Are you looking for a less-crowded trekking trail with stunning mountain views to explore Tibetan culture? The best choice is to embark on the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit.
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit
Trip Overview
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit is an unforgettable adventure holiday in the Himalayas. It combines the raw wilderness of the Nar Phu Valley with the iconic highlights of the Annapurna Circuit. This 19-day journey offers an incredible mix of dramatic landscapes and rich Tibetan-influenced culture. It includes high peaks and passes, epic rock formations, and rustic settlements.
This trek showcases Nepal’s diverse topography. It starts at 760 meters in Besisahar and reaches 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. The surroundings starkly change from subtropical valleys to deep canyons and bare alpine terrains.
A significant highlight of the Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek is crossing two mountain passes. These two passes are over 5,000 meters: Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters and Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, respectively. Both summits offer stunning views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. It also provides a spectacular view of Lamjung Hima and Tilicho Peak.
Although the terrain in the upper reaches is barren and desert-like, it is home to some of the most elusive wildlife and birds. If you’re lucky enough, you may see musk deer, blue sheep, pikas, and even the majestic show leopard on this trek. Similarly, you can expect to see birds like Blue Whistling-Thrushes, Green-backed Tits, and Himalayan Griffons. You can also see Yellow-billed Choughs, Ruddy Shelduck, Chukar, and Himalayan Monal in the skies.
The first foreigners entered the restricted area of Nar Phu Valley in the early 1950s. The region was not accessible to trekkers until the early 2000s. Most parts of Nar Phu Valley are inhabited by descendants of Khampa warriors who migrated to this remote region from Tibet. It remains one of the last valleys in Nepal, where the nomadic lifestyle continues to thrive.
Culturally, the valleys of Nar and Phu are utterly distinct from the rest of the country. The region breeds Tibetan-influenced traditions, offering a unique opportunity for remote lifestyle, cultural, and spiritual exploration. You’ll visit several ancient monasteries and temples along the route, including Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, Braga Gompa, and Muktinath Temple.
Additionally, you’ll spend a night inside the Nar Phedi Monastery, exploring its sacred grounds. You can interact with the nuns and immerse yourself in the monastery's spiritual practices.
Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a strenuous adventure in the remote Himalayas. It is especially suitable for experienced trekkers and natural enthusiasts. If you want to explore less-travelled mountain routes, the Nar Phu Valley trek is the best in Nepal.
The Major Highlights of Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Cross two mountain passes over 5,000 meters — Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters and Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.
- Traverse across the rustic villages of Nar Phu, Manang, and Mustang valleys and witness their unique lifestyle.
- Behold the breathtaking mountain sceneries of Annapurna, Manaslu, Lamjung, and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Spend a night at the Nar Phedi Monastery, adding a cultural and spiritual touch to your adventure.
- Visit the 600-year-old Braga Gompa, Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, and Muktinath Temple.
- Acclimatization hike to Himlung Base Camp and Gangapurna Lake.
- Trudge through one of Nepal’s least crowded trekking trails, connecting deeply with nature and enjoying its calmness.
- Stroll around the streets of Pokhara and relax at the shore of Phewa Lake.
Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Route Overview
The journey to Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek begins with a scenic 9-hour drive from Kathmandu to Chamje. The following day, the walk from Chamje to Dharapani is relatively strenuous, with tons of steep staircases to climb. You’ll walk past a few teahouse settlements, including Tal and Khorte, to arrive at Dharapani.
The trail from Dharapani to Koto goes in and out of the main road under the shade of dense forest. Passing through villages like Bagarchhap and Timang, the trail offers a majestic view of Annapurna II and Mt. Manaslu.
The journey from Koto to Meta marks the gateway to the hidden land of Nar Phu Valley. Walking deep into the valley, you’ll encounter Tibetan-influenced settlements and centuries-old monasteries. You'll also experience a rustic mountain lifestyle and dramatic landscapes characterized by deep canyons and rock formations.
You’ll have the first acclimatization day of the trek at Phu village. You'll hike up to Himlung Base Camp as you prepare for the days ahead. It offers spectacular scenery of the surrounding peaks. After exploring Phu village, the route traverses towards Nar Phedi and continues towards the remote town of Nar.
Early the following day, you’ll cross the first mountain pass of the trek — Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters. Enjoy the stunning views of Annapurna II, Mt. Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak from the top. Upon descending from the pass, the trail reconnects with the classic Annapurna Circuit at Ngawal.
You’ll continue the journey around Annapurna. On your second acclimatization day at Manang, you'll visit the Gangapurna Glacier Lake. Then, the trek continues towards the upper section through Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi.
Continuing along the steep and rugged trails, you’ll cross the second mountain pass of the trek — Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. The descent leads to the pilgrimage site of Muktinath, where you’ll catch a ride to the bustling town of Jomsom.
The following day, you’ll catch an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. You’ll conclude the remarkable adventure of Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek after returning to Kathmandu from Pokhara via a tourist bus.
Why Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nepal Gateway Trekking?
- Nepal Gateway Trekking proudly stands as one of the leading companies in Nepal. We have operated Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek for over a decade. Over the years, we have strategically refined the itinerary to provide our clients with the best mountain experience and cultural immersion. Every detail in our package has been thoughtfully planned to ensure our clients have an unforgettable holiday adventure while prioritizing their safety and convenience.
- We provide all the necessary support and services at every point of the trek (from the moment you arrive at the airport until the final departure) to ensure a smooth and hassle-free holiday. The team will handle the logistics of the trek, design the itinerary, arrange transportation, and obtain necessary trekking permits for Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek.
- Nepal Gateway Trekking follows comprehensive safety standards throughout the trek, with advanced first-aid kits, stand-by emergency medical transport, strategically planned acclimatization days, and a well-paced itinerary. Our guide, porters, and on-field staff are trained in first aid, altitude sickness, and wilderness survival. Hence, they can provide critical first-aid treatment, assess emergency health conditions, and make informed decisions about evacuations.
- We make accommodation reservations (in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trekking routes) months in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience during your Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek. This initiative helps to guarantee rooms in the best hotels and teahouses along the route, avoiding last-minute issues and overcrowding, especially during peak trekking seasons. Our package includes 3-star accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a BB basis and local teahouse accommodation on the trek on a full-board basis.
- We provide an English-speaking guide with over a decade of trekking experience in the Himalayas. Most of our guides come from the same regions where they lead treks. Therefore, they have an intimate knowledge of the area, ensuring better route navigation and insightful briefings about the trail conditions, flora and fauna, mountains, and local culture.
- Nepal Gateway Trekking is fully committed to reducing the carbon footprint on mountains through responsible waste management and sustainable practices. Our guides, porters, and on-field staff are trained in responsible practices to follow “Leave No Trace” principles and reduce single-use plastics to protect the natural environment for future generations.
- As a part of the package, get a free company t-shirt and duffle bag before the trek.
This is our standard and recommended Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit Itinerary.
On your arrival day, our airport team will be at the terminal to pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. You can spend the day as you wish before meeting with team members in the evening.
Today, you have a free day in Kathmandu. After breakfast, you can visit the famous heritage sites around the Kathmandu Valley. We make permits and organize necessary arrangements.
Later in the afternoon, our guide will meet you at the hotel to check your equipment and help you rent or buy any gear you need for this trekking.
You will leave the busy streets of Kathmandu and drive to Chamje. After a few hours of driving, you can see Mt. Annapurna I and Mt. Manaslu.
You drive north through the Marsyangdi valley towards Chamje via Besi Sahar and Jagat. The route also offers beautiful views of lush green hills, terraced fields, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli.
Following the rushing Marsyangdi River, you will walk on a rocky trail and pass lovely waterfalls. You reach Tal and ascend on stone staircases towards Dharapani.
From Dharapani, the trail passes through Bagarchhap and Danaque. You pass by Timang and gradually climb to Koto village. Along the way, you can see superb views of mountains like Annapurna II and Manaslu.
Today is a little difficult and long for you. After passing the checkpoint, you cross the river and ascend through lush forests above the Phu Khola.
The route continues through woods and small settlement areas. A steep climb up the valley finally reaches the high pastures on a plateau and continues to Meta.
The trail gradually gets more remote as you will be approaching Phu Gaun. From Meta, you will be walking alongside a jagged cliff. There will be many ascents and descents.
The views will be impressive too. Phu Gaun will welcome us with stunning views of the Annapurna range.
It is an acclimatization day in Phu Gaun. You will hike to Himlung Base Camp. The hike offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and rocky peaks.
Later, you can explore the villages and old houses. You will have an amazing opportunity to photograph the locals.
You will continue the trek towards Nar Phedi. Your overnight stay will be at an ancient monastery. You will participate in their evening prayers and spend some time meditating. It will be one serene day.
The trail descends to an old bridge and contours a narrow gorge. Then, the trail goes up, relishing gorgeous scenery. From Nar's gate, pass by bamboo-topped chortens and mustard fields to Nar village.
The looming snowy peaks and colourful gompas will add more colour to the barren landscape.
Crossing Kang La pass is not very difficult; however, the long walk can exhaust you. The top of the pass offers striking views of Mt. Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Mt. Annapurna II, and many others.
The trail further descends steeply to Nagwal for the night stay.
As you move further, farming fields and meadows begin to appear. The route passes through mani walls and larger cohorts. Mountains like Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, etc., dominate the trail today.
Before reaching Manang, there will be a short steep climb.
Today, you will spend the day in Manang acclimatizing and exploring. You will hike to Gangapurna View Hill and nearby monasteries and caves.
Manang is a famous village with a cinema hall where a few selected movies are played on repeat. Movies at that height will be a great experience.
Today, you gain more elevation and reach over 4,000 m. You will walk through grasslands and meadows, and the views of mountains along the way are fantastic.
It's a short walking day, so you will have ample time to rest and soak in the landscape.
Today, the trail reaches Thorong Pheid, the base of Thorong La Pass, Nepal's highest and longest pass. You will ascend via a steep rocky route.
Another short walking day will give us enough time to relax and prepare for tomorrow's long ascent.
Today, you ascend to Thorong La Pass early in the morning to avoid strong winds and unstable weather in the daytime. The trail gets steeper and rugged, with slippery slopes to the high camp. The trail is gradual, primarily to the pass after the high camp.
The top of the pass offers jaw-dropping mountain views. Further, you drop down to Muktinath, a pilgrimage site, and drive to Jomsom. On the way, you will pass by the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge.
Today, you will take an early morning flight back to Pokhara. The flight will present aerial views of the western Himalayan mountains. After landing at Pokhara airport, you go to the hotel.
The rest of the day is free to relax and explore the tourist sites of Pokhaya, a city of lakes.
After a delicious breakfast, you will set off to Kathmandu. The drive will be relaxing. In Kathmandu, you can spend the day as you wish. Visit the local market and do some shopping.
You will be flying home today. Our team will drop you at the airport.
- All grounded transportation as per itinerary by private car.
- Three nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu, inclusive of breakfast.
- Three times meals (Breakfast/lunch/dinner) and accommodations during the trekking.
- One highly experienced English-speaking & friendly trekking guide and required porter, including their expenses.
- Nar Phu Valley trekking special permit fee.
- Annapurna and Manaslu conservation fees (Please bring two passport-size photos for permit).
- Nar Phu Valley Trekking map.
- Nepal Gateway Company T-Shirt.
- Local fresh fruits.
- First aid kit.
- Evacuation assistance, if needed.
- Government taxes.
- Office service charge.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Your travel insurance.
- Nepal entry visa. You can obtain a visa quickly upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
- Your international flight ticket to/from Kathmandu.
- Your personal nature expenses, equipment and medical kit.
- All kinds of hot and cold drinks and alcoholic beverages in trekking.
- Hot shower, internet and phone call unless it is free.
- Tipping to field staff (Tipping is not mandatory but expected).
Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
The 19-day trek package for Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit cost starts from USD 1690.00 per person. This comprehensive package includes all the necessary facilities and support, such as accommodation, transportation, and meals, to ensure a seamless and hassle-free adventure.
Most of the cost goes to the guides and porters who help you with navigation, cultural and natural insights, safety, and luggage transfer. Moreover, it accounts for administrative expenses, such as staff insurance and emergency support planning.
As part of the package, we will arrange the necessary permits to enter the restricted area of Nar Phu Valley and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit for a trek around Annapurna.
The standard package includes 3-star accommodations in Kathmandu/Pokhara and local teahouses on the trek. However, you can upgrade your accommodations to luxury lodges in a few places for a few extra hundred dollars. These lodges will have comfortable bedding, attached bathrooms, high-speed internet, in-room charging facilities, etc.
Additionally, you can upgrade your road transportation (Pokhara to Kathmandu). You can upgrade from a tourist bus to a private vehicle or commercial flight for more comfort. It’ll cost an extra USD 200 if you choose a private car and USD 200 to 250 for a flight option.
If you’re planning a Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek in a group, we also provide a group package option. We offer a special discount of USD 60 to 120 per person, depending on the group size.
Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permit and Cost
You must acquire two permits for Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit Trekking
Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit (NPRAP)
Since Nar Phu Valley is in a Restricted Zone, you need a special restricted area permit to access the region. This permit is designed to ensure the safety of trekkers and protect the delicate ecosystem. It also helps to regulate sustainable tourism and preserve the centuries-old cultural heritage of Nar Phu Valley.
Where can you get the Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit (NPRAP)?
Ans - You can acquire the Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit (NPRAP) from the Department of Immigration in Kalikasthan, Kathmandu. The price of this special trekking permit varies by trekking season. It costs USD 100 during the peak season of September to November and USD 75 for the rest of the year.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)
Another permit you need is the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP). The conservation entry permit fee significantly supports environmental conservation by protecting wildlife habitats and fragile ecosystems. Moreover, the permit fees contribute to tourism sustainability by funding trail maintenance and infrastructure improvements. They also contribute to waste management programs to enhance the trekking experience in the Annapurna region.
Where can you get the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)?
Ans - The ACAP permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the park entry gate in Besisahar. It costs NPR 3,000 for foreign trekkers and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals (including tax).
How difficult is Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit?
Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit is a strenuous trek, considering its high altitude, remote location, and rugged terrain. The trail does not require technical skills. But it includes rocky paths, narrow ridges, steep ascents, and less-maintained sections, adding to the challenge.
On the 19-day Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek, you’ll spend 10 successive nights over 3,000 meters. Moreover, you’ll have to cross two mountain passes above 5,000 meters, i.e., Kang La Pass (5,320 meters) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). At such elevation, the air pressure and oxygen level drop significantly, increasing the risk of high altitude sickness.
You can expect to walk 6 to 8 hours a day with an average ascent of around 500 meters. The Nar Phu Valley trail demands high physical fitness and prior trekking experience. Although the entire route is navigable, the remoteness of the regions adds to the challenge. Until the trek adjoins the route of Annapurna Circuit, you must fit in with basic accommodations and amenities in the Nar Phu Valley.
If you plan to trek to Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit during the winter, make sure you’re prepared for extra setbacks. The weather conditions often get extreme in the upper sections of the trek. It will be excessively cold temperatures, strong winds, and snowy trails.
Crossing Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass can be extremely difficult with excessive snowfall. Poor visibility, occasional snowstorms, and freezing temperatures make the trek very difficult in the winter.
Training for Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek
Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek demands proper preparation and a training plan to ensure a successful experience. Its challenging terrain, long-distance walking, and high altitude demand high-level physical fitness, mental resilience, and recovery time.
The level and intensity of training can depend on your fitness level. However, we recommend you start your fitness training 8 to 10 weeks before the trek.
Conditioning Hikes
The best way to prepare for Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek is by mimicking the challenges you’ll likely endure during the trek. Find a decent hiking trail around your hometown and schedule weekly or bi-weekly hikes on terrain.
We recommend carrying a backpack and counting elevation gain to simulate real-life conditions. Start slowly with 3 to 5 kilometres and gradually increase the distance, intensity, elevation, and pack weight over time. This training helps you feel comfortable in your trekking gear, including backpack, boots, and clothing. It also helps to build your stamina, fitness, and mental readiness to endure long-distance walks.
If there aren’t any decent trails, you can practice conditioning hikes by climbing up and down your home stairs with a weighted pack.
Cardio Training
Cardiovascular fitness is crucial for multi-day trekking at high altitudes and varying terrains. We suggest steady-state cardio exercises such as brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming, or rope jumping. These exercises help build the stamina required to tackle steep ascents and descents.
Consistent cardio training enhances lung capacity and overall heart health. It is essential for reducing oxygen levels and air pressure at higher altitudes.
We recommend aiming for 4 to 5 cardio sessions per week. You can start with slow to moderate-intensity workouts of 30 minutes and gradually increase to hour-long sessions.
Strength Training
Building strength, especially in your core, leg muscles and upper body, is crucial for enhancing stability, refining balance, and preventing injuries.
Strong legs help you navigate rough, uneven trails for an extended period with less fatigue and aches. A strong core and upper body also help improve body posture and balance the weight distribution while carrying a backpack.
To strengthen your leg muscles, focus on calf raises, step-ups, squats, stair masters, and lunges. Likewise, focus on core exercises like planks, leg raises, deadlifts, Russian twists, and upper body exercises.
We recommend adding 3 to 4 weekly strength sessions. You can perform three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions for each exercise.
Stretching Workouts
The rugged and uneven terrains on Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit demand good flexibility and balance. Hence, your training regimen should incorporate dynamic stretching, yoga practices, and balance exercises such as leg swings and hamstring stretches.
These exercises will enhance your flexibility, joint mobility, and overall agility, reducing the likelihood of injuries. Moreover, regular stretching significantly improves blood circulation, aids muscle recovery, and supplies oxygen-rich blood to your body.
We recommend you add 3 to 4 stretching sessions per week into your routine to prepare for the trek.
Altitude Preparation
The Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek requires crossing two mountain passes over 5,000 meters: Kang La Pass (5,320 meters) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). The high-altitude nature of the trek demands proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.
You can not simulate high altitude while training for the trek. However, adding endurance workouts to improve your aerobic capacity and practising deep breathing techniques can help in altitude preparation.
We recommend spending a few days at a moderate altitude before heading to the Himalayas. This will help your body adjust to the elevation and thin air in the atmosphere.
Rest and Recovery
Rest and recovery are vital for any successful training regimen, and this is no different! You should allow your body to repair and strengthen with proper rest and recovery sessions.
We recommend including at least one or two days of rest per week. During rest days, you can engage in light activities like walking or yoga to stay active. These recovery sessions are crucial for boosting your overall performance, restoring energy, repairing muscles, and preventing burnout.
In addition to these sessions, you must prioritize at least 7 hours of sound sleep, stay hydrated, and fuel your body with a balanced diet.
Nar Phu Valley is located in one of the restricted areas in Nepal. The valley lies in the Manang district.
fit individual with previous trekking experience can trek to Nar Phu Valley. The trail is very remote and off-beat, so proper preparation is needed for a smooth journey.
Yes, the Nar Phu Valley trek is safe to do. As it falls under a restricted area, you cannot do this trek solo, so you will be accompanied by a professional, reliable guide. Be careful of altitude sickness and steep parts of the trail.
You can book the Nar Phu Valley trek by sending us a booking request. After the acknowledgement of the booking request, one of our travel consultants will get in touch with you and assist you during the trip confirmation procedure.
No, you cannot do Nar Phu Valley trekking alone. The trail goes through the restricted area of Nepal, and as per the rules, you have to trek through a locally registered trekking company in a group of two people (not including guide & porter).
The closer of the valley to foreign travelers until 2003, the ancient cultural heritage of the locals, distinct mountain views, and the less-crowded off-bet trekking route makes the Nar Phu Valley trek very special.
You can see mountains like the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, Tilicho Peak, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Gangapurna, Mt. Hiunchuli, and several other western Himalayan mountains during the Nar Phu Valley trekking.