Do I need a special permit for Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Yes. Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area, so trekkers must obtain a special trekking permit. Permits can only be arranged through a government-registered trekking company, and you must travel with a licensed trekking guide.

What is the best time to trek Nar Phu Valley?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During these months, the weather is generally clear, with moderate temperatures and spectacular mountain views.

What level of fitness is required?

The trek is moderately challenging to strenuous, involving high-altitude trekking and long walking days, including a pass at 5,320m (Kang La). Trekkers should have good physical fitness, prior trekking experience, and proper acclimatization.

Nar Phu Valley Trek And Kang la Pass Trekking

Located in a restricted region of Nepal, the Nar Phu Valley Trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Open to foreign trekkers since 2003, visiting this region requires special permits and adherence to certain regulations. All trekkers must travel with a government-licensed guide and obtain their trekking permits through a registered trekking company.

Nar Phu Valley remains one of the most pristine and untouched areas of the Himalayas, making it an ideal destination for adventurers seeking authentic experiences. The region is home to Tibetan communities, offering a rare opportunity to experience traditional Tibetan culture firsthand. Beyond its cultural richness, the valley is famous for breathtaking mountain views, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, and Lamjung Himal, making it a paradise for trekkers and photographers alike.

Accomodation
Hotel/Tea houses.
Best Season
Autumn/ Spring
Maximum Altitude
5540m
Transportation
Fly/Car/Jeep/ Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Nar Phu Valley Trek begins with a scenic drive from Besisahar to Dharapani. From Dharapani, the trek starts towards Koto, where we leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail and venture onto the off-the-beaten-path route to Nar Phu Valley.

From Koto, we trek to Meta and then to Phu, where we spend 2 nights exploring the untouched village and take an optional excursion to Himlung Base Camp. After Phu, the trek continues to Nar, spending another 2 nights to discover its traditional villages and historic monasteries.

From Nar, we trek via Kang La Pass to Nawal, and then continue to Manang, enjoying stunning mountain views along the way. The trek concludes with a trek from Manang to Chame, followed by a scenic drive back to Kathmandu.

Trip Highlights

Cross Thorong La and Kang La in one hike, both of which provide breathtaking views of the Annapurna.
Visit historic pilgrimage places including Muktinath Temple and Tashi Lhakhang Gompa.
Trek through the portion of the Tibetan plateau that touches Nepal.
Discover Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
Explore Buddhist, Tibetan, and Mongolian cultures and lifestyles.
Unknown valleys covered in alpine forests, rough terrain, deep river gorges, and a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Enjoy the beauty of Mt. Manaslu, Annapurna II, Gangarpurna, Himlung Himal, Tilicho Peak, Peak 29..
Visit Sacred Tashi Lakhang Monastery in Phu which is listed out of the 108 World’s Great Buddhist Monasteries.
Visit Sacred Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu
Stay Overnight at Nar Phedi Monastery with Monks & Witness the Ruined Villages of Khampas.
Enjoy Trekking to The Lost Villages of Nar and Phu in Manang District.
Enjoy Nepali Food, Hospitality and Culture.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, at 1,400 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and rest. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore nearby areas or relax at the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome briefing about the trek, including details on permits, itinerary, and safety measures. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 02 :

Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing (1,400m)

Spend the day exploring the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kathmandu Valley. Visit iconic sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, where ancient architecture and vibrant local life create unforgettable experiences. Learn about Nepal’s traditions, art, and spirituality while enjoying the bustling city atmosphere.

Day 03 :

Drive to Besisahar (760m) & Jeep to Dharapani (1,860m)

After breakfast, depart Kathmandu for Besisahar (760m), the starting point of your trek. Enjoy a scenic drive along winding mountain roads, passing rivers, terraced fields, and charming villages.

From Besisahar, continue by jeep to Dharapani (1,860m), a gateway to the Annapurna region. The journey offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, lush forests, and towering Himalayan peaks. Arrive in Dharapani, settle into your lodge, and rest for the night in preparation for the trek.

Day 04 :

Trek from Dharapani (1,860m) to Koto (2,600m)

Begin your trek from Dharapani, following scenic trails lined with lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages. As you ascend, enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges.

Reach Koto (2,600m), a small village that serves as the gateway to the Nar Phu Valley. This is where you leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail and enter the off-the-beaten-path Nar Phu route. Settle into your lodge, soak in the surrounding mountain scenery, and rest for the night.

Day 05 :

Trek from Koto (2,600m) to Meta (3,560m)

Today, the trek gradually ascends from Koto into the heart of the Nar Phu Valley. The trail winds through scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and alpine forests, offering glimpses of local life along the way.

Arrive at Meta (3,560m), a small, serene village surrounded by towering peaks. Take time to enjoy the stunning mountain views and the peaceful atmosphere of this remote region. Overnight stay in Meta.

Day 06 :

Trek from Meta (3,560m) to Phu Village (4,080m)

Continue your journey deeper into the Nar Phu Valley, trekking from Meta to the remote Phu Village. The trail passes through rocky landscapes, alpine meadows, and traditional settlements, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Arrive at Phu Village (4,080m), one of the most untouched and culturally rich villages in the region. Spend the evening exploring its ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan-style houses, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Overnight stay in Phu.

Day 07 :

Acclimatization Day in Phu Village (4,080m)

Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Phu Village to help your body adjust to the high altitude. Use this day to explore the village, interact with locals, and visit ancient monasteries to learn about Tibetan culture and traditions.

For those interested in a short trek, you can take an optional excursion to nearby viewpoints to enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks such as Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho. This day helps prepare you for the higher passes ahead while giving you a chance to fully appreciate the peaceful, untouched beauty of Phu Village.

Day 08 :

Trek from Phu Village (4,080m) to Nar Phedi (3,490m)

Today, the trek descends from Phu Village to Nar Phedi, passing through stunning alpine landscapes, narrow valleys, and small traditional settlements. Along the way, enjoy views of Himalayan peaks and experience the tranquility of this remote region.

Arrive at Nar Phedi (3,490m), a peaceful stop before continuing to Nar Village. Take time to rest, enjoy the surrounding scenery, and interact with the local people. Overnight stay in Nar Phedi.

Day 09 :

Trek from Nar Phedi (3,490m) to Nar Village (4,150m)

Today, the trek ascends from Nar Phedi into the heart of Nar Village, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks. The trail passes through beautiful valleys, rugged terrain, and traditional Tibetan settlements, offering a glimpse into the unique local culture.

Arrive at Nar Village (4,150m), a historic village known for its ancient monasteries and traditional stone houses. Spend the evening exploring the village, learning about local customs, and enjoying the serene atmosphere. Overnight stay in Nar Village.

Day 10 :

Trek from Nar Village (4,150m) to Ngawal (3,660m) via Kang La Pass (5,320m)

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. You will ascend from Nar Village to the Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters, where panoramic views of Himalayan giants including Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak await. Crossing this high pass is a thrilling experience, offering breathtaking scenery and a true sense of adventure.

After enjoying the views at the pass, the trail descends to Ngawal Village (3,660m), a charming settlement with traditional stone houses and a peaceful atmosphere. Rest here and recover from the day’s exertion while soaking in the surrounding mountain landscapes. Overnight stay in Ngawal.

Day 11 :

Trek from Ngawal (3,660m) to Manang (3,540m)

Today, the trek continues through the beautiful Nar-Phu region, descending gently from Ngawal to Manang. The trail passes through open valleys, alpine landscapes, and small settlements, with stunning views of peaks like Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak along the way.

Arrive in Manang (3,540m), a key stop on the Annapurna Circuit and a hub for trekkers. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, visiting local monasteries, and preparing for higher-altitude treks ahead. Overnight stay in Manang.

Day 12 :

Trek from Manang (3,540m) to Yak Kharka (4,050m)

Today, the trail gradually ascends from Manang toward Yak Kharka, passing through picturesque alpine meadows, grazing lands, and traditional settlements. Along the way, enjoy stunning panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and other Himalayan giants.

Arrive at Yak Kharka (4,050m), a peaceful settlement known for its yak pastures and scenic surroundings. This is a great place to rest and acclimatize further for higher passes ahead. Overnight stay in Yak Kharka.

Day 13 :

Trek from Yak Kharka (4,050m) to Thorong High Camp (4,925m)

Today, the trek ascends steadily from Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp, passing through stunning alpine landscapes, rocky ridges, and glacial valleys. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of Annapurna, Tilicho Peak, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Arrive at Thorong High Camp (4,925m), a crucial stop for acclimatization before the Thorong La Pass crossing. Take the evening to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the early morning summit. Overnight stay at Thorong High Camp.

Day 14 :

Trek from Thorong High Camp (4,925m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,760m) and on to Jomsom (2,720m)

Today is the highlight of the trek—crossing the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Begin early from Thorong High Camp, ascending gradually to the pass while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

After reaching the pass, descend to the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,760m), a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. From Muktinath, continue descending to Jomsom (2,720m), the administrative hub of the Mustang region, passing through charming villages, terraced fields, and rugged mountain landscapes.

Day 15 :

Flight from Jomsom (2,720m) to Pokhara (822m)

After breakfast, take a short scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, descending from the high Himalayas to the lush Pokhara Valley. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri ranges, as well as the winding Kali Gandaki River below.

Arrive in Pokhara (822m), a serene lakeside city known for its natural beauty. Spend the rest of the day relaxing, exploring Phewa Lake, or strolling around the vibrant lakeside area. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 16 :

Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Reflect on the incredible journey through the Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna region, the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and the rich Tibetan culture you experienced along the trek.

Bid farewell to Nepal, taking with you unforgettable memories of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Pickup and Drop off from the Airport - Hotel by private vehicle.
Muktinath to Tatopani by local transport.
Pokhara to Kathmandu on a tourist bus.
Birethanti (Trek ends) to Pokhara by private transport.
Teahouse/Lodges accommodation during the trek.
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
Nar Phu valley restricted area permits fee.
Jomsom to Muktinath flight.
All ground transportation is on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trek leader.
Assistant guide for group 10 or above.
Rescue operations arrangement in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance).
Guide and porter costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee.
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader).
Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day.
All government, local taxes, and official expenses.

Cost Excludes

International flight costs.
Excess baggage charges (limit is 9kg per Person).
Nepal entry visa fees are required on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.
All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey.
Lunch and dinner in Pokhara.
Extra night accommodations, meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival or late departure, or early return from the trek.
Personal expenses - shopping, snacks, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, shower,
Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery recharge costs, extra porters.
Personal clothing and gear.
Travel insurance which has to covers emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation is compulsory.
Tips for guides and porters.
Additional costs or delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, like landslides.
Bad weather conditions, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness.
Change of government policy, strikes, mass movements.

Nar Phu Valley Trek And Kang la Pass Trekking

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs