Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek: 17 Days

Duration17 Days
DestinationNepal
Difficulty Strenuous
Max Altitude 5416 m
Activity Trekking & Excursion
Group Size Min - 2 pax
Accommodation Comfortable Hotel & Lodge
Meals Full Board on the Trek
Transportation Private Vehicle & Flights
Starts KTM- Jagat jeep drive & Trek
Ends Jomsom
Best Season Sep-Nov and March-May

Talk to expert+977 98 41 26 57 86 (Sanga)

Download Itinerary

Overview

Trip Highlights

The Nar-Phu Valley offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a truly untouched part of the Himalayas, immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Route: The trek typically starts from Koto (accessible by drive from Kathmandu via Besisahar and Jagat) and leads through villages: Meta, Phu, Nar Phedi, and Nar. A major highlight is crossing the Kang La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Entering the Manang Valley and following the Annapurna Circuit trails to the Mustang region.

Exploring the lost (newly opened) Nar- Phu valley, visiting the famous holistic sites like the oldest Monastery and Milarepa cave at Manang Valley and the famous temple at Muktinath after crossing the last challenging Thorong La pass.

Terrain: Remote location, Smooth, gradual walking up through subtropical dense Rhododendron, Pine forest to the arid and demanding terrain landscape.

Pristine Wilderness: The valley boasts a rugged landscape of snow-covered peaks, barren cliffs, deep canyons, river gorges, glacial lakes, and high-altitude pastures. It offers a sense of true wilderness and solitude.

Ancient Buddhist Culture and Tradition: Nar- Phu valley is a highly Tibetan-influenced cultural region. The remote villages of Nar and Phu are home to a community that has maintained its ancient traditions, untouched by modernity. Visit ancient Buddhist Monasteries, monuments, and traditional stone-walled villages, including Manangis' culture and traditions. You can experience a blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Bon culture, explore ancient monasteries (like the Tashi Lakhang Monastery), and witness traditional lifestyles of farming and yak herding.

Miraculous and Challenging Trip: The trek is considered moderately to challenging due to its high altitude. However, the breathtaking views, unique cultural insights, and sense of adventure make it an incredible trekking reward.

Two thrilling high passes: Reaching up to 5,320 meters at Kang La Pass and entering to the Manang Valley and following the Annapurna Classic route to the famous Thorong La 5,420-meter pass.

Nar Phu Valley & Annapurna Circuit Trek – Explore Nepal's Hidden Himalayan Kingdoms.

narphu

The Nar Phu region consists of two remote and culturally rich valleys located north of the main Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. The Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek is an extraordinary Himalayan adventure combining untouched landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, traditional mountain villages, and challenging high-altitude Mountain passes. Often associated with the Tibetan Buddhist concept of Baeyul, meaning a hidden sacred land, this secluded region offers a unique atmosphere and a cultural experience unlike most other trekking destinations in Nepal.

Situated within the Himalayan rain shadow near the Tibetan Plateau, Nar Phu features a spectacular semi-arid landscape of barren hills, rocky cliffs, deep gorges, narrow canyons, and dramatic valleys. The wilderness is surrounded by magnificent snow-capped Himalayan peaks, creating an unforgettable setting for adventure and exploration. The journey continues across two spectacular high mountain passes, Kang La Pass (5,320 m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and the Dhaulagiri range.

Ancient Tibetan Buddhist Culture and Traditional Mountain Life

Beyond its dramatic scenery, the Nar Phu region is renowned for its preserved Tibetan Buddhist heritage and traditional Himalayan lifestyle. The remote villages of Nar and Phu feature ancient stone houses, narrow alleys, Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and traditional agricultural terraces. For generations, local communities have maintained their cultural traditions and relied on livestock herding, seasonal farming, and historic Trans-Himalayan trade for their livelihoods.

Yaks, sheep, and goats remain important to traditional mountain life, while seasonal pastures and traditional shelters reflect the region's pastoral heritage. Phu Village, dramatically situated beneath towering cliffs, and Nar Village, surrounded by rugged mountain landscapes, provide fascinating insights into the customs, spirituality, and daily lives of local communities.

The Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek is more than a high-altitude trekking adventure; it is a journey into Nepal's hidden Himalayan world. Combining remote wilderness, authentic cultural encounters, traditional mountain settlements, and two legendary high passes, this trek offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers seeking to explore the less-traveled side of the Annapurna region.

Best time to trek into the Nar-Phu Valley

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons for trekking in Nar-Phu Valley. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures, providing excellent visibility of the mountains and lush landscapes.

Winter (December to February) is not recommended due to the cold, with a risk of heavy snowfall, potentially closing high passes. Phu village is largely abandoned by residents during this time.

Monsoon (June to August) is often rainy, the trail is slippery, and the humidity increases in lower areas. However, the Nar-Phu is in a rain-shadow region, and it can still be trekked, though with more challenges.

Trip Gallery

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will warmly welcome you with traditional Nepali flower garlands or Khadak as a gesture of hospitality. You will then be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in, you will have free time to relax, explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, and exchange currency for your upcoming trekking adventure.

We prepare necessary trekking permit arrangements and final preparations for your Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek. Our tour guide will take you for sightseeing around the Kathmandu Valley's remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore ancient temples, historic palaces, sacred Buddhist stupas, and traditional courtyards while discovering Nepal's rich cultural, religious, and architectural heritage. This is also a great opportunity to experience the unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions before beginning your Himalayan adventure. After the sightseeing tour, return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

bees

After an early breakfast, begin your overland journey from Kathmandu towards Besisahar, following the scenic Prithvi Highway through the beautiful countryside of central Nepal. We drive along the banks of the Trishuli River, passing traditional villages, terraced farmlands, green hills, riverside settlements, and diverse landscapes that offer a fascinating glimpse into rural Nepalese life.

Along the way, you will travel through Mugling and Dumre before leaving the main highway and following the road towards Besisahar, the administrative center of Lamjung District and the traditional gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. Depending on road conditions and traffic, you may make several short stops for refreshments, lunch, and photographs.

Upon reaching Besisahar, change to a local four-wheel-drive jeep for the onward journey to Jagat. The mountain road follows the beautiful Marsyangdi River Valley, passing rugged hills, waterfalls, traditional settlements, and dramatic river landscapes. This section offers an exciting introduction to the remote Himalayan countryside.

Although road transportation now extends farther into the Manang region, starting your trek from Jagat allows you to experience more of the traditional Annapurna trekking route while gradually gaining altitude. It provides an opportunity to avoid walking along the dusty and rough vehicle roads.

Upon arrival in Jagat, settle into a local teahouse, enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings, and prepare for the trekking adventure ahead. Overnight stay at a local lodge in Jagat.

We follow the Marsyangdi River Valley towards Chamche. The initial section of the trail goes via the mountain road, passing through spectacular landscapes of towering hills, steep rocky cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. The dramatic river gorge, wild honeybee colonies clinging to rocky cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls are among the major attractions along today's route.

Upon reaching Chamje, leave the road, cross a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River, and continue along the traditional trekking trail towards Tal (Taal). This scenic village is particularly beautiful, surrounded by impressive cliffs, waterfalls, and the flowing river. Located at the entrance to Manang District, Tal is the first major settlement in the district and has experienced several natural disasters, including floods and landslides, throughout its history.

After exploring the beautiful surroundings of Tal, continue towards Dharapani along the traditional trekking route. The old trail offers a more peaceful walking experience through forested hillsides and picturesque mountain scenery. However, during the monsoon season, certain sections may become inaccessible due to landslides, falling rocks, and other trail conditions. If the traditional route is unsafe or closed, cross the suspension bridge beyond Tal and follow the alternative road route to Dharapani.

Upon reaching Dharapani, check into a comfortable local teahouse, relax, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful mountain village. Overnight stay at a local teahouse in Dharapani

koto The valley extends westward through the heavy bushes of fir and pine forests. After half an hour of walking, we reach Bagarchap (2160m). The village was once swept away by a flooded avalanche. After 25 minutes of walking, you get in touch with Danaque village, then walk steeply up to Timang village (2100m) through the forest. From Timang, you will have excellent views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II (7937m), and Annapurna III (7555m). Make a small break in this typical Tibetan architectural village. Their typical homes are very beautiful, with stacking firewood on the roofs in preparation for the long, hard winters. The village marks the transition between the lower wet valleys and the higher dry arid areas of the Manang Valley. The path is gradually flat to Thanchok (Buckwheat, potatoes, and barley land), then Koto overnight.

We enter the restricted area with our permits and continue our trek along Naar Khola. Trekking through dense forests of juniper and pine, we cross a suspension bridge and reach Dharmasala. We come across a beautiful waterfall on our way to Meta. Overnight at a local lodge.

phu Crossing a few suspension bridges over different water streams, we pass the small villages of Jhunam, Chyakhu, and Kyang. We trek along Phu Khola on rocky trails till we reach Phu. We may encounter blue sheep grazing in the field. Visit Tashi Lakhang Monastery, which is known as the last monastery built by Karmapa Rinpoche.

Today, we explore an extraordinary Phu village of around 40 households piled up on a bluff at the junction of the Phu valley and a small side valley. At the very top of the pile are the ruins of an ancient citadel dzong (fort). This is the view of Phu from above and behind, looking down from the 700+ year old gompa (Buddhist monastery) that sits on the hill directly across the river. It’s not the “best” view of the town- that’s from the other side- but this is a really interesting one. Phu is inhabited by mixed ethnic groups like Gurung, Ghale, and Tibetans. We will get a chance to know about their culture, tradition, and lifestyle.

Trekking downhill and crossing many small streams over suspension bridges, we pass lush Himalayan forests to reach Mahendra Pul. We trek through the gorge of the Labse River before descending downhill to Nar. We will pass many Buddhist stupas and monasteries on our way to Nar. Overnight at the local lodge.

naar

We start early morning for the Spectacular Kang La pass trekking uphill to Jhombu Kharka aka Kang-La, which hosts an outstanding view of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, and the other Himalayas. On our way to Kang-La, we may come across some yak herder’s camps. After relishing the beautiful panorama of the Himalayas, we trek downhill to Ngawal. Overnight at a local lodge

kangla

Today, we will walk through the flat valley along the bank of the Marshyandi River. On the way, we will pass the pine forest, the farming terrace, and the beautiful village of Braga. On the route, we can visit Braga monasteries, the view of the Annapurna range, and Tilicho peak. Overnight in Manang

monastery

The trail moves through alpine pastures to scrubby forests of juniper and ascends to Tenki to Yak Kharka.

Yak Kharka to Phedi continues climbing along the bank of the Jorsang Khola. Sometimes it is possible to see a group of blue mountain sheep.

thoronglapass

From Phedi, it is a steep ascend to high camp, then continues on moraines and follows rocky ridges as it ascends to the pass. The views from the trail and the pass called Thorong la (5416m.) are outstanding. You can see the long great barrier ridged of Gangapurna, Annapurna, and Thorong Peak, Khatung Kang Peak. From the top, the trail descends steeply down to Muktinath (3800 m), the most important pilgrimage site. It is also a village of Tibetan ethnic and holy Buddhists.

Visit the holistic temple site before breakfast and descend via Jharkot village. If you are fit enough, then hike via LUBRA valley to Jomsom. That at least avoids disturbance of the vehicle. We don’t recommend walking along the frequently traveled road to Jomsom. The evening will be a farewell dinner for the successful completion of the trek. Thanking you with some satisfied TIP to your trekking crews.

jharkot

Take a morning a flight to Pokhara, and free time in Pokhara or explore around Pokhara.

Cost Details

Group Discounts and Trekking Package Prices

At Touren Nepal Treks, we offer special discounts and flexible pricing for group bookings, families, travel companies, partner agencies, student groups, and nonprofit organizations. Whether you are planning a private adventure with friends or organizing a larger trekking group, we are happy to provide competitive rates based on your group size and service requirements.

Trekking Package Prices:

Full Package Price: USD 2,000 per person (for groups of two or more).

Service Package Price: USD 1,350 per person.

Important Notes:

Special permits for the Nar Phu Valley are subject to group requirements and current government regulations. Solo trekking permit arrangements are also available under the applicable restricted-area rules.

The full package price includes the services and facilities listed under the Included and Excluded sections of this website.

The Service Package Price has a separate list of included and excluded services, provided under the Service Trip Price section.

Additional discounts may be available for larger groups and eligible organizations. Please contact us for a customized quotation.

What's included

Pick up and drop transportation at the International airport.
3 night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on B/B plan.
Sightseeing in the UNESCO"S cultural world heritage site in Kathmandu with professional tour guide.
Entrance fees for the world heritage sites
KTM - Besi Shahar- Koto 4x4 Jeep service and pokhara to KTM luxury tourist bus.
Jomsom - Pokhara domestic flight tickets
3 meals a day during the trip (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as mention in itinerary.
Accommodation on the trek in twin sharing basis in guesthouses with attach bathroom.
Annapurna conservation area permit and TIMS card.
Narphu Valley restricted area permit fee.
Professional skillful guide and necessary staff
Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation and Insurance for the Guide , portersand driver.
Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
All government and local taxes.

What's not included

International airfare to/ from Nepal.
Your travel insurance
Your Personal Medical expenses
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Helicopter charge in case of fast evacuation is needed.
Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water during the tour.
Your personal expenses
Entrace fees at the monasteries in Nahr Phu and Manang region.
Horse charges incase you rent for hiking
Personal equipments.
Tips and gratitude to your staff
Room charge and in case you return before our trip plan

Useful Info

Some Important Trip Features

Duration: A typical Nar-Phu Valley trek takes around 10 to 17 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization plan. Our itinerary assumes a minimum of 4 hours to 10 hours of walking per day during the trek. But make it flexible according to your physical condition and abilities.

Difficulty: This is a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness and prior experience in mountain walking. Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.

As a restricted area, trekkers need two essential permits:

1) Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area (Special Permit)

2) ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit.

Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area (Special Permit): It costs 100$ per person for a week and for additional 15$ per day per person (September to November). And it costs 75$ per person for a week and for additional 15$ per day per person (December to August).

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit: It costs 30$ per person and will be valid during your Trek

How about TIMS for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

TIMS is not necessary for the Nar Phu Valley Trek when you have a Restricted Special Trekking Permit of Nar Phu Valley.

Mandatory Guide: Due to its restricted status and challenging terrain, solo trekking is prohibited. You must join an authorized trekking agency in Nepal and trek with a licensed guide and in a group of two or more.

Can Solo Trekker get a Permit for Nar Phu Valley?

Naar Phu valley trekking permit will not be issued for a solo trekker. There should be at least 2 people in a group.

Altitude sickness:

Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness) is difficulty sleeping, dizziness, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, rapid pulse, nausea, vomiting, etc. It affects mountain climbers, hikers, and skiers because of lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels. It occurs as a result of failure to adapt at a higher altitude. It happens most often in the brain or the lungs after the fluid begins to leak from the blood vessels.

When the fluid collects in the brain, you initially get headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness, a desire to lie down and feel powerless, physical unwillingness to move, and a decrease of consciousness, and the problem with balance coordination is called high–altitude cerebral edema (HACE). If the fluid is collected in the lungs, you become breathless and dry, and it causes a regular irritative cough, sometimes coughing up blood too, discoloration of the skin, and chest tightness is called high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).

Prevention:

To prevent acute mountain sickness, we have to follow fundamental gravity habits such as patience, consistency, and discipline in the mountains. The mountains have their own rule and regulations. We cannot turn them into our nature except by following and respecting them. Cloth properly according to the altitude, avoid rapid altitude gain, drink enough water or fluid, take enough acclimatization time to adjust the body at a higher altitude, avoid alcoholic items, control smoking, eat regular meals, and get higher & sleep at lower altitudes. Avoid high altitudes if you have heart and lung disease. If the symptoms occur, then stop climbing mountains and descend to a lower altitude. In case the person is seriously sick or cannot bring him/her to a lower altitude by walking and carrying, then she/he should be rescued by a quick Helicopter evacuation.

Clothing Equipment:

Lightweight walking boots, a pair of track shoes, and slippers to wear in the evening or when the boots are wet.

Warm jacket (Fibers fill or down should be adequate.)

Warm clothes or fleece jackets.

Thin and thick trousers.

Warm trousers are useful higher up in the mountains in the morning and at night.

Thermal underwear (These are excellent for sleeping at night)

A pair of loose-fitting long shorts and 1 lightweight long-sleeved shirt are particularly suitable.

A woolen or warm hat to wear in the morning and at night. Sunhat and ensure it has a wide brim to cover the face and neck.

A pair of gloves (warm and normal ones)

2 pairs of thin and 2 pairs of thick warm socks.

Underwear, buff, and hankies as you need.

Accessories: Duffle bag or kit bag to carry your gear and a Small rucksack to carry personal equipment for the day, e.g., toilet paper, towel, soap, etc. Water bottle. Snow glasses and sunglasses, 2-4 large plastic bags to separate clean clothes from dirty ones. Headlamp with spare batteries, sun cream, personal medicine, lip guard, toothbrush, towel, Reading materials, game items (optional), notebook, rubber band, pen and pencil, a diary, a pocket knife, trekking map, passport, and copies.

Drinking Water: Travelers should be very aware of drinking water in Nepal. They are not completely adapted to digest direct normal spring water due to bacteria. So, we recommend you drink mineral water or boiled water. Also, you can use some purifier tablets, such as chlorine tablets, for purifying water on the trek. We strongly recommend mineral water in the city area and purified or boiled water for the trek.

Accommodation: We provide accommodation according to your demand and accessibility, either normal standards or comfortable luxury hotels in the City. We provide very neat, clean, and comfortable hotels, lodges, friendly homestays, or, locally, what is available for the most suitable on tour. The hotel and lodges around Naar Phu are normal with Tibetan-designed or artistic, with a warm dining room. Sometimes the hot shower room is separate or the outside.

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