There are wide varieties of the route that takes you to Nar Phu Valley. You can choose the 10-25 days itinerary depending on your preference of start-end point, level of difficulty, number of days, mode of transport, and attractions. You cross through Larkya La Pass (5165m), Kang La Pass (5240m), and Thorong La Pass (5416m) on the Annapurna circuit that is the enthralling part of the itinerary.
With the breathtaking mountain views, you visit Muktinath, a tourist and spiritual hub and holy place where people attain salvation and worship under the 108 water spouts. At Jomsom, you can enjoy the ethnic culture, apple farming, and sceneries. This trek combined with Manaslu offers a close view of the world’s 8th highest mountain, Manaslu (8163m).
Nestled between the two most popular tourist destinations in Nepal, the Annapurna and the Manaslu regions, the Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an incredible Himalayan wilderness experience. Famous as ‘The Hidden Valley Trek‘, the Nar Phu Valley lies in the Annapurna region and rewards with the perfect blend of raw nature and pure traditional Buddhist culture.
The little-known region of Nar Phu Valley has only opened its doors for tourism since 2003 but has not gained much recognition as a popular trekking destination yet. However, this trekking is perfectly apt for tourists and trekkers who want to avoid the crowded trails and follow the off-beaten route to explore the less tamed valley of the Annapurna massifs.
Table of Contents
Main Highlights of Nar Phu Valley Trek
1. Mountain views:
Situated just off the Annapurna Circuit route, the Nar Phu Valley trek is the gateway to experience a world so far-fetched from your imagination, but so vivid and exotic. It takes you through different landmarks, the narrow, forested entrance where you will be mesmerized with the stunning panoramic views of Mt. Manaslu (8163m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), and Mt. Annapurna I (8091m).
2. Kang La Pass:
One of the main attraction of Nar Phu valley trek is the Kang La Pass situated at 5315m, which is a perfect vantage point, allowing trekkers to enjoy a myriad of majestic vistas mountains like Annapurna II (7937m), Gangapurna (7455m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m). Reaching the Kang La Pass (5240m) is more challenging than undertaking the hugely popular Thorung La Pass (5416m) on the Annapurna circuit. Once you successfully reach the top of the pass, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of an assortment of majestic peaks like Annapurna II, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak.
3. Nar and Phu Village:
The Nar and Phu villages, situated at 4110 m, have dry and rugged lands and are less windy as they are tucked inside the valley. The Nar Phu Valley lies in the remote and secluded part of the Manang district. Encircled by Peru Himalaya to the north, the Damodar Himalaya to the west, the gigantic mountains Gangla and Gangru to the east, and the Nar Phu Valley ranges between 3820 m to 8029m.
The bridge over the Marshyangdi River brings you to the trail to the steep portals of the Nar Phu Valley and lets you explore the beautiful valley with a stunning beauty at the backdrop.It is suitable for people who wants to take an alternate to Annapurna Circuit and enjoy the mountains, culture and beautiful scenery.
4. Culture:
The trek offers you the magnificent culture, tradition, and history of the region. Explore Tibetan culture and practices, monasteries, gumbas that takes you back in time. The trek takes you on an adventure of a lifetime, providing panoramic views of the majestic mountains as well as allowing you to experience the ancient and rich Tibetan culture, heritage, and traditions.
Along with the arts, you encounter people of different cultures and enjoy their cultural dance, songs, and cuisine. The people here are engaged in agriculture as well and work hard to produce their own staples. You can be part of this extraordinary experience and enjoy with the locals.
5. Diverse Ethnicity:
Nar Phu Valley trek is suitable to experience the local lifestyle of a different community. During the trek, you meet people of different castes and communities such as Gurungs, Magars, Tamangs, etc. Each of these communities has their style, culture, tradition, language, norms, and cuisines. As you walk through the trails, you shall experience these communities up close.
6. Natural Landscape:
The entire region has narrow gorges, high passes, rocks, and glaciers. As you move forward on the trails of Nar Phu Valley, you encounter alpine vegetation to subalpine scrub, thick forest, terraced fields, and pastures. Also, you get to discover wildlife such as snow leopard, blue sheep, etc.
Four Trek Routes to Nar Phu Valley
You can choose the best itinerary from the following that is best for you.
1. Nar Phu Valley Trek – 10 Days
Trip Facts:
💠Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
💠Maximum Altitude: 5,320m/17,450ft
💠Start From: Kathmandu
💠Finish At: Kathmandu
Known as the Hidden Valley Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek offers you a journey through the rural villages, monasteries, canyons, natural landscapes, and Tibetan cultures. With the beautiful view of the mountains and the passing of Kang La at 5300m, this trek is unforgettable.
Starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, hike to Dharapani, Koto, Meta, and Phu Goan. Get fascinated by the villagers’ day to day activities like spinning the yak and sheep wool, extracting oil by pounding mustard seeds into a paste, etc.
Hike to Nar Phedi to Ngawal via Kang La Pass. Reaching the Kang La Pass (5240m) is challenging and interesting part of the trek.
Descend to Pisang and take a scenic ride to Besisahar and Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Scenic travel from Kathmandu (1,400m/4592ft) to Jagat (1,300m/4,264ft) Duration: 7-8 Hours (211 km) drive |
| Day 2 | Hike from Jagat to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft) Walking distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 3 | Ascend from Dharapani to Koto (2,600m/8,528ft) Walking distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 4 | Ascend from Koto to Meta (3,560m/11,677ft) Walking distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 5 | Trek from Meta to Phu Goan (4,080m/13,383ft) Walking distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 6 | Acclimatization at Phu Gaon |
| Day 7 | Hike from Phu Gaon to Nar (4,110m/13,481ft) Walking distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 8 | Hike from Nar to Ngawal (3,660m/12,005ft) via Kangla Pass (5,320m/17,450ft) Walking distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 9 | Descend from Ngawal to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) drive to Besisahar (760m/2,493ft) Duration: 2-3 hours trek and 6-7 hours (80 km) drive |
| Day 10 | Scenic Ride from Besisahar (760m/2,493ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) Duration: 6-7 Hours (176 km) drive |
2. Annapurna Circuit with Nar Phu Valley Trek – 16 Days
Trip Facts:
💠Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
💠Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
💠Start From: Kathmandu
💠Finish At: Kathmandu
A 16-day package of Annapurna Circuit with Nar Phu Valley Trek takes you to one of the best treks in the world, Annapurna Circuit, and through the untouched beauty of Nar Phu, Manang, and the holy place of Muktinath temple.
The less crowded and off the beaten path trek starts with a scenic ride from Kathmandu to Jagat and hike to Dharapani, Koto, Meta, and Phu Gaon. Acclimatizing at Phu Gaon, trek to Ngawal via Kangla Pass (5320m).
Reach the maximum point of the trek at Thorong La (5416m) and embrace the mountain views with beautiful landscapes.
Descend to Muktinath to visit the sacred and holy temple of Buddhists and Hindus. Hike to Jomsom and take a flight to Pokhara and ride back to Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Ride from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Jagat (1,300m/4,264ft) Duration: 7-8 Hours (211 km) drive |
| Day 2 | Hike from Jagat to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 3 | Hike from Dharapani to Koto (2,600m/8,528ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 4 | Ascend from Koto to Meta (3,560m/11,677ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 5 | Ascend from Meta to Phu Goan (4,080m/13,383ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 6 | Acclimatization at Phu Gaon |
| Day 7 | Hike to Nar (4,110m/13,481ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 8 | Descend from Phu Gaon to Ngawal (3,660m/12,005ft) via Kangla Pass (5,320m/17,450ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 9 | Descend from Ngawal to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek |
| Day 10 | Manang: Rest day |
| Day 11 | Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek |
| Day 12 | Hike from Yak kharka to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek |
| Day 13 | Hike to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 14 | Descend from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700m/8,856ft) via Lupra Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 15 | Flight back to Pokhara (800m/2,635ft) Duration: 25 minutes of flight |
| Day 16 | Ride from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) drive |
3. Manaslu and Nar Phu Trek – 19 Days
Trip Facts:
💠Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
💠Maximum Altitude: 5,320m/17,450ft
💠Start From: Kathmandu
💠Finish At: Kathmandu
Enjoy the unique trek in the pristine land of Manaslu and Nar Phu Region that offers a close view of the world’s 8th highest mountain, Manaslu (8163m), and ethnic culture and natural landscape.
Start the trek with a beautiful ride from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. Enjoy the mesmerizing waterfalls, suspension bridges, pine forest, and stunning mountain views as you pass through Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, and Sama Gaon.
Trek to Larkya Base Camp and enjoy the gorgeous views of Annapurna Massif, Manaslu, and other peaks. Crossing different landmarks, reach the mesmerizing Hidden Valley, Nar Phu Valley.
Passing through the highest altitude of the trek, Kang La Pass (5320m), and reaching Ngawal is the challenging yet thrilling part of the trek.
Retrace your path to Pisang and ride back from Besisahar to Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Ride from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Soti Khola (700m/2,296ft) via Arughat Duration: 7-8 Hours (139 km) Drive |
| Day 2 | Hike from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (870m/2,854ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 3 | Hike from Machha Khola to Jagat (1,340m/4,396ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 4 | Ascend from Jagat to Deng (1,865m/6,118ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 5 | Ascend from Deng to Namrung (2,630m/8,627ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 6 | Ascend from Namrung to Sama Gaon (3,520m/11,549ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 7 | Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon |
| Day 8 | Ascend from Sama Gaon to Samado (3,875m/12,713ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek |
| Day 9 | Hike from Samado to Dharamsala / Larkya Base Camp (4,460m/14,633ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek |
| Day 10 | Descend from Dharamsala to Bimtang (3,590m/11,778ft) via Larkya La pass (5,165m/16,929ft) Walking Distance: 8-9 hours trek |
| Day 11 | Descend from Bimtang to Dharapani (1,930m/6,440ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 12 | Hike from Dharapani to Koto (2,600m/8,528ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 13 | Hike from Koto to Meta (3,560m/11,677ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 14 | Ascend from Meta to Phu Goan (4,080m/13,383ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 15 | Acclimatization at Phu Gaon |
| Day 16 | Ascend to Nar (4,110m/13,481ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 17 | Descend from Nar to Ngawal (3,660m/12,005ft) via Kangla Pass (5,320m/17,450ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 18 | Hike from Ngawal to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) drive to Besisahar (760m/2,493ft) Duration: 2-3 hours trek, 6-7 hours (80 km) drive |
| Day 19 | Ride back from Besisahar (760m/2,493ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) Duration: 6-7 Hours (176 km) Drive |
4. Manaslu Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Trek – 25 Days
Trip Facts:
💠Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
💠Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
💠Start From: Kathmandu
💠Finish At: Kathmandu
Reward yourself with the classic journey to explore the beauty of Nepal in the 25-day package of Manaslu Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Trek. Set foot on the highest point on Annapurna Circuit, Thorong La Pass (5416m), explore the stunning views of Manaslu, Annapurna, etc, and immerse in the ethnic culture of the people.
The impeccable blend of Manaslu Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a lovely ride from Kathmandu to Sotikhola. Trekking through Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung till Dharmasala, reach Larya Base Camp (4460m) for a beautiful view of the snowy peaks.
Crossing the longest passes in Nepal, Larkya La Pass (5106m), trace your way to Dharapani, Kota, Meta, Phu village. Appreciating the natural and traditional exquisiteness of the region, cross Kang La Pass (5320m).
Resting at Manang on the 19th day, hike to Ice Lake and descend your way to Muktinath for a sightseeing pilgrimage site via Thorong La Pass.
Cross Jomsom via Lupra and fly to Pokhara before taking a beautiful ride to Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Ride from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Sotikhola (700m/2,296ft) via Arughat Duration: 7-8 Hours (139 km) Drive |
| Day 2 | Hike to Machha Khola (870m/2,854ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 3 | Trek to Jagat (1,340m/4,396ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 4 | Hike to Deng (1,865m/6,118ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 5 | Ascend to Namrung (2,630m/8,627ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 6 | Ascend to Sama Gaon (3,520m/11,549ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 7 | Acclimatization Day in Sama Gaon |
| Day 8 | Hike to Samado (3,875m/12,713ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek |
| Day 9 | Walk to Dharamsala / Larkya Base Camp (4,460m/14,633ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek |
| Day 10 | Descend to Bimtang (3,590m/11,778ft) via Larkya La pass (5,165m/16,929ft) Walking Distance: 8-9 hours trek |
| Day 11 | Hike to Dharapani (1,930m/6,440ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 12 | Hike to Koto (2,600m/8,528ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 13 | Ascend to Meta (3,560m/11,677ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 14 | Trek to Phu Goan (4,080m/13,383ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 15 | Acclimatization at Phu Gaon |
| Day 16 | Hike to Nar (4,110m/13,481ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 17 | Hike to Ngawal (3,660m/12,005ft) via Kangla Pass (5,320m/17,450ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 18 | Trek to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek |
| Day 19 | Manang: Rest Day, Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m/15,088ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek |
| Day 20 | Descend to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek |
| Day 21 | Trek to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek |
| Day 22 | Walk to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek |
| Day 23 | Hike to Jomsom (2,700m/8,856ft) via Lupra Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek |
| Day 24 | Flight back to Pokhara (800m/2,635ft) Duration: 25 minutes of flight |
| Day 25 | Ride from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) |
Nar Phu Valley Trek FAQs
1. What are the rules for a permit?
As the Nar Phu Valley is a restricted region, you will require obtaining a special permit before trekking the region from Nepal Immigration office. In total, you have to issue two permits to trek the valley which is listed below:
Nar & Phu Valley Restricted Area (NRA) Permit: US$90 per week per person from September-November, and the US $50 per week per person from December-August. (The permit is valid only for 7 days.)
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits – US$23 per person.
2. Is the drinking water during the trek safe?
You will be provided with drinking water at the place you spent the night at. Mineral water is unavailable during the trek or can be bought at higher prices. For safety, you can use a liquid water purifier along the way.
3. How is the food and accommodation like in the trek?
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a tea house trek which is a combination of lodges and guesthouses that consists of basic facilities.
You will stay in the tea houses throughout the entire trek. There are limited food options while traveling the isolated region, and the rates of food and accommodation fluctuate with seasons, but as the elevation gets higher the rates increase as well.
You will likely come across a few tea houses which unfortunately do not have electric facilities at all.
4. How difficult is this trek and should I fit to do it?
Nar Phu Valley is a remote, and isolated trekking destination takes over 5400 meters and must go through numerous up hills and downhills.
As per your choice of itinerary, the daily walk hours differ. Generally, you have to walk for 4-8 hours per day. As you go to the higher altitude, the walk hours will be 4-6 hours. You will have rest days during the trek to acclimatize your body.
So, it is mandatory that you have a good level of physical fitness to go for the Nar Phu Valley trekking, and prior trekking experience is recommended to be fully prepared for this challenging trek.
5. Should I be tensed about getting altitude sickness?
Nar Phu Valley trek takes you the high altitude above 5000m. There are rest days to acclimatize your body properly.
But regardless, you might have a slighter chance of altitude sickness. To avoid this, make sure you are ready with medicines, safety precautions, and have enough rest and drink enough water to be hydrated.
6. Are there any modes of communication during the trek?
Yes, during the trek, you can use the telephone network and internet services for some extra charges. As you reach a higher altitude, these services might not be available.
7. What is the best season to trek to Nar Phu Valley?
The Nar Phu Valley registers the highest number of trekkers during the spring (March-May) and autumn seasons (September-November). These seasons reward the trekkers with the best trekking experience due to a moderate amount of sunshine, low rainfall, and great mountain views.
8. Is electricity available to charge my gadgets?
Throughout the places at Nar Phu valley, electricity will be available for you to charge your mobile, cameras, and so on with an extra cost. Depending on your spending budget, you can render these services. Most of the lodges use hydropower stations for electricity, thus the service rate may be large.
9. Do I need a trekking guide for the trek?
Yes, you must have a trekking guide for the Nar Phu Valley trek to inform you about the trekking rules and regulations of Nepal, provide trekking training, safety, and medical care, communicate with the locals, and give you a better trek experience.
10. Can I do this trek solo?
No, you cannot plan your Nar Phu Valley trek solo because this place lies in the restricted area of the Manang region and you are not allowed to go as solo trekkers. You require a restricted area permit for which at least 2 people and a guide is mandatory.
11. Are there any banks, ATM services, money exchange booths on the trek?
You can find ATM, banks, and money exchange services in cities such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom. However, if you go to a higher altitude, these services are difficult to find. So, make sure you carry Nepalese currency with you.
Conclusion
Due to the very few settlements en route, the trek gives an authentic feel of the wilderness, allowing you the opportunity to be in the vicinity of raw nature unspoiled by modernization and mass tourism.
The enthralling trek passes through striking wilderness, diverse topography that consists of stunning rock formations, majestic snow-capped peaks, precarious mountain passes. You can also encounter glistening glaciers, sparkling rivers, lush forests, narrow canyons, and quaint and remote villages that are sparsely populated.
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