Annapurna, Nepal
Location
Strenuous
Trip Grade
Autumn, Spring
Best Time
Min: 2, Max: 10+
Group Size

Nar Phu is a remote and isolated region in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is located in the north of the Manang district and is home to a small Tibetan Buddhist community. The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a popular trekking route that takes you through the Nar Phu Valley, offering a chance to explore this unique and culturally rich region.

Trip Overview:

Nar Phu Valley Trek is a breathtaking 18-day journey through the remote and isolated region of Nar Phu in the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. This challenging trek offers a unique blend of cultural and natural beauty, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif and opportunities to explore the ancient village of Nar Phu and its surrounding monasteries and temples.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to the village of Besishahar, where you will spend the night before beginning your trek the following day. From Besishahar, you will follow the Marsyangdi River through the village of Chame and up into the Nar Phu Valley. Along the way, you will pass through lush forests and alpine meadows, with opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, such as blue sheep and Himalayan thar.

As you make your way deeper into the Nar Phu Valley, you will pass through the village of Nar, where you can visit the ancient monastery and explore the traditional Tibetan-influenced culture of the region. From Nar, you will continue your trek to the village of Phu, where you will spend the night in a local teahouse.

From Phu, you will have the option to either continue your trek to the base camp of Annapurna II or to take a detour to visit the hidden valley of Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at an altitude of 4,919 meters. After exploring Tilicho Lake, you will return to Phu and continue your trek to the base camp of Annapurna II.

Trip Highlights:

  • Explore the remote and isolated region of Nar Phu, home to ancient monasteries and temples
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif and other peaks in the region
  • Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Nar Phu Valley, influenced by Tibetan Buddhism
  • Visit the hidden valley of Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world
  • Trek to the base camp of Annapurna II, one of the most popular peaks in the Annapurna range

Outlined Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trip preparation

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar (820 meters)

Day 4: Trek from Besishahar to Chame (2,710 meters)

Day 5: Trek from Chame to Nar (3,410 meters)

Day 6: Trek from Nar to Phu (3,630 meters)

Day 7: Rest day in Phu and visit nearby monasteries and temples

Day 8: Trek from Phu to Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters)

Day 9: Return to Phu from Tilicho Lake

Day 10: Trek from Phu to Annapurna II base camp (4,660 meters)

Day 11: Trek from Annapurna II base camp to Yak Kharka (3,986 meters)

Day 12: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,550 meters)

Day 13: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) and continue to Muktinath (3,800

meters)

Day 14: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700 meters)

Day 15: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

Day 16: Sightseeing in Pokhara

Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu

 

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

When you arrive in Kathmandu, a representative from your trekking company will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You will have the rest of the day to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trip preparation

In the morning, you will have the opportunity to go on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, visiting some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as Durbar Square and the Swayambhunath Temple. In the afternoon, you will meet with your guide and the rest of your trekking team to go over the details of the trip and prepare for the trek.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar (820 meters)

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the village of Besishahar, located about a 6-hour drive from Kathmandu. You will spend the night in a guesthouse in Besishahar.

Day 4: Trek from Besishahar to Chame (2,710 meters)

After breakfast, you will begin your trek from Besishahar, following the Marsyangdi River through the village of Chame. The trek will take about 6-7 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse in Chame.

Day 5: Trek from Chame to Nar (3,410 meters)

From Chame, you will continue your trek to the village of Nar, passing through lush forests and alpine meadows along the way. The trek will take about 7-8 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse in Nar.

Day 6: Trek from Nar to Phu (3,630 meters)

From Nar, you will continue your trek to the village of Phu, passing through the Phu Khola valley and crossing several suspension bridges along the way. The trek will take about 6-7 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse in Phu.

Day 7: Rest day in Phu and visit nearby monasteries and temples

Today, you will have the opportunity to rest and explore the village of Phu, visiting the ancient monastery and exploring the surrounding area. You can also visit the nearby village of Kangla Phedi and the Kang La Pass, which offer stunning views of the Annapurna massif.

Day 8: Trek from Phu to Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters)

From Phu, you have the option to either continue your trek to the base camp of Annapurna II or to take a detour to visit the hidden valley of Tilicho Lake. The trek to Tilicho Lake will take about 7-8 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse near the lake.

Day 9: Return to Phu from Tilicho Lake

After spending the morning exploring Tilicho Lake, you will retrace your steps and return to the village of Phu, where you will spend the night in a guesthouse.

Day 10: Trek from Phu to Annapurna II base camp (4,660 meters)

From Phu, you will continue your trek to the base camp of Annapurna II, passing through the villages of Meta and Lattemarang along the way. The trek will take about 6-7 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse at the base camp.

Day 11: Trek from Annapurna II base camp to Yak Kharka (3,986 meters)

From the Annapurna II base camp, you will follow the Annapurna Circuit route through the Thorong La Pass to Yak Kharka. The trek will take about 7-8 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse in Yak Kharka.

Day 12: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,550 meters)

From Yak Kharka, you will continue your trek to the village of Thorong Phedi, passing through the villages of Shree Kharka and Ledar along the way. The trek will take about 6-7 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse in Thorong Phedi.

Day 13: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) and continue to Muktinath (3,800 meters)

Today, you will tackle the challenging trek to Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit, at an altitude of 5,416 meters. After crossing the pass, you will continue your trek to the holy village of Muktinath, where you will spend the night in a guesthouse.

Day 14: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700 meters)

From Muktinath, you will follow the Kali Gandaki River down to the town of Jomsom, passing through the village of Kagbeni along the way. The trek will take about 7-8 hours, and you will spend the night in a guesthouse in Jomsom.

Day 15: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

In the morning, you will take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif along the way. Upon arriving in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel and have the rest of the day to explore the city.

Day 16: Sightseeing in Pokhara

Today, you will have the opportunity to go on a sightseeing tour of Pokhara, visiting popular landmarks such as the Phewa Lake, the International Mountain Museum, and the Peace Pagoda.

Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

You will have a private vehicle transfer from Pokhara back to Kathmandu after breakfast, arriving in the late afternoon. You will spend the night in a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home, bringing an end to your amazing Nar Phu Trek.

What is included?

  • Airport transfer by Royal Mountain office representative in a private vehicle
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at the Tourist Standard Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis as per the program before trekking for 2 nights and after trekking for 1 night.
  • Sightseeing maximum 3 places in one day—provide a car and driver in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation twin sharing: Mountain Lodge is available en route during the trek; it is basic lodge accommodation. If you want to have a good hotel on the way, you can stay
  • At some of the places, there is an extra charge (you can pay directly)
  • English-speaking, First aid-, and Eco-trained local trekking guide,
  • Assistance guide as per the group size. If an extra guide is required, we will charge you extra.
  • All the expenses for the guide and porters, along with Insurance
  • Narphu Permit, National Park Fees: requires 2 each photo
  • Exclusive medical kit bag,
  • Duffle bag, if required
  • Porter for trekking: We will provide a porter for 2 people and one porter. If clients want to have one client and one porter, the price will be chargeable.
  • Sleeping Bag and Down Jacket during trek—need to return after trek
  • All government and local taxes, as applicable
  • Airport drop-off:
  • Private transport trekking starting place and end place to Kathmandu ticket
  • Jomsom-Pokhara flight ticket with all taxes
  • 2 nights in a hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
  • Private transport from Pokhara to Kathmandu

What is not included?

  • Nepal Visa (cost: US$- 30 for 15 days & $- 50 for 30 days)
  • Lunch & evening meals while in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Travel insurance (which you should bring from your home country)
  • Cost of personal nature expenses, Beverages (Mineral water or Coca-Cola), cost of extra
  • All Meals are extra while you are trekking, snacks, phone bills, Internet, Wi-Fi, laundry,, etc.
  • Sightseeing monument entrance fee
  • The cost incurred during emergencies, evacuations
  • Tips for Guides, Porters, Drivers, etc.

Note: The Narphu trek is a restricted area; you need special permits from the Government of Nepal, which are included in the cost.

Difficulty

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a challenging trek, with a maximum altitude of 5,416 meters at Kang La Pass. The trek involves long days of hiking over rough terrain, with some steep and rocky sections. It’s important to be in good physical condition and to have a good level of fitness before embarking on the trek. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, most people with a moderate level of fitness should be able to complete the trek.

Best Time

The best time to do the Nar Phu Valley Trek depends on your preference for weather and crowds. The trek can be done year-round, but the weather and conditions will vary depending on the season.

The autumn season (September to November) is the most popular time to do the trek, with pleasant weather and clear skies.

The winter season (December to February) can be colder and more challenging, with the possibility of snow on the higher passes.

The spring season (March to May) is also a good time to do the trek, with warmer temperatures and beautiful rhododendron flowers in bloom.

The summer season (June to August) is the monsoon season, with the possibility of rain and landslides.

Weather

The weather on the Nar Phu Valley Trek varies depending on the season and altitude. At lower altitudes, the weather is generally warm during the day and cooler at night. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the temperature becomes colder, with the possibility of snow on the higher passes. It’s important to bring warm clothing and gear for the colder temperatures at high altitude

Insurance

It is highly recommended to have travel insurance for the Nar Phu Valley Trek, as you’ll be traveling to a remote area with limited access to medical facilities. Your insurance should cover medical emergencies, evacuations, and other unexpected expenses that may arise during the trek. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the coverage and exclusions of your policy before purchasing.

Permits

You’ll need to obtain a special permit to do the Nar Phu Valley Trek. The Annapurna Conservation Area permit is required for all trekkers, and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card is also required for trekkers who are not accompanied by a registered trekking agency. You’ll need to obtain these permits in advance through a trekking agency or in person at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.

It could helps you to plan your Nar Phu Valley Trek. Please keep in mind that this is just a general overview and the actual timing and distance of each day’s trek may vary depending on your pace and the specific route you take. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for some flexibility and to listen to the advice of your guide.

Remember to pack carefully for the trek, including warm clothing and gear for the colder temperatures at high altitude, as well as any personal items you’ll need. It’s also a good idea to bring some snacks and water for the trek, as well as any medications you may need.

I hope this information helps you to plan your Nar Phu Valley Trek and have a safe and enjoyable journey!

What is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a lesser-known trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the remote Nar Phu Valley, located in the Annapurna region. The trek starts in the town of Besishahar and takes you to the villages of Nar and Phu, located at elevations of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) and 4,100 meters (13,451 feet) above sea level, respectively. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the Annapurna massif, and a chance to experience the unique culture and traditions of the Nar Phu Valley.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is known for its off-the-beaten-path atmosphere and cultural diversity, as you pass through a variety of landscapes and communities along the way. The trek typically takes about 10-14 days to complete.

How long does the Nar Phu Valley Trek take?

The length of the Nar Phu Valley Trek depends on your pace and the route you take. Most trekkers take about 18-20 days to complete the trek, although it is possible to do it in less time if you are in good physical condition and can hike quickly. Some trekkers choose to take longer and take their time to explore the area more thoroughly.

What should I bring on the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

It is important to be prepared and bring the necessary gear for the Nar Phu Valley Trek. Some essential items to bring include:

  • Comfortable and sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm and waterproof clothing, including a jacket, fleece, and gloves
  • Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • A backpack to carry all your gear
  • Water bottles and a water purification system
  • Snacks and energy bars for the trail
  • Basic first aid kit and any necessary medications

Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

While it is not strictly necessary to hire a guide or porter for the Nar Phu Valley Trek, it is generally recommended for safety and convenience. A local guide can help you navigate the route, provide information about the local culture and history, and assist you in case of any issues or emergencies. A porter can carry your gear and help lighten your load on the trail.

It is important to choose a reputable company or individual to hire as a guide or porter, and to treat them with respect and fairness.

What is the highlight of the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

One of the highlights of the Nar Phu Valley Trek is the opportunity to visit the Nar Phu Valley, a remote and largely undeveloped region located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The valley is home to a variety of cultures and traditions, and offers a chance to experience the local way of life.

Another highlight of the trek is the stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the Annapurna massif and other iconic mountains in the Himalayas. The views from the high-altitude passes are particularly impressive and offer a sense of the vastness and majesty of the Himalayas.

What is the accommodation like on the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Accommodation on the Nar Phu Valley Trek is generally in lodges or guesthouses, although conditions can be basic and facilities may be limited. The lodges typically have shared bathroom facilities and offer simple meals, such as dal bhat (a traditional Nepali dish). Some lodges may have electricity, although this is not always the case, so it is important to be prepared for the possibility of power outages.

It is also possible to camp on the trek , although this requires carrying a tent and other camping gear and finding suitable campsites. Camping is not recommended for the entire trek, as the weather and conditions can be challenging, but it can be a good option for some sections of the route.

How much does the Nar Phu Valley Trek cost?

The cost of the Nar Phu Valley Trek depends on a variety of factors, including your route, the duration of the trek, the season, and your accommodation and transportation preferences.

Going with a trekking company or hiring a guide can increase the cost of the trek, as you will need to pay for these services. However, these services can provide added support and convenience, and can be worth the extra cost for some trekkers.

If you are going independently, you will need to pay for your own accommodation, transportation, food, and other expenses. You can save money by staying in budget guesthouses, carrying your own gear, and cooking your own meals.

Tour Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Leave a Review

Rating