On our 19-day Nar Phu Valley Trek, we will trek off the famous Annapurna Circuit into the restricted Nar Phu Valley, where we will enjoy the pristine culture of the locals and unspoiled mountain views.
Your Gateway to Himalayas
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit
Trip at a Glance
Duration19 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
DestinationNepal
Maximum Altitude5,416 m
AccommodationHotel/Tea House
Starts/EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeMarch to May and September to November
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit is suited between the Damodar Kunda and the Annapurna Circuit (some parts). Nar Phu Valley Trek is a restricted area tea house trek. The Nar Phu Valley opened to visitors in 2003, much later than other parts of the Himalayas. Thanks to that, the region offers adventure lovers a raw, off-beat trekking experience and a less crowded trekking route. Untouched by modernity and far away from any modern conventions, Nar Phu Valley Trekking is an incredible venture.
The Nar and Phu village locals have cultures and traditions similar to Tibetans. Several monasteries along the Nar Phu Valley Trek route, including the Tashi Lhakhang, resemble Tibetan art and architecture. Moreover, the latter part of the 19-day Nar Phu Valley Trek presents the mixed cultural heritage of locals from different communities.
Check out our Nar Phu Valley Trek map for a straightforward representation of the trekking route. The trail passes through medieval remote villages, narrow canyons, lush forests, and glaciers. You will encounter unique rock formations and heavenly mountain scenery.
You can also extend our 19-day Nar Phu Valley trek to gorgeous Tilicho Lake. Tilicho Lake is the second-highest lake in the world. Or, opt for a short Nar Phu Valley trek with us and custom design the Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary.
The significant things you experience in Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Cross Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass.
- For challenge lovers, the trial is off-beat.
- It is a less crowded trekking route, with unique rock formations and desert-like scenery.
- Explore one restricted area in the Himalayas, the Nar Phu Valley.
- The trek further joins the Annapurna Circuit route.
- Visit the ancient Tashi Lhakhang monastery and Muktinath Temple.
- Get to see the unique lifestyle of the natives in the Nar and Phu villages.
- Witness breathtaking mountain landscapes.
The Views you see during the Nar Phu Valley Trekking with Annapurna Circuit
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit is all about breathtaking mountain landscapes. The trial adds rocky hills and desert-like scenery, too. Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek is the treasure box for the most pleasing views of the western Himalayan mountains like Annapurna Range (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri Range (8,167 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), etc.
How difficult is doing the Nar Phu Valley Trek Route?
The Nar Phu Valley Trek Route is difficult and only recommended to experienced trekkers who are okay with long walks of 6 to 8 hours on rugged terrain. The trek crosses two high passes: Kang La Pass (5,306 m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). The route is steep and uneven in most places.
The trekking area is remote and has no tourist infrastructure like other famous trekking routes in the Annapurna region. The limited facilities make the Nar Phu Valley Trek more tedious and demand mental preparation.
What do we offer in our Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek package?
Our Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek is the perfect package for challenge lovers and allows trekkers to sit back and indulge in tranquil vistas. We have added the Thorong La pass to the package, which means you will be exploring this part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, too. One package, double the experience.
The treks we organize are usually different from others. We are always ready to explore the untouched parts of the Himalayas at the request of our guests and offer tailor-made private treks. Our experienced, friendly trekking guides will lead the team and ensure everyone completes the journey safely.
Itinerary
This is our standard and recommended Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit Itinerary.
Trip PlanExpand all
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.
If the above itinerary doesn’t meet your needs, we can design a Tailor-Made Program based on your travel plans and requirements,Reach our travel experts.
Cost Includes
- 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 fruit
- First aid kit
- Evacuation assistance, if needed
- Government taxes
- Office service charge
Cost Excludes
- 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)
Good To Know
Altitude Sickness in Nar Phu Valley Trekking with Annapurna Circuit
To avoid altitude sickness during the Nar Phu Valley Trekking with Annapurna Circuit, drink plenty of water and do not consume any dehydrating substances like alcohol and cigarettes. The trail takes you above 5000 meters, so you must acclimate well enough.
Our Nar Phu Valley Trek itinerary is well-designed and includes the needed acclimatization days. The package includes beautiful resting spots and a gentle increase in elevation every day.
Symptoms: insomnia, headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, nausea, etc.
The Best Time for Annapurna Circuit and Nar Phu Valley Trek
The spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November) are the best times for Annapurna Circuit and Nar Phu Valley Trek experience. The clear sky and pleasant climate are all you need to keep pushing yourself to move forward. These seasons have the most stable weather and the views are just breathtaking.
How do you prepare for the trek to Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit?
To prepare for the Trek to Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit, we suggest exercising and going on a long walk with a bag pack weighing around 5 kg. This will help you increase your long-walking ability and build stamina. Some other activities are swimming, running, cycling, hiking, etc.
Your body should be physically ready to walk on rough uphill terrain. Work on endurance, strength, and stamina overall. At the same time, prepare your mind to deal with isolation and survive without modern comforts.
Nar Phu Valley Trekking Solo/Private/Group
Nar Phu Valley Trekking does not allow solo travellers. So, you cannot do Nar Phu Valley Trek alone. However, you can enjoy tranquil walking on our private trek with one of your loved ones.
Similarly, you can join our group, Nar Phu Valley Trek, as a solo traveller. Check out the departure dates to see which time suits you. If you have any requests, let us know via email or text.
Trekking to Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Permit Cost
The trekking to Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit demands the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit. Only government-registered trekking companies can help you obtain the RAP.
RAP costs USD 90 per week per person from September to November. Likewise, the permit costs USD 75 per week per person from December to August. The ACAP permit costs NPR 3000 per person.
Last Minute Booking for Trek to Nar Phu Valley
Please send us your details and 100% of the trip cost for last-minute Trek to Nar Phu Valley bookings. As we make every reservation in a rush, we'll try to book you the best accommodations. Do know that bookings at the last minute are not refundable.
Travel Tips for Nar Phu Valley Trekking with Annapurna Circuit
Accommodation: The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a tea house trek. The accommodation on this trekking route is the most basic. Do not accept anything other than a twin shared room and a few other types of furniture. We advise you to buy/rent a sleeping bag in Thamel.
Food: Meals generally consist of dal bhat tarkari, momo, noodles, thukpa, Tibetan bread, soup, porridge, etc. The food menu is quite simple in the Nar Phu Valley. Once you join Manang, the trail ahead will have much more varied food.
ATM: The last chance to withdraw money is in Besi Sahar. You'll need spare cash to buy drinks and snacks. Moreover, sometimes you may want to purchase services like internet, hot showers, etc. These services cost additional money that is not covered in our Nar Phu Valley Trek cost.
Charging: Most teahouses have charging stations in the reception area. Trekkers are allowed to charge their mobile phones and cameras there. We recommend that you carry an extra battery with you.
Luggage: Before leaving for trekking, you can store your suitcases and other extra luggage in the hotel's locker room free of charge. Each trekker has a 10 kg weight limit for their main luggage and a 5 kg limit for a bag pack.
Personal Expenses: Budget USD 12 to USD 15 daily during the trek to buy services. Likewise, shopping, international flights, tipping, etc., are other things not covered in the package cost.
Travel Insurance: The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a very remote trek and involves unseen risks like altitude sickness, etc. You will be crossing high passes and exploring a less visited trekking route. Therefore, we request that you get well-covered travel insurance (with air evacuation and medical bills) for the journey.
FAQs
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.
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