending downwards
    • Head to the Kali Gandaki River to reach Kagbeni
    • Follow the Kali Gandaki river southwards to reach Jomsom
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that Kagbeni and Jomsom are famous for their apple orchards, depending on the season you’ll get to see these apple trees in full bloom!

    Altitude: 2,670m/8,760ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 16: Fly to Pokhara

    • Breakfast and check out
    • A morning flight takes us to Pokhara
    • Hotel transfer
    • Enjoy the amazing sights and activities in Pokhara
    • Overnight stay at the hotel

    Traveler’s note: While in this package there are no activities in Pokhara included, High Route Adventure is more than happy to arrange some for you, such as bungee jumping, paragliding, ultra-light flying, boating on Phewa Lake or a city sightseeing tour! Just request us during your booking.

    Altitude: 820m/2706ft
    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 17: Drive back to Kathmandu

    • Breakfast and check out
    • Transfer to the tourist bus park
    • Drive via tourist bus back to Kathmandu
    • Hotel check-in
    • Review of your trip
    • A complimentary farewell and thank you dinner is planned with a culture show
    • Overnight stay at your hotel

    Traveler’s note: It is also possible to fly back to Kathmandu, this will give you more time to spend back in Kathmandu as the flight just takes 25min, compared to the 6-hour bus ride.

    Altitude: 1350m/4455ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Dinner
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 18: Departure

    • Hotel breakfast and checkout
    • Transfer to the international airport approx. 3 hours before your departure
    • High Route Adventure hopes that you enjoyed the Nar-Phu Valley trek and to see you soon for your next Himalayan adventure

    Altitude: 1350m/4455ft
    Meals: Breakfast

Tailor Made Holiday

You can change the itinerary, services, accommodation, and duration of this trip to suit your needs, budget. The choice is your.  Let us help you tailor-make your precious Vacation.

Inclusion

What's included ?

  • Airport-Hotel-Airport Pick up & Drop up By Private Vehicle
  • Three nights' accommodation with B/B plan at 3- star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • A night accommodation with B/B plan at 3- star category hotel in Pokhara
  • Kathmandu sightseeing including tour guide & private vehicle
  • Kathmandu to Beshisahar public transportation & Beshisahar to Chyamche by public Jeep
  • Jomsom to Pokhara flight
  • From Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist standard bus
  • All standard meals during the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
  • Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek (Twin sharing room)
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag (Returned after trip completed)
  • Government lenience holder High Route Adventure experienced & qualified trekking guide(Leader) and Porter to carry trekkers luggage(2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Included their(guide & porter) meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and equipment
  • Annapurna conservation area project(ACAP) permit fee
  • Nar-Phu Valley restricted area special permit
  • TIMS fee (Trekkers information management system)
  • High Route Adventure appreciation of certificate after over the successful trek
  • All government and local taxes

Complimentary Includes

  • Seasonal fresh fruit after dinner during the trek
  • Farewell dinner complete successful trip at the end of the trek
  • A cup of tea/coffee with each meal during the trek
  • Local Sim card(if you needed)
  • An hour trekking massage after complete the trek

What's not included ?

  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival or late Departure
  • Dinner and lunch in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Entrance fee for a world heritage site in Kathmandu.
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • International flights
  • Personal expenses(laundry, bar bills, phone calls, internet, hot shower, etc
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
  • Any unseen expenses due to circumstances

Notes

Accommodation in Nar-Phu Valley Trek

The package includes accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara with a mix of 3-star deluxe hotels in convenient city locations. These hotels provide amenities like free Wi-Fi, comfortable air-conditioned rooms with clean bathrooms, dining facilities, and a bar.

During the trek, you'll stay in teahouses for a total of thirteen nights. These teahouses offer a unique experience, connecting you with local families and their warm hospitality, while also supporting mountain communities. The teahouses provide essential facilities such as beds, shared washrooms, and pleasant dining areas. Additional amenities like Wi-Fi usage, mineral water, hot showers, and battery charging incur extra charges.

Accommodations are arranged on a twin-sharing basis, ensuring a comfortable stay for solo travelers who will be paired with someone of the same gender. Private rooms can be arranged upon request at an additional cost. While single rooms are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and lower elevation areas during the trek, they may be limited at higher altitudes, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Meals served around Annapurna Region Lodge and Restaurants

A crucial aspect of all treks, including those in the Annapurna Himalaya region, is maintaining the well-being and health of all participants, which heavily relies on the quality of food provided.

Meals are conveniently served in spacious dining halls, and at certain higher-altitude locations, a pot-bellied stove graces the room, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere. Food options are versatile, allowing you to select from either an expansive 'a la carte menu or set menus. The 'a la carte' offers an extensive array of choices ranging from traditional Nepalese delights like Dal-Bhat (consisting of boiled rice, lentil soup, and mild seasonal vegetable curry) to diverse options like American, Continental, Chinese, Tibetan, Indian, Italian, and Mexican cuisines. Notably, select lodges along the trekking route even feature Korean and Japanese dishes.

While fresh meat items may be relatively uncommon in most trekking areas, certain lodges situated in elevated regions such as Manang and Kaligandaki Valley offer the treat of indulging in Yak steaks and various meat-based delicacies. Additionally, major villages en route boast the availability of freshly baked goods, enhancing the culinary experience during your journey.

Best time to visit around Annapurna region

Nepal, has four main seasons, namely spring (mid-February to May), summer as well the monsoon and wet times (June to August), autumn/fall (September to November), and winter (December to mid-February).

One can travel around Annapurna Himalaya nearly all months of the year, the best time is spring from March to May and autumn/fall to pre-winter seasons. Depending upon your choice of interest and destinations, likewise for a short moderate trek, one can visit during winter months also.

For treks that involve high passes of above 5, 000 m like Thorang-La Pass, on the Annapurna Circuit trek, winter times can be quite risky due to heavy snow on higher trails and at the pass.

Springtime and autumn/fall, are the peak season for treks and other adventures around Nepal Himalaya, including the Annapurna region. The other best time is autumn/fall which is also a high season.

FAQs of Nar-Phu Valley Trek

  • Do I require any permits for the Nar-Phu Valley trek?

    The Nar-Phu Valley trek takes place in the Annapurna Conservation Area, and the Nar-Phu restricted area, and so you’ll need an ACAP permit, TIMS and a Nar-Phu restricted area permit. All three permits are included in the package of High Route Adventure!
  • Can I make the Nar-Phu Valley trek shorter?

    Yes, you can make the Nar-Phu Valley trek of 18 days shorter by heading back to Beshisahar after Ngawel via Pisang. From there you can take a local bus direct back to Kathmandu cutting the 18 days trek to 14 days. Just mention during your booking that you’d like the short version, as prices will vary!
  • How difficult is the Nar-Phu Valley trek?

    The Nar-Phu Valley trek is graded with a difficulty of moderate. The trek consists of crossing two high altitude passes the Kang-La and the Thorang-La. Before undergoing this trek High Route Adventure highly recommends you to work on your stamina and fitness in order to fully enjoy this trek in Nepal! Veteran trekkers will not have any difficulties with the Nar-Phu Valley trek.
  • Can I get Acute Mountain Sickness during the Nar-Phu Valley Trek?

    The risk of AMS, Acute Mountain Sickness is always real when you trek in the Himalayas! High Route Adventure puts your safety and health always as a first priority and holds an acclimatization day at Nar to prevent AMS. Furthermore, all of our High Route Adventure trekking guides are trained in preventing AMS, so make sure to always update your guide on your current condition, so they can plan ample rest stops and altitude hikes.
  • Do I require special trekking gear for the Nar-Phu Valley trek?

    No, you do not require any special trekking or climbing gear. Highly recommended by High Route Adventure are trekking poles, a sleeping bag, good comfortable trekking shoes, and water filtration tablets or LifeStraw. Don’t forget to bring some warm clothes for the higher altitudes! In Kathmandu’s Thamel area you can find almost any trekking gear for sale or rent.

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