Nar, Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek

Only experienced trekking enthusiasts who want true adventure beyond stunning mountain views should consider the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek. Unlike typical Annapurna and Everest routes, Nar Phu features an authentic Tibetan culture along rocky landscapes that explorers enjoy in their untouched form. If you want to see traditional Himalayan life, you will find it in Nar and Phu ancient stone villages.

The trek has both challenging elevation climbs and demanding mountain pass experiences. Your trek across Kang La and Thorong La passes proves your strength as you behold Annapurna II covered by snow. Walking the two-pass route enhances your physical and mental experience on this trip. This walk brings you through cultural and spiritual heritage sites of the Himalayan region.The lower number of hikers makes this trek stand out. Minimal hikers make trekking quieter with better talks to residents and wilder sensations than popular routes can provide. The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek brings people no matter their trekking background or cultural research desires.

The government first allowed foreign hikers access to Nar and Phu Valleys in 2002 though these valleys have guarded their Tibetan Buddhist past and trade history for centuries. People lived in these villages together with the Manang district boundaries closest to Tibet in the late past because both their place and their people kept them separated. 

These communities operated as independent setups for many years because they employed yak breeding and farming alongside trading with Tibet. You can witness Nar and Phu maintain their traditional Himalayan lifestyle since their temples, homes, and communication are still unchanged by modern changes.

You will find numerous gompas, mani walls, and chortens along the way which show how strongly the local people believe in their religion. The area’s legacy shines through Yartung festivities and traditional salt trading events that display its trading root and past faith idols.

The Thorong La Pass stands important because it connects Manang to Mustang as one part of a historic Himalayan crossing route. Monks and traders made this high path their connection between lowland Nepal and the Tibetan plateau for many centuries. Today many hikers repeat the historic track while experiencing the same thrill of their predecessors who made this trip long ago.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La region exists in a special space where the Indian tectonic plate juts against the Eurasian plate as it builds the Himalayan mountain range. Millenniums of earth movements and glacier work have shaped this area into a scene of rough mountain peaks stacked with gumline and layered rock. 

The region belongs to Trans-Himalayan Zone where ancient rocks were metamorphosed and contain significant deposits of schist, limestone, and shale creating stunning geological landscapes.

The route includes natural transitions from forest zone to tundra land and ends at a bare desert that closely resembles Tibetan highlands. The mountain passes Kang La and Thorong La were formed over many glacial periods through natural rock erosion. Their steep rocky debris fields and ridge piles of moved stones bring you environmental change history.The Kali Gandaki Gorge region becomes the deepest slot canyon on Earth when it cuts through Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The exposed rock layers are perfect for earth science professionals to study. When trekking people read geological history as they place their feet down.

Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) are considered the ideal seasons for doing Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek. Boisterous, it is to say the least, but these are the periods with the most stable weather, clearest skies, and most comfortable daytime temperatures for both astonishing views and high altitude hiking. 

The majestic peaks of Annapurna, Himlung and Manaslu ranges come out in all their glory in autumn when the post monsoon clarity unveils them, and the green lush against the snow covered mountains is a beautiful combination. Furthermore, it’s also drier around autumn and so, there are fewer chances of landslides and the trails remain safe to navigate.

Contrarily, the region starts to sprout again in Spring with blooming rhododendrons, pleasant daytime warmth and mild nights. Such is a great season for nature lovers as the forests and hillsides hatch into color. The valleys of Nar and Phu become even more colorful and wildlife is also more visible.

It is great to acclimatise in both seasons, and the crossing of the high passes like Kang La (5,306m) and Thorong La (5,416m) will be better in condition. In fact, the skies are not only clear but also better for improved visibility, less risk of weather changes to the itinerary. Given these reasons, spring and autumn are the best, the most reliable and most recommended time to undertake this breathtaking trek.

Winter (December to February) Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek are possible, providing great experience at high altitude, great preparation, and a tolerance to getting really cold. But the trails are much less busy, nor are the landscapes turned into stunning winter wonderlands, except of course the weather is intense, especially above 4,000 meters, where the temperatures can reach as low as -20°C (-4°F) and below.

Heavy snowfall and ice accumulated on the high passes, Thorong La and Kang La makes it impossible to reach. Snowstorms can make trail conditions slippery and the conditions low visibility. However, tea houses may be closed at higher elevations resulting in a scarcity of food, warmth and shelter. So, you will also require specialized winter gear, crampons, insulated boots, good sleeping bags, and layers of clothing to survive.
But for the people experienced in trekking who are seeking solitude and dramatic snowscapes and an element of real adventure, winter can be a thrilling reward. Mid winter days have some of the clearest mountain views of the year with their clear skies. Winter trekking is only for professionals who can go with a professional guide, have proper insurance that covers emergency evacuation and keep a close check on weather forecasts.

This Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek is not possible during monsoon season (June to August) as low areas have heavy and persistent rain and unpredictable weather. In the rain shadow of the Himalayas, where rain falls heavily on the Nar and Phu valleys at high altitudes, the routes to reach, especially towards Jagat and Koto from Kathmandu, get slippery, muddy and prone to landslides.

Monsoon season in Nepal has thick clouds that often block the views on the mountain and so the stunning value of the trek is greatly reduced. In addition, leeches can be a problem in some forest trails, while logistics such as transportation delays and blocked trails have more likelihood.

With that being said, the monsoon trek does have a few benefits, less trekkers, the landscape is green, and there are great skies to watch in the mornings and evenings. Although the monsoon season is not the best time to go to Nar Phu, if you are well prepared, comfortable walking in the rain and have a flexible itinerary you can still enjoy parts of the trek, especially in the upper, drier parts of the valleys.
Even so, the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek during this season should be avoided due to higher risks of avalanche and unstable trail paths. In case of only monsoon being available to you, do the Nar Phu valley section without high passes.

Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek altitude ranges from 1,300m (Kathmandu) to 5,416m (Thorong La Pass) and the weather condition varies greatly with seasons and altitude. Going through the lower trailheads, the climates get temperate to subtropical, while the upper parts of Nar, Phu, and the passes become alpine and arctic in some cases.

Daytime temperatures in the spring and autumn will be 10°C to 20°C although cooler at night at heights above 4,000 meters and that’s low; -5°C (23°F) or lower. They are the most predictable weather seasons, with mostly sunny skies and very little precipitation, so both the views and the trekking comfort during these seasons are going to be ideal.

In lower areas, Summer (monsoon) comes with heavy rain that reduces visibility, raises leech populations and risks landslides. On the other hand, the upper Nar Phu Valley, is in the rain shadow, remains fairly dry and trek friendly.

High elevation winter brings heavy snowfall, sub zero temperatures and pass closures are possible. The mornings are typically crisp and clear, but they will be taken down by blizzards at any point.Dressing in layers, being responsible for altitude sickness symptoms, and being prepared for sudden changes in weather are necessary. Before approaching the high passes during the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek, weather apps and local updates should be checked constantly.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass trek covers a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and then to Besisahar to Besisahar and another rugged off road drive from Kamka Khola to Jagat or Kyoto which is the start of the trek. 

We provide private jeep facilities to our clients as the roads of Nepal are hilly so our clients can enjoy a faster, comfortable travel by road. We have spacious and well maintained private vehicles that enable travelers who desire quality time to spend traveling and on convenience.

Besisahar is 6 to 7 hours’ drive from Kathmandu. From Sutra, the road drives another 6 to 8 hours through narrow mountain paths to Koto. Since, this segment involves uneven terrain and monsoon can turn the road conditions bad, private jeeps are highly recommended for this one.

However, as an alternative, local buses are cheap, although they are quite crowded and slower. After your trek you will descend to Jomsom where we would be able to arrange a domestic flight or overland transport to Pokhara. You can fly or drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara depending upon your choice and time.

Without transportation, the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek would not have been as smooth as it was during the start and end of the trek. We provide private transportation service as part of our trekking service from Kathmandu to Besisahar and the trailheads, Jagat or Koto. Private vehicles, mainly four wheel drive jeeps, have a great advantage in terms of speed, safety and comfort on rough mountainous terrain.

Arrangements from Jomsom for stunning flights to Pokhara or overland return by jeep or bus are also possible from here. Back from Pokhara to Kathmandu is flexible, a 30 minute flight or 6 to 8 hours on road in a tourist bus or private vehicle.However, different budgets exist for different people traveling. Public buses starting from Kathmandu to Besisahar are available to help those wanting to lower the costs, and to other parts of the route. Public vehicles can be less comfortable, and it can take longer as they are a more economic option. Whichever route you choose, our team can organize the transport the most appropriately customized for you, what you need and your travel tastes.

Given that the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek route passes through restricted areas managed by the Government of Nepal, trekkers need to obtain a series of permits to legally get to the Nar Phu (and although permits can be purchased online, they can only be collected in Kathmandu). 

The first and the most important permit is called the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and is necessary to enter Nar and Phu villages. One week between September and November costs $100 per person, between December and August costs $75, and then $15 per day extra. 

Along with the RAP, trekkers also need to buy the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for NPR 3000 ($25) and the TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System) for $20 per person or for a group of $10.

However, solo trekking is not at all allowed in the Nar Phu area, you have to trek with a licensed guide through a registered agency and that in itself brings additional security to you and follows legal process. 

We deal with the whole gamut of the permits issue, leaving you to have only to relax and enjoy the ride. When applying for these permits, it is imperative that you carry physical copies of both your passport and the permits, checked at different checkpoints along the trek.

Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek is strenuous and high altitude trek, best suited to experienced trekkers with a very high level of physical and mental endurance. The trek usually lasts for 16 to 20 days and goes past two of Nepal’s most famous and difficult mountain passes, Kang La Pass (5,306m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416m). As there are these high elevations, trekkers must be ready for long climbs, exposure to thin air and ever changing weather that can change quickly.

Rough terrain, remote valleys and isolated, inadequately served villages characterize the Nar Phu region as does the trail itself. Nar Phu trails are, unlike Annapurna Circuit, primitive, being of narrower trails and fewer accommodation options. This brings a raw sense of adventure to it, but it also requires a more well prepared player.

Due to the long period spent over 3,500 meters, altitude sickness is a very real concern. We recommend having three priorities, acclimatization, hydration, and travelling with a knowledgeable guide who will look out for your health. The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek isn’t technical, however good fitness, stamina and a lot of determination is required to finish it safely and successfully.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek is not a trek to be taken lightly and really requires a good level of cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and mental resilience to completely enjoy and (most importantly) safely complete. 

Daily walking is 6 to 8 hours on rugged terrain, steep ascents, crossing many high passes and sometimes in altitudes more than 4,000 m below sea level. It is a gradual climb up to over 5,000 meters high where every step will be harder for you to take because of the thin air.

For high part nature previous trekking experience is suggested best however not required for someone who is very fit. Aerobic exercises such as hiking, cycling, or running in the week before the trek and strength training and core workout to strengthen legs and improve endurance and leg stability are advisable.

Mental preparedness is equally important. The Nar Phu region is not travelled much, is quite remote and thus lacks the amenities of life, with basic accommodation and exposure to harsh weather conditions. 

To be a trekker one should be adaptable, patient, positive, and should be even when faced with physical fatigue or discomfort. But, this trek can be one of the most (if not the most) rewarding things in life when you have the right mindset and with the proper training.

It’s important to pack appropriately for the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek since it is remote terrain and there will be extreme weather. Days can be warm in the lower valleys and nights freezing over 4,000 meters. Having a thought out gear list guarantees that you stay secure, energized and independent all through the excursion.

Essentials for the essential clothing include, down jacket, base layers (merino wool or synthetic), thermal tops and bottoms, fleece mid-layers, waterproof outer layers (jacket and pants). You absolutely need a good pair of broken waterproof trekking boots with ankle support. Include trekking poles, gloves, a warm hat, a sun hat and more pairs of socks.

Also on your packing list should be a headlamp, UV protection sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm, as well as a first-aid kit. For daily use, you will need a 30 to 40L daypack, and your main gear will be carried in a 60L duffel bag by porters. 
Don’t leave behind a sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C, water purification tablets (or a Steripen), and personal hygiene items. Part of our pre-trek preparation is to live with our camp manager grading us on trip readiness and we provide a detailed gear checklist to make you ready for the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek.

Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek is a 16 to 20 days trek that can be finished depending on the trail, acclimatization period, side trips and pace of the trekker group. All itineraries include two essential segments, one being a part of the notorious Annapurna Circuit with the iconic Thorong La Pass, and other secluded, remote Nar Phu Valley. 

Starting from Kathmandu, you drive to Jagat or Koto and enter into the remote valleys of Nar and Phu and start walking into them, which goes on for 6 to 7 days including 1 to 2 resting days for acclimatization and exploration.

Then via Kang La Pass (5,306m) we emerge from Nar and the trek is continued again 6 to 8 days up to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), and then down to Muktinath and Jomsom. Most itineraries round off at 18 to 20 days including arrival and departure days, which are all you need for a complete, safe and all –absorbing experience.Our itineraries are centred on sufficient acclimation time to the high altitudes so that you can acclimatize yourself while seeing the cultural sites and scenic detours. Although the experienced trekkers can walk faster on the route, it is safer and pleasant to adopt a route with a well paced walk.

One of the most enriched aspects of Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek is the cultural immersion along the trail. These villages are remote Nar and Phu in the upper Manang region that have remained isolated from the modern world with long untouched and steeped in ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Stone built houses, pretty prayer flags and centuries old monasteries such as the remarkable Tashi Lhakhang Gompa where it’s said that the famous Tibetan saint, Guru Rinpoche blessed it, will characterise these medieval settlements as you pass through them.

The locals in Nar and Phu are from the Lama, Bhote, and Gurung ethnic groups where the main occupation of the people is yak herding, agriculture and trade. Its traditional attire, language, and rituals have preserved almost unchanged a way of life that has existed for centuries. You’ll watch locals spinning wool, leading yaks, children playing at the front of chortens and mani walls bearing Buddhist mantras.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek also begins to exhibit Thakali and Tibetan influences towards Manang and Mustang, and even around Muktinath which is a famous pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists. Even his brief sharing of space with these communities enriches the trek with emotional and spiritual dimensions, the trek becomes as much a cultural as a physical adventure.

Cultural sensitivity is important on the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek and that you are going to be traveling in the remote Himalayan communities whose cultures and traditions are strongly rooted in the past. The social norms of people in Nar and Phu are a reflection of Tibetan Buddhism and combination of spirituality and simplicity and communal harmony.

When going to monasteries remove your shoes, ask for permission before taking photos and when around religious structures walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls. Avoid pointing your feet towards altars and monks, and do not touch sacred objects unless invited. 

Namaste (or Tashi Delek) is always good to greet locals and remember to not only keep your body language friendly, but also don’t cross your arms or be too loud as it could be seen as disrespectful.

Villages and in sacred areas you should dress modestly. This means, even when the weather is warm, you should cover your shoulders and legs. Candy and money should not be offered to children as this goes against local values. You can also think about doing your bit and supporting local businesses, homestays or schools.

Patience, appreciation, and gratitude at the slow pace of mountain life. By being humble you will gain warm hospitality and the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek will make a deeper mark on you.

Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek accommodation is all in teahouses, which are basically local run lodges that can offer some warm place to sleep, eat and recharge. The Annapurna Circuit part (from Manang to Jomsom) is well served with all infrastructure and is quite comfortable as far as rooms are concerned and so is the dining area.

In case you are staying in some of the villages like meta, phu, and nar, simple twin sharing rooms with wooden beds, thin mattress, blanket would be your choice. Most bathrooms are shared with squat toilets and hot showers (if any) can be an extra charge. 

With such a limited amount of electricity as well as charging your devices costing a fee, it is best to carry a power bank. Granted, there are no facilities, but these teahouses provide a warm refuge, usually warmed by a central stove in the dining hall.

Menus include Tibetan bread, noodles, potatoes, soups and many will have a dal bhat shot for all, which is a filling meal that will sustain trekkers. In the more developed areas such as Manang or Jomsom, you can find more variety but also western dishes and bakeries.

All accommodation bookings are taken care of, allowing for the most reliable stays of every altitude. These mountain lodges are not about luxury, it is their authenticity, warmth, the human relationships they make.

Meals on the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass trek are going to be nutritious, highly energy, filling, so that you can power through a long trekking day at altitude. Food in the Nar Phu Valley section is traditional and simple as in the remote areas there is lack of transport and ingredients available. 

Dal bhat is a staple meal of Nepal famous for its unlimited servings and long lasting energy supply, and it is a combination of rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and pickles. Tibetan bread, as well as tsampa, buckwheat pancakes, fried noodles or potatoes, are other common foods. 

The farther you get from developed areas such as Manang and Jomsom, the more basic the menus become offering just seasonal veggies, potatoes, mac, boiled eggs, dal bhat and perhaps some soups and momos (dumplings), or you run out at Jomsom and get pizza or baked goods in the teahouses. Tea or coffee are usual items for breakfast, with porridge, toast, eggs, or pancakes.Vegetarian, as most meals will be, is recommended in higher altitudes as they are easier to digest. Meat is available in some villages but it is not carried up to the villages by refrigeration and should be avoided. To inform tea houses that they can do their best to accommodate you if they are notified ahead of time, we would encourage you to inform your guide of any dietary preferences or restrictions instead.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek provides drinking water for a wide area but it needs to be safe and clean. Tap or spring water is available in most villages and teahouses but should be considered untreated and therefore not safe to drink. For this reason, water must either be boiled, treated with purification tablets, or a UV sterilizer such as a Steripen should be carried by the trekkers.

Teahouses have boiled water for a small fee, and at higher altitudes where it drops in temperature to freezing or below teahouses are quite a convenient source. In other areas bottled mineral water is available, however, this becomes increasingly more expensive and less available as you ascend. 

Additionally, the use of plastic bottles worsen how they impact the environment and we are big proponents of being eco-conscious by carrying reusable bottles, hydration bladders, and treating local water.Staying well hydrated and drinking 3 to 4 liters of water per day will reduce risk of altitude sickness. Our guides guide you to the safest water sources on the trail and give you best practice for treating the water based on your gear and preference.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek takes you to very high elevation and is known to be one of the most susceptible treks for altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Most of the trek is above 3,500 meters and Thorong La Pass reaches a tough 5,416m above sea level. Reduced oxygen levels at these altitudes cause problems such as headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and shortness of breath.

Anyone, regardless of age or fitness level, is susceptible to AMS, and it usually develops in the first 24 to 48 hours at high altitude. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) are the most dangerous forms, they are life threatening and immediate descent and medical attention is required.

When travelling high, it is important to acclimatise, we therefore have acclimatization days at Phu and Manang which will give your body the time it needs when you go higher. Our guides are trained to read the early symptoms, and carry the basic medical supplies, with oxygen, as well as communication in the event of an emergency. 

The first thing to do in preventing altitude complications is listening to your body, a gradual pace, and hydrating. If you remember the symptoms and are able to respond in time, you will be safe on the trail.

To prevent climbers from altitude sickness on the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek, a few things need to be done, gradual acclimatization, proper hydration and paying attention to their physical condition. 

The best method is to ascend very slowly, so as to give your body time to adapt to the thinner air. During trekking, we incorporate rest and acclimatization days in our itineraries around Phu, Nar and Manang to decrease the chances of getting AMS.

Dehydration increases the ill effects of high altitude, it is necessary to drink 3 to 4 liters of water daily. Do not drink alcohol, smoke, or drink excessive caffeine, also can prohibit acclimatization. You need to maintain a steady pace of trekking, take regular breaks and do not rush, ‘climb high, sleep low’ is a great strategy to follow.

There are some trekkers who will take Diamox (acetazolamide) which prevents AMS, though it causes people to breathe faster and hence get more oxygen. Before you go, it is also best to ask your physician if Diamox would be suitable for you. They are also useful on altitude diets as a high carb diet provides accessible energy.

Most important of all is to listen to your body. Immediately tell your guide if you have symptoms such as persistent headaches or nausea. If the low pressure comes quickly, early response and descending to a lower altitude will minimize its severity.

From ancient stone villages and high altitude passes to exotic wildlife and cultural rituals, Nar Phu and Thorong La Trek has an amazing scope to provide photographic subjects. Timing and preparation are everything to get maximum from your shots. 

The best (from photographing) the glowing peaks of Annapurna, Himlung and Dhaulagiri are early morning and late afternoon light (golden hours). A DSLR or mirrorless camera with weather sealed body is best for this trip, wide angle lens for landscapes and zoom lens for wildlife watching (afar) or monasteries on cliffs.

A smartphone camera is not to be underestimated, just be sure to bring a portable solar charger or power bank to charge if required as it could be expensive and limited. A polarizing filter will deepen skies, and cut glare from snow or rivers. Locals should always be asked for permission when photographing, especially in sacred places like monasteries during prayer rituals.

Shoot candid shots in the Nar and Phu villages of yak caravans, elderly Tibetans spinning prayer wheels or children playing amongst mani walls. Every frame is a visual story of tradition, remoteness and Himalayan grandeur.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek traverses a wide range of ecosystems, from subtropical forests at lower altitudes to alpine meadows and barren highlands. This great altitudinal variation has resulted in a surprisingly varied flora and fauna. 

There are rhododendron blooms, pine forests, wild orchids, and they spring to life in spring in the lower sections around Jagat and Dharapani. Heading further up towards Nar and Phu, you will come across juniper scrub, alpine herbs, simple dry grasslands that the locals use to graze yaks on.

An area in the Annapurna Conservation Area, therefore wildlife sightings are not unheard of. Watch out for blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, marmots and even the rarest, snow leopard (sightings very rare). Lammergeiers, Himalayan griffons and snow pigeons can be spotted by bird watchers soaring over high passes.Yaks, dzos (yak-cow cross breeds), goats, and Tibetan mastiffs, which help people everyday, live also in the Nar and Phu villages. The area has been preserved so well, and receives less visitors, that it maintains an authentic ecological balance. The Nar Phu and Thorong La PassTrek is a Himalayan biosphere of a fascination to both photographers and nature lovers.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek is one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal and is helpful to know all the costs involved to prepare well. Normally, the cost for a typical 16 to 20 day trek is between $1100 to $1500 per person, depending on group size and the level of service. 

Being that Nar Phu region is a restricted area, the cost of permits is non negotiable. There is Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), all totalling $150 to $200. 

The guide and porter fees are standard and pretty darned essential, coming to an average of $25 to $40 per day. Teahouse accommodation runs from $5 to $10 a night and meals turn into around $20 to $30 a day at higher elevations. Another $100 to $150 is added for transportation from Kathmandu to Jagat and from Jomsom or Pokhara, and $120 (optionally) to fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. 

All of these elements are covered within some trekking packages, and others are additional charges for you to take care of. Because the restricted area policy stipulates solo trekkers need to travel with at least one other person and be guided by a licensed guide, it is more reasonable and possible to do so in groups.

Though nearly all trekking packages running the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek route provide a full price, there are plenty of hidden costs that can quickly rack up along the route. Cost of charging electronic devices is one of the most neglected expenses. In Nar, Phu, Thorong Phedi, remote villages, it can cost $2 to $5 per session to charge a phone or camera. Hot showers, $2 or $4 per shower, can also be luxuries (again, run off solar and gas). 

If wi-fi is available, it is slow, and the company charges about $8 a day to use it. Drinking water is a recurring cost, as altitude rises, bottled water prices rise, however, boiled or purified water is safer and more eco, costing around $2 a liter.

Anything you eat in addition to your package, extra tea, soup or local specialties, will add to your daily budget. Additional cost can also be gear rental such as down jackets and sleeping bags can be $1 to $2 a day. 

It is accepted and customary to tip your guide and porter, usually $5 to $10 per day in total. Finally, weather or altitude sickness can cause unexpected delays which will necessitate unplanned accommodation and food costs, so budget a bit extra to cover for any flexibility and ease of mind.

The Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek can be made much better and less financially surprising when we budget wisely. First, you would need to define setting up your spending categories, such as permits, guide/porter fees, meals, accommodation, gear rental, transportation, and so on. 

Trekking agencies can sometimes even organize your permit for you and your whole logistics and go through a trekking agency it can actually be cheaper overall including all the permits and everything, obviously you’re going to be paying a bit extra for the trekking agency but if you are going with a group it will actually reduce your costs. 

Whenever you have a budget it’s good to always add in an emergency buffer at least 10% to 15% of your total budget in case your extra rest days, visiting the hospital or it’s raining. As cards aren’t accepted everywhere, especially in small villages, keep some cash in Nepalese rupees.

Eating local meals (like dal bhat is great value) will also keep the pennies, and skip the imported snacks. But you can avoid the initial expanse of buying new gear by renting gear in Kathmandu. Split porters or guides with fellow trekkers if possible to split fees. 

You would be wise to avoid frequent use of Wi-Fi and hot showers, these little luxuries can add up quicker than you think. Lastly, plan transportation wisely. Flights (from Jomsom) are convenient but quite expensive, buses are cheaper but less comfortable. However, with some strategic planning and local insight it is entirely possible to do such an incredible trek for a reasonable budget.

When undertaking the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass trek, travel insurance is never negotiable. With altitudes reaching an extreme of 5,416 meters, remote (and potentially dangerous) terrain, and unpredictable weather, there is also a lack of any emergency medical facilities in the case of distress. 

In addition to high altitude trekking up to 6,000 m, helicopter rescue, emergency medical care, cancellations or delays in the trip and any lost or stolen gear you should have a comprehensive insurance policy. Make very sure you check these details with your insurance provider before buying, most basic plans exclude these types of activities. 

In some cases, certain trekking agencies also ask for proof of insurance before confirming your booking. Helicopter evacuation in emergencies such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or injuries in either the remote areas surrounding Kang La or Thorong La can be very expensive, largely running into thousands of dollars. The trekker has to pay fully for this expense without insurance. 

Do keep a copy of your policy at least handy. It is also useful to upload a digital copy in case you have to fill and submit it online anytime. Also let your guide or agency know your insurance information in case of need of immediate action. 

When you get insurance, don’t forget to verify if the policy you’re choosing has trip interruption coverage as it is not uncommon to have weather related delays in Himalaya. In the overall scheme of things, a good travel insurance policy will give you peace of mind to enjoy the adventure itself.

Whether guided or independent, Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek is a matter of your level of trekking experience, budget and type of tour you want. Nar Phu is a restricted area and requires a minimum of two trekkers with a license guide to get into this part of the trek, and is a region best treated by guided trekking as such.

They also bring deep local knowledge regarding the area, terrain, cultures and languages and are vital in emergencies. Porters lessens the physical burden on the mountains so that you can concentrate on enjoying the trail comfortably. For those who wish to de stress and go stress free and streamlined trek enjoy, guided treks also take care of the necessary permits, logistics and accommodation. 

On the flip side, independent trekking allows flexibility and can work out cheaper if you’re experienced and comfortable sensing by means of Himalayan routes. But you will still require a guide on how to reach the Nar Phu region. Here, solo trekking is not allowed except if you join a group or hire support. Independent travel is more feasible for trekkers who care only about the Annapurna Circuit segment. Going guided isn’t just safer and the richer experience for the full Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek, the Manang Municipality, which mostly comprises Manang and upper Mustang and includes Nar Phu, makes it mandatory.

Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek fall in the fragile Himalayan ecosystems where eco-tourism is highly important. Trekkers are an incredibly important part of the effort to keep the wild remote, and support the local people living there. By opting for responsible travel you know that your adventure is never happening at the cost of the landscape and people of that area. 

To directly benefit the host families, stay in locally owned tea houses as opposed to bigger commercial lodges. Always carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets to avoid pouring plastic waste into a remote place that doesn’t know how to dispose of it. If there are no trails at the point of destination, stick to trails which already exist to avoid erosion, and do not pick plants or disturb any wildlife. 

Respect cultural sites, never photograph religious ceremonies or holy objects, and do not enter any monastery without talking to a member first, it could be a huge insult, and always follow Leave No Trace principles. Offset the carbon from your flights and use a local guide and porter rather than taking help from outside. 

Now there are a number of trekking agencies which are certified eco-friendly and to make it more interesting for you, the trekking agencies you will go with contribute towards conservation initiatives or form part of community development projects in Nar and Phu. 

Being mindful of your footprint and spending, makes you a responsible citizen of a sustainable culture of trekking in this untouched region, so that other travelers have the opportunity to experience this untouched region in its natural and cultural glory.

1. Is the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass Trek suitable for first-time trekkers?

While this is difficult for first-time trekkers, they can accomplish challenging circumstances such as high altitude, remote terrain and duration by having proper prior physical training. It is strongly recommended that you have prior high altitude hiking experience and are very physically conditioned.

2. Are there ATMs or money exchange facilities along the trek?

Yes, but no ATMs or money exchange points are along the trail. It is advised to carry enough Nepalese rupees from Kathmandu or Pokhara to trek as you have to spend everything during the trek.

3. How is the mobile network and internet connectivity in Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass?

On top of that (i.e. in higher altitudes), mobile networks are patchy and often unavailable. Some teahouses have limited and unreliable and very slow Wi–Fi, which is generally charged on top of the room rate.

4. Are there any medical facilities or emergency evacuation options on the trek?

Manang is equipped with basic medical help. You need comprehensive travel insurance which would include rescue coverage, as helicopter evacuation is the only option for emergencies.

5. What is the daily trekking distance and altitude gain in Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass?

Altitude gains are 400 to 700 meters and daily distances are 8 to 15 kilometres each day. Kang La and Thorong La are the passets more than 5,000 meters, hence acclimatization days are very important.

6. Can I rent trekking gear in Kathmandu instead of buying it?

Yes, most trekking gear like sleeping bags, down jackets etc with affordable prices can be rented in Thamel, Kathmandu which is useful for temporary use.

7. Are there any cultural festivals in Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass that I should plan my trek around?

Local Buddhists celebrate in Nar and Phu in spring and autumn which could be other times of year when Yartung Festival in Muktinath (in August) happens as well.

8. Can the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass be combined with other treks in the Annapurna region?

Yes, it can be extended with one of the Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake or even up with Upper Mustang and create a longer and more varied trekking.

9. How do I stay safe from landslides and avalanches on this trek?

Avoid landslides due to monsoon and avalanches during winter so trek in spring and autumn. Guide instructions should always be followed and the daily weather forecast should always be checked from a local source.

10. What are the electricity and charging facilities like on the Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass?

For a fee, charging is available in lower altitude teahouses. Electricity becomes rarer at high elevations. In addition to this, charge a power bank or a solar charger for backup.