Nar Phu Valley Trek - 10 Days
Maxium Altitude
5240MDifficulty Level
ChallengingTrekking Season
March to May and September to November
Trip Overview
Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of the most remote and untouched journeys into Nepal. It encompasses bringing much-needed natural beauty, cultural immersion, and high-altitude adventure into one trek. Set in the Annapurna region, Nar Phu Valley Trek leads through deserted villages, ancient monasteries, and impressive landscapes, overshadowed by thrilling peaks of the Himalayas like Himlung Himal, Annapurna II, and Kang Guru.
It starts from Koto and moves into the restricted Nar and Phu Valleys, welcoming trekkers with dry, rocky cliffs and gorgeous scenery of alpine landscapes. Some few steps along the encounter will bring the tireless traveler to villages of Tibetan influence, such as Phu and Nar, that deviate from modernity by revealing centuries-old traditions and lifestyles in an extremely rare experience.
Kang La Pass is indisputably the Nar Phu Valley Trek’s high point, which serves as a reward for the effort. And the openings of the wide range of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri will take your breath away. All-in-all, the Nar Phu Valley Trek 10 Days offers you the scene from thick pine forested areas and uses river crossings to high barrenness and snow-covered trails.
Preparation for Nar Phu Valley Trek 10 Days
Permits and Regulations
There are three permits required for going on the Nar Phu Valley Trek. They are Special Restricted Area Permit, Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit.
Special Restricted Area Permit costs you USD 100 from the timeframe of September to November, with a validation of 7 Days. It costs an additional USD 15 per day after the validation ends. Similarly, during the timeframe from December to August, it costs USD 75 for the first seven days with an additional cost of USD 15 per day.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit costs NPR 3000 for international trekkers, NPR 1000 for SAARC Nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepalese trekkers.
In the meantime, Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card costs you NPR 3000 per person.
Guides and Porters for Nar Phu Valley Trek
Guides and porters are the mandatory elements for the Nar Phu Valley Trek 10 Days. The licensed guides not only provide trail knowledge but also give cultural insights, being the bridge between trekkers and local communities. Since the Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area, trekking permits are to be obtained, and traveling with a registered guide has to be added to that, too. Their knowledge of the region makes them do smooth logistics with safe acclimatization and even access to many real experiences like monasteries, ancient villages, and local traditions.
Porters carry heavy backpacks, usually in the range of 20-25 kgs, so that the trekker can undertake the trail with less physical strain. Porters play a key role in the local economy because many of the locals depend on trekking tourism for their livelihood. Thus, it becomes even more important to treat them with respect and reward them justly according to the burden he carries and the preparation he has made for the trek.
Best season for Nar Phu Valley Trek
Additionally, Nar Phu Valley Trek 10 Days is feasible within the Monsoon (June-August) also because of the 2 peak holidaymaker seasons (March-May and September-November). Therefore, the Nar Phu Valley Trek continues to be pleasurable within the monsoon, though the road access within the mountains to and from Besisahar may be noncontinuous by mud and landslides. However, in the Winter (December-February), the high pass may be impassable with snow.
Major attractions of Nar Phu Valley Trek
A variety of attractive sites in Nepal’s Nar Phu Valley attract travelers looking for both natural beauty and cultural immersion. Here is a summary of its main appeals:
- Gorgeous Scenery: Nar Phu Valley Trek is well-known for its breathtaking landscape, which includes rocky mountains, pure alpine lakes, flowing waterfalls, and beautiful woods. The route is set against a memorable backdrop of towering peaks, such as Annapurna II, III, and IV, which are all visible to trekkers.
- Traditional Tibetan settlements: Travellers may discover real Himalayan culture in the valley’s old Tibetan Buddhist settlements, Phu and Nar. These communities provide a glimpse into centuries-old customs and traditions with their beautifully carved monasteries, prayer flags that flutter, and ancient stone cottages.
- Cultural Immersion: By engaging with locals, taking part in customary rituals, and touring holy locations like prayer wheels, chortens, and monasteries strewn throughout the valley, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the rich cultural legacy of the area.
- Natural Wilderness: Nar Phu Valley provides a secluded and beautiful hiking experience, well off from the throngs of more well-traveled paths. Trekkers may experience the peace and quiet of the Himalayan mountains while travelling through untamed and wild landscapes, where they will come across a variety of flora and species.
- Kang Laa Pass: Reaching an elevation of 5,240 metres, the Kang La Pass is a highlight of the Nar Phu Valley trip. Trekkers who successfully complete this difficult but rewarding ascent are rewarded with amazing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making the experience unforgettable and thrilling.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for the Nar Phu Valley Trek 10 Days because of the very remote and tough terrain. Most of the trekking will be at very high altitudes and the Kang La Pass is above 5,200 meters, where an individual is at a significant risk of altitude sickness. Your insurance must include high-altitude trekking (to 6000 meters), emergency evacuations, and medical expenses.
Also, unpredictable weather in the Himalayas may lead to delays in trip itinerary schedules or, in the worst case, cancellation of the trip. Therefore it is recommended to have trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage. It is good to carry a printed copy of the policy and share its details with your guide. Reliable insurance ensures that you focus on all that beauty and adventure of Nar Phu Valley while staying prepared for emergencies. You can purchase insurance from trusted platforms like Travelex and AXA Assistance.
Communication and Internet
Because of the remote area around Nar Phu Region, the benefits of communication and internet access are very limited. More likely, you would have mobile network coverage from NTC and Ncell SIM cards down below. But that would, however, become much weaker as you hike higher up. A few teahouses charge a fee for the use of the very basic Wi-Fi but with very low speeds.
Most of the guides will have satellite phones for continuous communication. You also will have the option of renting a satellite phone in case staying connected is a must. Trekkers commonly use offline maps, pre-downloaded trekking guides, and portable power banks to get them ready.
Food and Accommodation
The food and accommodation on this Nar Phu Valley Trek 10 Days are far more basic than what one would find in better-developed places such as Kathmandu or Pokhara. It mainly comprises Nepalese staples such as dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetable meal), noodles, Tibetan bread, potatoes, and momos. The higher you go, the more limited the diet as transporting everything becomes gradually difficult. Trekkers should eat carbohydrates, such as rice, to maintain their energy. They should also drink plenty of fluids, like herbal tea or garlic soup, to help with altitude acclimatization.
Local families have set up simple tea houses or lodges in Nar Phu Valley. They provide very basic facilities such as twin-bed rooms with blankets and common toilets. Heating is not sufficient, so it is advisable to take a really high-quality sleeping bag rated for subzero temperatures. In villages like Phu and Nar, accommodations are not very cozy and might feel rather a throwback, but once again, the warm helpfulness with which most locals receive guests somewhat compensates for this.
Major Packing List for Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, waterproof, and well-broken-in.
- Thermal Layers: Essential for warmth in cold nights and higher altitudes.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -10°C for chilly Himalayan nights.
- Down Jacket: Lightweight yet warm for evening use.
- Daypack: 20–30L capacity for carrying essentials.
- Trekking Poles: Reduce strain on knees and improve balance.
- Water Purification Tablets: For clean drinking water throughout the trek.
- Headlamp: Necessary for early starts and evening use.
- First Aid Kit: Include blister treatments and altitude sickness medication.
- Snacks: High-energy bars and electrolyte powders for a quick energy boost.
Conclusion
Nar Phu Valley Trek is a treasure that promises pure Himalayan beauty and true cultural richness. There is nothing that the Nar Phu trek does not offer: from the ancient strongholds, villages, and monasteries that add up all in-between to form the rich fibers of both natural and cultural traditions associated with the region. Nar Phu Valley is a lifetime experience into the heart of Nepal’s remote wilderness for those who are daring enough to take on its challenges.
Mountain Treks Nepal Pvt. Ltd. welcomes all of you with a thankful heart as we have created a systematic schedule for the Nar Phu Valley Trek for 10 Days with detailed Itinerary. Moreover, we have similar Annapurna Region Trekking packages similar to Nar Phu Valley Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Trip Highlights
- It includes remote a part of Nepal that few travelers get to visit
- Stay in ancient villages that have seen very little amendment over the centuries
- Enjoy nice views of Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
- Experience a district of the Tibetan upland that extends down into Nepal
- Witness a Tibetan-derived culture, with distinctive and colorful prayer stones and monasteries
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Detailed Itinerary
The first day of the Nar Phu Valley Trek starts with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative will welcome you with a flower garland at the airport and will escort you to your respective hotel. Located at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level, Kathmandu is surrounded by lush green hills and the high Himalayas in the distance.
After checking into your hotel, you will either rest or relish wandering around the colorful streets of Thamel. In this famous tourist district, shops offer trekking gear, handicrafts, and traditional Nepali food. The busy bazaars and their fine architecture reflected in the nearby temples represent the rich culture of this city.
Kathmandu is also home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Depending on time, one may visit the Pashupatinath Temple-a devoted Hindu shrine of the Bagmati River at its banks-or the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the world’s largest spherical stupas. The ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, nicknamed the Monkey Temple, sits on a hill and affords the most spectacular view of the city beneath.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, we will set out on a long-distance drive from Kathmandu to Koto. After about 8 to 9 hours after setting off from Kathmandu, you will reach Koto. You will follow the scenic Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River through terrace fields, local villages, and islands of greenery. On the way lie small towns like Besisahar, which is the gateway to Annapurna Circuit.
More adventurous is the way from Besisahar that follows the Marsyangdi River upstream to Koto. The drive through deep forests and across suspension bridges takes you to waterfalls tumbling down from above. You will find awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks, like Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu. The scenery becomes increasingly remote as one ascends, getting you ready for the wilderness of the Nar Phu Valley. Koto, at an altitude of 2,600 meters, is the access point to the restricted territory of Nar Phu.
Once you reach Koto, you will be welcomed into a picture-perfect small village hidden amid pine forests and rugged mountains. Overnight stay at a lodge in Koto.
The third day of the Nar Phu Valley Trek 10 Days starts with a walk along Koto, after which you get into the Nar Phu Valley. The trail takes you into the dense pine forests, where the sound of water flows ceaselessly. The trail is moderate steep with several ups and downs. You will cross suspension bridges over the roaring rivers, screaming to boost the adventure of the day. As you go more into the valley, forests thin out, and the terrain gets rougher and drier.
The narrow gorges here take you into the rocky ground with a few chortens or Buddhist shrines decorated with colorful prayer flags. Every change in the scenery opens a new window to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains: Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. After several hours of trekking, you could reach Meta, a small village that sits atop a plateau with an altitude of 3,560 meters.
Meta is a small village of just a handful of stone houses, giving a flavor of what life could be like, quite simply, in the Himalayas.
Today is the trek to Phu, which takes you to the culturally rich village in the Himalayas. The walking path from Meta to Phu is challenging but very fulfilling as it takes one through different landscapes. Along the paths, you will come across ancient stone chortens, mani walls, and small settlements showing the Tibetan Buddhist heritage of this region.
The landscape becomes barren cliffs before high desert terrain and towering peaks around you. The trail will sometimes lead through a rocky gorge, and you may need to navigate with caution on some steep portions. Eventually, the path will open out to the huge and widespread Phu Valley, with breathtaking views over snow-covered mountain regions like Himlung Himal.
Overnight stay at Phu Village.
Leaving Phu, the route retraces back to the Nar region. The trail leads along the river, passing ancient chortens and mani walls, marking the spiritual importance of the area. You can meet some locals and herders as you walk around and get an insight into how they live their daily lives.
Chyakhu is an ideal stopover in the alpine meadows with good views of the surrounding heights. The way goes down to Nar Phedi; it’s a hook where there is a monastery seated inside a beautiful valley. Here you can find simple accommodation in the Nar Phedi Monastery to stay overnight.
Today’s hike to Nar Village is one of the most culturally rich hikes, taking you through some exceptionally beautiful settlements in the region. From Nar Phedi, you will hike upward through terraced fields and rocky trails. From Chyakhu, the pathway ascends with gradual steps, presenting magnificent views of the surrounding hills and peaks.Along the way you will pass through some Buddhist chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags, telling about the deep spirituality of these local communities.
Nar Village welcomes the trail into large meadows encircled by snow-shrouded peaks. More significant in size than Phu, Nar is at an altitude of 4110 meters. The village is characterized by traditional stone houses and narrow alleys, plus the vibrant culture of the people living in it. Nar would give you exposure to the village, a local monastery, and views of the looming Annapurna and Kang La Pass ranges.
The seventh day of the Nar Phu Valley Trek is probably the hardest and most treasured trekking day, having to cross the Kang La Pass at an altitude of 5,240m. The hike starts with a steep climb through very rugged and sometimes snowy trails. It is quite a demanding climb, but every step is worth it because of the amazing sights to see along the way. Ascending, the peaks of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the Chulu welcome you, providing some of the best panoramic mountain views in the Himalayas.
Standing atop the Kang La Pass is a true mark of success because you will be standing at one of the highest points you will reach on this trek. The views from the past are stunning and include snow-capped peaks and enormous stretches of glacial landscape almost everywhere you look. After exploration and beautiful scenery clicks, now begins the descent to Ngawal.
Ngawal, at 3660 m, has to be one of the prettiest villages you find on the Annapurna Circuit. The village has several tea houses, giving a well-deserved rest after such a long day.
Today, the trek moves ahead now-it is fairly simple for an easy descent from Ngawal to the village of Pisang. The trail is a gentle stretch through forests, pastures, and scattered settlements-easy on the foot. It’s also amazing as the picture changes from the barren highlands to a verdant carpet where rivers flow. The trek comes with views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding hills, occasional encounters with local villagers, and some animals along the way.
Pisang lies at an altitude of 3,200 meters. It is indeed a traditionally charming village with warm hospitality teahouses. This is the last village that you will visit for trekking. From here, you will drive to Besisahar, the entry point of the Annapurna region. The drive will give you views of the Marsyangdi River through forests, waterfalls, and terraced fields.
The return journey presents one last opportunity to take in the beauty of the country, the thriving Besisahar at 775 meters. It is indeed a lively town with shops, restaurants, and a sense of local energy.
The ninth day of the Nar Phu Valley trek comprises a drive back to Kathmandu after a peaceful night in Besisahar. It takes around 6 to 7 hours, as the route remains along the ever-beautiful highway that one has taken at the beginning of the trek. The road winds through hills, rivers, and terraced farmlands; this is the last chance to see the countryside of Nepal when you approach Kathmandu together with the landscape.
When you get to Kathmandu, you will check into your hotel and then be left with the rest of the day to relax or go sightseeing. In the evening, you will celebrate the successful completion of the Nar Phu Valley trek during a dinner party organized by Mountain Treks Nepal.
This is the last day of your adventure in Nepal. You will bid farewell to Nepal and Mountain Treks Nepal and take the adventurous memories with you while you onboard a flight to your home country.
Trip Includes
- 10 days Trip, 7 of which included 3 meals a day
- Lodge accommodation during the trek
- 3 nights of accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- All trekking permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Project, Nar Phu Valley restricted
- permit and TIMS Card.
- Airport pickup and drop.
- Tea house accommodations during the trek.
- Mountain treks Nepal duffel bag, need to return after the trek.
- Kathmandu to Koto and Pisag to Kathmandu by private vehicle
- An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader
- (8 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter)
- including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation
- All government and local taxes.
- Sleeping bag, down jackets and duffel bag – if Necessary (Need to returned after the trek).
- Farewell Dinner with culture show.
Trip Excludes
- Personal Travel Insurance.
- Nepal entry visa.
- International airfare
- Drinks (mineral water, Tea, coffee, whisky) or other snacks and any meals beside
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hot shower, Battery charge, WiFi charge etc.
- Tips for Guide and potter ( tipping is expected)
- Snacks and other personal expenses.
- Personal trekking equipment.
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the “Trip Includes” Section.
Packing List For Nar Phu Valley Trek
Clothing
- Thermal tops and bottoms
- Fleece jackets and pullovers
- Waterproof/windproof jackets and pants
- Warm hat/caps and gloves
Foot Wears
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Warm hiking socks
- Sandals/slippers for your use at tea houses
Trekking Items
- Trekking poles
- Daypack, Duffel Bags, and dry bags to carry your items
Other Items
- Sleeping pads and sleeping bags
- Hot Water Bottle
- Sunglasses for UV protection
- First aid kit
- Trek map and guidebooks
- Trek permits
Frequently Asked Questions
Spring and Autumn, having the most favorable weather conditions, are considered the best times to go on this trek.
The major attractions of this trek are Kang La Pass, Nar Village, Phu Village, and Besisahar.
Tea houses which come with basic amenities like shared bedroom and bathroom are the most common forms of accommodation during Nar Phu Valley Trek.
Special Restricted Area Permit, Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit are the required permits for Nar Phu Valley Trek.
Grack
October 20, 2023 at 6:19 amNar phu valley
Embark on a journey beyond compare with Mountain Treks Nepal on the Nar Phu Valley Trek! This hidden gem nestled in the Annapurna region offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Thanks to Mt treks nepal and mr yaka for your lovely hospitality.
Reeta
April 13, 2021 at 8:33 amNar Phu Valley Trek with Mountain Treks Nepal
Embark on a journey beyond compare with Mountain Treks Nepal on the Nar Phu Valley trek. This hidden gem nestled in the Annapurna region offered an unforgettable experience unlike any other
From the initial planning to the final departure, Mountain Treks Nepal ensured a smooth and seamless trek. Their attention to detail and clear communication instilled confidence every step of the way.
Highly recommend to everyone !!
kistina
April 13, 2018 at 5:30 amNar phu vally is amazing
My recent Nar Phu Valley trek with Mountain Treks Nepal was an extraordinary adventure. The off-the-beaten-path location offered stunning scenery unlike any other trek I’ve done. We traversed dramatic landscapes, from high mountain passes like Kang La to charming villages nestled amidst towering peaks. The opportunity to immerse myself in the unique Tibetan culture of Nar and Phu villages was a highlight.
lorence
April 1, 2017 at 1:41 amMuktinath trip
“Recently, I had the pleasure of completing the Jomsom Muktinath Trek with Mountain Treks Nepal. This incredible journey through the Annapurna region was filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a well-organized trek thanks to Mountain Treks Nepal.”