Nar Phu Valley trek

19 Days

The Nar Phu Valley trek is an off-the-beaten trek in the Annapurna and Manang region of Nepal. The quiet trails of the exotic Nar Phu Valley provide you an excellent trekking opportunity. You can observe the ancient settlements of this fascinating valley during the trek.

The trail of this stunning trek takes you to some of the most remote locations in the country. You will pass through the natural wonders of green hills, serene waterfalls, arid landscapes, and lush forests along the trail. The views of the snow-capped mountains, including Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Chulu West, Chulu East, and Tilicho, will enchant you.

Moreover, the culture, lifestyle, and traditions of this region are unique and special. You will require a special Nar Phu Valley trek Permit to enter the remote valley. The Tibetan influenced heritage will transport you back in medieval times. You can go on a lovely cultural exploration of the beautiful Nar and Phu village during the trek.

Furthermore, the influence of Buddhism in the daily lifestyle of the people is quite evident. A pilgrimage to the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery and the Braga Monastery will cleanse your soul. Parts of the trail also pass through the landscapes of the Annapurna Sanctuary. You can also spot the rare wildlife of the region, including snow leopard, Danphe, Himalayan Tahr, and others in the sanctuary.

You will stay in the cozy tea houses and lodges during the trek. The warm hospitality of the Lama, Ghale, Gurung and Tamang community will melt your heart. Overall, this spectacular trek is an adventure of a lifetime! Our Nar Phu Valley trek cost is reasonable and affordable. Read further for the detailed Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary and other relevant information.

Significant Highlights of the Trip

  • Observing the snow-capped mountain including Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Chulu West, Chulu East, Tilicho, and others
  • Awe-inspiring sunrise from various points along the trek
  • Walking along with the pristine landscapes of Nar Phu Valley
  • Pilgrimage to the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery and the Braga Monastery
  • Passing by the forested trails of the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA)
  • Complete exploration of the Nar village and ancient monasteries
  • Experiencing the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Lama, Ghale, Tamang and Gurung community.
  • Tasting the local delicacies during the trek
  • Spotting the rare flora and fauna of the region, including Himalayan Tahr, snow leopards, musk deer, and others.
  • The warm hospitality of the local people in the teahouses

Nar Phu Valley Trek Route

Nar Phu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley Trek takes you along the remote landscapes of the northern Annapurna and Manang region. The unexplored off the beaten trails lead us to the stunning Nar Phu valley.

Our tour starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Bulbule. The trek then begins Bulbule to Chamje, where we stay overnight. We continue our trek from Dharapani that leads us to Koto the next day. We then head towards the village of Dharamshala and Kayang before arriving at the magnificent Phu valley.

Phu is an ancient civilization in the Tibetan border of Nepal. After exploring around Phu for a day, we pass through Junar to arrive at Nar. We acclimatize and explore around Nar to observe ancient civilization. We then pass through Ngawal to arrive at Manang. The trail then leads us to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi.

Moreover, we also go on a pilgrimage to the Muktinath temple. After offering our prayers at the spiritual hub of Muktinath temple, we trek back to Jomsom to Kagbeni. Finally, after 19 days of the trek, we fly back to Pokhara and then drive to the capital city of Kathmandu.

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The Final Say

The Nar Phu Valley trek is an incredible adventure in the Annapurna and Manang region of Nepal. The trails of the remote trek pass through the rugged Himalayan landscapes and take you to the exotic Nar Phu Valley.

Moreover, trekking in the wilderness is a lovely experience. The ancient culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the people will enchant you. You can also experience the Tibetan influenced lifestyle of the local community along the trail. The incredible hospitality along the trek will warm your heart.

Overall, the Nar Phu valley trek is one of the best off-the-beaten treks in Nepal. We assure you that our Nar Phu Valley Trek cost is one of the best deals you can find around. Book with us for a hassle-free trekking experience!

Maximum altitude: 1470m

Drive duration: 6 hrs (Kathmandu to Bulbule)

Our representative will pick you up from the hotel in Kathmandu and take you on a bus to Bulbule. The scenic six-hour journey passes through the incredible winding roads in the hilly settlements.

You can observe the highway settlements and the terraced farmed green hills during the trip. Bulbule is a beautiful settlement in the Lamjung district. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Bulbule.

Maximum altitude: 1470m

Trek duration: 6 hrs

After breakfast, we will start our trek along the Ngadi Khola trail as we ascend the village settlements. We cross the suspension bridges and waterfalls and continue our way through rice and paddy fields.

The forested trail passes through the rivers and brooks to arrive at a cliff. We can observe the Marsyangdi Khola in all its glory. There are also various cliffs with many beehives in them. After a trek of a few hours, we arrive at Chamje, where we stay overnight.

Maximum altitude: 1860m

Trek duration: 7 hrs

After breakfast, we will start our trek to Dharapani from Chamje. We pass through the green hills, serene waterfalls, deep gorges, and other landscapes. The uphill trek is quite challenging for most trekkers.

After a trek of a few hours, we arrive at a ridge from where we can observe the natural landscapes. There are several suspension bridges that we cross to reach Tal. From Tal, we take an easy trail to arrive at Dharapani after 5-6 hours. Dharapani (1860 meters) is a beautiful settlement where we stay overnight.

Maximum altitude: 2620m

Trek duration: 7 hrs

After breakfast, we start our trek to Koto from Dharapani. We trek for an hour to arrive at Bagarchhap as we pass through the pine and fir forests. The beautiful white monastery is an attraction of the trek. We pass through Danaque along the steep ascending trail and arrive at Timang.

The incredible view of the snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Manaslu and Peak 29 welcome us. We continue our trek through pine forests for one and a half hours to arrive at Latamarang. We have our lunch and observe the breathtaking views of Annapurna II. Finally, we arrive at the Koto village where we stay overnight.

Maximum altitude: 3230m

Trek duration: 7 hrs

After breakfast, we will start our trek from Kota to Dharamshala that takes around six hours. We pass through the pristine valleys and pass through the forested trails alongside the Phu Khola.

The trails pass through the beautiful forest, natural caves, and Dharamshala (pilgrims resting place). After taking a break to have lunch, we resume our trek through the narrow canyon, and a wide waterfall to arrive at Dharamsala. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Dharamsala.

Maximum altitude: 3560m

Trek duration: 7 hrs

After breakfast, we start our trek from Dharamsala to Kayang that takes around six and a half hours. We take a steep climb that leads you to high pastures on a 3,200m plateau after passing through a small, scenic river.

We pass through Meta (3560m), which is a temporary settlement of Nar and a yak herding area. After a few hours of trekking, we arrive at Kayang, where we will stay overnight.

Maximum altitude: 4050m

Trek duration: 7 hrs

After breakfast, we start our trek from Kayang to Phu village. We trail down steeply down the river bank and the “submarine” rock. There are various campsites around the region, along with colorful chortens.

We then pass through a small, glacial stream which we cross through a makeshift wooden bridge. The trails continue through incredible canyons and gorges before arriving at the Phu gate. The medieval gate is the main entrance of the three villages of Phu.

Moreover, you can also observe the old “dzong” and the ruins of two forts in the flatlands before arriving at Phu. Phu is an ancient village in the Manang district towards the northern side of the Tibet-Nepal border. You will stay overnight at a teahouse in Phu.

After breakfast, we start our acclimatization tour of the beautiful Phu village. The Lama, Ghale, and Gurung community village will enchant you. The everyday lifestyle of the local people performing their day to day activities of farming and animal rearing is endearing.

Furthermore, you can also visit the Karmapa Rinpoche built Tashi Lhakhang Monastery. The incredible tour of the Himlung Base Camp is also on the cards. You can observe the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains from the Himlung Base Camp. You will return to the Phu village and stay overnight at the teahouse.

Maximum altitude: 3820m

Trek duration: 6 hrs

After breakfast, we start our trek from Phu village to Junam. We trek through Phu gate, and descend to the river and catch the trail back to Junam Kharka. The incredible village surroundings and the natural landscapes of the region will enthral you. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Junam.

Maximum altitude: 4150m

Trek duration: 4 hrs

After breakfast, we will start our trek from Junam to Nar. The trek then takes us through an old wooden bridge through a deep and narrow gorge. The incredible views of the mountains from the viewpoint welcome us along the trail. You can visit the Gyalu Gompa (b. 1650) and Satte Gompa.

Furthermore, we pass through the Nar gates and arrive at the painted, bamboo topped chortens and a large tiered chorten. We then turn the corner that provides us the breathtaking views of Nar and the surrounding field of barley and mustard. There are four ancient Gompas in the region as well. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Nar.

After breakfast, we start our acclimatization and exploration of the beautiful Nar village. There are very few residents in the medieval stone houses of the region. The village is an excellent acclimatization point for the trek.

Moreover, the unique culture and lifestyle of the Nar village settlement of the region will inspire you. You can return to the teahouse and prepare for the trip and stay overnight at a teahouse in Nar village.

Maximum altitude: 5130m

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Nag to Ngawal via Kang La Pass. This long duration trek passes through a high altitude mountain pass. The spectacular mountain views, including Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and others, will enchant you.

Moreover, the trail then descends gradually towards a plateau before you arrive at Ngawal. After a trek of a few hours, we arrive at Ngawal, where we stay overnight.

Maximum altitude: 3519m

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Ngwal to Manang, which takes about three hours. You walk along the banks of the Marshyangdi river to arrive at the famous Manang village. You will pass through the pine forests, and visit the Braga monastery.

Moreover, the spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains, including Annapurna, Tilicho Mountain, and others, are enthralling. After a few hours of trekking, we arrive at Manang, where we stay overnight.

Maximum altitude: 4018m

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Manang Village to Yak Kharka. The trail passes through a water stream, before ascending the village of Tenki above Manang. We pass through the Marshyangdi Valley west of the Jarsang Khola.

The trail then leads us to the north, passing through the forested trail with juniper trees before ascending further. We then make our way near Ghunsa, where you can find mud village settlements.

Moreover, the trail goes through the meadows, where many yaks graze. We cross the wooden bridge and pass through the ancient old Mani wall to arrive at Yak Kharka. We then stay overnight at a teahouse in Yak Kharka.

Maximum altitude: 5416m

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi. We pass through the incredible landscapes of harsh terrains and rugged hills. Thorong Phedi is a small busy settlement with many trekkers and climbers using it as a base camp. We will stay overnight at a camp in Thorong Phedi.

Maximum altitude: 5416m

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, we start the trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath. We will cross the majestic Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,764ft) during this trek. We start this trek early as this is a high-altitude trail.

We pass through the harsh terrains of the region to arrive at Muktinath. Muktinath is an important pilgrimage site for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. The pilgrimage of the Vishnu temple and famous Monastery of the region is also on the cards. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Muktinath.

Maximum altitude: 3710m

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Kagbeni. The trails descend the majestic Kali Gandaki Gorge passing through the dry, arid landscapes. We pass through the Jharkot and Khingar villages that are highly influenced by the Tibetan architecture. The trails then pass along the banks of the Kali Gandaki river to arrive at Jomsom. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Jomsom.

Maximum altitude: 3710m

Flight duration: 15 minutes

After breakfast, we take an early morning flight to Pokhara. You can observe the spectacular mountain views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Our representative will pick you from Pokhara airport and transport you to the hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara.

We explore around Pokhara in the evening. You stroll around the Lakeside area near the Fewa Lake, observing the breathtaking views of Mt. Machhapuchhare. There we can also take the boat-ride and visit the famous World Peace Pagoda. We can celebrate the success of the tour with an evening dinner and stay overnight at the hotel.

Drive duration: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, we start our drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The scenic drive takes you along the winding hilly landscapes of the Prithvi Highway. You can observe the snow-capped mountains and rugged landscapes from the bus. The Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary officially ends in Kathmandu. You will stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

When is the Best Time for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Autumn and Spring are the two peak seasons for trekking and climbing in Nepal. The stable weather conditions and the ideal temperatures make these seasons the best time for this spectacular trek.

Autumn (September to November)

The Autumn season provides stable weather conditions in the region with less rainfall. You can observe the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains all along the trail.

Moreover, the Autumn season provides you with moderate temperatures that are ideal for trekking. You will also get to observe the cultural and festive atmosphere of the region. Hence, Autumn is a great time for the trek in the Nar Phu region.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is an excellent time for the trek in the Nar Phu region. You will get a scenic environment with a beautiful aroma following you all along the trail. The mountain views from the various viewpoints along the path will overwhelm you. Wildflowers bloom all over the green hills, and make the green hills turn red and pink.

Moreover, you can observe the rare flora and fauna of the region that becomes active after long winter hibernation. Besides that, the mild temperatures in the daytime are ideal for a trekking adventure. Hence, spring is another ideal time for the trek in the region.

Furthermore, the offseason treks in the summer monsoon season (June to August) are quite challenging. The hot, humid, and heavy rainfall brings massive landslides and avalanches in the region. The winter season (December to February) gets quite frigid with heavy snowfall in the area. However, with proper training and preparation, you can complete the trek anytime of the year.

How Difficult is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Nar Phu Valley Trek is stunning off the beaten trek that falls under the rustic Manang and the pristine Annapurna region. The trek takes you along the harsh unexplored terrains. The high altitude landscape has a lot of ups and downs that you need to pass through stone staircases.

Moreover, the risk of altitude sickness is high on this trek. Oxygen and air pressure are low in the high altitude region that causes difficulty in breathing. The low temperatures also cause difficulties among the trekkers. Hence, acclimatization and regular hydration is a must for trekkers of all skill levels.

Furthermore, you will need to trek for 6-8 hours on average. First-time trekkers will face difficulty with fatigue and burnout. Hence, you should train well before the trek. The training regime should include cardiovascular exercises and aerobic activities. Some of them include hiking, running, cycling, swimming, jogging, and others. Overall, the Nar Phu Valley trek is quite challenging as compared to other treks in the region.

Some Essential Tips for the Trek

  • Hire a porter and a guide for the trek
  • Start your trekking adventure early
  • Acclimatization and hydration is essential during the trek
  • Carry protein bars, granola bars, snickers, and others to get instant energy during the trek
  • Get the Nar Phu Valley Trek to permit before the trek
  • Carry water purifying tablets including Diamox
  • Carry an accurate Nar Phu Valley Trek map during the trek
  • Book your food and accommodation facilities along the trail
  • Get a proper travel insurance

Packing List for the Trek

Clothing

  • Full sleeve shirts
  • Half sleeve shirts
  • Trekking pants
  • Trekking gears
  • Waterproof jackets
  • Down jackets
  • Woolen socks
  • Woolen caps
  • Trekking shirts
  • Raincoats

First aid

  • Band-aids
  • Sanitary napkins/ tampons
  • Anti-nausea tablets
  • Water purifying tablets
  • Sanitizer

Accessories

  • Camera
  • Solar chargers
  • Power banks
  • Extra batteries
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Moisturiser

Important documents

  • Passports
  • Travel permits
  • Nar Phu Valley Trek Permit

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