Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nar Phu Valley has a strong history of Tibetan migration, Buddhist traditions and old trade routes. Inhabitants of Nar and Phu villages are said to be descendants of Tibetan settlers who came to the remote Himalayan valleys centuries ago in search of refuge. They set up growing settlements over time and they used to live a dairy based and agricultural based life while also undertaking trans Himalayan trading. 

The location of Nar Phu in the vicinity of the border between Tibet and Nepal, and as a key trade link between Tibet and Nepal, where traders exchanged salt and wool for grain and other things, made the area very attractive.

Traditionally, Nar Phu has been inaccessible for centuries for the outside world, thus leaving such medieval style villages, traditional stone houses and Buddhist heritage intact. Several ancient monasteries are in the region such as Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, which is believed to be blessed by the revered Tibetan saint Guru Rinpoche. The valley has a rich cultural legacy as is reflected in the festivities of Lhosar (Tibetan New Year) and the Yartung Horse Festival.Until 2002, foreigners never visited Nar Phu as the Nepalese government restricted trekking permits. And today, though there is increasing interest from trekkers, the valley still retains the old-world charm of a valley that has not yet succumbed to the commercial strap that holds common to most of the trekking areas in Nepal, giving a rare insight into the untouched Himalayan culture of Nepal.

Situated in the rain-shadow area of the Annapurna massif, Nar Phu Valley has been formed by several millions of years of geological formation. Landscape is rugged cliffs, steep gorges, glacial valleys and high altitude deserts looking much like Tibet and Mustang’s arid terrain. 

It was formed as a result of collision between Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which led to formation of Himalayas in the region. Forces of erosion and glaciation and the activity of river and other erosive agents later on sculptured the valley’s dramatic topography.

Sedimentary rock, steep limestone cliffs and moraine covered slopes characterize the Nar and Phu valleys. High altitude plateaus of the region are remnants of the ancient glacial activity while deep river gorges carved by Marshyangdi & Nar rivers disclose the layers of rocks, which are thousands and millions of years old. Nar Phu is in the rain shadow and so receives very little rainfall, which makes it a stark, dry place with little vegetation.

Despite its hostile environment, the valley is habitat to a distinct alpine ecosystem. There will be yak pastures, juniper shrubs and patches of high altitude grasslands in front of trekkers. Furthermore, the geological features of the Nar Phu not only define its spectacular scenery but also affect the lifestyles of the people in the region where they have to live on extremely challenging terrain.

The ideal time for Nar Phu Valley Trek should be during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, skies are clear and the temperature is moderate. 

The blooming of the rhododendron and fresh greenery such that it brings in the spring, or the crisp air and magnificent mountain views during autumn. Kang La (5,322m) is just one of the high passes which are safer to cross during these seasons because the trekking conditions are ideal.

The spring brings greenery and life to the trails with festivals like Holi presenting a cultural touch to the adventure. This period is also when the wildlife is highly active, so you can witness animals like Himalayan Tahr, snow leopard and red panda.

If you want to see the major festivals of Nepal, which are Dashain and Tihar, you can visit during autumn. Besides the cultural enrichment during this period, the post-monsoon brings the clearest of skies and wide views of surroundings.

Nar Phu Valley Trek during winters (December to February) is a difficult challenge. The temperatures are freezing, it has heavy snowfall and strong winds (particularly at high altitude). The trek is often risky due to snow accumulation that makes the Kang La Pass impassable (5,322m).

Nevertheless, winter is the best time because few trekkers occupy the trail, although it poses challenges. It turns into a pristine white landscape and those who dare to brave the cold can have the trekking experience away from the crowd. The villagers in the villages of Nar and Phu get almost cut off from the world, and now most people have migrated to lower altitudes.

Winter trekking needs proper preparation. To trek, one requires high quality cold weather gear, insulated clothing and is rated to withstand extreme temperatures, crampons and sleeping bags. Because many tea houses could close because of low numbers of tourists, it is advisable to carry extra supplies here. It is best to opt in spring or autumn as otherwise unless experienced with winter trekking.

The possibility of Nar Phu Valley Trek during monsoon (June to August) is there, but it is not easy. Rain and bad weather are pretty common in Nepal, except in the months of October and November and make most of the trekking routes very slippery, are home to landslides and poor visibility. Nar Phu Valley, on the other hand, is in the rain-shadow area of Annapurna region and so it receives less rainfall than other parts of Nepal.

Lower parts near Besisahar can be wet and muddy, but the inner valleys of Nar and Phu are basically dry. Lakes are greenest and waterfalls are at their peak. The disadvantages of trekking in monsoon include leeches, unpredictable weather and cloudy skies that could cover mountain views.

If you are trekking during the monsoon, don’t forget to pack waterproof gear, trekking poles, insect repellent and so on. Since trail conditions can be uncertain, it is advised to hire an experienced guide. Monsoon is not the best time, but there are determined trekkers who complete the trek by making proper preparations.

Four seasons of weather make a trek in Nar Phu Valley different.

Spring (March to May): Tremendous one of the best trekking seasons, warm and clear days with temperatures and skies just perfect, and rhododendrons in bloom. In the daytime temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C, however nights are cold.

Monsoon (June to August): During the monsoon rains, trails along –15°C to –25°C are wet and muddy. The location of the valley in the rain-shadow area keeps the valley relatively dry.

Autumn (September to November): Good weather is stable, perfect for trekking, suitable views of the mountains, and comfortable temperatures (10°C to 20°C). This time is the peak trekking season.

Winter (December to February): Very cold with the temperature falling down to -20°C at high altitudes. Trails may be blocked, also high passes with heavy snowfall.

Nar Phu Valley Trek begins from the trek’s starting point, Dharapani, where trekkers have to travel from Kathmandu. The Adventure will be by a private jeep ride enroute to Besisahar and almost through the Annapurna Circuit route. Public transportation exists in the form of public buses, but these are much slower and less comfortable owing to the bad road conditions.

The trek enters the restricted Nar Phu region following the valley of Marsyangdi River through the places like Chame and Koto. The trek ends in Pisang after exploring some villages of Nar and Phu, villages above the treeline, crossing Kang La pass (5,322m), and finally a private vehicle drives you to Kathmandu in 7 to 8 hours.Public transport (bus or shared jeep) is less convenient but for budget conscious trekkers, it reduces the costs. We also have facilities for private transportation for comfort and speed of the trip. Nar Phu valleytrek is a restricted area and trekkers should obtain the special permit before trekking.

Nar Phu Valley Trek is best done by private transportation due to the fact the trip is faster and more comfortable. Taking our private jeep from Kathmandu to Dharapani will reduce travel fatigue and avoid any unnecessary delays. Likewise, it’s about 7 to 8 hours in a private vehicle to return to Kathmandu after trekking in Pisang. 

This mode of transport provides for a faster trip, more flexibility, smoother ride and less stops than public transport. As for cost reduction, there are public buses and shared jeeps though it takes longer because of frequent stops, poor road conditions and multiple transfers. Dharapani is accessible by public transport from Kathmandu by taking a bus to Besisahar and changing to a local jeep all the way to Dharapani so this is a definitely longer and less convenient way. Public transport is budget friendly but private vehicles offer a much more comfortable and convenient trip to the trekster who gets to relax and enjoy their trek while not worrying about long and unpredictable travel times.

Nar Phu Valley Trek falls under a restricted trekking area, so permits are to be taken to enter the area. It is strictly not allowed for independent trekking, and a licensed guide should accompany all trekkers and at least two people must be travelling in one group. 

The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is the most essential one to acquire being priced at $100 per person for the first 7 days between September and November and $75 per person from December to August. From the eighth day onward, it will cost $15 per day (September to November) and $10 per day (December to August). This permit cannot be issued to solo trekkers and there should be a registered trekking agency who obtains this permit for you. 

Moreover, we need to pay for the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at $23 per person. As the RAP covers the purpose of the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, restricted area trekkers do not require another permit.All permits for Nar Phu Valley Trek have to be arranged prior to going in at Koto. At multiple checkpoints along the way, permits are strictly checked and if valid documents are not presented, a fine or denial of entry may happen.

Nar Phu Valley Trek is a moderate trek where having good physical fitness and having done similar trekking before makes you more confident during the trek. This is not a typical trek like the Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani Poon Hill because it has high altitude, rough trails and long walking hours. 

The biggest challenge in the trek is the high altitude as it goes up to 5,322 m (Kang La Pass) which leads to the higher risk of altitude sickness. To avoid any serious health risks, proper acclimatization is a must. 

Moreover, trekkers have to be ready for long trekking days of approximately 6 to 8 hours’ walking in steep uphill and downhill sections along unpopulated and isolated regions. Accommodation is provided in basic teahouses, facilities being minimal except for those who are well prepared for the trek.

The trek is also hard because of weather conditions, temperatures can fall drastically and those are especially harder in winter. The route at high altitudes can be made even more strenuous because of strong winds and unpredictable weather. Before the Nar Phu ValleyTrek, trekkers should do cardiovascular and strength exercise preparation, and take essential gear along such as warm clothes, trekking poles, and proper high altitude footwear. While it is a tough trek, for those who are well prepared, traveling with an experienced guide, the trek will be one of the most rewarding, off the beaten path Himalayan treks, with stunning Himalayan scenery and real cultural experience.

Nar Phu Valley Trek is a physically demanding one and participants need to be mentally and physically prepared for long trekking days, ascending and descending steep ascents and descents, and challenges of the high altitude. 

Trekkers should be of reasonable cardiovascular fitness, leg strength and stamina to cover distances of up to 6 to 8 hours each day. The trek ascends to a high altitude of 5,322 meters at Kang La Pass so a little acclimatization is hugely necessary to avoid altitude sickness. Past trekking experience is always an advantage. If you do plenty of pre trek training, i.e. hike, climb stairs and do aerobics you can trek into Nepal with no real prior experience. 

The other half is mental endurance because it is remote and rugged terrain. Trekking poles are very beneficial to those suffering from knee or joint issues, as they help keep the load off the knees and joints. A well fitted backpack with essential gear will help to reduce strain.

However, trekkers still need to be prepared to walk on their own with their gear and there are guides and porters on hand. Further, good hydration, gain altitude as slow as possible and a balanced diet help make for a good trek.

The Nar Phu Valley trek involves a remote and high altitude route with unpredictable weather, and so it is important that you pack the right gear to complete the trip. A high quality backpack, good quality (sturdy) trekking boots and base layers made of moisture wicking fabric are essential. For cold temperatures you need warm clothing, an insulated down jacket, thermal layers, windproof outerwear and so on. 

Sleeping bags are meant to be a four season and you will need its warmth once you are in the teahouse as the heating power is limited. Other essential trekkers’ essentials are a headlamp, sunglasses, trekking poles, gloves and a hat. For their health and safety, they will require a well stocked first aid kit with altitude sickness medication, blister patches and pain relievers. 

A system of hydration is used to keep fluids with you in the form of a water bladder or bottles along with purifying tablets. Extra energy is provided by snacks, energy bars and electrolyte supplements on long trekking days. Comfort is provided by a lightweight rain jacket, quick drying towels, and extra pair of socks. With limited electricity charging facilities, power banks and solar chargers act as a device which helps us to keep electronic devices functional. Nar Phu Valley Trek is something that trekkers can undertake with confidence, having the right gear.

The average time taken while on Nar Phu Valley trek is about 10 to 12 days, depending upon the itinerary and required acclimatization. The trek most often starts from Dharapani, follows the way to Nar and Phu villages, crosses Kang La Pass and comes down to Pisang. 

Those who will be staying in Phu village, especially, likely will have needed extra days for acclimatization and to explore ancient monasteries and beautiful landscapes. The trek can be a long trek depending on how many rest days are taken, weather conditions, etc as well as individual pace. Total trip can be as long as two weeks including travel time from Kathmandu.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek has remained culturally important as it is characterized by ethnic Tibetan communities that have kept some of the centuries old traditions alive. It is decorated with ancient monasteries, chortens and prayer flags which mark the strong Buddhist roots of the people. 

A major spiritual site, Phu’s Tashi Lhakhang Monastery is also believed to be blessed by the famous Tibetan saint Guru Rinpoche. Isolation of the valley has helped the Nar and Phu people to keep their own dialect, customs and religion practices special. The daily life revolves around traditional stone houses, yak herding and barley farming with annual festivals like Lhosar (Tibetan New Year) or Yartung for celebrating horse racing events. Travelers in the Nar Phu Valley Trek come across a way of life that is still untouched by modern development. With the atmosphere of the spiritual Himalayas, this area is truly remote and beautiful but is probably your best chance at experiencing the Himalayan culture.

Following local customs during Nar Phu Valley Trek is important to provide a special experience for both trekkers and people. Wherever possible, always get permission before photographing people or religious sites as they can be of immense spiritual significance in the locality. 

In villages and monasteries you should cover body parts like the shoulders and legs modestly. Shoes should be removed when entering a monastery, and conduct should be guided by the monks or locals. 

Respect by walking clockwise around religious monuments like stupas and prayer wheels. Do not touch or step on prayer flags and sacred objects. Purchase from the village shops and use the local tea houses to support the local economy. A few basic Nepali greetings like Namaste go a long way in the positive interaction with locals. By being culturally aware and courteous while trekking, you will appreciate the trip as well as the tradition of Nar Phu Valley.

Nar Phu Valley Trek has main accommodation as teahouses, which offer basic but comfortable bedrooms for overnight stays. The rooms are simple with twin beds, blankets and shared bathrooms as these teahouses are run by local families. The area is still very remote and less developed, which means that the facilities are more basic than other popular trekking routes. 

Solar heaters for showers are available at some teahouses for an extra charge, but in higher elevations often warm water will not be available. Accommodation in Nar and Phu villages is somewhat basic and similar to other traditional villages, with the houses built from stone and with minimal facilities. 

In some places during Nar Phu Valley Trek, electricity is available, but the fee for charging devices can vary. During peak trekking seasons it is advisable to book ahead as there are only a limited number of teahouses. Accommodations are modest, but warm and welcoming with locals and an opportunity to absorb the genuine Himalayan lifestyle.

On the Nar Phu Valley Trek, food is very basic and nourishing altogether, primarily Tibetan style and of the surrounding area. The staple food is dal bhat, a rice meal with lentil soup and vegetable curry that gives the energy required for trekking. Among them are Tibetan bread, noodles, momos, thukpa (noodle soup), and fried rice. 

Fresh vegetables are not readily available in higher elevations, so grain, potato, and dried foods make for the main contents of meals. Porridge, pancakes and eggs and tea or coffee usually make up breakfast. The region is remote, so food is more expensive than in lower land because it arrives there by mules or porters. Extra sustenance like energy bars and nuts should be packed, it is advisable. The food options are not drastically varied, however they will fill you up and keep you strong to carry you up through the trek.

Throughout the Nar Phu Valley Trek, drinking water is available, but the trekkers need to take precautions against drinking impure water. Bottled water is available in lower villages and becomes expensive at higher elevations because of the cost to transport it. 

Trekkers are encouraged to carry reusable bottles and use water purification methods in order to minimize plastic waste. One of the safest options is to go for boiled water that is provided for a tiny fee in the teahouses. Water from natural sources like rivers and taps can be found along the trail, but that water must be filtered or boiled or purified with tablets or a sterilizer. 

It is important for trekkers to make it a must to drink at least three to four liters of water per day so as to remain hydrated. Carrying a hydration system when trekking, such as a water bladder, provides easy access to water when you trek. Working with purification methods, and careful allotting of water intake, trekkers can stay hydrated in the Nar Phu Valley Trek.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is considered to be an altitude sickness trek because of the high altitude and especially when crossing the 5,322-meter Kang La Pass. As trekkers speedily ascend without acclimatizing properly there is a higher risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS). 

Signs of AMS include headache, dizziness, feeling sick, loss of appetite and shortness of breath. In severe cases, high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) occurs, both of which are life threatening, and require immediate descent and medical attention. 

The way to minimize the risk, should be a gradual ascent, enabling acclimatization to take place. Among other things, avoiding alcohol and maintaining a steady trekking pace can also help prevent altitude related issues, salt will only make the problem worse. Taking acclimatization breaks is advised, as is the case with high passes like Phu. 

It helps to carry altitude sickness medication such as Diamox, though this should only be done with medical advice. A wise thing to do is to descend immediately to lower altitude should symptoms increase. It’s recommended to take Nar Phu Valley trek with an experienced guide to spot the early signs of altitude sickness and take measures accordingly. However, with proper preparation and awareness those trekkers can happily enjoy the high altitude adventure of Nar Phu Valley keeping health risk to a minimum.

The elevation above 5,000 meters makes the Nar Phu Valley trek necessary to acclimatize before starting the trip in order to have a safe and a very enjoyable one. Since the trekkers had to adapt to a high altitude, it was recommended that their ascent should be gradual. 

Before high passes like Kang La, it is recommended to stop over at villages like Phu for some acclimatization days and drink at least three to four liters of water per day, which will reduce effects of altitude sickness. It is also important not to consume alcohol or caffeine, as these are contributors to dehydration. 

The slower and steadier you trek, the better to acclimatize and the less you overexert yourself. It is good to use a ‘climb high, sleep low’ approach, during which trekkers climb to the higher altitude during the day and go to sleep at the lower altitudes. Under medical guidance, taking Diamox can help to put-off altitude’s effects. Altitude sickness symptoms, such as dizziness or nausea, will require immediate rest or descent.

Nar Phu Valley Trek requires great deals of idea photography methods to capture the mesmerizing scenes and social features. The natural beauty of the Himalayan peaks and villages is best captured in the early mornings and late afternoons enjoyed the best lighting conditions. 

Kang La Pass, the highest altitude during the trek, would be the best place to take pictures. A wide angle lens will come in handy if you are shooting a vast mountain vista. Since electricity is limited it is essential to carry extra batteries or a solar charger to ensure cameras remain powered up throughout the trek. The ability to shoot in RAW format for better post processing tweaks and prevents you from losing details in mountain scenes with huge contrast. 

In addition, trekkers should respect cultural sensitivity in photographing local people by always asking permission before taking their pictures. For example, different compositions can be tried, prayer flags in the foreground, leading lines on trails, and so on, in order to add depth to photos. To capture such breathtaking photos of Nar Phu’s rugged beauty, trekkers need to take careful planning and the right equipment.

Flora and fauna can be found in the Nar Phu Valley Trek, as the area has been home to many species of plants and animals in its unspoilt and obscure areas. 

In the lower regions of the trek, the dense forests of rhododendron, oak, pine, and juniper make it a lush place especially during spring when rhododendrons bloom in vivid colors of red, pink, and white. At higher altitudes, the vegetation turns into alpine meadows, which are populated by hardy shrubs, medicinal plants like the yarsagumba and a barren, rocky terrain before reaching the Kang La Pass.

Nar Phu Valley is equally remarkable in its wildlife, since many rare and endangered wildlife are housed in the area. The virgin snows of the high altitude cliffs harbours the elusive snow leopard whose prey being the Himalayan blue sheep are commonly spotted along the trekking trails. 

Musk deer, Himalayan marmots, red foxes are the other mammals and red pandas and langurs are sheltered in lower forests. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, as over two hundred species of birds from the Himalayan monal, snow partridge and the golden eagle, to the griffon vulture fly amongst its mountains. Because of the conservation efforts and remoteness of the valley, the ones which exist grow with minimal human interference. Nar Phu Valley prides on pure Himalayan biodiversity and it is a rare occasion for trekkers who appreciate nature. Having binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens seal the deal of spotting wildlife in this extraordinary region.

The cost of the Nar Phu Valley Trek depends mainly on transportation, permits, accommodation and whether a guide is hired. Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is a major expense together with the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), together costing $123 which increase depending on the time you spend there.

Transportation is another significant cost. Comfort and speed can be found on private vehicles between Kathmandu and Dharapani and from Pisang to Kathmandu at around $150 to $200 per vehicle. Alternatively, one can make the choice to travel on the cheaper lines of public transportation, local buses, and shared jeeps, which are less comfortable. It will cost $5 to $10 for accommodation in tea houses per night and $5 to $10 per dish for meals.

A guide will cost around $25 to $35 per day, a porter around $20 to $25 per day. This also adds to the overall budget by trekking gear (which can be rented in Kathmandu), insurance for high-altitude rescue, and personal expenses (for example, snacks and charging fees). The trek costs on average from $900 to $1,500 per person which varies depending on comfort preferences and services.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek can quickly become expensive with hidden costs if trekkers are not prepared. Since teahouses are all solar powered one can charge electronic devices for $2 to $5 per hour. An extra $3 to $6 per use is for a hot shower, which is commonly heated by gas or solar. Boiled water is another expense, $1 to $3 per liter. 

You will be paying higher prices for snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages when moving at higher altitudes. In addition, guides and porters should get tips, usually 10% to 15% of their total fee. They are also not responsible for emergency costs, like additional acclimatization days, medical care, or a helicopter evacuation (during which almost nothing is covered by insurance). Some tea houses can have WiFi for which they charge $3 to $5 for limited access. With no ATMs along the route, you need extra cash on hand. Being aware of the seriously hidden costs helps trekkers to take action in the cost budget issue.

Planning money for the Nar Phu valley trek is required to have a smooth trek. The cost of a basic budget for $900 to 1,500 per person involving a permit, accommodation, food, transport and guide/porter services is offered. 

For those on a tight budget, one can either drop the usage of private vehicles and entirely depend on the public transport cost which can save as much as $50 to $100. To save money, you can also rent gear in Kathmandu rather than purchasing new equipment. You can minimize expenses by taking a reusable water bottle as well as using purification tablets rather than buying bottled water. 

It is extremely important to have travel insurance for emergency evacuation, medical care, etc. Trekking is much easier, having extra cash for occasional comforts, like WiFi, hot showers, charging etc. Prioritizing expenses can let trekkers write a good balance between cost and comfort in the adventure.

As there are high altitudes as well as remote terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, travel insurance is extremely necessary for Nar Phu Valley Trek. Policy also includes coverage of evacuation, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. As the trek goes well up in the 5,000 meter range, high altitude cover is required on the insurance, as regular policies tend to exclude coverage above certain altitudes. 

If you do have a severe altitude sickness or get injured, helicopter evacuation can cost you well over $5,000, so insurance is essential. Transportation disruptions are common in Nepal, and such policies should also include lost baggage, theft and trip delays. 

Trekking specific insurance is available from reputable companies such as World Nomads, Allianz and Global Rescue. Trekkers should read fine print before purchasing, to make sure their coverage fits the bill. Being able to carry a digital and printed copy always makes it easier to attract while in times of emergency.

You need to have a guide for the Nar Phu Valley Trek as per the Nepal Government restriction. Guides are hired for safety as they bring navigation, management of altitude sickness, and cultural insight. Guides to trekking cost about $25 to $35 per day and make the trekking experience more enjoyable by sharing local knowledge and helping when it comes to arrangements of accommodation. 

The trek is less physically demanding with porters hauling up heavy loads of $20 to $25 per day. Independent trekkers have no guide or porter costs but they have to be strong on navigation and experience of high altitude trekking. 

Because Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area, at least two persons trekkers are required to take along a registered guide to issue the permit which means fully independent trekking is not possible. 

An unguided trek is cheaper, but it comes with implications, security is not guaranteed there, logistics aren’t good, and common knowledge about the place is lacking. Those who have experience of remote travel, however, are likely to be able to trek independently in this region, but should still be prepared and require support.

The Nar Phu Valley region requires ecotourism by encouraging responsible travel, ensuring minimal impact on the environment and promoting income generation for local communities. In turn, trekkers can follow Leave No Trace principles, such as carrying out trash, having reusable water bottles ( eliminating single use-plastics) and anything else reinstituting the nature processes. 

Try to stay in locally owned teahouses and purchase handmade crafts to sustain the region’s economy. Respecting wildlife and depriving no harm to natural habitats help to conserve rare species like snow leopard and Himalayan blue sheep. Brings biodegradable soaps, and toiletries that will not pollute water, particularly in streams of high altitude in the mountains. 

Supporting ethical tourism practices like hiring local guides and porters with fair wages, strengthens the local economy. Trekking in small groups helps to keep roving strain on fragile ecosystems and keeps from using up the limited resources of a trekking trail. In addition, cultural traditions, for instance dressing modestly and avoiding behaviors which can offend religious sensibility, alert the tourists to respect their hosts. Experience of ecotourism prevents Nar Phu Valley’s natural and cultural heritage from being lost for future generations.

1. Is the Nar Phu Valley Trek suitable for first-time trekkers?

Nar Phu Valley trek with high passes and steep terrain. It is feasible for beginners but previous trekking experience and good fitness levels are advisable.

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

There are no ATMs or money exchanges in Nar Phu Valley. It is advisable to withdraw enough cash in Kathmandu or Besisahar prior to starting the trek to be able to cover all your expenses.

3. How is the mobile network and internet connectivity in Nar Phu Valley?

Signals are weak or the mobile coverage is very unreliable. Most teahouses don’t offer WiFi and those that do are paid with slowness and subject to weather conditions.

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

There are not many medical facilities in Nar Phu Valley. Helicopter evacuation or descent to lower villages are relied upon in case of emergencies by the trekkers. Travel insurance is essential.

5. What is the daily trekking distance and altitude gain in Nar Phu Valley?

Altitude gain is from 500m to 1,200m and trekkers cover 10 to 18 km daily. Trek day to Kang La Pass (5,322 m) is the toughest day as it is the highest altitude during the trip.

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

In Kathmandu, you can rent sleeping bags, jackets, poles and boots for one time trekkers as a budget friendly choice.

7. Are there any cultural festivals in Nar Phu Valley that I should plan my trek around?

The valley has major festivals like Yartung Festival (horse racing) and Lhosar (Tibetan New Year).

8. Is it possible to combine the Nar Phu Valley Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region?

Indeed, trekkers normally do it in combination with Annapurna Circuit, and continue to Manang, Tilicho Lake or Thorong La pass for a longer trek.

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

Trekking should be avoided during monsoon and winters. Follow guide, and check the weather forecast and stay on designated trails to minimize risks of landslides or avalanches.

10. What are the electricity and charging facilities like on the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The solar-powered charging is available to order for a fee at teahouses. Power banks or solar chargers are must as electricity in remote areas is limited.