Nar Phu Valley Trek

Highlights

One of the unexplored and pristine areas of Annapurna, the Nar Phu Valley is a hidden treasure. It is the last surviving fragment of the long-lost Tibetan forbidden kingdom, which was discovered in Nepal. Known as “The Little Tibet,” the Annapurna region contains two well-known villages: Nar and Phu. The trek in Nepal’s most remote and challenging Annapurna region is the Nar Phu Valley Trek. Phu (4250 m) is a village in front of Himlung Mountain, and Nar (4150 m) is a large village before Kang La Pass (5320 m). This trek offers a variety of experiences, including a visit to a remote village in the Nar Phu region, a high and challenging Kang La Pass, a multitude of yaks and their pastures, a breathtaking view of the mountain peaks, lean and colorful Georges, and glacier peaks.

This is a less popular trek than another Annapurna trek. Therefore, it is appropriate for hikers looking for a quiet adventure in a serene setting. The Annapurna circuit can also be done nonstop. After you complete Kang La Pass, it’s a fantastic opportunity. Tilicho Lake is also an option.

Suitable season

In general, trekking in Nepal is suitable throughout the entire season. However, the best seasons for the weather and scenery are spring and autumn. Flowers bloom and new leaves begin to grow in the spring. The surroundings turn green, providing you with clean air and aesthetic pleasure. Autumn is the festive season in a similar way. One can appreciate the significance of festivals and the way they are celebrated in Nepal. The weather is suitable for trekking because it’s not too hot or cold.

Permits required for Annapurna circuit trek

Simply, every Himalayas in Nepal is a protected area, with the popular name of the Himalayas and Nar Phu trek also comes under Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). All the trekkers trekking Nar Phu valley need three different permits. They are:

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) permits.
Special Trekking permits of Nar Phu valley trek.

Altitude Sicknes

Altitude sickness typically happens when you ascend to a high altitude too quickly. At high altitudes, your body tries to adapt to the lower oxygen levels and lower air pressure, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and nausea.

Here are a few strategies to help you avoid experiencing altitude sickness:

Stop and rest where you are.
Do not go any higher for at least 24 to 48 hours.
Make sure you are drinking enough water.
Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or exercise.
Eating foods and drinking fluids that contain carbs such as bread, pasta, fruits, milk, rice, etc.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is required for any trek in Nepal, including the Nar Phu valley trek. Make sure your travel insurance includes coverage for unexpected emergencies and high-altitude trekking when purchasing it. You can also get coverage of other activities such as mountaineering, hiking, and adventure sports. In the case of an unplanned accident, it can provide you with financial security and peace of mind.

Guide and Porter

It is mandatory for all hikers to hire a certified trekking guide and obtain a TIMS card from approved trekking agencies that are registered with the Nepalese government. Crucially, Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. is a trustworthy business that can offer you a porter and guide who is both technically sound and safe. They always have the necessary supplies, first aid kits, and safety equipment on hand.

Foods and Accommodation

A staple dish of Nepali cuisine is dal bhat, a curry made with organic, healthful fresh green vegetables. Meals are served at tea shops and lodges; they are typically a combination of western and Nepalese cuisine. Vegetarian options are also available. Throughout the hike, you will savor a wide variety of delectable foods.

The lodging is simple, usually consisting of a shared room with twin beds. Some tea houses may have common areas where you can relax and chat with other hikers.

Itinerary

If you're looking for a tailor-made trip or want to customize this itinerary, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you create the perfect holiday plan. Contact us anytime!

Day 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat

Day 2

Trek from Jagat to Dharapani

We will begin our trekking early in the morning and walk through lush forests while taking in the mountain views of the Annapurna range. We will cross a few suspension bridges and arrive at Dharapani (1960 meters) after seven to eight hours of walking. The second night of our trek will be spent at Dharapani.

Day 3

Trek from Dharapani to Koto

Day 4

Trek from Koto to Meta

Day 5

Trek from Meta to Phu Gaun

Day 6

Acclimatization day at Phu Gaun

Our sixth day of trekking will be spent resting at Phu Gaon, which will greatly aid in our acclimatization. We will be taking walks through the Gurung and Ghale people's culturally and aesthetically stunning valley. In addition, we will go to the ancient Tashi Lakhang monastery, where we can get the best views of Himlung Himal.

Day 7

Trek from Phu Gaun to Nar

On our trekking route today, we will cross a high bridge over the Lapche River, which is over 80 meters high. We will also pass by Buddhist stupas and arrive at Nar (4110 m) village, which offers the best view of Pisang peak and other smaller peaks. We will spend the night at Nar following a six to seven-hour walk.

Day 8

Acclimatization Day at Nar

Day 9

Trek from Nar to Ngwal via Kang La Pass

Day 10

Trek from Ngwal to Manang

Today we are going to Manang from Ngwal. We drive past the remote community of Paugh, which offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. After that, we make our way slowly uphill to Mungli, where we meet the main Annapurna Trail trail. Eventually, we arrive in Manang, where we pitch our tents for the night.

Day 11

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka

The trail heads northwest up the Jarsang Khola valley from Manang village, crosses a stream, and then climbs to the village of Tenki above Manang. After that, the trail heads out of the Marshyangdi Valley. The trail climbs steadily as it follows this valley north, passing through a scrub of juniper trees and a few pastures. Just below the trailhead, the trail continues to pass close to the small village of Ghunsa, which is made up of a group of flat mud roofs. The trail now passes through meadows used for yak and horse grazing. The trail passes an old Mani wall in a lovely meadow after crossing a small river on a wooden bridge. Next, it comes to another small village called Yak Kharka.

Day 12

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

Today, we travel to Throng Phedi, the base of the pass. A tiny, bustling community, Thorong Phedi serves the needs of weary hikers and climbers. This point serves as a base camp for trekkers like us. To make the following day easier for them, some visitors also try to hike to the High Camp today. However, this is not what our team leader suggests. We pause at Thorong Phedi, despite the fact that tomorrow will be difficult, so that we can sleep comfortably at a lower altitude instead of taking the chance of sleeping at a higher altitude at High Camp.

Day 13

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong-La Pass

Another highlight of this trek is crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass, which is located at an astounding elevation of 5,416 meters/17,764 feet. To navigate the icy high-altitude trail, it is imperative to set out early. However, the breathtaking views of the mountains more than make up for the taxing hike along the difficult trail. By dusk, we arrive at Muktinath, a significant Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site. There is a Vishnu temple and a monastery close by, so we can take a stroll around the area.

Day 14

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom

We start our ascent through the parched terrain as we descend the spectacular Kali Gandaki Gorge. The villages of Jharkot and Khingar, which have typical Tibetan architecture, are passed by. We arrive at Jomsom by mostly following the valley floor that stretches along the banks of the Kali Gandaki.

Day 15

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

We check into the airport for our flight to Pokhara after breakfast. The breathtaking flight passes through the gorge formed by the massive Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains. After landing at Pokhara airport, we'll be taken to a hotel by a lake. After getting some rest, we spend the evening taking in the splendor of Pokhara Valley. As we take a leisurely stroll alongside Fewa Lake, which is Nepal's second-largest lake, we take in the stunning view of Machhapuchhare's mountains. We can also take a quick hike to the World Peace Pagoda or go for a boat ride in Fewa. We can take a leisurely stroll around the captivating lakeside to cap off the day.

Day 16

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast today, we head back to Kathmandu, which is 200 kilometers away. To take in the scenery as you travel, it is preferable to hang onto the left side of the window. We'll be taken to our hotel when we get to Kathmandu. All we can do is exchange emails with our traveling companions and sort our pictures. We can enjoy a relaxed evening together, maybe finishing up some last-minute shopping, and have dinner as a team. We intend to spend the night in Kathmandu.

Inclusions

What's included

Add-ons

What's not included

FAQs

Where is Nar Phu Valley?

Situated in the northwest of Nepal, the Nar Phu Valley trek is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area. This trek leads you to the less traveled route because the Nar Phu Valley is shaded by the Annapurna and Himlung Peaks.

Can I Do Nar Phu Trek Without a Guide?

Since this trek is located in a restricted area, you must obtain the permit prior to beginning your hike. As a result, in order to obtain a permit, you must either join another group or have the approval of at least two other trekkers. For this trek, you must also employ a professional guide who holds a valid license.

Can I Charge My Electronic Devices While Exploring the Nar Phu Valley?

Like other trekking destinations in Nepal, there's an electronic device charging tea house along the trail in Nar Phu Valley. However, the charging facility is an additional expense, and the tea house's prices vary based on altitude.

Do I need any permits for this trek?

Certain areas have been designated by the Nepalese government as restricted or conservative areas, requiring permits to enter. Nar Phu Valley is one of them; it's a restricted area. Therefore, two permits are also needed for this trek: an Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit (ACAP) and a Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP).