Nar Phu Valley Trek - 16 Days

Know before you go
  • Duration 16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Best Season Mar - Nov
  • Trip Area Nar Phu and Thorong La Pass
  • Maximum Altitude 5320m.|17454ft.

Highlights

  • Cross two high passes in one trek in the Annapurna region - Kang La pass, and Thorong La pass
  • Explore the stunning Nar Phu Valley and Manang Valley
  • Visit ancient pilgrimage sites like Muktinath Temple and Tashi Lhakhang Gompa
  • Come across the deepest gorge in the world, Kal Gandaki gorge
  • The trail goes through fine mountain villages & lush forests
  • There are thrilling suspension bridges, streams, and waterfalls along the way
  • You will get to enjoy a less-trekked route in the Himalayas in the first half of the venture and later join the famous Annapurna Circuit
  • Surreal landscape and mountain views to keep your company

Our Nar Phu Valley Trek is very adventurous in the Annapurna region. The trek crosses two high passes- Kang La (5,306 m/17,408 ft) and Thorong La (5,416 m/17,770 ft). Along with that, you will get to see the deepest gorge of the world- Kali Gandaki gorge (2,520 m/8,270 ft), and visit one of the significant pilgrimage sites of Hindus & Buddhists, Muktinath Temple (3,710 m/12,172 ft). Furthermore, Nar Phu Valley Trek 16 days also offers spectacular mountain views and gorgeous landscapes.

The Nar Phu Valley trek lets you meet with natives of these picturesque valleys. Their ancient culture and simple daily lifestyle make the trek more fascinating. We will come across many stupas, chortens, and prayer wheels while trekking. Tashi Lhakhang Gompa (4,150 m/13,616 ft) is one of the oldest monasteries in Nar Phu valley you get to visit.

Join Nar Phu Valley Trek with Thorong La pass 16 days and get to experience remote adventurous trekking in the unspoiled parts of the Annapurna region. The journey has a perfect blend of culture and adventure.

Nar Phu Valley Trek with Thorong La pass explores two very beautiful valleys- Nar Phu Valley and Manang Valley. The trek ascends over 5,000 meters and lets you enjoy the thrill of high-altitude trekking. The Nar Phu Valley Trek route is full of twists & turns, ups & downs. The trail goes through lush forests to green meadows and rocky terrain. We have attached the Nar Phu Valley Trek map below on the page that you can check out too.

Views during the Nar Phu Valley Trek

As we will be covering the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek in the latter half of the trek, this Nar Phu Valley Trek 16 days itinerary presents diverse landscapes. We will get to witness breathtaking views of alpine valleys, lush tempting landscapes with greenery all around it as well as dry barren scenery. 

Mountains like Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/23,406 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23166 ft), and several others are seen throughout Nar Phu Valley Trekking. There will be waterfalls and streams too. 

For trekkers, who are looking to tailor-made the Nar Phu Valley Trek itinerary, feel free to contact us. If you have limited time and still wish to trek in the Nar Phu valley, then we can organize the Nar Phu Valley short trek for you. 

Also, check out Manaslu Circuit Trek, Everest Three High Passes Trek, and Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek for similar trips.

What makes Nepal Nirvana Trails unique?

Our unique itineraries, over two decades of expertise, and a very flexible team make any trip with us fantastic. We do all the leg work for our guests, from obtaining permits to reserving hotels/teahouses. It makes the journey hassle-free.

Likewise, our team supports the guests throughout their trip with us. Not only that, but we also make sure our ventures in the Himalayas only leave footprints behind. In short, you will be trekking with an ethical company that advocates for eco-friendly tourism and uplift the mountain community. 

Itinerary

Day to Day Details

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We will meet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival day and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is for you to relax. We will also introduce your trekking guide at some point during the day. We recommend spending some time going through your gear and buying any last-minute supplies. Later in the evening, please join us for a welcome dinner organized by our company.

  • Standard Hotel
  • Welcome Dinner
  • 1,400m.|4,592ft.

Nar-Phu treks required a special permit. It should be the day when there is no public holiday preparation necessary permits. We need an original passport and 2passport size photos for the Nar-Phu Trek permit.
If you are interested in a guided day tour, we can arrange historical sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

  • Standard Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1,400m.|4,592ft.

We begin our journey from Kathmandu to Dharapani, driving through the scenic Nepal countryside with beautiful hills in the backdrop and occasional waterfalls and forests in the vicinity. Once you arrive at Dharapani, you can explore the village while we check you into a rustic lodge where we will be spending the night.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Luch and Dinner
  • 1920m.|6300ft.

Today, the trek is unique. Although it is on a relatively well-paved mule track, the scenery we will encounter is very different. With an altitude over 2500 m, we will be leaving the hustle and bustle of the villages below us and climbing above the tree line. We will have unparallel views of the Manaslu range with a clear sky. We will take a short tea break in Lata Manang and continue to Koto.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2600m.|8530ft.

We will begin the day by checking in at the government checkpoint and continuing our trek towards our first stop at Dharmasala. The path winds through forests and suspension bridges gradually, ascending to Meta. The scenery changes to that of the Tibetan plateau, and so does the language and culture of the locals. Spend the evening gazing as the sun sets on the distant peaks of the Annapurna range.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3560m.|11680ft.


Today we walk deep into the ancient Tibetan heartland. These areas were forbidden to enter until recently. As we trek along the riverbank alongside a few mani shortens, you will be in awe of the serenity of the place. We ascend gradually into Phu valley, where you will encounter beautiful cliffs and rock formations. We will arrive at Phu village nestled in the rockface surrounded by a lush green valley within a couple of hours. Those who feel for another short climb can visit the ancient Buddhist monastery atop the hill or take in the inspiring scenery around.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4250m.|13944ft.

We will work our way down from Phu to Khyang after breakfast and continue our journey to Nar. We will pass through some stunning gorges and waterfalls along the trail, as well as get a glimpse of the majestic Pisang mountain. The way up to Nar is a challenging section but equally breathtaking.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4150m.|13615ft.

The complete isolated village once, the history of Nar and the surrounding areas go back to the 11th century B.C. We will be spending the day taking in some of the spirits of the land, walking through the valley, and learning about the Nar village culture and way of life.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4150m.|13615ft.

As all high-passes are, Today is going to be the most challenging day of this trek but will also bring some of the best views and bragging rights to climb above 5000 m. We start the day early and start slow and steady. Once we reach the halfway point, we get a spectacular view of Pisang, Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho peaks. We cross the Kang La and descend for a couple of hours to reach Ngawal. We can spot the Himalayan Mountain goats or the elusive snow leopard if we get lucky.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 5322m.| 17,460ft.

We descend from Ngwal, leaving the Tibetan plateau behind, and receiving the greetings by the meadows of the Annapurna Valley. We stop by Braga and its magnificent monastery and soak in the views of snow-clad peaks of the Annapurna range. We have a short ascend towards the end before arriving at Manang. Manang is a relatively big village with facilities so take some time to explore and stock in any personal supplies.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3549m.|11643ft.

As we trek towards our second high-pass, Thorong La, we hike to Tenki first and then attempt the steep ascent to Letdar. The trek is along the high slopes, which brings another great opportunity to encounter the Himalayan blue sheep. Upon arrival at Letdar, take some time to relax as you may feel some symptoms of altitude sickness because of the rapid ascent.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4250m.|13943ft.

We will head out early from Letdar. This section ascends and descends multiple times before touching the banks of the Marsyangdi River. After a quick lunch, we will continue to the summit route to reach Thorong High Camp. As you relax, please keep a close eye on any symptoms of altitude sickness. Turn in early for the next day we will be attempting Thorong La.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4600m.15091ft.

Unlike Kang La, this high-pass is less challenging. We will head out from the High Camp and see the sun rising over the peaks of Gangapurna, Annapurna, Thorong, and Khatung Kang. We will reach the top of the Thorong La Pass (5416m.| 17769ft.), and after a short break, we will walk our way down to Muktinath (3800m.|12467ft.), which will take around 5 hours. Muktinath is a sacred village for Hindus and Buddhists and has an immense spiritual significance. There are multiple temples and shrines, which we highly recommend to explore signification pilgrimage site then we catch local jeep around hour drive we reach beautiful village Jomsom(2715m.|8907ft.).

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 5416m.| 17769ft.

Duration: 25 minutes flight
We will fly from Jomson to Pokhara, which will take around 25 minutes. We will stay overnight at the Pokhara hotel. If you don’t have enough time to stay in Pokhara, then we can arrange an alternative flight on the same day from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

  • Standard Hotel
  • Breakfast and Lunch
  • 850m.|2788ft.

It is a morning 7:30 Am bus journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu, Evening 6: 00 Pm farewell dinner with the Nepal Nirvana management team.

  • Standard Hotel
  • Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
  • 1,400m.|4,592ft.

Our adventurous Nar Phu trek comes to an end. Our airport representative will drop you at the airport and bid you our last goodbye.

  • 1,400m.|4,592ft.

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Route Map

Nar Phu Valley Trek - 16 Days map

What's Included

  • Airport transfer services arrival/departure and local flight schedules
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara Standard hotel, twin sharing basis including breakfasts. 
  • Best available accommodations during the trek 
  • Standard 3 meals breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and a cup of tea or coffee
  • English speaking, government licensed, trekking guide with 15 years of experience and one porter shared between two trekkers
  • Guide and porter salaries, food, equipment, and insurance
  • All applicable Nar-Phu special permits, ACAP, TIMS, and Local permits
  • Flight tickets Jomsom to Pokhara and needed transport tourist bus jeep, car, taxi
  • Sleeping bags and down jackets can be used from the Company (If needed)
  • Nepal Nirvana Trails Duffel Bag, T-shirt, Trekking map, and Water purifications tablets
  • First-aid kit including an oximeter to check your heart rate and oxygen saturation
  • Farewell dinner in a fine restaurant.
  • Official expenses and government taxes and VAT.

What's Excluded

  • International flight tickets
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Travel and health insurance to cover emergency rescues and evacuations.
  • Day tour, Pokhara to Kathmandu flight tickets, Additional snacks, drinks, bottled water, Wi-Fi, etc., during the trek.
  • Meals in Kathmandu (except the farewell dinner)
  • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers 

Upcoming Departures

    
Start DateMondayApril 01, 2024End DateTuesdayApril 16, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateWednesdayApril 03, 2024End DateThursdayApril 18, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateThursdayApril 04, 2024End DateFridayApril 19, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateSaturdayApril 06, 2024End DateSundayApril 21, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateMondayApril 08, 2024End DateTuesdayApril 23, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateWednesdayApril 10, 2024End DateThursdayApril 25, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateThursdayApril 11, 2024End DateFridayApril 26, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateSaturdayApril 13, 2024End DateSundayApril 28, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateMondayApril 15, 2024End DateTuesdayApril 30, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateWednesdayApril 17, 2024End DateThursdayMay 02, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateThursdayApril 18, 2024End DateFridayMay 03, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateSaturdayApril 20, 2024End DateSundayMay 05, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateMondayApril 22, 2024End DateTuesdayMay 07, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateTuesdayApril 23, 2024End DateWednesdayMay 08, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateThursdayApril 25, 2024End DateFridayMay 10, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateSaturdayApril 27, 2024End DateSundayMay 12, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430
Start DateSundayApril 28, 2024End DateMondayMay 13, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1430

Useful Info

Nar Phu Valley Trek difficulty

Nar Phu Valley Trek with Thorong La pass is a difficult trek. Previous trekking experience is needed, along with good physical fitness. The trekker should also be ready mentally to travel in the remote area in the absence of modern comforts.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek route has uncountable ups & downs. You have to walk 6 to 7 hours daily. Some days also need 8 to 9 hours of walking. The terrain is rugged and steep. Likewise, the trek also poses the risk of altitude sickness.

Keep yourself hydrated during the trekking period, and do not smoke or drink alcoholic drinks. Be aware of early symptoms like headache, loss of appetite, breathing issues, etc. The best you can do is walk slowly and do not gain elevation above 500 meters in a day. 

Training for the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Thorong La Pass

Your Nar Phu Valley Trek training should involve increasing walking time and stamina. It's going to be an uphill trek with frequent descents, therefore your core body strength and stamina should be on point. 

For training, do cardiovascular activities like running, swimming, or cycling. Go on short hikes or treks. Add muscle strengthening and cardio to your gym routine. 

What permits do I need for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Nar Phu valley has an open border and great archeological importance, therefore the trekking route falls under the restricted area of Nepal. Because we are also covering the Annapurna Circuit, the permit for our Nar Phu Valley with Thorong La pass trek requires some additional permits too. 

Nar Phu Valley restricted area permit September to November: USD 100 per person for seven days

Nar Phu Valley restricted area permit December to August: USD 75 per person for seven days

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit: NPR 3000 per person

TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card: NPR 2000 per person

*Note:

i) The above-mentioned amount is exclusive of tax.

ii) All the permit costs are covered in our Nar Phu valley trek package cost, so you do not have to pay any extra money.

iii) You have to be in a group of two people to do this trek (not including the trek guide or porter). Trekkers are not allowed to travel solo in the region.

Nar Phu Valley Trek best time

The best time to go on Nar Phu Valley Trekking with Thorong La pass is from March to April in spring and October to November in autumn. This peak trekking month allows trekkers to enjoy impressive mountain views and fantastic walks. The moderate climate and stable weather keep us on our itinerary, and there is almost no flight cancellation. 

Accommodation & Food

Accommodation is the teahouse during the trek. As the region has rarely seen major tourist flow or development, most of the trail is quite remote. The accommodation is simple. The rooms are clean but small with a common or private washroom. We advise you to carry a sleeping bag. You can rent or buy it in Kathmandu. No need to carry it from your home.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek. All the meals are given as per the menu of the teahouses. Do not expect anything western in the Nar Phu valley. Indian, Nepali, and Tibetan cuisine are usually available. There are not many tea shops on the way, so carry enough snacks with you to munch while trekking.

Travel Insurance

Nar Phu Valley Trek 16 days is a remote high-altitude trek. The trekking route has no proper health care facilities, so if any medical emergency arises, we will need travel insurance to immediately transfer you to a nearby hospital. Even though the chances of any event like this are rare, we want you to be careful. 

You can get travel insurance in your home country and provide us with the documents. Include emergency air evacuation (up to 6000 meters) and medical bills in your travel insurance. We also recommend you add a flight cancellation and loss/theft of luggage to the travel insurance.

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