Nar Phu Valley Trek

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  • Duration 12 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5416
  • Group Size 2-6
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time Mar-May / Oct -Nov

Nar Phu Valley Trek: A Hidden Gem Beyond the Himalayas

Nestled behind the Himalayas, the Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure for those looking to explore raw natural beauty, ancient Tibetan culture, and unparalleled tranquility. This trek takes you through the wilderness of Nar Phu Valley, one of the finest locations in the Annapurna region, known for its high peaks, ancient villages, and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights

  • Venture into lesser-explored areas of the Annapurna region

  • Walk around Annapurna's eco-touristic destination

  • Witness stunning views of Annapurna Range, Mt Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, and Gangapurna

  • Cross high mountain passes including Kang La Pass (5,322 m)

  • Stay in ancient villages with unaltered authenticity

  • Explore Tibetan settlements and stunning Buddhist monasteries

  • Enjoy a unique monastery stay and colorful prayer stones

  • Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the local ethnic communities

Trek Overview

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a hidden gem tucked away in the Annapurna region. This 15-day journey takes you to the remote valleys of Nar and Phu, offering a blend of natural beauty, Tibetan culture, and an extraordinary sense of tranquility. The maximum altitude reached on this trek is 5,320 meters, providing mesmerizing views of Mt Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt Annapurna I (8,091 m), and more than 19 snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna region.

Detailed Trek Experience

Your journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by another drive to Koto, where the trek officially starts. The route follows the Annapurna Circuit trail up to Meta, and then veers eastward towards Nar Phu Valley. Along the way, you'll pass through steep terrains, dense pine forests, and the banks of Soti Khola.

From Meta, hike towards Phu Gaon, a picturesque village where you can experience the unique culture and hospitality of the locals. You'll spend an extra day in Phu Gaon for acclimatization. The trail then heads westward to Nar Phedi and onward to Nar village, where you'll explore ancient monasteries and surrounding landscapes.

One of the trek's highlights is crossing the Kang La Pass (5,322 m), which offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and its surrounding peaks. The journey continues to Ngawal, Chame, and finally to Besisahar, where the trek concludes.

Preparation for Nar Phu Valley Trek

Proper preparation is essential for the Nar Phu Valley Trek:

  • Physical Fitness: Engage in regular physical activities, focusing on cardio, strength training, and endurance.

  • Acclimatization: Spend time at higher altitudes to help your body adjust.

  • Proper Gear: Ensure you have the right gear, including sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, quality backpack, sleeping bag, and first aid kit.

  • Mental Preparation: Be ready for the physical and mental challenges of the trek.

  • Hydration: Maintain proper hydration throughout the trek.

Permits Required for Nar Phu Valley Trek

Due to its restricted status, specific permits are required for the Nar Phu Valley Trek:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30.00 per person

  • Restricted Area Permit: USD 75.00 per person during the off-season (December-August) and USD 100.00 per person during the season (September-November)

These permits will be obtained by the trekking agency before your arrival. Please note that permit costs are subject to change.

Difficulty Level

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a moderate to fairly challenging trek. The long day's walk and steep ascents make this a comparatively tough trek. However, with the proper itinerary and acclimatization, it is ideal for both novice and proficient hikers.

Best Season

The Nar Phu Valley Trek can be undertaken any time of the year except the winter months (December-February). The spring (March-May), monsoon (June-August), and autumn (September-November) seasons offer the best trekking experiences, with clear skies and pleasant weather.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Distances, Durations, and Elevations

Trekking RouteDistance (Kilometers)Duration (Hours)Altitude (Meters)
Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar1776 to 7760
Drive from Besisahar to Koto1422,600
Trek from Koto to Meta166 to 73,560
Trek from Meta to Phu Gaon116 to 74,080
Acclimatization Day at Phu Gaon--4,080
Trek from Phu Gaon to Nar Phedi105 to 63,490
Trek from Nar Phedi to Nar Village74 to 54,110
Trek from Nar Village to Ngawal via Kang La Pass157 to 83,660 (Pass: 5,320)
Trek from Ngawal to Chame135 to 62,670
Drive from Chame to Besisahar9.52760
Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu1776 to 71,400

Additional Information

Engage in cozy teahouse stays along the trekking path and indulge in authentic Nepali cuisine, including the nutritious and delicious Dal Bhat. Enjoy a leisurely time at the picturesque Phewa Lake in Pokhara, and marvel at the stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri and Mardi.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Itinerary

Starts from: Kathmandu Ends to: Kathmandu
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Top of the World adventure is the only travel agency in Tribhuwan International Airport arrival. After collecting your baggage you will get our agency inside the international arrival tunnel. Our airport staff will brief you regarding the trip and will provide you with vouchers. You will be transferred to the hotel from the arrival gate. In the evening our trekking guide will meet you and check your trekking equipment and other necessary things. 

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Your day starts with regular local bus travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar by local bus. Which will take approximately 7-8 hours.  In Besisahar, there will be a checking of permits and TIMS. After checking the permits guide will arrange a shared jeep up to Jagat. Overnight at the local teahouse lodge at Jagat.

  • Max Altitude: 760m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

A wonderful walk with such changes in scenery and a range of gradients begins today. From Jagat, you will head across the river and ascend steeply to finally reach the ridge top high above. You will cross another suspension bridge before a continued ascent up a narrow and beautiful valley where, after rain, many spectacular waterfalls will flow. Just before camp at Dharapani the village in Manang, you will come over a small rise and enter a wide, flat valley with a long, silvery waterfall to the right. Dharapani is a connected place to the Manaslu trekking trail also, where you can have a beautiful view of Manaslu & so many more. This night you will stay at the tea house lodge in Dharapani.

  • Max Altitude: 1860m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Early in the morning, after having breakfast your journey will start from Dharapani to Koto. Through the journey, you will get to see Tamang & Thanchowk villages on the way along with the stunning view of the Annapurna range. Overnight stay at Koto.

  • Max Altitude: 2600m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After having breakfast, you will start your journey which leads through the beautiful dense forest. On the way to Meta you will get to see a beautiful natural waterfall along with small cave shelters, pilgrimage sites and resting places. Overnight at Meta Teahouse Lodge.

  • Max Altitude: 3560m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

First, as you head out to Phu, you'll be trekking along the northern part of Meta. You'll also be lucky to see Snow Leopard and Blue Sheep during today's trekking trail. You'll also walk along a pair of Shepard shelters as you get upstream to Phu Khola. You'll take the trail along Phu Khola upstream. The trekking trail then leads you to an open area where the valley opens up on the summer grazing and pasture lands after a few hours of good scenic walks until you reach Phu Village which is the entry point of Nar Phu Valley. Phu is a small village in the Gandaki region of Manang district. It lies very close to the Northern side of Nepal's Tibetan frontier. Overnight stay at Phu.

  • Max Altitude: 4250m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

It's good to spend an acclimatization day in Phu, because of the high altitude. Wander around the town's tiny alleyways or hike up to base camp at Himlung Himal. Phu is a fascinating village in itself, and a day is well spent sitting with the villagers spinning their yak and sheep yarn, pounding mustard seeds into an oil paste, or enjoying their other daily activities. The hike up to base camp at Himlung Himal(7,125m) takes you through a glacial valley for an extra challenge. The peak has been recently opened to climb. You will see herds of Blue sheep skillfully clambering up the cliffs on the trail upwards. The trip back takes around four to five hours.

  • Max Altitude: 4250m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

On this trek, you will start to descend as you head down to lower regions. You're going to walk uphill to Kyang and upper Cheyako first. After that, you'll trek the trail to the downstream river Phu nearby. you will start trekking to Lodng (4680 m) via Phu pass (5050 m). There are two passes on the way. Through the Phu Pass, you will trek a high hill to get to Lodng. This will be an amazing experience. You will have your lunch on Lodng. After lunch in Lodng, you will continue your journey to the second pass which is Naar pass (5400 m). This is the highest altitude of the trek. Two passes on the same day with incredible views of different mountains will make you feel a trek to heaven. Overnight at Naar village(4110 m).

  • Max Altitude: 4110m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

 Today is a long day, so you will get up before sunrise and head to the Kang La Pass, leading to the famed Annapurna Circuit. You will continue your journey through the windy path. Throughout the journey, you will be exploring the ancient village and their handmade agricultural products. You will get to see the last incredible view of Naar village on the way to Kangla Phedi.  You can enjoy a stunning view of Annapurna II, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak once on top of the pass. The trail down begins steep, but if you enjoy running the scree you can have fun. You will stop on a plateau overlooking the peak for lunch, then carry on towards Ngawal. It is certainly different from the ancient villages just visited on the upper Pisang route of the Annapurna Circuit. The lodges are big, the menus are much more extensive and most lodges will have Wifi and telephone signals.

  • Max Altitude: 3660m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

On this day you will hike down to Pisang from Ngawal with the stunning views of Annapurna by the northern side. After 3/4 hours of hiking, you will get to Lower Pisang via Upper Pisang where you can get jeep transportation to Besisahar. After 7/8 hours of driving through Chame, Dharapani, and Jagat you will reach Besisahar. Overnight at Besisahar. 

  • Max Altitude: 760m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

On this day you will take the bus to Kathmandu in the morning after breakfast. After reaching Kathmandu in the day time you can go shopping and buy some souvenirs. And prepare for the final departure

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

According to your flight timing, our team will drop you to the airport for onward destination

Still Confuse?

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Route Map

Nar-Phu-Valley-Map

Altitude Graph

Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Arrival and departure by private vehicle
  • Kathmandu Sightseeing by private car with tour guide
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel with Breakfast
  • Kathmandu-Besisahar by Tourist bus
  • Besisahar-Syenge by Jeep
  • Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu flight fares
  • Restricted Area permit
  • TIMS
  • Annapurna Conservation permit
  • Trekking guide (Food, accommodation, salary, insurance)
  • Porter Service
  • Teahouse Accommodation in Mountain
  • All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) during trekking
  • First aid tool box

Excludes

  • Bar bills
  • Entrance fee for Kathmandu Sightseeing
  • Visa fee
  • International flight fare
  • Travels insurance
  • Trekking equipment 
  • Tips
  • Lunch and Dinner except trekking time

Add-ons and Options

Extras for Your Journey

  • Extension of Tilicho Lake
    To see Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), the highest lake in the world, extend your hike by three or four days. As you cross the dramatic Mesokanto Pass, take in the stunning alpine views. Since the journey usually ends in Jomsom, this extension is ideal for visitors who are combining Nar Phu with the Annapurna Circuit.

  • Together, Annapurna Circuit and Thorong La Pass
    Once you reach the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), descend via Muktinath to reach Jomsom. A more thorough experience of the Annapurna region can be had by taking the traditional route, which adds about a week.

  • Look at the Manang Valley
    Spend more time exploring Manang, one of the Annapurna Circuit's cultural treasures. Explore quaint villages, ancient caverns, and monasteries, or just relax and get used to the breathtaking surroundings.

  • A Photographic Tour with a Guide
    To capture the enchanted moments of your trip—from vibrant village life to majestic mountains and historic temples—hire a local photographer.

  • Extras for Health in Pokhara or Kathmandu
    Use yoga, meditation, or spa services to unwind and revitalize after your hike. After an adventure, it's a fantastic way to relax and care for your body.

Additional Info

Trek Permits for Nar Phu Valley

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):

    • Required for all hikers in the Annapurna area

    • Price: $30 USD per person

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP):

    • Required for the Nar Phu Valley

    • Price:

      • September–November: $100 USD per person for the first 7 days

      • December–August: $75 USD per person for the first 7 days

      • Additional days: $15 USD per person per day

    • Note: Solo trekking is not allowed. You must trek with a certified guide and at least one other person. Permits are arranged through your trekking agency.

Trek Difficulty in Nar Phu Valley

  • Grade: Moderate to difficult

  • Trekking duration: 5 to 8 hours per day

  • Highest point: Kang La Pass (5,320 meters)

  • Requirements: Good physical health and prior trekking experience

  • Challenges:

    • Steep inclines and declines

    • Rocky, narrow, and remote trails

    • Basic lodging with limited amenities

    • High altitude and risk of altitude sickness

Altitude Sickness

  • Risk areas: Especially around Kang La Pass (5,320 meters)

  • Prevention tips:

    • Ascend gradually

    • Acclimatize in Phu and Nar

    • Stay hydrated and eat well

    • Avoid alcohol and cigarettes

  • Symptoms:

    • Headache, nausea, dizziness

    • Fatigue and shortness of breath

    • Loss of appetite and sleep disturbance

  • Action: Inform your guide immediately and descend if symptoms persist

Travel Insurance

  • Required for restricted area treks

  • Must include:

    • Coverage for trekking above 5,000 meters

    • Medical emergencies

    • Helicopter evacuation

  • Tip: Purchase insurance locally and keep proof

Accommodations and Food

  • Accommodation:

    • Basic teahouses or twin-sharing rooms

    • Wi-Fi, charging, and hot showers available (extra charge)

  • Meals:

    • Tibetan and Nepali dishes: soups, momos, noodles, dal bhat, Tibetan bread

    • Simple yet fulfilling meals

    • Boiled water available for refills

  • In Pokhara and Kathmandu:

    • Standard tourist hotels with breakfast

Best Trekking Season

  • Ideal months: March, April, May, September, October, November

  • Spring and autumn: Best weather and mountain views

  • Monsoon (June–August): Possible, but expect leeches and muddy trails

  • Winter (December–February): Very cold; limited teahouse availability

Guide Requirement

  • Mandatory: Licensed guide as per government rule

  • Optional: Porter to carry gear and ease the trek

Preparation and Packing

  • Fitness:

    • Regular aerobic, strength, and endurance training

  • Essential gear:

    • Layered clothing, down jacket, trekking boots

    • Sleeping bag, trekking poles, rain gear, first aid kit

  • Mental preparation:

    • Be ready for remote areas, basic facilities, and unpredictable weather

Nar Phu Valley Trek FAQs

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is rated moderate to fairly challenging. It involves long walking days and steep ascents, reaching altitudes over 5,300 meters. With proper acclimatization and a good fitness level, both novice and experienced trekkers can enjoy this adventure. It's essential to prepare physically and mentally to fully appreciate the trek’s remote beauty and cultural richness.

The best seasons to trek Nar Phu Valley are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the skies are clear, and weather is pleasant. Avoid the winter months of December to February due to harsh cold and snow. The monsoon season (June to August) is less popular but still possible for experienced trekkers who don’t mind rain and muddy trails.

Since Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area, you will need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costing around USD 30, and a Restricted Area Permit which varies between USD 75 to 100 depending on the season. Your trekking agency typically arranges these for you before the trek begins.

The trek reaches a maximum altitude of about 5,320 meters at Kang La Pass. To prepare, regular cardio and strength training help build endurance, and spending time at higher altitudes beforehand can assist acclimatization. Take the acclimatization day in Phu Village seriously, stay hydrated, and listen to your body to avoid altitude sickness.

Packing the right gear is crucial. Bring sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers, rain gear, a quality backpack, a good sleeping bag, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and water purification tablets. Layered clothing is best since temperatures can vary greatly between day and night.

You'll stay in cozy teahouses and local lodges offering a chance to experience Nepali hospitality. Expect simple but comfortable rooms with basic amenities. Meals mainly consist of authentic Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, and soups – nutritious and delicious fuel for your trek.

Yes, the trek is generally safe, but it is remote and challenging. It's important to trek with a reputable guide or agency that handles permits and ensures proper acclimatization. Carry a good first aid kit, keep hydrated, and be cautious on steep or slippery sections. Mobile coverage is limited, so prepare accordingly.

You’ll explore ancient Tibetan Buddhist villages with vibrant monasteries, prayer stones, and authentic local traditions untouched by modern tourism. Staying in these villages offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry and warm hospitality of the local ethnic communities.