The Nar Phu Valley trek takes you to the remote villages of Nar and Phu in the Annapurna region. The Nar Phu Valley trek only opened in 2003 and is Nepal's most untouched and beautiful regions.
The 15-day Nar Phu Valley trek will take you to several high passes, remote villages, pine forests, narrow canyons, ancient Buddhist gompa, and majestic mountains. The journey starts with an 8-10-hour drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and a further drive to Jagat. The trek starts from Jagat.
Nar Phu Valley trek is considered moderate to challenging because of its elevation and trek duration. The highest elevation on the trek is Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,764ft) which is the most challenging part of the trek. You will also pass through another high pass, Kang La Pass (5,322m / 17,460ft). The trail involves steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and sometimes narrow and exposed sections.
You must choose favorable trekking conditions to get the most out of the trek. The best time to trek Nar Phu Valley is the Spring season from March to May and the Autumn season from September to November. Depending on the season, you need to adjust the packing things you bring to the trek. You should only bring the essential things on the trek.
Trek Facts
- Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging
- Max Elevation: Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,764ft)
- Best Time: Mar, Apr, May, Sept, Oct & Nov
- Transportation: By Road (Private / Public Vehicle)
- Trek Duration: 15 Days
- Accommodation: Hotel / Teahouse
- Per Day Walking: 4 - 6 Hours
- Trek start and End Point: Kathmandu
Trek Highlights
- Explore remote areas of the Annapurna region.
- Explore Annapurna Range, Himlung Himal, Gangapurna, Manaslu, and Kangaru Himal.
- Observe the ancient Tibetan culture and lifestyle.
- Witness a Tibetan-derived culture with colorful prayer stones, chortens, Gompas & monasteries.
- Off the Beaten Trail.
- Walk through the challenging passes, of Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters).
Nar Phu Valley Trek Overview
The Nar Phu trek takes you to the remote villages of Nar and Phu in the Annapurna region. The Nar Phu Valley trek only opened in 2003 and is Nepal's most untouched and beautiful regions.
Nar and Phu are two distinctive but close villages with excellent trekking options tucked in between the popular Annapurna and Manaslu trekking regions in Nepal, inhabited by the Khampas (Tibetan refugees), and you will experience their lifestyle.
Although the trek is easily accessible, it is relatively less traveled than other Annapurna region treks like Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek.
In addition to these villages, you can enjoy magnificent views of snow-capped mountains, high Himalayan passes such as Kang La (5,200 m) and Thorong La (5,416 m), stunning glaciers, exciting canyons, beautiful alpine forest, rugged terrain formation, yak pastureland, and historical ancient gompas representing the Tibetan influence in the valley.
The Nar Phu Valley trek starts from Jagat. You follow the Annapurna circuit trekking trail up to Meta. You cross the Marshyangdi River to reach Nar Phu Valley.
You will witness several snowy peaks including Kang Garu, Pisang, and others. You will be passing through several ancient villages and monasteries. Occasionally, you might come across yak and blue sheep herds.
You will explore the Nar Valley for a day and then cross the Kang la Pass to reach Ngwala Village. From Ngwala, you will rejoin the famous Annapurna Circuit trail to reach Manang.
You will further trek to reach Yak Kharka, followed by Thorong Phedi. You will stay overnight at Thorong Phedi and prepare for the challenging Thorong La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world.
After crossing Thorong La Pass, you will descend around 1000 m to reach the famous Shree Muktinath Temple, a common Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site known for its 2 ponds 108 holy sprouts, and eternal flame.
From Muktinath, you will head to Jomsom and then Tatopani. Tatopani has natural hot springs, where you can dip and relax your tired muscles.
After spending a night at Tatopani, you will return to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will head to Kathmandu Your trek ends in Kathmandu.
15 Days Nar Phu Valley Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m / 2492ft) to Jagat (1,300m / 4,265ft)
Driving Hours: 8-10
Highest Altitude: 1,300m / 4,265ft
Your 1st-day journey to Nar Phu Valley trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu for about 6-7 hours (190 Km) to Besisahar. The route follows the beautiful scenery, terraced fields, several village markets, Trishuli River, and views of mountains, including Ganesh and Manaslu peaks.
Eventually, you will leave the main highway, take a route to Pokhara, and drive north to Besisahar. After Besisahar, you continue the drive through paddy fields and reach Jagat.
Day 2: Trek from Jagat (1,300m / 4,265ft) to Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft)
Trek Distance: 15.8km / 9.8miles
Highest Altitude: 1,860m / 6,200ft
Trek Duration: 5 hrs
From Jagat, you follow a trail that takes you to Chame. Then you will cross a suspension bridge and follow a steep path to reach Tal Village. You can enjoy the waterfalls at Tal.
After savoring the beauty of Tal, you move ahead crossing another suspension bridge to reach lower Dharapani. Little ahead lies higher Dharapani, where you will stay overnight.
Day 3: Trek from Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft) to Koto (2,610m / 8,563ft)
Highest Altitude: 2,610 m / 8,563 ft
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
The route from Dharapani passes through pine and fir forests, several monasteries and gumbas, and traditional villages to Bargarchhap. From Bargarchhap, you can enjoy spectacular views of several mountain ranges including Annapurna II and Manaslu.
The path continues through pine forests before reaching Koto, inhabited by the Gurungs.
Day 4: Trek from Koto (2,610m / 8,563ft) to Meta (3,560m / 11,680ft)
Highest Altitude: 3,560m / 11,680ft
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Today, you will travel along the banks of Soti Khola through wonderful pine forests, cross several suspension bridges and waterfalls, and ultimately reach Dharamshala in about five hours.
From Dharamshala you continue the trek through the forest, ascending steeply to Meta village. You will get stunning views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal from here.
Day 5: Trek from Meta (3,560m / 11,680ft) to Phu Gaon (4,250m / 13,944ft)
Highest Altitude: 4,250m / 13,944ft
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
The path ascends and descends frequently from Meta, and by crossing a suspension bridge, you will reach Chyaku.
You will get glorious views of Annapurna on the way before entering Kyang. Kyang provides spectacular views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II.
You will then pass the Phu Khola before reaching Phu Gate, the entry point of Phu Village.
At Phu village, you will visit Tashi Lhakhang Monastery. Phu Village also provides stunning views of several Himalayan ranges including Himlung Himal.
Day 6: Trek from Phu Gaon (4,250m / 13,944ft) to Nar (4,110m / 13,484ft)
Highest Altitude: 4,250m / 13,944ft
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
You will leave Phu Gaon and head to Nar village, crossing two high passes - Phu Pass (5,050m) and Nar Pass (5,400m).
The trail passes through many suspension bridges with a great view of Pisang Peaks and many more.
Day 7: Acclimatization and preparation at Nar
You will acclimatize and explore Nar village today. You will explore and learn about the people, ancient traditions, and culture of Nar village.
The village has several monasteries and Chortens. It is fascinating to know that at least one child from each family at Nar studies Buddhism.
Day 8: Trek from Nar (4,110m / 13,484ft) to Kang La Pass (5,322m / 17,460ft) to Ngawal (3,660m / 12,008ft)
Highest Altitude: 5,322m / 17,460ft
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
From Nar, you ascend through the lateral moraine of Temdenzon Khola which passes through yak pastures providing stunning views of the west ridge of the Pisang Peak. Then, the trek will continue to Jhombu Kharka, also known as Kang la Phedi, the bottom of Kang La Pass.
From Kang La Phedi, you will ascend to Kang La Pass. The path is steep, but it's not too difficult.
From Kang La Pass, you will get beautiful views of mountain peaks like the Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Then, after trekking for about 3 more hours you will reach Ngawal Village, where we will stay overnight.
Day 9: Trek from Ngawal (3,660m / 12,008ft) to Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft)
Highest Altitude: 3,660m / 12,008ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Today, you will head to Manang along the banks of the Marsyangdi River.
You will pass through several forests and villages like Braga and Paugh. As you reach Mungli, the path rejoins the famous Annapurna trails. After trekking forward, you will reach Manang, your destination for the day.
Day 10: Trek from Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft) to Yak Kharka (4,110m / 13,484ft)
Highest Altitude: 4,110m / 13,484ft
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
From Manang, you cross a stream and reach Tenki village, then head to Jar Sang Khola Valley.
The trail ascends slowly as you pass through a few pastures and juniper trees to reach Gunsan. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, you will reach Yak Kharka where you will stay overnight.
Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka (4,110m / 13,484ft) to Thorong Phedi (4,600m / 15,092ft)
Highest Altitude: 4,600m / 15,092ft
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Today, you head to Thorong Phedi, the foot of Thorong La pass. From Yak Kharka, you will climb a ridge and cross the Marsyangdi River on a wooden bridge.
After continuing you will follow a narrow trail across a slope and descend to Thorong Phedi.
Day 12: Trek from Thorong Phedi (4,600m / 15,092ft) to Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,764 ft) and to Muktinath (3,800m / 12,467ft)
Highest Altitude: 5,4525m / 17,764ft
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Today, you start early to cross Thorong La Pass, one of the world's highest passes and the highest point of this trek.
Trekking ahead, you will see a panoramic view of the majestic Annapurna ranges.
After passing Throng La Pass, you will then descend to Shree Muktinath Temple. The descent to Muktinath is pretty steep.
Muktinath is a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists. The Buddhists call it -Chumig Gyatsa -in the Tibetan language, it means "Hundred Waters". Muktinath temple hosts 108 water sprouts, in addition to an eternal flame.
Day 13: Trek from Muktinath (3,800m / 12,467ft) to Jomsom (2,715m / 8,910ft)
Highest Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
You head down first to Ekle Bhatti Village and pass through Jharkot and Khingar villages. You will walk along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River to reach Jomsom.
Day 14: Flight / Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft)
Today is the end of your Trek. You can reach Pokhara by flight or drive by local bus or jeep from Jomsom.
Day 15: Pokhara to Kathmandu by Flight or by Road (1,350m / 4,428ft)
Driving Hours (200km/ 124miles): 6-7hrs
Flight time: 35 minutes
Today we start the day early and depart on a tourist bus to Kathmandu. The 200 km route first follows the Marsyangdi River banks and then the Trishuli River while offering enticing views of the landscape, traditional villages, and terraced farms. The bus makes a final climb, and you will find yourself in Kathmandu, where your trek started.
How Difficult is Nar Phu Valley Trek?
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek.
Nar Phu Valley trek involves several high passes including Kang La Pass at (5,320 m / 17,457 ft) and Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,764ft). Altitude sickness can be a concern, so proper acclimatization is crucial.
The trek typically takes around 12-16 days, depending on the specific route and pace. Trekking for this long period requires good physical fitness and endurance.
The weather in high-altitude regions can be unpredictable, with the potential for rain, snow, and cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations.
Nar Phu Valley trek is remote and less frequented by trekkers, meaning fewer amenities and facilities compared to more popular trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit trek. This adds to the sense of adventure but also requires trekkers to be more self-sufficient.
Best Time to do Nar Phu Valley Trek
The best time to trek in Nar Phu Valley is during the Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (September, October and November) seasons. These periods offer the best combination of favorable weather, beautiful scenery, and clear views, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.
Spring Season (March, April, and May)
During spring, the weather is mild, and the trail is adorned with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers. This season follows after a harsh winter. Winter dries out everything, while Spring brings it back to life.
The temperatures are moderate, making it a comfortable time for trekking. This season also offers clear skies and excellent mountain views and surrounding landscapes.
Autumn Season (September, October, and November)
Autumn is considered the best time for the Nar Phu Valley trek.
The landscapes are lush and green after the monsoon rains. The skies are typically clear, offering unobstructed views of the mountains.
The temperatures are pleasant, and the trail conditions are ideal. This season is popular among trekkers due to the favorable weather and visibility.
Permits for Nar Phu Valley Trek
Trekking in the Nar Phu Valley requires 2 permits due to its location in a restricted area and proximity to the Annapurna Conservation Area. Here are the permits you need:
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
This permit is mandatory for entering the Nar Phu Valley. It can be obtained only through the registered local trekking agency in Nepal.
The cost of the RAP varies depending on the season:
- September to November: USD 100 per week per person.
- December to August: USD 75 per week per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
ACAP is required as the trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area.
The cost of ACAP for SAARC citizens is NPR 1000 per person, for foreign citizens is NPR 2000 per person, for Nepali citizens is NPR 100 per person, and free for a child below 10 years as a child discount.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
TIMS is not a mandatory permit for the Nar Phu Valley trek but if you want to extend your trek or merge the trip to the Annapurna Circuit trek, then a TIMS permit will be mandatory.
Just like the Restricted Area Permit (RAP), trekkers must hire a licensed trekking guide and obtain a TIMS card through authorized trekking agencies registered with the Nepal Government.
For SAARC citizens NPR 1000 per person.
For foreign nationals NPR 2000 per person.
A TIMS card is not required for Nepali citizens.
Packing List For Nar Phu Valley Trek - Equipment list
Depending on the season, you need to adjust the things you bring to the trek. We advise you to bring only the essential things. Here is a list for you to consider while packing.
Headwear
- Sun hat or brimmed hat
- Winter hat or insulating hat, or a wide-brimmed hat
- Neck gaiter / Microfleece buff
Handwear
- Lightweight thinner gloves
- Heavyweight winter gloves
Bodywear
- Hiking shirts.
- Thermal inner layer / Baselayer set.
- Hooded waterproof jacket.
- Fleece jacket.
- Lightweight cotton pants.
- T-Shirt (bring lightweight wool).
- Down jacket.
- Hikinh pants
- Hiking sorts
Footwear
- Hiking Boots.
- Casual shoes or slippers for a teahouse stay.
- Thick wool socks.
- Inner socks.
Gear and Additional Accessories
- Backpack with Rain Cover.
- Trekking Poles.
- Sleeping Bag (If you are trekking in Winter Season).
- Rain Coat.
- Water Bottles.
- Thermal Flask.
- Phone Charger.
- Power Bank.
- Camera and Binoculars (Optional).
- Head Torch with Extra Batteries.
- UV protection sunglasses.
- Crampons (If you are trekking in Winter Season).
- Games and Books (Optional).
Toiletries
- Bio-degradable Towel.
- Toilet paper.
- Wet Wipes.
- Biodegradable soap.
- Deodorant.
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste.
- Nail Clipper.