Nar Phu Valley Trek

48 Reviews in TripAdvisor
52 Reviews in Google
Trip Facts
Trip Grade: Moderate
Country: Nepal
Group Size: 2-12
Activities: Trekking
Best Time: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)

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.

Itinerary Overview and Route Map

Day 1:Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar(760 m/ 2492 ft) Towards Jagat (1,300m/4,265 ft)
Day 2:Trek from Jagat (1,300m/4,265 ft) to Dharapani(1,860m/6,200ft)
Day 3:Trek from Dharapani(1,860m/6,200ft) to Koto (2,610m/8,563ft)
Day 4:Trek from Koto (2,610m/8,563ft) to Meta (3,560m/11,680ft)
Day 5:Trek from Meta (3,560m/11,680ft) to Phu Gaon (4,250m/13,944ft)
Day 6:Trek from Phu Gaon (4,250m/13,944ft) to Nar (4,110m/13,484ft)
Day 7:Acclimatization and explore around Nar village
Day 8:Trek from Nar (4,110m/13,484ft) to Kang La Pass (5,322m/17,460ft) to Ngawal (3,660m/12,008ft)
Day 9:Trek from Ngwala (3,660m/12,008ft) to Manang (3,540m/11,614ft)
Day 10:Trek from Manang (3,540m/11,614ft) to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft)
Day 11:Trek from Thorong Phedi (4,600m/15,092ft) to Thorong La pass (5,4525m/17,764ft) to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft)
Day 12:Trek from Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft) to Jomsom (2,715m/8,910ft)
Day 13:Drive from Jomsom (2,715m/8,910ft) to Tatopani (1200m/3,940ft) by local bus
Day 14:Drive Tatopani (1200m/3,940ft) to Pokhara (850m/2,789ft)
Day 15:Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft)

Nar Phu Valley Trek Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar(760 m/ 2492 ft) Towards Jagat (1,300m/4,265 ft)

We start our journey with a scenic drive after an early morning breakfast from Kathmandu for about 6-7 hours (190 Km) to the Besishar. We take a local bus out of the valley and along the picturesque Trishuli River. we can see beautiful scenery along the way of rivers, terraced fields, villages, and sights of the snowy mountains, including Ganesh and Manaslu peaks. Eventually, we turn off from the main highway to Pokhara and head north to the large bazaar area of Besisahar and then continue to change then pass the road through paddy fields and Tibetan villages of Jagat  by local jeep where our drive ends. Stay overnight in Jagat.

Max Altitude: 1,300m (4,265ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 8-10 hrs
Distance: 198km/123 miles
Accommodation: Local Tea House
Day 2

Trek from Jagat (1,300m/4,265 ft) to Dharapani(1,860m/6,200ft)

In the morning after breakfast, the trail goes gradually uphill to Chame and cross another suspension bridge and follow the steep rocky trail until reaching Tal village. You can see again very beautiful waterfalls in Tal. You have a lunch break here. We continue straight and cross the suspension bridge near Lower Dharapani. You continue a little more hiking and arrive in Higher Dharapani.

Max Altitude: 1,860m (6,102ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: about 5 hrs
Distance: 15.8km/9.8 miles
Accommodation: Local Tea house lodge
Day 3

Trek from Dharapani(1,860m/6,200ft) to Koto (2,610m/8,563ft)

Today we will enter Nar Phu Valley which will take us around four to five hours. We will trek through pine and fir forests, monasteries, and villages to Bargarchhap., You can enjoy the spectacular mountain views of Annapurna II and Manaslu and other peaks along the way. The trail continues through pine forests till Latamarang which takes about one and a half hours. Finally, we will reach Koto, a small village inhabited by Gurung communities. Overnight in Lodge in local tea house lodge.

Max Altitude: 2,610m (8,562ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: about 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 4

Trek from Koto (2,610m/8,563ft) to Meta (3,560m/11,680ft)

After registering our restricted area permit at the police check post, we will travel along the banks of Soti Khola through wonderful pine forests, pass suspension bridges and cascading waterfall and reach Dharamshala which takes about five hours. from here the woods become thinner and the vistas get wider. We continue trekking for about one and a half hours through the forest ascending steeply till Meta village on the Tibetan Plateau. The views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal look great from here.Overnight in Lodge.

Max Altitude: 3,560m (11,679ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: about 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 5

Trek from Meta (3,560m/11,680ft) to Phu Gaon (4,250m/13,944ft)

We will ascent and descent trial along with a suspension bridge, we reach the deserted fields of Chyaku. Keep climbing and reach a small pass with excellent views of the Annapurna and reach Kyang, where we can see outstanding views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II then we pass the Phu Khola on a rocky trail past the submarine rocks and maybe some campsites until Phu village which takes about 3 hours. We will see the colorful chortens that Nar and Phu are famous for as well as blue sheep. We get to experience the diversity of culture, nature, religion o, we see the people’s daily life and Tashi Lhakhang Monastery. We will continue walking across a small glacial stream to a larger glacier stream with a half-bridge. An after hour and a half we will reach the Phu gate leading to Phu Village. splendid view of Himlung Himal and other snow peaks is clearly visible. Overnight in Lodge.

Max Altitude: 4,250m (13,943ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: about 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 6

Trek from Phu Gaon (4,250m/13,944ft) to Nar (4,110m/13,484ft)

After glims of Naar Village then we descend down the valley past several streams and suspension bridges until Mahendra Pul, which takes about four hours then we walk up to a junction where the trail branches off to reach the small settlement of Nar Phedi.On the way will see the peaks of Kang Garu and Pisang Peak and pass by two chortens on the way. Overnight in Lodge.

Max Altitude: 4,250m (13,943ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 7

Acclimatization and explore around Nar village

An excursion day to Tashi Lhakhang and. Some people skip an extra day in Phu and prefer to hike Tilicho Lake from Manang instead then join the Thorong La route at Yak Kharka. Overnight in lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 8

Trek from Nar (4,110m/13,484ft) to Kang La Pass (5,322m/17,460ft) to Ngawal (3,660m/12,008ft)

From naar we ascend through the lateral moraine of Temdenzon Khola on a pleasant path that passes yak pastures with defined views of the west ridge of Pisang Peak. we will trek to Jhombu kharka also known as Kang la Phedi at the bottom of Kang la pass. We will cross the Kang La pass is a very steep ascent to the top but it's not too difficult. our hiking will take about 2 hours to cross the pass. From the top of the pass, we will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Annapurna range and other peaks. Then three hours of steep descent until we reach Ngawal village where we stay. Overnight at lodge.

Max Altitude: 5,322m (17,460ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 9

Trek from Ngwala (3,660m/12,008ft) to Manang (3,540m/11,614ft)

An hour trek to Braga Village passing Marsyangdi River. We will explore the famous monasteries in Barga village. then leave the trail off to Tilicho Lake on the left corner and continue a short walk up to Manang, a settlement of the dramatic village. There are many guest houses, cafes, and even trekking shops in Manang. Overnight in lodge.

Max Altitude: 3,660m (12,007ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 10

Trek from Manang (3,540m/11,614ft) to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft)

From Manang, we cross a stream and climb up to Tenki village then head out of Marshyangdi valley northwest up Jar Sang Khola valley .the trail ascends slowly as we head northward. we will pass a few pastures and juniper trees. Following the trail, we will pass through a small village called Gunsan with houses made of flat mud roof and then pass pastures with yaks and horses. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, we make our way up the spectacular valley to an open, peaceful meadow known as Yak Kharka. Overnight in local lodge.

Max Altitude: 4,110m (13,484ft)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Local Tea House Lodge
Day 11

Trek from Thorong Phedi (4,600m/15,092ft) to Thorong La pass (5,4525m/17,764ft) to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft)

Today we cross Thorong La pass, one of the highest passes in the world, and the highest point of the trek. we have to push ourselves through the icy air, and high altitude but the view from the pass will make it totally worth it. We will see a panorama of majestic Himalayan peaks extending northwards into Tibet, at the back we can see several of the main peaks of Annapurna. We will then descend all the way to Muktinath, The descent to Muktinath is pretty steep and will take between 3 to 4 hours. Muktinath is a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists. The Buddhists call it ‘Chumig Gyatsa,’ which in Tibetan means "Hundred Waters". Overnight in local lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodation: Local tea house lodge
Day 12

Trek from Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft) to Jomsom (2,715m/8,910ft)

We head down to Jharkot and Khingar where there are beautiful monasteries that you can explore. We will walk along the banks of Kali Gandaki river past kagbeni and reach Jomsom. The view of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri is splendid throughout the trail. Overnight in local lodge.

Max Altitude: 3,800m (12,467ft)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 13

Drive from Jomsom (2,715m/8,910ft) to Tatopani (1200m/3,940ft) by local bus

From Jomsom, we catch a local bus to Tatopani. This rugged journey through the deepest gorge in the world will take us from the arid high elevation terrain to the lowlands with lush jungle and farmland. We will see spectacular views of the Kali Gandaki River separate the 10th highest peak in the world Annapurna from Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest. We will have views along the way! Tatopani is famous for natural hot spring;.. We can take a dip in the nearby hot springs and savor the well-earned rest. Overnight in lodge.

Max Altitude: 2,715m (8,907ft)
Duration: about 6 hour
Distance: 113km/70 miles
Day 14

Drive Tatopani (1200m/3,940ft) to Pokhara (850m/2,789ft)

Approximately seven hours bus or jeep drive from Tatopani via Beni Bazaar will take us to Pokhara. Pokhara is a lake city popular for its natural beauty. A lakeside tourist's paradise with many facilities for travelers. Overnight in standard hotel in pokhara.

Duration: about 7 hours
Day 15

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft)

Today we start the day early as we depart on a tourist bus to Kathmandu. The 200 km route follows first along the Marsyangdi River and then the Trishuli river offering a good look at the landscape and farmland. The bus makes one last climb and we are back in the valley of the gods, Kathmandu. Accommodation at selected Hotel in Kathmandu.

Duration: about 6 hours
Distance: 200km/ 124miles
Are you still confuse from where to start? Trekking Plus has solutions for this.

Cost Details

Includes

  • Transportaiton by public bus to Besisahar from kathmandu and jeep to Jagat (trek starting point ). Jomsome to Tatopani by local jeep
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus.
  • Accommodation in kathmandu and pokhara as per itinerary with breakfast.
  • All meals during the trek ( 15 Lunches, 14Dinners and 16 Breakfasts).
  • Tea House/ Lodge accommodation during trek ( (Twin Sharing Room) for 14 nights
  • Government License holder tekking experienced aleader (guide), assistant trekking guide, (12 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porter to help trekkers luggage ( 1 porter between two trekkers).
  • Coverage of guides and porters meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation and other necessary equipment.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee.
  • Nar Phu valley restricted area permit.
  • Snacks (cookies) and Seasonal fresh fruits every day
  • All government taxes and Trekking Plus official expenses
  • Assistance in arranging rescue operation in case of complicated health condition (funded by travel insurance).
  • Farewell Dinner at the end of the trek

Excludes

  • International Flight.
  • Nepal entry visa fees for multiple Entries on arrival at Tribhuwan Internationa Airport.
  • Personal expense such as shopping, snacks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, bettery re-charge fee extra porters etc.
  • Personal clothing and trekking gears.Excess baggage charges (Limit is 9 kg per Person)
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and pokhara.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and pokhra due to early return from trekking (because of any reason) prior to the plan scheduled itinerary.
  • Tips for guide and porters (Recommended by the Culture)
  • Additional costs or delays caused by out of management control, for example, landslide, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes etc.
  • All the costs and expenses which are not listed in "cost includes" will be counted as Excludes

Essential Information

Trekking Plus is a renowned expert in organizing tailor-made trekking itineraries for Nepal. Our team carefully selects the best routes for each trekking package, ensuring that travelers have a unique and favorable experience. We offer fixed departure dates , but we can also plan and book trips for the near future, based on the traveler's preferences and time frame.

While the cost for each departure date is clearly stated, it can vary depending on the number of travelers in a group and whether or not they are joining an existing trip. Regardless, we guarantee the cost quoted for each departure date. If you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, add Nepal's stunning Himalayan beauty to your travel bucket list and let Trekkig Plus help you make it a reality.

Food and  Accommodation during Nar Phu valley Trek

We prioritize serving our customers with the highest standard of accommodation. We offer star hotels in Kathmandu and mountain guesthouses during the trek, according to your needs and requirements. We provide comfortable guesthouses with a pleasant environment and hygienic food to ensure a healthy trip. 

Kathmandu valley offers a paradise of delicious food with various cuisine options available at different restaurants. During the lodge trek, we provide Continental, Indian, and Nepali menu choices, such as Pasta, Pizza, Mo: Mo, Soup, Dal Bhat, and hot drinks such as Tea and Coffee. Our guides will manage and advise on food choices to ensure your satisfaction.

Trekking Plus Team

As the homeland of the Himalayas, we understand the challenging routes, dangerous weather, and health issues that can arise, which can potentially ruin your trip. Therefore, we provide experienced native leaders and staff who have been working in this field for many years to ensure a safe and memorable trip. Our guides are trained and certified by the Government of Nepal, have proper emergency guidance and evacuation education in the Himalayas, and are knowledgeable in first aid. We do not compromise on the safety of our clients, and we provide insurance and medical services during the trek as well as compensation when needed.

Field Staff Rules

To ensure your safety and comfort, we require an adequate number of staff, including guides, porters, drivers, and assistant guides. We provide a guide on every trip, one assistant guide for every 4-9 guests, and two assistant guides for every group of 10. We send one porter for every two guests, and the number of porters depends on the clients' load, with each porter carrying a maximum load of 20 kg. Our staff are professional and expert guides who can speak English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and other languages as required. We can also manage any other staff as per your demands.

Trekking Equipment

Equipment is essential to ensure a comfortable and successful trip. Please kindly check to our equipment list before embarking on your trek to ensure that you are fully prepared.

Communicaiton durign the trek

When you're on the Nar Phu Trek, you can use the internet at the lodges you stay in, but there will be an additional cost. You can use this service to get in touch with your family and friends. However, when we get to higher altitudes, we'll rely on phones to communicate. Trekking Plus checks in with all their trekking teams daily through the trek lead to make sure everything is going as scheduled. If you need a sim card, you can purchase one in Kathmandu. Keep in mind that signal strength might differ depending on your network.

Safety & Security

Safety and security is our primary concern, we prioritize the safety of our clients from the moment of arrival until departure. Our staff will pick you up at the airport and assist you to your hotel. We provide proper remedial services during the trek, including professional staff and services like first aid, oxygen bags, and helicopter services for emergency rescue. We also focus on acclimatization days to prevent altitude sickness.