NAR PHU VALLEY TREK

  • DURATION20 Days
  • DIFFICULTY-LEVELStrenuous
  • GROUP SIZE2-14
  • MAX ALTITUDE5416

Highlights

  • Visit monuments in Kathmandu
  • Trek through dense forests
  • Explore Nar & Phu villages
  • Spend a night in picturesque Manang village
  • Get to see the lifestyle of the mountain people
  • Cross Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass
  • Visit Muktinath Temple
  • Witness panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains and gorgeous landscapes
  • Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

Trip Overview

Nar Phu Valley Trek offers the ultimate adventure and wilderness trekking experience. Tucked between Manaslu and Annapurna region, Nar Phu Valley is a hidden gem, explored and appreciated by a few.

Nar Phu Valley Trektraverses the remotest and hidden part of the Annapurna region, Nar and Phu villages. Opened to foreign trekkers in 2002, Nar Phu Valley has yet not seen a huge flow of trekkers in the region. As the valley is more secluded from the famous trails and requires an expensive restricted area permit, trekking here is challenging. The trek offers an extraordinary venture into rich ancient cultural heritage thriving apart from the world to this date.

Only a handful of trekkers every year explore the wonders of the Nar Phu Valley area, which make the region relatively untouched and unspoiled. Nar Phu Valley Trekking is perfect for travelers looking for the less-crowded trail and intimate venture in the Himalayas. The trail is strenuous and demands previous trekking experience. The trail combines high passes and pastures, dense forests, narrow canyons, remote villages, glaciers, amazing rock formations, gompas, and Tibetan Buddhism.

During the Nar Phu Valley Trek, you will cross two passes - Kang La Pass (5,306 m) and Thorong La Pass (5,306 m). Crossing both of these passes is strenuous and offers incredible views from the top of the passes. Yes, you read it right. We have added beautiful Manang village and Thorong La Pass to our Nar Phu Valley Trek itinerary. Likewise, the trail takes you to the holy Muktinath Temple and passes the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge. Walk through lovely apple orchards and narrow alleyways & white-washed houses to reach Jomsom.

Major Attractions of Nar Phu Valley Trek

Visit monuments in Kathmandu

Go on a guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu that leads to historical monuments like Boudhnath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Swaymbhunath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. If you get a few more hours to explore, visit the Garden of Dreams and Narayanhiti Palace located nearby Thamel.

Trek through dense forests

Most of the trail goes through dense forests of pine, maple, juniper, oak, fir, rhododendron, etc. You will cross many rivers and streams over suspension & wooden bridges. Likewise, get to see diverse flora and fauna along the trail.

Explore Nar & Phu villages

Nar Village is resided by 300 permanent residents, whereas Phu has 200 permanent residents. Situated above the tree line, both these villages stand isolated in the winter season. The locals descend to the lower villages to spend the winter as it gets extremely cold. In Phu village, you will visit the ancient Tashi Lhakhang monastery, whereas Nar village takes you on a short hike to Himlung Base Camp.

Spend a night in picturesque Manang village

Manang village is located at 3,519 meters and offers gorgeous landscapes. It is a large village with museums, shops, and a theater. You will visit Braga monastery while trekking towards Manang. Trekkers usually spend acclimatization day in this village and go on short hikes to places like Gangapurna Lake, caves, etc.

Get to see the lifestyle of the mountain people

During the trek, you pass by many big and small villages like Chamje, Dharapani, Karte, Koto, Meta, Dharamshala, Phu, Nar, Ngawal, Manang, Yak Kharka, Tenki, Kagbeni, Jomsom, etc. Passing by these villages, you will come across the culture and traditions of people from different communities. Get to see the different lifestyles and practices of the locals of the mountains. Likewise, visit ancient monasteries and stupas along the way.

Cross Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass

Kang La Pass stands 5,306 meters from the sea level located in the Manang district. From the Nar village, the trail heads towards the top of the pass. Crossing the pass, you will join the Annapurna Circuit trail and continue to the highest pass in the world, Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Both of these passes are challenging to cross and offer phenomenal views from the top.

Visit Muktinath Temple

Situated at 3,800 meters, Muktinath Temple is one of the major Hindu temples. This temple also holds significant importance for Buddhists. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has many other small temples around the premises for other deities. Likewise, Muktinath Temple is one of the highest temples in the world, visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.

Witness panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains and gorgeous landscapes

Nar Phu Valley Trek offers excellent views of numerous Himalayan mountains like Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m), Himlung Himal (7,140 m), Mt. Fishtail, (6,993 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Pisang Peak (6,091 m), etc. Likewise, you will get to see glaciers, streams, hills, and terraced fields along the way.

Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

The flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is around 15 minutes long. You will get to see stunning aerial views of Annapurna Range (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri Range (8,167 m) during the flight.

Itinerary

Open All DaysClose All

Say hello to our team members at the airport and drive to the hotel. They will help you with check-in. Get rest and sleep early today, as tomorrow onwards, it is going to be an adventurous ride for you.

Have some pleasant time in the bustling streets of Thamel and dine as per your desire.

  • Hotel
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

Today, the day begins early, and you will meet with the tour guide. He/she will take you on a guided tour of different UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Later in the day, have a small meet and greet with the trek guide and go on shopping for trek gears if anything is needed. You will do the final packing for the trek and get ready to leave early the next day.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

Wake up early and have breakfast. Later, leave the hotel and begin the long drive to Bhulbhule. During the drive, you can see beautiful scenery of lush green hills, rivers, waterfalls, terraced fields, and small settlement areas. Passing by Besishahar and Nagdi, finally arrive at Bhulbhule.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 845
  • Bhulbhule

The trail from Bhulbhule gradually ascends towards Chamje. Trek through small villages along the hillside, enjoying calming landscapes. On the way, you can see views of lush green hills and snow-capped mountains.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 1430
  • Chamje

Cross a suspension bridge and follow an uphill steep & slippery route to Sattale. The trail then descends along the rocky path to a grassy riverbank and leads you to Tal.

From here, walk on the rugged trail and ascend through the steep forested path to Karte. Further, the trek passes by beautiful waterfalls and reaches Dharapani.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 1860
  • Dharapani

The trail enters Nar Phu Valley today. From Dharapani, trek through lush forests of fir & pine. The trail passes by old monasteries and remote villages to Bargarchhap.

You can see stunning views of Mt. Annapurna II and Mt. Manaslu on the way. Continue trekking through the pine forest and reach Koto.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 2600
  • Koto

Before leaving Koto, register the restricted area permit at the police check post and begin trekking along the bank of Soti Khola. The trail goes through dense forests of pine and crosses several suspension bridges & waterfalls.

From Dharamshala, the woods become thinner, and the views get clearer. Ascend steeply through the forested path to reach Meta. Views of Mt. Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal will accompany you.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 3560
  • Meta

The trail ascends and descends and crosses a suspension bridge to the deserted fields of Chyaku. Continue climbing, relishing breath-taking views of the Annapurna range, Himlung Himal, and Pisang Peak to Kyang.

From here, you pass by the Phu Khola and reach Phu village.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4080
  • Phu Gaun

It is an acclimatization day in Phu Gaon. To benefit most of this day, you will explore around the village and go on a small excursion to Tashi Lhakhang monastery.

This monastery is part of the top 108 monasteries around the world. Spend time with locals and have a closer glimpse of their daily lifestyle.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4080
  • Phu Gaun

It is going to be a long walk from Phu Gaon to Nar Gaon. The trail descends back towards Meta and turns off at Nar Phedi. From here, ascend gradually following a windy path to Nar. On the way, pass by chortens and witness the lovely landscape.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4200
  • Nar Village

Another rest day in Nar village for acclimatization. Go on a hike to the Himlung Base Camp, from where you can see excellent views of the western Himalayan Mountains. Later, spend the day chit-chatting with locals and observing them doing their daily chores.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4200
  • Nar Village

Today, you will cross Kang La Pass. The trail ascends along the lateral moraine of Temdenzon Khola, passing by yak pastures. Enjoying tempting views of Pisang Peak, reach Jhombu Kharka-also known as Kang La Phedi.

Further, follow the uphill trail to the top of the pass that welcomes you with spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains. Further, trek on a downhill path for another three hours to reach Ngawal.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 3660
  • Ngawal

From Nagwal, the trail descends till Braga village. Here, you will visit the ancient Brage monastery and continue trekking towards Manang. Later in the day, go on a hike to Chunker Viewpoint to witness breath-taking views of Annapurna Range, Tilicho Peak, Thorong Peak, Chulo Peak, and many others. Also, hike to Gangapurna Lake and Cave Gompa (4,500 m).

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 3540
  • Manang

Cross a stream and ascend to Tenki village. The trail heads out of Marshyangdi valley and ascends towards Jarsang Khola Valley. Gradually ascends through pastures and juniper trees. Pass by Gunsan village and pastures. You will cross a wooden bridge and ascend to Yak Kharka.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4050
  • Yak Kharka

Leaving Yak Kharka, the trail moves towards Thorong Phedi. You will ascend to Ledar and continue trekking, enjoying great views of Mt. Gangapurna, Mt. Annapurna II, Mt. Hiunchuli, and others.

Some trekkers prefer to ascend to Upper Phedi or High Camp, which makes it easier for them to cross the pass.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4450
  • Thorong Phedi

Today is an exciting day as you cross the highest pass in Nepal, Thorong La Pass. The trail to the top of the Pass is strenuous. You have to begin ascending early in the morning, facing freezing air and high altitude.

Upon reaching the top of the Pass, you will see gorgeous views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Further, trek down to Muktinath to spend the night.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 5416
  • Muktinath

Before leaving Muktinath, you will visit the main temple and its premises. It is one of the major Hindu temples, visited by pilgrims from all around the temple. Later, begin trekking towards Jomsom, enjoying superb views of Mt. Dhaulagiri. The trail goes along the Kali Gandaki river and crosses many streams. Reach Kagbeni and pass by narrow alleyways & lovely apple orchards to reach Jomsom.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 2720
  • Jomsom

Take an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. The flight offers phenomenal views of the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri range. The flight will be around 15 minutes long and lands at Pokhara.

Head to the hotel and spend the rest of the day in this beautiful City of Lakes, Pokhara. Visit tourist sites and spend the evening around Phewa Lake, soaking the tranquility of the lake and pleasant sunset.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 830
  • Pokhara

Pokhara Kathmandu drive is long and beautiful. Get to see amazing sceneries on the way. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will transfer you to the hotel. You can spend the rest of the day as per your wish.

Explore the local market and shopping. In the evening, meet with the team members over farewell dinner.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

Today, you fly back to your home. Our airport representative will help you with check-out and move you to the airport.

  • B

What's Included

  • Airport Transfers
  • 3 night hotel in Kathmandu
  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara
  • 15 nights’ accommodation in lodge/guest house on trek
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • Meals on trek (19 breakfast, 15 lunches and 15 dinners)
  • Conservation entry permits, special trekking permit and TIMS permit
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu –Bhulbhule and from Pokhara to Kathmandu by bus
  • Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • An experienced Guide and porters (1 porter for 2 peoples)
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets if necessary

What's Excluded

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not stated in the itinerary
  • All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic Drinks
  • International airfare
  • Tips for the guide, porter & driver
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Useful Information

Extra nights in Kathmandu for pre and post the Nar Phu Valley Trek

The extra night hotel in Kathmandu for pre or post Nar Phu Valley Trek is available at US $55.00 per night that includes breakfast and airport transfers. Let us know if you are planning to arrive in Nepal earlier or stay in Nepal later than the scheduled dates and need extra nights. 

Electricity and Battery Charge on Nar Phu Valley Trek

Electricity is available in Kathmandu and most of the villages of Nar Phu Valley Trek to charges your camera/mobile batteries. However, you may have to pay a little fee to recharge these batteries.

We strongly suggest you bring spare/extra batteries to use in case of unavailability.

Guide and crew for Nar Phu Valley Trek

We provide a tourist guide for a day tour in Kathmandu on day 02 and a trained trekking guide for the whole trek who handles the logistics and guide you and your team on Nar Phu Valley Trek.

We provide Sherpa (assistant guide) when there are 8 or more members in the group. We also provide porters to carry your main luggage, there is 1 porter for every 2 members and a porter carries about 20 - 22kg, which means 10 - 11 KG from each trekker.