Nar Phu Valley Trek – 13 Days
Trip Facts
Duration
13 Days
Max. Altitude:
5320 Meter
Group size
1-25
Best Season
Spring (Feb-May) & Autumn (Sep-Dec)
Trip Mode
Luxury Hotel/Guesthouse/Tea Houses
Activity
Trekking
Meals
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
DIFFICULTY
Moderator
LOCATION
Nar Phu Valley
Start/End
Kathmandu, Nepal
Highlights
- Discover Annapurna's most isolated, unexplored areas in Nepal.
- Explore Buddhist, Tibetan, and Mongolian cultures and lifestyles.
- Eternal culture and breathtakingly magnificent wildlife and avian species.
- Experience huge mountain ranges including Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna.
- At Tatopani, rejuvenate in the hot springs.
- Discover Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
- Trek through the portion of the Tibetan plateau that touches Nepal.
Overview
The Nar Phu valley is a trek that combines remote villages of Nar and Phu, narrow canyons, lovely forests, amazing rock formations, yaks, Monasteries, Kang La Pass and unique Himalayan cultures. You should have physically fitness to do this trek.
This trek starts from Chamje after 9 hours driving from Kathmandu. We hike same trail as Annapurna circuit trek. After arriving to Koto, we cross the bridge leading over the Marshyangdi River to the steep portals of the Nar Phu valley is easily missed, but although the entrance is narrow and forested, the valley system above opens up to a huge expanse of high snow-peaks, ancient villages and high-altitude grazing settlements. Trekkers until late 2002, very few westerners have explored these virtually untouched villages or climbed the many 7000m peaks surrounding it. We will venture into this remote region of Nar Phu valley. Buddhist pilgrims from around Nepal might accompany us up to Phu to visit the renowned Tashi Lhakhang Gompa and receive a blessing from Lama Karma Sonam Rimpoche. Along with spending plenty of time at these colorful and timeless villages, we explore the high alpine valleys above Phu. The Kang La (5315m) pass is amazing. We may enjoy mountains view like annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho peak then join to manang for annapurna circuit trek. The village of Manang (3,500m/11483feet) marks the beginning of the next stage. You will come back from Manang to Chame from where you can drive back to Kathmandu by public Jeep. If you have time, you can also continue to Jomsom via Thorong La Pass.
Tea house or Lodge has been built. You can do camping trek as well as tea house trek. If you do tea house trekking, there is simple accommodation and foods are Nepalese dishes. Tea house trek is comparatively least cost so that it is affordable most of you.
Itinerary
Your adventure begins as you land in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. A friendly representative from Monviso Trek will be waiting at the airport to welcome you and take you to your hotel. After some rest, you can explore the lively streets of Thamel, known for its trekking shops, restaurants, and cultural sights. In the evening, Monviso Trek will organize a trek briefing, where you will meet your guide and go through the final preparations for your journey into the remote Nar Phu Valley.
Before heading into the mountains, you will have a full day to explore the cultural wonders of Kathmandu. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These places offer insight into Nepal’s rich history and religious traditions. Later in the day, Monviso Trek will help you check your trekking gear and make sure you have all the necessary permits for the restricted area of Nar Phu Valley.
An early morning drive takes you out of the busy city and into the countryside. The road follows the Trishuli River, passing green hills, terraced farms, and charming villages. After reaching Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region, the road becomes rough as you continue toward Jagat, a small village by the Marshyangdi River. The long but scenic drive ends with a comfortable stay arranged by Monviso Trek.
Your trekking adventure begins today as you walk along a rugged trail that follows the Marshyangdi River. The route takes you through lush forests, suspension bridges, and charming villages like Chamje and Tal. You will notice a change in landscape as you climb higher, with the air becoming fresher and the views of the surrounding hills and waterfalls more spectacular. After a long but beautiful trek, you will arrive in Dharapani, where Monviso Trek has arranged a cozy teahouse stay.
Today’s trek takes you deeper into the mountains as you pass through Bagarchhap and Timang, traditional villages with breathtaking views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. The trail is a mix of pine forests, steep climbs, and open valleys. As you get closer to Koto, you will feel the atmosphere change, as this is where the main Annapurna Circuit route meets the path to the hidden Nar Phu Valley. In Koto, Monviso Trek will register your permits before you enter the restricted area.
This is an exciting day as you leave the busy Annapurna Circuit and enter the Nar Phu Valley. The trail follows the Nar Khola River, winding through dense pine forests and crossing several suspension bridges. The path gradually ascends into a remote and rugged landscape, passing caves, waterfalls, and rocky cliffs. After a challenging but rewarding hike, you will reach Meta, a small settlement with stunning mountain views. Monviso Trek ensures a comfortable stay and a warm meal in this isolated yet beautiful region.
Today, the trail takes you through Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient chortens, and prayer flags, giving a sense of stepping back in time. The landscape becomes more barren, with dramatic rock formations and wide, open valleys. As you approach Phu Village, you will see the remains of an ancient fortress and a stunning view of Mt. Himlung and other snow-capped peaks. Phu is a fascinating village, rich in Tibetan culture, where the people still follow traditional ways of life. Monviso Trek organizes a cozy teahouse stay, allowing you to experience the hospitality of the locals.
Since you are now above 4,000m, a rest day is important for acclimatization. You can explore the village, visit the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, and interact with the locals to learn about their unique customs. Another option is a short hike to the Himlung Himal Base Camp, which offers spectacular mountain views. Monviso Trek ensures you have enough time to rest and enjoy the beauty of this hidden valley.
The trek today is long but rewarding, as you descend back to Meta before taking a steep trail towards Nar Village. Along the way, you will pass more Buddhist chortens, prayer wheels, and Mani walls. The village of Nar is larger than Phu and has a unique charm with its traditional stone houses and narrow alleyways. From here, you will have breathtaking views of Pisang Peak and other Himalayan giants. Monviso Trek arranges a comfortable stay in this remote but welcoming village.
Today is the most challenging day of the trek as you cross the Kang La Pass (5,322m), one of the highest points of the journey. The steep climb to the top is tough, but the views from the pass are breathtaking, with panoramic sights of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. After celebrating your achievement at the pass, you will descend toward Ngawal, a beautiful village on the main Annapurna Circuit trail. Monviso Trek ensures your safety during this high-altitude crossing and arranges a well-deserved rest at a cozy teahouse in Ngawal.
The final day of trekking takes you through Upper Pisang, offering one last look at the stunning Annapurna mountain range. The trail gradually descends as you make your way to Lower Pisang, where a vehicle arranged by Monviso Trek will pick you up for the drive back to Besisahar. After days of trekking in remote valleys, you will enjoy the comfort of a warm shower and a well-prepared meal in Besisahar.
After breakfast, you will take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, passing through rolling hills, rivers, and terraced farmland. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have time to relax or explore the city. In the evening, Monviso Trek will host a farewell dinner to celebrate the success of your adventure in the Nar Phu Valley.
Includes
- Pickup from Kathmandu International Airport as per your arrival time and date.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served during Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Nar Phu Valley Special (Restricted) Permit
- Public transportation to Dharapani (Trek Start Point) from Kathmandu
- Government charges and our service fees
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu before your departure
- Airport transport for your final departure as per your departure time
- An achievement certificate if needed.
Excludes
- Nepal visa fee, international flight ticket, Nepal travel insurance
- Tips for guides and porters (expected at the end of Nar Phu Valley Trek)
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu and dinner in Pokhara.
- During Trek, all personal expenses such as internet, all types of drinks, hot showers, battery charging, extra meals, donations, and so on.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek
Equipment
Head
- Sun hat
- Scarf
- Light balaclava
- Warm wool hat
- UV protection one Sunglasses
- Head torch with extra batteries.
Upper Part of The Body Upper
- Tshirts
- Shirts
- Sleeveless or body warmer type fleece.
- Long sleeve shirts
- Thermal Vest
- Down Jacket
- Fleece Jacket
- Pullover
- Sports bras (women)
- Waterproof outer jacket
- Raincoat
- Hand wear
- Fleece gloves.
- Warms mittens or gloves.
Lower Body
- Long Under Wear
- Short Under Wear
- Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
- Warm Trousers
- Tracksuit pants
- Lightweight thermal trouser
- Fleece pants
- Cotton paints
Footwear
- Thin inner socks
- Thick warm wool hiking socks
- Walking boots with ankle support
- Trainers or trail shoes
- Gaiters
- Micro spikes
Electronics
- Camera and Accessories
- Phone
- Power Bank
- Solar Panel
- Travel Adapter
Miscellaneous
- Book
- Playing Cards/Games
- Journal and Pen
- Snacks and Specialist Food
Hygiene & First Aid
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repellent
- Hand Sanitizer
- Toilet Paper
- Wet Wipes
- Pocket Hand Warmers
- Moisturizing skin cream and Lip balm
- Toiletries
- Water purifier
- First Aid
Trek Essentials
- Passport and Copy
- Travel Insurance Details
- Trekking Permit(s)
- Waterproof Document Wallet
- Cash
Recommended Medications
- Guide will take a group first aid kit but please bring personal medications and other items you might use regularly such as
- Any personal medications
- Malaria prophylactic tablets
- Blister treatment
- Rehydration powder
- Analgesics (Paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin)
- Plasters and zinc oxide tape
- Throat lozenges
- Diamox
Other Equipment
- Duffel Bag or Suitcase
- Day pack
- Sleeping bag
- Water bottle
- Trekking poles
- Towel
