Nar Phu Valley Trekking
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Strenuous
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Destination: Mid-Western Nepal
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Activities: Trekking
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Accommodation: Hotels/Lodges
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Meals: Full-board on trek
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Transportation: Private vehicle
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Maximum altitude: Kang La Pass (5240 m)
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Group size: 2 pax min
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Best Season: Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Trekking to Nar Phu Valley is a less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region. The trek is a new trekking route and recently opened and provides an off-the-beaten path trekking experience if compared to other popular treks like the Annapurna Base Camp trek or Everest Base Camp trek.
Essentially, the Nar Phu Valley trek is visiting the two beautiful villages of Nar and Phu located in the high Himalayas near Tibet. That’s why the inhabitants of these villages are influenced by Tibet which will surely give you an insight into their culture and traditions.
Nar phu valley trekking itinerary after a scenic drive to Besisahar from Kathmandu and further drive to a small settlement of Koto. You will begin your trek from Koto to the stunning Nar Phu Valley which is popluar for it’s beautiful landscapes, age-old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and traditional villages. The valley is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and other peaks.
Trek to Nar Phu valley is a less crowded trekking route that requires a special permit to enter and trek in the region. The trekking trails pass through high mountain passes, remote villages, dense forests, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and narrow canyons to remote Nar and Phu villages near Tibet.
Due to its remoteness, the Nar Phu Valley Trek requires a special permit from the government of Nepal, making it a less crowded trekking route. It is best to trek in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear and the views are spectacular.
Nar Phu Valley Trekking is a demanding off-the-beaten-path trek just suited for adventure enthusiasts looking to explore a remote and authentic part of Nepal.
Nar Phu Valley Trekking Highlights
- Explore a secluded region of Nepal that is rarely visited by tourists.
- Stay in ancient villages that haven't changed much throughout the centuries.
- Enjoy stunning views of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Himlung Himal, and Annapurna II
- Observe the Tibetan plateau that extends down to Nepal.
- Witness a culture with Tibetan influences that features colourful and distinctive prayer stones and monasteries.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar (760m) 6-7 hrs Drive
Day 03: Drive from Besishahar to Koto (2625m) 6 hrs Drive
Day 04: Trek from Koto to Meta (3560m) 6-7 hrs Walk
Day 05: Trek from Meta to Kyang (3710m) 4 hrs Walk
Day 06: Trek from Kyang to Phu Gauon (4050m) 4-5 hrs Walk
Day 07: In Phu - Explore Phu Gaoun & Monasteries
Day 08: Trek from Phu to Nar Phedi (3540m) 6 hrs Walk
Day 09: Trek from Nar Phedi to Nar Village (4150m) 2-3 Hours Walk
Day 10: Trek from Nar to Ngawal (3675m) via Kang La Pass (5240 m) 8-9 hrs Walk
Day 11: Trek from Ngawal to Chame (2650m) 7 hrs Walk
Day 12: Drive from Chame to Besishahar (760m) 6-7 Hours Drive
Day 13: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu. 6-7 Hours Drive
Day 14: Final Departure
Upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you need to complete your entry/visa formalities. You will then be received by a representative from Marron Treks and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drinks will be served at the hotel, and then we will have a quick pre-trip meeting. You can then spend the remaining time resting or doing as you please. In the evening, you can stroll around the vicinity of your hotel just to get the feel of this wonderful city.
We will depart Kathmandu after an early breakfast and take a beautiful journey to Besisahar in Lamjung. The journey, which lasts about 6-7 hours, passes through verdant scenery, charming villages, and the breathtaking Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers. We will travel to various famous locations, including Malekhu, Mugling, and Dumre. When we get to Besisahar, you can rest and explore the area before we call it a day
On this third day of our trek in the Nar Phu Valley, we'll start the day with an off-road drive from Besisahar to Koto. Villages like Jagat, Chamje, Dharapani, Bagarchhap, Timang, and Thanchock are among those we pass through on the way there. From Bagarchhap, we will be able to see the famed Annapurna I Peak, as well as Mount Manaslu and Lamjung Himal, as we travel to Timang Village, which is situated at a height of 2460 meters.
When we get to Koto, the Gurung community, we'll check in and have a nap. We may go for a walk through the village in the evening, talk to the residents, and learn more about their way of life.
Today, after breakfast, we finally set out on our Nar Phu Valley Trek. Before entering the restricted area of Nar Phu Valley after leaving Koto, we shall register our information. Our trek takes us along the Soti Khola's banks, traversing rocky terrain, gorgeous pine forests, suspension bridges, and cascading waterfalls. We will begin to notice that the views are getting larger and the forests are becoming sparser until we get to Dharmashala. We'll continue going past some caves and canyons till we arrive at Meta Village, where we can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.
After breakfast, the hike ascends the valley alongside a little, charming river. Today, ascents and descents occur often. We will arrive at a location called Chyaku after crossing a suspension bridge. We will continue to climb while taking in the magnificent vistas of Annapurna after a quick rest at Chyaku till we reach our objective for today, Kyang. From the little town of Kyang, we can see Pisang Peak and Annapurna II in all their splendor.
After breakfast, we depart Kyang and begin the walk to the picturesque village of Phu. There are several climbs uphill and descents downhill on the rocky terrain. We may encounter remarkable blue sheep on our hike down the Phu Kola because this valley is well known for housing these rare and endangered species. From the Phu gate, we will enter Phu Village and stop at the teahouse for a quick break. Awe-inspiring views of many Himalayan mountain ranges, including the Himlung Himal, can be seen from the town. We'll pay a visit to the historic Tashi Lhakhang Monastery and mingle with the welcoming villagers while taking in the expansive views of the mountains around us.
Due to the high altitude, it is advised to spend one acclimatization day in Phu. We'll also explore the town's winding lanes and watch the people go about their everyday lives to make the most of the day. Along with visiting the cave and monasteries there, we will also spend the rest of the day with the people.
NOTE: Another option is to take the approximately 5-hour roundtrip side trip to Himlung Base Camp.
We will take a diversion to the monastery at Nar Phedi before returning to Meta after breakfast. The settlements of Kyang and Upper Chyako will be passed through. Before ascending to Nar Phedi, a little community located beneath Nar Village, we will cross a suspension bridge. We will be able to marvel at the stunning views of Pisang Peak and other nearby summits.
After leaving Nar Phedi, we will take a meandering trail up a hill toward Nar, the biggest settlement in the Nar Phu Valley. We pass through high mountain passes, desolate areas, and yak pastures on the way. As we go closer to the settlement, we will pass a row of exquisitely painted chortens with bamboo roofs. Around noon, we will arrive in the Nar Village, where we will then spend the rest of the day exploring the community and its surroundings. We'll visit the monasteries, talk to the inhabitants, and observe how they live their daily lives.
Today will be a long day, so we'll get an early start and go across the Kang La Pass to the iconic Annapurna Circuit. Our trail travels through picturesque scenery, charming towns, and yak farms. We ascend from Nar via the lateral moraine of Temdenzon Khola on today's walk, which provides stunning views of the west ridge of Pisang Peak. The base of the Kang La Pass, Jhombu Kharka, also known as Kang La Phedi, will be passed by us as we continue our walk.
From the pass, the path is steep but not difficult, and we can take in the beautiful view of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, and Annapurna II. And it will take us around three hours to go to Ngawal, where we will spend the night. Beautiful views of the Manang Valley and the Annapurna mountain may be had from the settlement.
We will begin our walk to reach Chame after breakfast. Along the bank of the Marsyangdi River, the path gradually descends to Gyaru and Pisang Village. The trek offers stunning views of the Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna II and III. We will arrive in Chame, the administrative hub for the Manang District, after a 6-7 hour journey, where we will spend the night.
Today, because the Nar Phu Valley Trek is coming to a conclusion, we will go by car from Chame to Besisahar. Before arriving in Besishar, our winding road will pass past the villages of Koto, Thanchok, and Timang.
The time has come to return to Kathmandu. After breakfast, we will depart from Besisahar and take a pleasant trip to Kathmandu. When you get to Kathmandu, check into your hotel and have a nap. Before calling it a day, you may take a stroll through Thamel in the evening and buy trinkets.
The trip concludes, and our office representatives will take you to the international airport in Kathmandu to catch your onward flight to your next destination or fly back home. You need to be at least 3 hours before your flight time at the airport.
Thank you for visiting Nepal, and we hope your Himalayan holiday has come true. Have a safe flight back home!
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop-off services
- Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Kathmandu/Besishar/Kathmandu transfer by scheduled local bus
- Besishahar to Koto Transfer by Local Scheduled Sharing Jeep
- All trekking accommodation with Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner at local lodges on twin sharing.
- Four seasonal sleeping bags (to be returned after trip completion) & Marron Treks duffel bags.
- A comprehensive medical kit will be carried by the trekking guide.
- Experienced Government licensed English Speaking Guide & Porter (1 porter for two people) including their food, accommodation, salary & insurance.
- Permits for Annapurna Conservation Area, TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System), & Special Nar Phu Permit (RAP)
- Farewell dinner with a live Nepalese cultural program.
- All government and local taxes
What is not included?
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee: A visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (USD30 for 15 days)
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Personal travel insurance
- Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance)
- Excess baggage charges (luggage allowance for domestic airlines in Nepal is 15 kg).
- Other expenses of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower etc.)
- Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or a change in the itinerary due to bad weather, political turmoil, or any other unforeseen contingencies.
- Bar bills, alcoholic drinks, & beverages
- Tips for Guide & porters
Route Map
Trip Info
Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 4- or 5-star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (4-star), Hotel Manaslu (4-star), Radisson (5-star), Yak & Yeti (5-star), or similar. During the trek, you will be accommodated in a local mountain lodge, better known as Tea House. These lodges and teahouses provide good services and are equipped with basic amenities. We will endeavor to provide you with the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.
Meals
We never compromise the quality of food or the health of the trekkers as well as the crew members. Generally, we opt for the fresh and nutritional local community food available. You could make your delicious pick from an array of traditional foods like Sweet potatoes, buckwheat barley, etc. This way, you could not only get a real sense of the local culture and life patterns but also contribute to promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Besides, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads, Masala curry, etc. are also available in the restaurants for your retreat.
Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is a serious risk while trekking in the Himalayas. It's important to acclimatize properly by spending a few days at lower altitudes before heading higher. By spending time at lower altitudes before pushing higher, your body has time to adjust. Our trekking packages have enough acclimatization days planned where you'll be spending a day or two at lower altitudes, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Electricity & drinking water
For an additional cost, you can use the electricity in all tea houses and lodges to recharge your batteries. The lodges have packaged mineral water for sale, or you can fill your bottle with boiling water. To make water drinkable, you can use water purification tablets too. But, due to hygienic issues, you should avoid drinking water from taps, rivers, or wells in trekking areas.
Communication
At lodges, restaurants, and hotels, Wi-Fi is available for an additional fee in the most popular trek regions, like Everest, and Annapurna. However, at high elevations, phone calls are the only means of connection. Our office in Kathmandu is in constant communication with your trek guide. In Kathmandu, you can purchase a local sim card for communication purposes. At high elevations, the mobile signal might not be as strong, though.
Luggage
Our porters are paired with one trekker for every two hikers, and one porter can safely carry 30 kg maximum weight. Therefore, we advise you to fill your duffle bag not more than 15 kg with your belongings. You may carry a small backpack with your valuables and informational documents. The things you are not taking along on the trek can be stored in a hotel in Kathmandu free of cost.
Typical Trek Day
Mostly your trek day starts with breakfast at 7-8 am, followed by a 3-4 hour morning trek. Lunch break is around an hour, then you continue trekking to your destination for the day. After reaching the teahouse lodge, you can relax, explore nearby areas, and enjoy dinner at 6-7 pm. Evenings involve socializing, a trek briefing, and leisure activities before bed.
Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both- medical and evacuation costs. Having travel insurance with you makes your trip secure and hassle-free.
Our Guides
Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you can actually connect with nature, culture and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides who are very well-versed in the culture, life patterns and every single detail pertaining to the trek region you are traveling in. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining but also equally informative.
Porter and Staff Care
When it comes to high-altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitudes are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. All our field staff are covered by insurance.
