Nar Phu valley is the last standing remains of ancient forbidden kingdom of Tibet later found in Nepal. This region is one of the untouched and unspoiled region from outside world and is also called as the Little Tibet
Nar Phu valley trek is one of the most untouched and beautiful less crowded trek in Annapurna region. Nar and Phu villages situated in a northeast valley near Chame. The Nar Phu valley Trek has only been open for exploration since 2002 and offers an extraordinarily pristine cultural, scenic views and rugged landscpaes. This trekking is Nepal’s true hidden gem, its rugged landscapes and ancient villages bordering on Tibet have lain in peaceful solitude for years from the outside world. Relatively few trekkers making the journey to one of the last truly untouched regions in the Himalayas so this trek is less crowded compare to other trekking region in Nepal.
We start the trek from either Jagat or Dharapani after driving there from Kathmandu. We follow the same hiking route to Annapurna circuit trail to Koto and Meta. We cross the bridge over the Marshyangdi river leading to Nar Phu Valley from Meta. The narrow forest entrance opens up to a huge expansion of snowy peaks of mountains Kang Garu and Pisang and several others, ancient villages, ruins, and monasteries We will also come across yaks and blue sheep. The trek through the valley culminates with the climb up to Kang La pass (5360m) and the steep and rocky descent to Ngawal on the Annapurna Circuit trail. The option exists to continue on the circuit all the way up to and over Thorong La pass, or of heading towards Mesokanto La as an alternative. Otherwise the trek concludes by hiking back down the trail to Chame and the return drive to Pokhara or Kathmandu. We will see great views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho peak. Then we hike up to the magnificent Tilicho lake and cross Mesokanto pass and head to Jomsom, after a final stop at Tatopani to relax in the hot springs we drive to Pokhara then back to Kathmandu.
Nar Phu ValleyTrek Permits
As Nar Phu Valley is a protected area, we have to apply the special permits to support to preserve of the area. This restricted area permit will costs are as below
- For the months of September to November, the rate per person is USD 100 for one week
- if you are visiting between the months of December to August, the cost is USD 75 for one week per person.
Beyond one week; it costs USD 15 / 10 per day per person. In addition, ACAP (Annapurna conservation area permit) is mandatory that cost NPR 3000 (USD 30). And if you are combining this trek with Annapurna Circuit, you will need TIMS Card that costs USD 10 for group and USD 20 for FIT trekkers.
Best Time to Trek Nar Phu Valley Trek
If you're planning a trek to Nar Phu Valley, you'll want to consider the weather before you go. Trekking Plus offers Nar Phu treks during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, which are the best times to visit.
During spring, the temperatures are mild and the skies are clear, making for perfect trekking conditions. The high elevations of Nar Phu Valley have a mean daily temperature between 8 to 0°C, while lower regions are warmer and more pleasant to trek. You can also enjoy the beautiful blossoms of rhododendrons, which start to bloom in April.
In autumn, the weather is also moderate and the precipitation is low, making for ideal trekking conditions. The daytime temperatures can reach up to 20°C in high altitudes, and the night temperatures fall to around 5°C. The greens of the monsoon season fade to golden/amber, creating a beautiful contrast against the crystal blue skies. Plus, you'll get to experience the festive mood of Nepal during the two biggest festivals of the year - Dashain and Tihar.
Highlights of Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Discover a remote part of Nepal that few travelers get to see
- Stay in ancient villages that have seen little change over the centuries
- Enjoy great views of Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
- Experience a part of the Tibetan plateau that extends down into Nepal
- Pass the Kang La pass , Mesokanto la pass
- Witness a Tibetan-derived culture, with unique and colorful prayer stones and monasteries.