Strenuous

Nar Phu Valley with Tilicho Lake

Hidden Valley Meets the World's Highest Lake

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

Overview

This extraordinary trek combines the restricted Nar Phu Valley with a visit to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919m. After exploring the ancient villages of Nar and Phu, cross the Kang La Pass and take a side trip to the stunning Tilicho Lake, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.

Trek Highlights

  • Visit Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the world's highest lakes
  • Explore the hidden Nar and Phu villages
  • Cross the spectacular Kang La Pass (5,320m)
  • See dramatic views of the Annapurna and Tilicho Peak
  • Experience remote Tibetan Buddhist culture
  • Trek through varied landscapes and ecosystems
  • Visit Manang and the beautiful Marsyangdi Valley
  • Optional visit to Tilicho Base Camp monastery

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Airport welcome and hotel transfer. Trek briefing.

2

Drive to Jagat

Drive through scenic valleys to Jagat.

7-8 hours

3

Trek to Dharapani

Begin trekking along the Marsyangdi River.

5-6 hours

4

Trek to Koto

Continue to Koto at the entrance of Nar Phu.

4-5 hours

5

Trek to Meta

Enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley.

6-7 hours

6

Trek to Phu Village

Arrive at the ancient village of Phu.

5-6 hours

7

Explore Phu Village

Acclimatization and exploration day.

8

Trek to Nar Village

Cross to the amphitheater village of Nar.

6-7 hours

9

Explore Nar Village

Rest and explore Nar's unique culture.

10

Trek to Kang La Base Camp

Ascend toward the pass.

5-6 hours

11

Cross Kang La to Ngawal

Cross the 5,320m pass with incredible views.

8-9 hours

12

Trek to Manang

Descend to Manang.

3-4 hours

13

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Side trip toward Tilicho Lake.

5-6 hours

14

Tilicho Lake and back to Base Camp

Early morning hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m). Return to base camp.

7-8 hours

15

Trek back to Manang

Return to Manang.

4-5 hours

16

Drive to Besisahar

Jeep drive down the valley.

7-8 hours

17

Drive to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner.

6-7 hours

18

Departure

Airport transfer for departure.

Altitude Profile

4,850m2,805m760m
Day 1Day 9Day 18
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 licensed 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
  • First aid medical kit and oximeter
  • Sleeping bag rental (if needed)
  • Welcome and farewell dinners
  • 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.