Major Trips for Nar Phu Valley Trek
Nar Phu Valley Trekking Permits
Transportation
Nar Phu Valley Trek Starting Points
Nar Phu Valley Trek Ending Points
Trip and the Weather
Best Time for Nar Phu Valley Trek
Sky Treks and Pilgrimages Team for Nar Phu Valley Trek
Nar Phu Valley Trekking Difficulty
Communication and Networking
Food and Accommodation
Important Note
Best Experience for Nar Phu Valley Trek
Why with Sky Treks and Pilgrimages?
Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Sky Treks and Pilgrimages will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and refresh, with the option to take a leisurely walk around the Thamel area to get a taste of Kathmandu’s vibrant culture. In the evening, you will be briefed about the trek ahead, and we’ll enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.
After an early breakfast, we start our adventure with a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, the gateway to the Annapurna region. We follow the Prithvi Highway, passing through lush green forests, terraced fields, and riverside villages. The road gradually ascends as we approach the Manang district, passing through towns like Besi Sahar and Khudi. After around 10 hours of driving, we reach Jagat, a small village located at an altitude of 1,290 meters. Overnight in Jagat.
Today, we begin our trek, following a trail that winds through beautiful villages and lush forests. The path passes through the subtropical and temperate zones, offering us a mix of dense woodlands, waterfalls, and rural settlements. We’ll cross several suspension bridges, and after approximately 7 hours of trekking, we will arrive in Dharapani, a village at 1,830 meters. Dharapani is a gateway to the higher regions of the Annapurna Circuit, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Overnight in Dharapani.
Today’s trek takes us to the village of Koto, situated at 2,610 meters. As we trek along the trail, we will pass through lush forests, cross the Marsyangdi River, and gradually move into the remote areas of the Manang district. The landscape starts to change, with the peaks of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal coming into view. The trek to Koto takes around 6 hours, and upon arrival, you’ll feel the sense of entering a more secluded part of Nepal, with Tibetan influences becoming more apparent in the culture and architecture. Overnight in Koto.
We continue our journey deeper into the Nar Phu Valley today. The trail ascends gently, passing through dense forests of pine and juniper, and crossing several streams. As we trek through the remote area, we pass the village of Chhekampar, and after approximately 7 hours, we reach Meta at 3,560 meters. Meta is a small settlement with an alpine atmosphere, surrounded by towering peaks. It is the last village before reaching the Nar Phu Valley, and the landscape begins to show signs of high-altitude terrain. Overnight in Meta.
Today, we head towards Phu, the main village in the Nar Phu Valley. The trail climbs steadily through narrow gorges, crossing rocky ridges and moraine paths, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. After around 7 hours of trekking, we reach Phu, a village perched at an altitude of 4,250 meters. Phu is one of the most isolated settlements in the region, with a unique Tibetan culture. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit monasteries, interact with the local people, and experience the traditional lifestyle of this high-altitude community. Overnight in Phu.
To allow your body to adjust to the high altitude, today is an acclimatization day in Phu. We’ll take a short hike to explore the surrounding area, including a visit to the Phu Monastery and some of the ancient caves that dot the valley. Acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness, so we’ll take it easy today, enjoying the serene atmosphere of this remote Tibetan settlement. This day also gives us a chance to interact with the locals and learn about their unique customs. Overnight in Phu.
After acclimatization, we continue our trek towards Nar, a village located at 4,110 meters. The trail today is scenic, with views of impressive peaks and wide alpine meadows. We will pass through several high-altitude settlements, enjoying the traditional Tibetan culture that is prevalent in this region. The walk to Nar takes around 6 hours, and upon arrival, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of its terraced fields and traditional stone houses. Nar is a beautiful village with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight in Nar.
We spend another acclimatization day in Nar, giving our bodies time to adjust before continuing to higher elevations. Today, we take a short hike around the village, exploring the surroundings and enjoying spectacular views of Annapurna II, Kang Guru, and other nearby peaks. The highlight of this day is the chance to experience Nar’s unique culture and traditions. You can also visit the local monastery and interact with the residents, many of whom still follow traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices. Overnight in Nar.
Today is a challenging but rewarding day as we cross the Kang La Pass (5,320m), which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, and Gangapurna. We leave Nar early in the morning and ascend to the pass, which can take around 4 to 5 hours depending on conditions. After crossing the pass, we descend towards Ngawal, located at 3,600 meters, which takes another 4 hours of trekking. Ngawal is a scenic village on the Annapurna Circuit, and it offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. Overnight in Ngawal.
After a restful night in Ngawal, we head towards Manang, a larger village situated at 3,540 meters. The trail is relatively gentle, passing through forests and small settlements, with stunning views of the Annapurna massif. Manang is a major stop on the Annapurna Circuit, offering a variety of lodges, cafes, and medical facilities. You can take a leisurely walk around the village, enjoy the local food, and visit the Manang Monastery. Overnight in Manang.
Today, we make our way towards Yak Kharka, located at an altitude of 4,110 meters. The trek is short but steady, taking about 3 hours to complete. As we ascend, the vegetation becomes more sparse, and we enter the alpine zone. Yak Kharka is a small settlement with a few teahouses and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Gangapurna and Annapurna II. It’s a good place to rest and prepare for the challenging days ahead. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
Today’s trek is a relatively short but steep ascent to Thorong Phedi, located at 4,600 meters. The trail is mostly uphill, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Thorong Phedi is a small base camp, and from here, we can see the mighty Thorong La Pass looming ahead. It’s essential to rest and prepare for the challenging crossing of the pass tomorrow. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.
Today is the most challenging day of the trek as we cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). We start early in the morning and ascend gradually to the pass. The climb can be strenuous due to the altitude, but the views from the top are absolutely rewarding. After crossing the pass, we descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath is known for its temple, the sacred 108 water spouts, and its beautiful high-altitude setting. Overnight in Muktinath.
After visiting the Muktinath Temple, we descend towards Jomsom, a popular town in the Mustang region. The trek is mostly downhill, passing through the villages of Kagbeni and Eklebhatti. The landscape changes as we move into a more arid, desert-like terrain. Jomsom, located at 2,760 meters, is known for its Tibetan culture, apple orchards, and the majestic views of the Dhaulagiri range. Overnight in Jomsom.
This morning, we take a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most beautiful cities. The flight is scenic, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by Phewa Lake, take a boat ride, or explore the city’s many cafes and markets. Overnight in Pokhara.
After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu, taking the scenic route that follows the Prithvi Highway. The journey takes approximately 8 hours, and you’ll pass through rural villages, terraced fields, and lush forests. Once back in Kathmandu, you can explore the city or relax. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the Nar Phu Valley Trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Today is your final day in Nepal. Depending on your flight time, you can take some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu. Our Sky Treks and Pilgrimages team will ensure you are transferred to the airport for your departure. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable experience on the Nar Phu Valley Trek and look forward to welcoming you back on another adventure in the future!
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a remote trekking route that takes you through the Nar and Phu villages, two traditional Tibetan settlements in the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trek combines rugged natural landscapes with a rich cultural experience, as it allows trekkers to visit ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, medieval stone villages, and isolated valleys that are not often visited by other trekkers. The trek’s highlight is the high-altitude pass at Kang La Pass (5,300 meters), which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The Nar Phu Valley lies in a secluded area, with only a few villages scattered along the trek. The people here primarily belong to the Tibetan ethnicity and follow Tibetan Buddhism, so the trek offers an excellent opportunity to experience a distinct Himalayan culture. The trek usually takes around 14-19 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule. The highest point of the trek is Kang La Pass, which is crossed to reach the Annapurna Circuit.
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is considered challenging and is recommended for trekkers who have prior experience and are in good physical condition. The trail includes long days of walking on rocky terrain, steep ascents, and descents, as well as high-altitude passes that can lead to altitude sickness if not properly acclimatized.
The trek involves a gradual climb, with some days spent at high altitudes (above 4,000 meters), so proper acclimatization is crucial. The Kang La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek at 5,300 meters, requires trekkers to cross a high-altitude pass and navigate steep, often icy terrain. Weather conditions can be unpredictable, especially in the higher altitudes, so trekkers should be prepared for cold temperatures and the possibility of snow. Although the trek is not as physically demanding as some of Nepal’s most challenging treks (like Everest or Manaslu), it is still a strenuous journey, particularly in terms of the altitude and the remote, rugged nature of the terrain.
The best time to trek the Nar Phu Valley is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and stable weather that allow for excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times to trek Nar Phu, as the temperature is moderate, and the rhododendron flowers bloom in the lower altitudes, adding to the beauty of the trek. The weather is typically stable, with little rain, which makes it ideal for trekking at higher altitudes.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another prime trekking season, with cooler temperatures, clear skies, and dry conditions. The views of the Himalayan peaks are usually spectacular, and it is considered the most popular trekking season in Nepal.
The winter months (December to February) can be harsh, especially at higher altitudes, where temperatures can drop well below freezing. Many of the trails may be covered with snow, making trekking more difficult. The monsoon season (June to August) is also best avoided, as the rain makes the trail slippery, increases the risk of landslides, and can block access to more remote areas of the valley.
Accommodation along the Nar Phu Valley Trek consists of basic teahouses and guesthouses in the small villages. These accommodations are simple, with shared rooms, basic bedding, and common areas for dining. The higher up you go, the more basic the facilities become. In Nar and Phu, the accommodation is particularly basic, with rooms often shared with other trekkers and locals. You should not expect luxury or modern amenities, but the warmth and hospitality of the local people will make up for it.
The teahouses generally offer a variety of simple meals, such as dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), noodles, and momos (dumplings), with tea and coffee available. At higher altitudes, food and supplies may be limited, so it is advisable to carry snacks, energy bars, and other essentials. Electricity may be available in some villages but is not always reliable, and charging devices may require an additional fee.
If you're looking for a more comfortable trekking experience, some agencies offer luxury trekking packages with upgraded accommodations, but these are rare on this trek due to the remote nature of the region.
Yes, the Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area, and you are required to trek with a licensed guide. Independent trekking is not permitted in this area, and a guide is essential for both logistical support and safety. A porter is also recommended, especially for those carrying heavy loads, as the trails can be difficult to navigate at higher altitudes.
You will also need to obtain several permits for the trek:
Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP): This permit is required to enter the Nar Phu Valley, and it can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. It is valid for 7 to 10 days, but extensions are possible with prior approval from the authorities.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required to enter the Annapurna region and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The ACAP fee helps support the conservation efforts in the region.
Manang Municipality Permit: This is a local permit required to trek through the Manang district, which includes the Nar Phu Valley.
All these permits must be arranged through a licensed trekking agency in Nepal. The guide will ensure that the permits are processed, and you will not be allowed to trek in this region without them.
Packing for the Nar Phu Valley Trek requires careful attention to the weather, altitude, and the remote nature of the trek. Here’s a list of essential gear:
Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots that offer good ankle support for uneven and rocky terrain.
Warm Layers: Thermal base layers, fleece, and a down jacket for warmth in the higher altitudes.
Waterproof Clothing: A waterproof jacket and pants for unexpected rain and cold weather.
Sleeping Bag: A high-quality sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) to ensure comfort at higher altitudes.
Trekking Poles: Useful for balance on steep ascents and descents.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses to protect against intense UV exposure at higher altitudes.
Water Purification: Water purification tablets or a filter bottle to ensure access to clean drinking water.
Headlamp: For early starts or late arrivals at teahouses or campsites.
First Aid Kit: Including altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Camera: To capture the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like chocolate bars, nuts, and trail mix for extra fuel.
It’s also essential to carry cash (Nepali Rupees), as there are limited opportunities to withdraw money along the trek.
No, you cannot trek the Nar Phu Valley independently. As it is a restricted area, all trekkers are required to have a licensed guide. Independent trekking in this region is not allowed due to the remote and isolated nature of the valley, as well as the potential risks associated with high-altitude trekking. A registered guide will not only help with navigation but also ensure your safety, provide cultural insights, and assist with any logistical needs along the way.
It is possible to organize a private trek with a guide and porter, or you can join a group trek through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. Many agencies offer packages that include permits, accommodations, meals, and professional guides.
