Narphu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an extraordinary adventure, taking you through the remote villages of Nar and Phu Valley, located in the northern and eastern parts of the Annapurna […]

10 Days
15 - 20 KM Per Day
Tea House
Start from Kathmandu and End to Kathmandu
Min 2 to Max 10 Pax in a group
Domestic Flight (KTM - Lukla - Kathmandu) and Private Vehicle
moderate

Highlights

  • Explore Annapurna's remote and untouched regions.
  • Experience Tibetan and Gurung cultures.
  • Cross the Kang La Pass at 5,306 meters.
  • Spot wildlife like monkeys, mountain goats, Himalayan thar, and musk deer.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views from Kang La Pass.

Overview

The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an extraordinary adventure, taking you through the remote villages of Nar and Phu Valley, located in the northern and eastern parts of the Annapurna region. This untouched and awe-inspiring journey through the Annapurna area offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Tibetan refugees, allowing you to experience their unique lifestyle along the way.

Over the course of 10 days, the Nar Phu Valley trek guides you through the picturesque rural landscapes of Nar and Phu Ghau, two of the most pristine and captivating regions. Expect stunning views of snow-capped mountains, rocky slopes, narrow gorges, yaks, waterfalls, glaciers, dense forests of pine and rhododendrons, and the challenging Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters.

Officially opened to tourists in 2003, the Nar Phu Valley Trek leads into the Manang Gorge and is a part of the Annapurna circuit. The valley itself is a semi-desert area with low rainfall, making it a unique destination. The villages of Nar and Phu, along with key sites like Tashi Gompa and the well-known Remain Gompa, are highlights of the trek. The trail is narrow and exciting, making for an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary

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Day 01

Kathmandu – Besishar – Dharapani (1925meters/6,315feet) 10/12 Hours Drive

After breakfast, we will drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Prithivi Highway to Dumre. From there, we'll take a narrow, paved road that follows the Marshyangdi River to Besishar. At Besishar, we'll switch to a jeep or bus to continue our journey to Dharapani. The drive will be long yet scenic, offering stunning views of lush green hills, rivers, colorful terraced fields, and small settlements. Afterward, we'll settle in at a lodge for the night.
Day 02

Dharapani – Koto Village (2605meters/8,546feet) 5/6 Hours Walking.

Today promises to be an exciting adventure as we pass through the picturesque village of Bagarchhap and Danaque. From there, we’ll ascend and cross a charming wooden bridge before continuing uphill, wandering through pine and rhododendron forests. Our trek will take us to the village of Timang, where we’ll be treated to stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, one of the world’s tallest peaks at over 8,000 meters. The trail then winds through lush forests, leading us to Koto Village, where we’ll rest for the night at a lodge.
Day 03

Koto – Meta (3235meters/10,613feet) 6/7 Hours Walking.

After a delicious breakfast, we'll check the Special Nar Phu Valley permit, as well as the ACAP and TIMS cards. The trails will offer stunning views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. Our journey will then continue toward Meta. Along the way, we’ll follow the Soti Khola riverbank and pass through dense forests. We’ll cross a few suspension bridges and ascend through pine and rhododendron forests before reaching Meta Village, where we’ll spend the night at a lodge.
Day 04

Meta – Phu Gau (4050meters/13,287feet) 5/6 Hours Walking.

The trekking trail ascends and descends as we cross several suspension bridges. Along the way, we’ll reach Kyang, where you’ll experience the unique charm of the Khampa settlement. From there, the trail follows the rugged path along the Phu Khola, leading us to the village. As we continue toward Phu Ghau, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 05

Acclimatization day at Phu Ghau.

Today is our rest day at Phu Ghau. We’ll take the opportunity to explore the Himlung Base Camp, spending a few hours there to observe the local culture and traditions. We’ll also visit the ancient Buddhist Monastery, one of the 108 oldest Gompas in the world, believed to be the last one built by Karmapa Rinpoche. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel and spend the night at the lodge.
Day 06

Phu Ghau – Nar Village (4130meters/13,287feet) 5/6 Hours Walking.

After breakfast, we’ll begin our trek. The trail descends and crosses several suspension bridges until we reach Mahendra Pul. From there, we’ll cross another suspension bridge over the Lapche River. As we ascend, we’ll pass numerous stupas and reach Nar Village. If the skies are clear, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Pisang Peak and the Annapurna range.
Day 07

Acclimatization day at Nar Village.

Another rest day in Nar Village. Today, we’ll hike up a small hill, about 500 meters high, before returning to the hotel. We’ll then take some time to explore the village, where you’ll have the chance to experience the daily lifestyle and rich culture of the local people.
Day 08

Nar Village – Kang La Pass (5320meters/17,454feet) – Nawal Village (3660meters/12,007feet) 7/8 Hours Walking.

Another rest day in Nar Village. Today, we’ll hike up a small hill, about 500 meters high, before returning to the hotel. We’ll then take some time to explore the village, where you’ll have the chance to experience the daily lifestyle and rich culture of the local people.
Day 09

Nawal village – Chame village (2675meters/8,776feet) 6/7 Hours Walking.

Today, we’ll start with an early breakfast before beginning our descent. We’ll pass through Ghermu, Upper Pisang, Dukur Pokhari, and Bratang, ultimately reaching Chame village. Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to explore an ancient Buddhist monastery, traditional houses, stupas, and mani walls. The trail offers stunning views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, Lamjung Himal, and more.
Day 10

Chame Village – Besishar – Kathmandu 10/12 Hours Drive

After a delicious breakfast, we’ll take a jeep to Besishar, passing through the picturesque villages of Koto, Danaque, Dharapani, Chamje, Jagat, Nadi, and Bulbule before reaching Besishar. From there, we’ll transfer to a bus for the journey back to Kathmandu.

Inclusions

What's included

What's not included

Departure Dates

Frequently Asked Questions about Narphu Valley Trek

1)  When is the best time to trek Nar Phu Valley?

The best seasons for trekking are in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear and pleasant.

2) What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its high altitude and narrow, rugged trails, especially during the ascent to Kang La Pass.

3) Do I need a special permit to trek Nar Phu Valley?

Yes, a special permit is required to trek Nar Phu Valley. You’ll need a restricted area permit and an Annapurna Conservation Area permit.

4) What type of weather can I expect during the trek?

In spring and autumn, the weather is generally mild with sunny days and cool nights. However, temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes, especially at Kang La Pass, so be prepared for cold weather, particularly at night.