Nar Phu ValleyNar Phu Valley

Nar Phu Valley Trek - 12 Days

Key Information
  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Max Altitude5320m/17454ft
  • Arrival CityKathmandu
  • Best TimeMarch-May/Sep.-Dec.
  • Group Size2-16

Nar Phu Valley Trek in a nutshell

Nar Phu Valley Trek Nepal is a late open trekking trail. Nar and Phu are two old villages conveying their own way of life. High landscape, valleys, religious communities, and getting a charge out of Mountain perspectives. Nar Phu trek belongs to a restricted trekking area. You will see the unique culture and traditions of the mountain people. Local people and their culture have remained more like Tibetans. Since its remoteness and closeness to Tibet, few trekkers have explored the village. Furthermore, Kang La Pass, peaks, glaciers, and narrow canyons are the best.

Why Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Dreaming of trekking to an exotic land with the Himalayas and preserved culture? Then Nar Phu Trek is unique and not missed. Walk through Annapurna Circuit trail and cross rivers to steep trials to go to Nar Phu Valley. Two days long walk from the border of Tibet, Tilman first explored this region in the 1950s. This trekking trail opened in 2002. Nar Phu Valley Trekking had been only open for a few years and holds centuries of untouched beauty.

Despite Tibetan culture, also experience high peaks, passes, glaciers, villages, and forests. This trek gives you a taste of spectacular wilderness in the far north of the Annapurna Region. The flawless valley and canyons clear your way for gorgeous vistas of peaks. These peaks include Annapurna Ranges, Himlung, Ratna Chuli, and other small peaks.

A challenging ascent through big pastures leads you to the Kang La Pass (5,320m). This is the highest point during this trek. Further, you will discover another beautiful settlement of Manang and Ngawal. You feel bless by the incredible scenery of white rocks, juniper, peaks, and Nar Phu River below.

Pristine fascinating trial passes through religious shrines. It includes the famous Tashi Lhakhang Gompa. Accepts a blessing from Lama Karma Sonam Rimpoche from the gompa. Along with spending picturesque villages, traverse the high alpine valleys above Phu. The Nar Phu Trek route is famous for wildlife like Himalayan Thar, and Snow leopards.

The trial is also the most marked herbal medicine, Yarshagumba. Some explain that the Nar Phu Valley trek is one of the Yarshagumpa trails. Also, influenced biodiversity trekking routes in Nepal. With features obvious to those keen to explore Nar Phu Valley Trek offers more extra than one can behold.

Nar Phu Valley Trek offers the best remote settings and terrain landscape. The never-ending landscape stretches up to the Tibetan plateau. This trek takes you along secluded Nar & Phu villages. The trial is linked to the Annapurna circuit and lower Annapurna regions.

Nar Phu Valley Trek in 2024 and 2025

Nar Phu Valley Trek in Himalaya 2024 gives you an experience of rural Nepal. Panoramic views and exotic land passes make unforgettable memories for a lifetime. The best time to do Nar Phu Valley Trek for 12 days is spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November).

We have departure dates to join this Nar Phu trek in the Spring and Autumn of 2024 and 2025. You can join any dates that suit best to you. If you desire to have a personal trek and customize the Itinerary, we are flexible to customize it.

Also, other notable alternative trekking routes are seeking more significant challenges. You can choose any trip from Annapurna Region. It includes Annapurna Circuit Trek,Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mohare Danda, and Mardi Himal Trek. For more Annapurna Trekking packages, explore more exclusive Himalayan Odyssey tour packages.

Nar Phu Valley Trek 12 days Itinerary

Nar Phu Valley short route trek starts from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to Besisahar. The trail follows the Annapurna Circuit route up the Marshyangdi River valley to Koto. From Koto, we will leave the trail and cross the bridge to reach the Nar Phu Valley. Further, pass through the lovely forest to Dharamsala, which itself is an enthralling adventure.

We will accommodate local pilgrims visiting Tasho Lhakhang Gompa in Phu. High in the valley, you will witness plateaus and pastures where yak herders of the Nar Phu Valley. This thrilling path may offer the sight of snow leopards and blue mountain sheep. During the walk, you will see the long queue of yak or mules along narrow tracks.

The trial has many ups and downs between plateaus and glacial streams, canyons, and gorges. A leaning monolith and line of chortens lead you to the way to Phu. We then go further, crumbling ruins of two forts, and visit Tasho Lhakhang Gompa. We will see the ladies of Phu spinning yak wool and crushing mustard grains for oil.

Further, we will set out for the village of Nar. “Nar” means the wild blue sheep native to this region. We descend to the old bridge, pass a narrow gorge, and a steep climb leads us to the gates of Nar village. You will see Chortens and gompas surrounded by fields of barley and mustard. The mesmerizing Pisang and Kang Gurur dominate the horizon.

Leaving Nar, we climb a gradual path up the valley to yak pastures with beautiful Pisang Peak in clear view. Gasping you close in on the summit with fluttering prayer flags and Chorten. Try to catch your breath as one of the highest points of this trip calls. Immerse in a lonely setting, menacing terrain, and the trial goes along breathless Kang La Pass (5,306 m/17,408 ft.).

After we celebrate the victory party and enjoy the view, then we descend to Kang La Phedi. Dropping back from the top is not a piece of cake as it will hit hard to your knees. Exotic terrain, tumultuous energy, and slopes may occur occasional slips as we go down. The path will be full of fluttering prayer flags, and clouds of the valley beating the hills. Being in such heaven will make for a dream climb as you pant all the way up.

You will forget the tiredness as you see beautiful nature and scenic views of the Annapurna Range. Our Nar Phu Valley trek of 10 days will end when we rejoin the Pisang. We will drive back to Besisahar and then back to Kathmandu on the same day.

 Nar Phu Valley Trek Difficulty?

Nar Phu Valley trek is remote trekking in Manang District and rated as a moderate trek. The tricky part of the trek is crossing the Kang La Pass on a narrow trail. The rest of the other day is moderate and needs to walk 5 to 6 hours a day. Furthermore, we will encounter many uphill and downhills on trial. So you will need basic training for this trek.

Another challenging part is descending from Kang La Pass. You will have to descend on the vertical slope. All these considerations make the trek a challenging one. To cut the high altitude fear, you can involve in physical preparation. It includes running, cycling, jogging, and swimming.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Cost

When you are thinking about exploring Nar Phu Valley, there will be many factors to consider. It includes route, best time, and how fit we need to be? But one of the most important confusion will be, “How much does Nar Phu Valley Trek cost?”

The cost for the trek also depends on the itinerary and route you are taking with. This trek can be done in a short or long time with the combined Annapurna and Manaslu areas. The number of days and facilities you are taking during the trek also determines the cost of the trek.

The Nar Phu Valley trek cost is a little higher than other normal trekking in Nepal. The area lies in a remote and restricted area, so we need a special permit. You need to travel with a registered company and need a guide this makes your cost a little high.

On average Nar Phu Valley trek will generally be 10-14 days. The cost is generally somewhere between USD 1275 to USD 1190. This price covers transportation, permits, meals, guides, porters, accommodation, entry fees, and others. You will get some discounts if you are in groups. The cost of the Nar Phu Valley Trek depends upon travelling in private or in a group.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Permit

As Nar Phu is a protected area, the government needs several permits to support the preservation of the area, limit the number of tourists, and manage the borders with Tibet. These permits are required solely for Annapurna Conservation Areas. For the months of September to November, the rate per person is USD 90 for one week. If you are visiting between the months of December to August, the cost is USD 75 for one week per person. Exceeding one week, it costs USD 10 per day per person. In addition, you need an Annapurna Conservation Area permit and the cost is USD 30 per person.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Altitude Profile

                                                Photo: Altitude Chart

Highlights

  • Explore Annapurna's most remote and untouched region.
  • Discover the Tibetan culture and lifestyle of the area.
  • Pass the Kang La Pass (5,320 m).
  • Walkthrough yak pastures with yaks grazing.
  • Visit the notable Tashi Lhakhang Gompa.
  • Nar Phu valley trekking trail is a blend between Nar and Phu village.
  • Natural landscape and panorama of Annapurna Range.
  • Wander into a remote part of Nepal that few travelers have been.
  • Visit and stay in remote monasteries, gompas, and villages of Nar and Phu.
  • Discover ancient Tibetan culture and lifestyle.

Itinerary

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It is a notice to all our guest who is joining Nar Phu Valley Trekking will begin 8-9 hour local bus ride from Kathmandu to Besisahar, Dharapani, or Koto. This will be included in the package; however, you can book a Private Jeep for a luxury ride at an additional cost.

We, The Himalayan Odyssey, will organize the Nar Phu Valley Trek with the most suitable arrangements. However, there can be some issues that are beyond our handle. Heavy rainfall, snow, or avalanches can stretch the trip duration in the lower region of Annapurna. But it is very little possibility in Nar Phu Valley.

This itinerary is only for guidelines. We can customize the itinerary according to your requirement and the time you have.

Abbreviation

B - Breakfast
L - Lunch
D - Dinner

On your arrival, The Himalayan Odyssey representatives team will be at the airport to welcome and take you to the hotel. After freshening up and resting, you can explore the tourist hub of Thamel. In the evening your guide will meet for the trek prepare. If you have any last minutes shopping to do, this is the time.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4,265 ft.

Our guide will meet you and discuss the trek, and if you have any confusion, you can ask our team about the trek. We will prepare ourselves for the trek, and this is the time when you do your last-minute shopping.

You can explore the city of Kathmandu, and we can also provide a tour guide for an extra charge. You can visit different UNESCO World Heritage Sites in and around Kathmandu, such as Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4,265 ft.

We will leave Kathmandu early in the morning and take a Jeep to Dharapani. This bus ride offers the chance to see the rural areas outside of Kathmandu. After reaching Besisahar, we will go off-road. We will pass through beautiful gorges and giant waterfalls. We spend the night in Koto.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time8-9 Hours Drive
  • Maximum Altitude2,600 m/8,530 ft.

This will be the first day of the trek. We will head to Meta, and on this first day itself, we will cross the 3000 meters mark. The trail will take us through beautiful woods and then passes under a few waterfalls. The increase in altitude results in less vegetation, and we will be blessed with spectacular views. Just before reaching Meta, we will have to get past a steep climb.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time7-8 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude3,560 m/11,680 ft.

Another day of the trek, the altitude keeps increasing, will reach a whopping 4080 meters when we reach Phu. We leave Meta early in the morning, and the Nar Phedi monastery will be our first stop of the day. We will then pass through gorges and canyons and finally reach Phu. After reaching Phu, we will also visit the Tashi Lhakhang Gompa.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time7-8 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude4,080 m/13,386 ft.

We will explore Phu and also acclimatize to the high altitude. You can simply choose to rest or explore Phu. Spend time with the locals and get to know more about their culture. You also have the option to climb up to Himlung Base Camp (4900m) on this day. It is a moderate hike and takes about 5-6 hours to complete.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • TimeFree Day
  • Maximum Altitude4900 m/ 16076. ft

This day will be a fascinating one. We will leave early in the morning and retrace our steps to Meta. We will be staying in the Nar Phedi monastery as this is the only place available. Witness the beauty of the monastery, and in the evening, you can even join the prayer session. Enjoy your dinner, which the nuns will prepare.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude3490 m/11,450 ft.

We will again gently climb up the trail and head to Nar village. The trail takes us through winding paths. We will see meadows as we climb higher. The view is simply stunning as we make our way to the ancient village of Nar. We will get there in the afternoon. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the mountains.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time3-4 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude4110 m/13,484 ft.

This day will certainly be the highlight of the trek as we head to Ngawal. We leave before sunrise as we need to climb the Kang La Pass which is situated at a staggering altitude of 3650 meters. Crossing the Pass can be quite challenging due to its altitude and after crossing the pass we will join the Annapurna Circuit trail. We will reach Ngawal after a strenuous journey where we will rest for the night.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time8-9 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude5,240 m/17,192 ft.

This will be the final day of walking for the trip. We will head to Pisang, which lies in the Annapurna Circuit Trail. The trail is fairly simple as we will be walking at the 2000 meters mark. Enjoy the spectacular greenery of this region and a fabulous view of the landscape. We will reach Pisang, and after resting for a while, we will take a vehicle to Besi Sahar, where we will rest for the night.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,493 m/8,179 ft.

On this day, we return to Kathmandu via bus, and it will take about 5-6 hours to reach Kathmandu. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Nepali countryside. Later in the evening, you can go around Thamel, do your souvenir shopping and pack for your departure. At night, we will have our farewell dinner.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • MealsFarewell Dinner
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4,265 ft.

Time to head back to your home and share your wonderful experience in Nepal with your family and friends. Also, if you decide to extend your stay in Nepal, you can inform us. We at the Himalayan Odyssey would be honored to be at your service. We provide various tour services. If you also want to trek in another region, we would be happy to guide you.

    Cost Details

    Included

    • Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB plan
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
    • Annapurna Conservation Area entry fee and TIMS card
    • Restricted Area Permit
    • Experienced Himalayan trek guide and porter (2 trekkers: 1 guide and porter)
    • Tourist Bus for Kathmandu to Besisahar to Kathmandu.
    • Sharing Jeep from Besisahar to Dharapani.
    • Sharing Jeep from Pisang to Besisahar..
    • Arrival transfer from the international airport to your hotel
    • Tea house lodge during your trek
    • First Aid Kit during the trek
    • Staff Insurance
    • Salary, food, and accommodation of your staff during the trek
    • All ground transportation as per itinerary
    • Tour Certificate
    • Farewell Dinner
    Excluded
    • International flight ticket
    • International airport tax
    • Visa Fee
    • Other personal items. (Phone calls, snacks, hot and cold drinks, laundry, alcohol, extra porter, shower, etc )
    • Travel insurance
    • Tips for staff and guide
    • Private Travel Equipment
    • Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” section above

    Good to Know

    Best Time for Nar Phu Valley Trek

    When choosing to trek to Nar Phu Valley, the weather is an important factor because no one is behind nature. People trek throughout the year, but certainly, there are ups and downs in all seasons. Below is the total information about the climatic situation for every quarter.

    Spring season

    The best time for Nar Phu valley is recognized as the spring season, which falls from the early March to the end of May. The weather of this period is perfect for doing long as well as short treks. During this season, Himalayan trekking is the best idea as the mountain scenes are clear. The best thing about this month in Nepal is that you can observe the unique birds and animals.

    Autumn season

    Undoubtedly autumn is also one of the best times for the Nar Phu trek in Nepal. From early September to the end of November autumn season lasts here. Since there is no possibility of a clouded environment, it is the best idea during this month. You can get a fair view of the mountain ranges. One of the principal festivals of Nepalese Dashain and Tihar falls during this season. You will also get a chance to observe and celebrated Nepali culture.

    Summer/ Monsoon season

    These seasons start from early June to the end of August at the same time. Summer is the hottest time of the year, and the rain of the monsoon reduces the hotness during long treks. If you don’t like crowds, this season is the best time for you. Getting a place for accommodation will not be difficult. This season is best for planting new crops on the field. You will get to know the traditional style of farming in most places. But we usually don’t recommend this trek because of heavy rainfall and slippery trials.

    Winter season

    The winter month of Late December to February is the coldest and driest month. Adventure seekers travel during this season for good Himalayan views. At this time of the year, there may be little rain. Skies in the hills and valleys further from the high mountains can be dull from dust and pollution. When you are in the higher altitudes, temperatures can drop below freezing. Even during the day, temperatures may not rise much above freezing. Most of the trail will cover by the snow.

    The snow that does fall doesn’t melt and makes the trek harder. We suggest you pack a walking stick and crampons, which make it easier on the high passes. Maximum villagers migrate from Nar to lower altitude in mid-December until mid-February.

    Packing List for Nar Phu Valley Trek

    Every trekking requires certain preparation of gears and types of equipment for the journey to make your trip more comfortable. It is recommended to carry the necessary and light things so that it will be easy while you are walking. The following belongings are recommended that should be brought, although we concede that our clients have their own decision for the clothing. To know what to expect in the Nar Phu Valley Trek, we have prepared some useful clothing & gear during the trek.

     

    Travel Documents

    • Airline tickets (confirmation and itinerary)
    • Nepal Visa form (may be obtained at Kathmandu Airport)
    • Travel insurance policy documents
    • Valid passport
    • Copy of passport (2 copies, first page only)
    • Passport photos (4)

     

    Travel Equipment

    • Duffel bag (100 liters; no wheels or rigid handles)
    • Lightweight, duffel bag
    • Luggage locks
    • Travel wallet
    • Passport/money belt
    • Sleeping bag liner
    • Travel plug adapters
    • Electrical converter

     

    Travel Clothing

    • Quick-dry undergarments
    • Synthetic or wool T-shirt
    • Long-sleeve, travel-friendly shirt and pants
    • Casual shoes
    • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks

     

    Trekking Equipment

    • Day pack (25–35 liters)
    • Sleeping bag comfortable to 0°F (dependent upon season, weather forecast and personal preference)
    • Waterproof hiking boots
    • Camp shoes (down booties or running shoes)
    • LED headlamp with extra batteries
    • Trekking poles

     

    Trekking Clothing

    • Wool or synthetic T-shirts (2)
    • Mid-weight fleece or soft-shell jacket (2)
    • Mid-weight down or synthetic parka with hood
    • Convertible hiking pants
    • Fleece pants or insulated pants
    • Lightweight waterproof/breathable rain jacket and pants
    • Mid-weight waterproof and fleece gloves or mittens
    • Sun hat
    • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks (3 pairs)
    • Liner socks (optional)
    • Glacier sunglasses
    • Neck gaiter, balaclava, Buff or bandana

    Food

    • Energy bars
    • Electrolyte replacement drink mix
    • Snacks (cookies, GORP, Snickers, etc.)

    FAQs

    • Q1. Where is Nar Phu Valley?

      Nepal's most untouched and beautiful Naar Phu valley is a trek to the remote villages of Naar and Phu. The valley is situated in a northeast valley near Chame, Annapurna.

    • We start the trek from either Chame or Dharapani after driving there from Kathmandu. Our trail heads to Koto up to Meta from there we cross the bridge over the Marshyangdi river leading to Nar Phu Valley. After someday of the walk, we explore the alpine valley over Naar and cross the Kang la. Then we will start descending Kang La Phedi, Pisang, and finally to Besisahar. From there, we will drive back to Kathmandu. 

    • The highest elevation on Nar Phu Valley is Kang La Pass with an altitude of 5,320m.

    • Destination towards Nar Phu in Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) is a season in which mountain lovers and travel enthusiasts come here. Moderate temperatures, mild wind, and low rainfall make the Autumn and Spring season wonderful trekking conditions.

    • For the months of September to November, the rate per person is USD 90 for one week and if you are visiting between the months of December to August, the cost is USD 75 for one week per person. Exceeding one week, it costs USD 10 per day per person. In addition, you need an ACAP permit and the cost is NPR 3,000 per person.

    • Nar Phu Valley Trekking had been only open for few years and holds centuries of untouched beauty. In spite of Tibetan culture, you will also experience high peaks, passes, glaciers, remote villages, narrow canyons, lovely forests, and amazing formations of rocks. The flawless valley, gorges, and canyons add terrifying elegant drops clearing your way for gorgeous vistas of Annapurna Ranges, Himlung, Ratna Chuli, and other small peaks

    • No, it is not possible to do Nar Phu Valey Trek without a guide. Nar Phu Valley is one of the restricted areas of Nepal Himalayas and you have to travel with minimum of 2 pax with a guide.

    • The daily gain in altitude during Nar Phy Valley Trek is around 500 to 550 meters.

    • It takes 10 to 15 days to complete Nar Phu Valley Trek depending upon your itinerary.

    • The menu in Nar Phu Valley is a mixture of traditional local or Asian but as we go high, the menu will be limited. We extremely suggest you consume more liquids like green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, garlic soup, etc. at high altitude and also fresh vegetable items for well-being.

    • Children who are acquainted with mountains or are used to lots of walking can trek the Nar Phu Valley trail, although, for their own enjoyment, we recommend an age limit of around 12. If you want to trek Nar Phu Valley with your family, please contact us so that we can discuss your children's fitness in more detail.

    • Nar Phu Valley Trek is a challenging trek in the Annapurna region. The hiking is usually 4 to 7 hrs a day. Trek routes on Annapurna involve long climbs, steep descents, and straightforward roads. So people who are reasonably fit and prepared for long days can trek Nar Phu Valley.

    • We suggest you consult your doctor. However, we recommend you to carry simple medicines like Ibuprofen, Codeine, Paracetamol, Strepsils, anti-diarrhea tablets, and Diamox (for altitude sickness). If you are doing package trekking, we provide you a basic first aid kit.

    • There are many first-time trekkers who are completing this trek. If you are physically fit with good stamina and determination then you can easily complete Nar Phu Valley Trek. Previous trek or hike experience will be a plus point for you.

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