Challenging

Nar Phu Valley Trek

The Classic Hidden Valley Experience

Duration
14 Days
Max Altitude
5,320m (Kang La Pass)
Difficulty
Challenging
Group Size
2-12 people
Start/End
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Best Season
March-May, September-November

Overview

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of Nepal's best-kept secrets, taking you through the restricted valleys of Nar and Phu in the Annapurna region. This trek offers a unique blend of dramatic Himalayan landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and remote villages untouched by modern tourism. Cross the challenging Kang La Pass at 5,320m for breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

Trek Highlights

  • Cross the spectacular Kang La Pass (5,320m) with panoramic Himalayan views
  • Visit the ancient Tibetan village of Phu with its clifftop monastery
  • Explore Nar village, a hidden settlement surrounded by dramatic rock formations
  • Trek through restricted areas rarely visited by tourists
  • Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions
  • Witness stunning views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and Chulu ranges
  • Walk through diverse landscapes from lush forests to arid high-altitude terrain
  • Stay in traditional teahouses and experience genuine Himalayan hospitality

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel in Thamel. Trek briefing and gear check. Welcome dinner with the team.

2

Drive to Jagat

Early morning drive along the Prithvi Highway to Besisahar, then continue to Jagat. Pass through scenic river valleys and terraced hillsides.

7-8 hours drive

3

Trek to Dharapani

Begin trekking along the Marsyangdi River valley. Pass through beautiful villages and suspension bridges. Enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.

5-6 hours

4

Trek to Koto

Continue through the valley with views of Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. The trail passes through mixed forests and small settlements.

4-5 hours

5

Trek to Meta

Leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail and enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as you enter the valley.

6-7 hours

6

Trek to Phu Village

Trek deeper into the valley through narrow gorges and ancient trails. Arrive at the remarkable village of Phu, perched dramatically on a clifftop.

5-6 hours

7

Explore Phu Village

Rest and acclimatization day. Visit the ancient Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, explore the village, interact with the friendly Phu villagers, and enjoy views of Himlung Himal.

8

Trek to Nar Village

Trek from Phu to Nar through a beautiful high-altitude valley. Pass yak pastures and Buddhist chortens. Nar village sits in a spectacular amphitheater of rock.

6-7 hours

9

Explore Nar Village & Acclimatize

Explore the fascinating village of Nar with its flat-roofed stone houses. Visit the monastery and enjoy panoramic views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II.

10

Trek to Kang La Base Camp

Trek towards Kang La Pass base camp through gradually ascending terrain. Set up camp with spectacular mountain views all around.

5-6 hours

11

Cross Kang La Pass to Ngawal

Early start to cross the Kang La Pass (5,320m), the highest point of the trek. Descend to Ngawal on the Annapurna Circuit side. Breathtaking views throughout.

8-9 hours

12

Trek to Manang

A shorter day trekking to the bustling town of Manang. Enjoy the contrast between the remote Nar Phu Valley and the more developed Annapurna Circuit.

3-4 hours

13

Drive to Kathmandu

Drive from Manang through Chame and Besisahar back to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner to celebrate the successful trek.

10-11 hours

14

Departure

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Or extend your stay for sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.

Altitude Profile

4,850m3,075m1,300m
Day 1Day 7Day 14
Altitude AMS risk zone (3,500m+)

Best Trekking Season

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best Great Good Not Ideal Closed

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (BB basis)
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Experienced English-speaking trek guide
  • Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Restricted Area Permit for Nar Phu Valley
  • TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
  • First aid medical kit and oximeter
  • Sleeping bag rental (if needed)
  • Welcome and farewell dinner
  • All government taxes and service charges

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fee ($30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory — must cover high altitude & helicopter rescue)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Personal expenses (laundry, WiFi, hot showers, device charging)
  • Beverages during trek (bottled water, soft drinks, alcohol)
  • Tips for guide and porter (guide: $5-10/day, porter: $3-5/day recommended)
  • Extra meals in Kathmandu (lunch & dinner)
  • Emergency helicopter evacuation

Trip Cost Calculator

1612

Group Pricing

1 person: $1550
2-3 people: $1350
4-5 people: $1250
6-12 people: $1150
Per person$1,350
Total (2 people)$2,700
A project ofAdventure Great HimalayaAdventure Great Himalaya

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area requiring a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) costing approximately $90/week, plus the standard Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at $30 and TIMS card at $20. These must be arranged through a registered trekking agency - we handle all permits for you.