Nar Phu Valley Trek

SUMMARY

The Nar Phu Valley is one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved trekking regions, hidden between the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. This journey leads you into a landscape shaped by high cliffs, narrow gorges, and ancient Tibetan villages where daily life continues much as it has for centuries. It’s a trek designed for those who value solitude, culture, and time spent far from the busy trekking corridors.

Walking through the Nar and Phu valleys, you pass stone-built settlements, long mani walls, and sacred monasteries that reflect a deep Himalayan Buddhist heritage. The landscape feels stark and powerful, with wide valleys opening beneath snow-covered peaks. Crossing Kang La Pass (5,306 m) is a defining moment of the trek, revealing expansive views toward the Annapurna region and marking the transition from isolation into broader mountain terrain.

This route becomes even more rewarding as it joins the classic Annapurna trails. From here, the journey continues toward Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal, offering sweeping views across the Annapurna and Mustang regions. Unlike shorter treks such as Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal 13 Days, or the Ghorepani Ghandruk Circuit 10 Days, this experience is longer, more demanding, and deeply immersive. It shares some terrain with the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho trek 17 Days, but approaches the region through far quieter and more remote valleys.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Thorong La Pass is well suited to trekkers who are comfortable with high altitude and long days, and who are looking for more than scenery alone. It’s a journey that balances physical challenge with cultural depth, moving through places where tradition, landscape, and mountain life remain closely connected.

Carefully planned and guided, this trek allows you to focus on the experience itself, steady walking days, meaningful encounters, and the sense of continuity that comes from crossing entire mountain regions on foot. For those seeking a truly authentic Himalayan journey away from the crowds, Nar Phu offers a rare and rewarding path.

Arrival city: Kathmandu

Meals: 18 Breakfasts, 13 Dinners, 13 Lunches

Activity: Hiking

Maximum Altitude: 5,416 m / 17,770 ft

Trek Grade: Hard

Duration: 18 days

Price from: <TBC>*

*per person. Varies per itinerary and time of year

TREK OVERVIEW

- 3 Nights hotel room in Kathmandu (Kathmandu Guest House)
- All airport and hotel transfers
- English speaking professional mountain guide
- All government and local taxes
- A comprehensive medical kit
- All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP, TIMS and Special Permit for Protected Area
- Trekking Map
- Jomsom-Pokhara Flight
- All Ground Transportation
- Excess baggage charges
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary) & Pokhara
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
- Porter (on request)

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Key highlights of the trek

Remote and Untouched Wilderness:
- The Nar Phu Valley remains one of Nepal's most secluded and culturally preserved regions, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
- It provides a chance to explore a hidden Himalayan world, far from the crowded trails.
Ancient Tibetan Culture:
- The valley preserves a unique and ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, with traditional villages, monasteries, and practices largely unchanged for centuries.
- Trekkers can experience authentic cultural immersion, interacting with the local Nar-pa and Phu-pa people.
Spectacular High-Altitude Landscapes:
- The trek features dramatic high-altitude landscapes, including rugged canyons, soaring peaks, and alpine meadows.
- Views of the Annapurna and Damodar Himal ranges are breathtaking.
Medieval Villages:
- The trek passes through medieval villages with stone houses, prayer flags, and chortens, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
- Villages like Nar and Phu are exceptionally well-preserved.
Tashi Lhakhang Monastery:
- Visiting the ancient Tashi Lhakhang Monastery is a significant highlight, providing insight into the region's spiritual heritage.
Kang La Pass:
- Crossing the high-altitude Kang La Pass (over 5,300 meters) is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering panoramic views.
Unique Flora and Fauna:
- The region's isolation has preserved its unique flora and fauna, including potential sightings of rare wildlife.
Limited Tourism:
- Because of the permit requirements and the difficulty of access, this trek sees very limited tourism, providing a very private experience.
Authentic Cultural exchange:
- The chance to interact with the people of Nar and Phu is a very unique and authentic experience.

ITINERARY

This comprehensive itinerary allows for proper acclimatization and ensures a safe and memorable trekking experience in the Everest region.

Please note: this itinerary can be customized according to your preferences and time constraints. The itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions, physical fitness, and the discretion of the trekking guide.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the local time zone before exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, Kathmandu’s bustling tourist hub filled with lively markets, trekking shops, and cultural sites. Enjoy your first taste of Nepal’s unique atmosphere before your adventure begins.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, the iconic Boudhanath Stupa, and the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, each offering a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Later, visit trekking gear shops in Thamel to purchase or rent any last-minute equipment needed for your adventure. Meet your trekking guide for a pre-trek briefing, discussing the itinerary and essential details for the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Koto via Besisahar, passing through lush green landscapes, terraced fields, and traditional villages that showcase Nepal’s rural beauty. As you journey deeper into the Himalayas, enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, cascading rivers, and distant mountain peaks. Arrive in Koto, the gateway to the remote Nar Phu Valley, and settle in for a well-earned rest before your trek begins.
Overnight stay in Koto
Begin your trek from Koto, entering the remote and breathtaking Nar Phu Valley, a hidden gem in the Himalayas. Hike through dense pine forests, cross thrilling suspension bridges over glacial rivers, and take in the stunning Himalayan views as you ascend towards higher altitudes. Arrive in Meta, a charming village adorned with traditional Tibetan-style houses, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Overnight stay in Meta.
Continue your trek along the Phu River, gradually ascending towards the hidden village of Phu Gaon. The journey unfolds through scenic landscapes, dramatic rock formations, and centuries-old monasteries, offering a truly immersive experience in Nepal’s remote Himalayan wilderness. As you arrive in Phu Gaon, embrace the authentic Tibetan culture, where prayer flags flutter in the wind, traditional stone houses dot the landscape, and the towering peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop.
Overnight stay in Phu Gaon.
Spend the day exploring Phu Gaon and immersing yourself in the rich Tibetan culture and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Visit the historic Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, one of the oldest and most revered monasteries in the region, offering insights into Buddhist traditions. Engage with the local community, learning about their unique customs, lifestyle, and deep-rooted spiritual beliefs. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas from the village or take an acclimatization hike to Himlung Himal Base Camp, where you’ll witness awe-inspiring mountain scenery.
Overnight stay in Phu Gaon.
Leave Phu Gaon and follow the scenic trail towards Nar Phedi, trekking through picturesque landscapes, crossing glacial rivers, and immersing yourself in the peaceful solitude of the remote Himalayas. The journey offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, prayer flag-draped pathways, and towering snow-capped peaks. Arrive in Nar Phedi, a small yet serene village nestled below Nar Village, where the tranquil atmosphere and traditional Tibetan influence create a truly immersive experience.
Overnight stay in Nar Phedi
Ascend from Nar Phedi to Nar Village, following a scenic trail that gradually unveils stunning Himalayan vistas and ancient Buddhist influences. Upon arrival, explore Nar Village, a traditional Tibetan settlement known for its centuries-old monasteries, vibrant prayer flags, and rich cultural heritage. Walk through the stone-built houses and interact with the warm-hearted locals, gaining insight into their way of life. Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Himlung Himal and Kangaroo Peak, making this an unforgettable stop on your Himalayan journey.
Overnight stay in Nar Village.
Spend a day in Nar Village for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude while soaking in the rich Tibetan culture and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Explore the narrow stone alleys, interact with the friendly locals, and gain insight into their traditional way of life. Visit the ancient monasteries, where you can witness monks engaged in prayer and daily rituals, offering a spiritual experience in this remote Himalayan haven. Take in panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Himlung Himal and Kangaroo Peak, before preparing for the next leg of your adventure.
Overnight stay in Nar Village.
Begin the challenging trek from Nar Village to Ngawal, crossing the breathtaking Kang La Pass (5,306m), one of the most rewarding high-altitude passes in the Annapurna region. Trek through rocky terrains, steep ascents, and rugged mountain landscapes, gradually making your way to the pass. From the top, soak in panoramic views of the Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and Chulu ranges, a sight that makes the strenuous climb worthwhile. Descend towards Ngawal, a beautiful village perched on a hillside, offering stunning views of Annapurna II and a peaceful atmosphere to rest and recover.
Overnight stay in Ngawal.
Descend from Ngawal towards the beautiful village of Manang, following a scenic trail through alpine forests, charming settlements, and traditional stone-built houses. Along the way, cross suspension bridges over glacial riverswhile soaking in the breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. Arrive in Manang, a picturesque Himalayan village known for its rich Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring the village’s Buddhist heritage, acclimatization spots, and panoramic viewpoints before resting for the next leg of your adventure.
Overnight stay in Manang.
Leave Manang behind as you continue your ascent toward Yak Kharka, trekking through arid, high-altitude landscapes with sparse vegetation and open yak pastures. The trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, with towering peaks surrounding the rugged terrain. Along the way, spot grazing yaks, Himalayan blue sheep, and small Buddhist shrines, adding to the region's cultural and natural charm. Arrive in Yak Kharka, a small but peaceful settlement, where you can rest and prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.
Overnight stay in Yak Kharka.
Begin your trek from Yak Kharka towards Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). The trail ascends gradually through rugged alpine landscapes, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna range surrounding you. Cross a glacial river via a suspension bridge and navigate along rocky terrain, gradually adjusting to the thinning air. As you reach Thorong Phedi, soak in the stunning views of Gangapurna and other snow-capped peaks, while mentally and physically preparing for the challenging Thorong La Pass crossing the next day.
Overnight stay in Thorong Phedi.
Start early in the morning for the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek as you ascend to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of your journey. The steep, high-altitude climb is demanding but offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making every step worth the effort. After celebrating your achievement at the top, begin the long descent towards Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore the revered Muktinath Temple, known for its eternal flame and holy water spouts, while soaking in the peaceful spiritual atmosphere of this Himalayan sanctuary.
Overnight stay in Muktinath.
Descend from the sacred town of Muktinath into the striking landscapes of the Mustang region, following a scenic trail through arid valleys, unique rock formations, and ancient villages. As you make your way to Jomsom, enjoy the breathtaking contrast between the barren desert-like terrain and the snow-capped peaks of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. Upon arrival, explore this picturesque town, known for its lush apple orchards, rich Thakali culture, and warm hospitality. Take time to enjoy the local cuisine, particularly the famous Thakali dal bhat and apple-based products.
Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Begin your day with a scenic morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and take some time to rest and relax in this beautiful lakeside city. Later, explore Pokhara’s top attractions, including the serene Phewa Lake, the mystical Devi’s Fall, and the informative International Mountain Museum, which showcases Nepal’s rich mountaineering history. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunset views over the lake, and Pokhara’s vibrant cafes. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Embark on a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, passing through rolling hills, winding rivers, and charming rural settlements, offering a final glimpse of Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and take some time to relax after the long journey. In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner with your trekking team, celebrating the successful completion of the Nar Phu Trek with traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural experiences.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
After an unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas, it's time to bid farewell to Nepal. Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, carrying with you cherished memories of the Nar Phu Trek, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth of the Nepali people. We hope to welcome you back for another Himalayan adventure in the future!
Safe travels!