Nar Phu valley Trek – 20 days
Nar Phu Valley Trek – A Remote Himalayan Cultural Odyssey
The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an extraordinary journey through one of Nepal’s most secluded and culturally rich regions—tucked away in the far reaches of the Annapurna Conservation Area. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you through dramatic Himalayan landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist settlements, and the high-altitude Kang La Pass (5,320m), making it a dream for trekkers seeking solitude, culture, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Why Trek to Nar Phu Valley?
Unlike the busy trails of the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, Nar Phu Valley remains a hidden gem. Home to ethnic Tibetan communities who have preserved their traditional way of life, this region offers a rare chance to experience authentic Himalayan culture, untouched by modern tourism. Narrow stone-paved villages, centuries-old monasteries, and friendly locals await those who take on the journey.
Trek Route Overview
Start: Kathmandu → Besisahar (Jeep/Bus) → Ngadi → Chamje → Koto
Main Trail: Koto → Meta → Phu Village → Nar Village → Kang La Pass (5,320m) → Manang
Finish: Join the Annapurna Circuit and descend toward Jomsom or continue exploring.
Note: You’ll need special permits to trek in Nar Phu Valley. These include ACAP, TIMS card, and the Nar Phu Special Permit, issued only through licensed trekking agencies.
Trek Highlights
- Nar Village (4,100m): Traditional Tibetan village with views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal
- Phu Village (4,050m): Yak pastures, Buddhist culture, and timeless Himalayan beauty
- Kang La Pass (5,320m): The trek’s highest and most rewarding point
- Tashi Lhakhang Monastery: Peaceful spiritual retreat in Nar Village
- Phu Monastery: Iconic Buddhist monastery known for art and serenity
Cultural Experience
Life in Nar and Phu revolves around Tibetan Buddhism, yak herding, and subsistence farming. Trekkers have the chance to observe traditional dress, stone homes, spinning prayer wheels, and religious rituals that have remained unchanged for centuries. Warm hospitality and shared moments with locals make this journey a true cultural exchange.
Best Seasons to Trek
| Season |
Conditions |
| Spring (Mar–May) |
Stable weather, blooming flowers, ideal visibility |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) |
Best trekking conditions, festive atmosphere |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) |
Extreme cold and snow—only for well-prepared trekkers |
| Monsoon (Jun–Aug) |
Rainy and slippery trails; not recommended |
Permit Requirements
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
- Nar Phu Special Permit – Only via registered trekking agency with a licensed guide
Trek Difficulty & Altitude Awareness
This trek is graded as moderately challenging. The trail involves steep climbs, rocky paths, and high altitudes, particularly at Kang La Pass (5,320m). Symptoms of altitude sickness can appear above 3,000 meters, so acclimatization is essential.
- Take gradual ascents and rest in Meta, Phu, and Nar
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol at high altitudes
- Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell
Recommended Packing List
- Layered clothing and thermal base layers
- Insulated down jacket and waterproof shell
- Well-broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
- Sleeping bag rated to −10°C
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Gloves, beanie, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle, headlamp, first-aid kit
- Energy snacks like nuts, bars, and chocolate
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Details
Mount Narphu Peak climbing is located to the north of the Annapurna region between Damodar and Kang La Himalayan ranges, Mt. Narphu Peak Climbing takes you to the exotic valley of Nar Phu. The Narphu Peak Climbing comes with a real test of the Himalayan lifestyle, culture, and tradition of Tibetan people along with an incredible view of high mountain peaks, narrow canyons, and pleasant forests. The trek on this peak climbing journey rewards you with a total wilderness experience while walking along isolated trails. Nar Phu Valley remains untouched by modernity, as its natural diversity and lush vegetation never cease to amaze fellow trekkers.
Mount Narphu Peak After the climbing preparation and exploring around Kathmandu, you will take a drive to Syange from Kathmandu via Besisahar. Beautiful greenery and natural diversity on the way will certainly make your drive a pleasant one. From Syange, our actual trek starts. While ascending towards the settlement of Meta via Koto, you will walk past the forest of pine and beautiful waterfalls. Moving forward, the trail passes through Phu village and proceeds to Nar Phedi. On the way forward, you will get a stunning view of Annapurna Range, Gangapurna (7454m), Tilicho Peak (7134m), Himlung Himal (7126m), and many other mountain peaks. Now, passing the settlement of Yughat, you will reach the ancient village of Nar. The delight on the face of fellow trekkers is obvious as they proceed forward in the wilderness of natural flora and fauna and wildlife. The warm hospitality of Gurung and Tibetan people is simply unforgettable. You will now trek toward basecamp via Kang La Pass (5320m). From here, you will start your climb to the top of Mt. Narphu Peak (5921m). Following the same path, you will now return to Besisahar via Manang from where you will return to Kathmandu. September to November and March to May are the best time for Mt. Narphu Peak Climbing.
Eternal Himalaya is one of the pioneers in terms of expeditions and treks in Nepal. Mt. Narphu Peak Climbing organized by us is bound to be one of the best experiences for you. We have qualified staff and experienced professionals with the motto to make your journey easier and more memorable.
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be greeted by our airport representative and transferred to your respective hotel. After some refreshments, you will meet your trekking guide for a brief orientation about the upcoming trip. You can either take a rest or stroll down the street of Thamel. In the evening you are invited to a welcome dinner organized by our company with Nepali cuisine and cultural dance. Overnight your hotel in Kathmandu.
Today we will explore the cultural heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley. After breakfast, you will be received by our tour guide with a private tourist vehicle. Our tour today includes Syambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple where e will enjoy the ancient and artistic palace, culture, paintings, arts, and history of Nepal. After the successful tour, we can do the shopping for necessary trekking gears in Thamel. Overnight at the same hotel in Kathmandu.
After having our early meal, we leave Kathmandu and drive to Beshisahar. We take a local bus from the bus park and drive to Besisahar along the Prithvi Highway. We then take a local jeep from Beshisahar to Syange, driving along the bumpy road. En route, we can enjoy impressive landscapes, rushing rivers, gorgeous waterfalls, terraced farmlands, lifestyle, and activities of the local people. From Syange, we begin our trek heading to Jagat. We spend the night at a local Guesthouse.
After early breakfast, we set-off for Chyamje. We traverse through the forest, passing several terrains, cliffs rice, barley, potato fields, and small settlements. After crossing the river, the trail inclines upwards for Dharapani. Rambling some streams and rocky terrain, we finally reach Dharapani where we end our today’s trek. We stay overnight at a local Guest House.
Today, the trek can be a bit challenging, as we are passing over and up to two hills. Yet, we shall have have an ample opportunity to view Lamjung Himal, Himalchuli, Annapurna II, and Manaslu. We shall take several rests along our way, visit the Apple vineyard and taste some local apples. We walk towards Bagarchhap through pine and fir forest.
After Danaque, we head uphill for Timang and then continue our trek to Latamarang through pine forest before finally reaching Koto. Overnight at Koto in a local Guesthouse.
Today we are trekking in a quiet and immaculate atmosphere. We should pack some lunch because we will not find any lodges, teahouses, or houses along the way. We need to register at the local police checkpoint for a restricted area permit before we begin our journey. Getting through verdant Rhododendron and pine forests, we reach Dharmasal and have our packed lunch there. We continue our trek climbing some slopes, passing waterside, backwoods, and reach Meta eventually. From Meta, we shall have great views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. We spend our night at a local Guesthouse in Meta.
It is a gradual uphill today, not too tedious. Following the Phu river, we go through an almost desert valley, enjoying great views of Amotsang Himal, Pokharkan, and Kangaroo Mountain. As we are in the Hidden Valley, we can explore the natural diversity, religious practices, and culture of the local people. Nearly 200 years ago, migrants from Tibet settled in Phu Gaon. Still, the locals here depend upon agriculture, animal breeding, and seasonal migration for their survival. We stay here in a local lodge with a very basic facility.
As we are gaining higher altitude, we schedule this day as acclimatization day. Today we have ample opportunities to explore the culture, religion, tradition, and lifestyle of ethnic communities such as Lama, Ghale, and Gurung. We can visit the old Buddhist Monastery, Tashi Lakhang – listed out as 108 world’s great Buddhist Monasteries. The monstery is thought to be the last monastery built by Karmapa Rinpoche. Apart from the cultural insights, the valley also offers us a magnificent view of Himlung Himal and other snow-capped peaks. Overnight in the same lodge.
After breakfast in the early morning, we bid bye to Phu Village and head for Nar Village. Once again, we take a packed lunch, as there will be no restaurants or lodges on the way. The trail descends passing several streams and suspension bridges to Mahendra Pool. The early king of Nepal once visited the place and financed the bridge we will see crossing the Naar River. We will have our lunch in Mahendra Pool. Marching further, we take perpendicular descent all the way to Nar where we stay in a local lodge for the night.
Once again, we take the schedule as acclimatization day in our itinerary. One of the reasons for the acclimatization is to be prepared before a more challenging day ahead the next day. We have idle time to relax and enjoy the glorious views of the mountains. We shall explore the magnificent Nar hamlet which will take around 2-3 hours hike from the village. We can capture the majestic views of Kangaroo, Pokharkan, Amodsang Himal, and Pisang Peak from this place. Overnight in the same lodge at Nar Village.
Today is a challenging and a longer trekking-day ahead. To be able to reach our destination in the day-time, we need to leave Ngawal by 4 am early morning. The initial part of the trail follows a gradual incline for 2 hours then a steep uphill on a rocky track. You will realize that all the efforts were worth it, once you reach the top. The mountain paradise will awestruck you with 360 panoramic views of the mountains. We further continue our trek descending down a very steep trail to Ngawal, where we spend our night at a local teahouse.
Today is an easy day ahead with some scenic appearance of Tilicho, Pisang Peak, Annapurna II, and Annapurna III. Descending down, we head towards the flat valley, passing Braga village, farming terrace, and forest along the riverbanks of Marsyangdi. After we reach Munji, we join the main trail of Annapurna Circuit. Following the wide and pleasing trail, we reach Manang- where most of the trekkers halt for acclimatization.
Manang is also one of the largest villages in the Manang district. There is a also medical center, which specializes in AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Close to Manang, we can overlook Gangapurna Lake and Glacier resting beneath Mt. Gangapurna. Overnight at a local guesthouse in the Manang.
From Manang village, we cross a stream and climb towards the village of Tenki situated above Manang. The trail then continues to turn northwest our of the Marsyangdi Valley, up the valley of Jarsang Khola. As we steadily gain elevation, we pass a few pastures and a scrub of juniper trees. Just below the trailhead, we pass near the village of Ghunsa- a village with flat mud roofs.
Marching forward, we go through pastures where yaks and horses graze. After crossing a suspension bridge over a small river, we pass an ancient old Mani wall and then reach another small village of Yak Kharka. Overnight at a Guesthouse in Yak Kharka.
Trek to Thorong Phedi (4600m)- 4 hrs trek
Today is going to be the hardest part of our trek as we have to pass the highest altitude of our entire journey. As it is a long trekking day. we prepare early in the morning and start our climb before sunrise. With the help of flashlights, we start a steep climb towards the High Camp along with other trekkers. Horse services are also available for trekkers up to the Pass at an extra cost. As we climb uphill, we can witness a beautiful sunrise over the snow-capped peaks. Further, the trail continues steep uphill until we reach the Thorong La pass, the heavenly site situated at 5416 meters above the sea. From here, we can bean Annapurna Himalayas, and amazing Yakwakang and Thorung Peak.
After some refreshments and capturing the moments on our camera, we cross the pass and descend around 1000m all the way to Muktinath. In the case the trail is covered with snow, the trail will be slippery so we will need crampons to climb down safely.
Muktinath is a famous pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, having temples, monasteries, and the essence Muktinath Temple, surrounded by 108 water faucets.
Moreover, it is one of the most visited places in Nepal by both external and domestic tourists. Overnight at a local guesthouse in Muktinath.
After breakfast, we head towards our next destination Jomsom. We get along the Kaligandaki River and follow Jharkot, Khingar, and Kagbeni. Reaching Ekle Bhatti on the riverside of Kali Gandaki River, we stop for our lunch. Marching further 2 hours from here, we reach a small town, Jomsom. Jomsom is a windy place and experiences a strong wind afternoon.
In fact, there is also a popular Nepali song paying tribute to the region. Besides, the place is also famous for Apple and various products made from the fruit, including the apple brandy. Our long, adventurous, wonderful, and memorable trek is finished now.
In the evening, we exchange happiness and good wishes, forgetting the struggles of our journey. Overnight at a local guesthouse in Jomsom.
Before the daily winds up through the Valley in the noontime and make flying hazardous, we wake an early flight from Jomsom to Pokhara on a small plane. Flying through Kali Gandaki Gorge- the deepest gorge in the world, we shall land in Pokhara in less than 30 minutes.
In case the flight is canceled, we also have a second option to take a scenic overland journey by road (8 hrs drive). The overland journey which follows the Kali Gandaki River most of the way. Throughout the day in Pokhara, you can enjoy sightseeing of Phewa lake, Davis fall, and World Peace Stupa, and more. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
Early morning, we opt for the drive to Kathmandu. Kathmandu may not seem far from Pokhara (126 miles / 204 km apart), but the terrain and road quality make it a very long drive.
En route, we pass Damauli, Dumre, Mugling, and Kurintar where Nepal’s first cable car is operated (To Manakamana). Every year, many people come to Manakamana Temple to grant their wishes before getting married or leaving home. We climb up from Naubise and enter Kathmandu via Thankot before finally reaching our hotel. In the evening we will celebrate dinner together organized by our company for the successful completion of the trip. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is our free day. You can either leisure at your hotel or explore the Kathmandu city as per your preference. You can also use this day for shopping souvenirs for beloved ones. Overnight at the same hotel in Kathmandu.
It is your last day in Nepal and finally a time to bid goodbye to the wonderful Himalayan nation. After breakfast, our vehicle and escorts will be on standby to drop to the Tribhuwan International Airport three hours before your actual flight. At Glorious Himalaya, it was a great honor serving you and the time spent together. We pray for your safe journey and hope to see you again someday!
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