Nar Phu Valley Trek

Nepal Pyramids Trekking & Climbing
Nar Phu Valley Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Challenging
  • Places to Visit Nar Phu Valley
  • Max Altitude 5,320m/17,454ft.
  • Group Size 2-15
  • Starts Dharapani
  • Ends Dharapani
  • Activity Trekking
  • Best Season Spring/Autumn

Nar Phu Valley Trek Highlights

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is a fascinating journey that takes you to the hidden gem in the mighty Himalayas of Nepal. It is situated in the remote corner of the Manang district yet to be explored. This stunning hidden valley is perfect for adventurers who want to skip the commercial trekking destination and want to explore more untouched valleys.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek guides you to the valley that is still very untouched by outside influence and gives anyone a genuine trekking experience. Some compare Nar Phu with Tibet due to its medieval appearance which is very exclusive. Nar Phu Valley Trek is certainly the holy grail for adventurers looking for off-the-beaten-path experience. This 16-day epic trip will definitely reward travelers with wonderful scenery and unique cultural experiences.

As we trek into this remote Nar Phu region, each day brings us new surprises. The valley is very colorful with ancient-old Buddhist monasteries and very traditional Tibetan-style villages.

For trekkers who want to skip the usual crowded trekking routes in Nepal, the Nar Phu Valley Trek promises beautiful scenery, solitude, and serenity with an off-the-beaten-path experience.

1. Fascinating Landscapes:

Towering snow-capped mountains stand tall like silent guardians watching over the valley below. Ancient cliffs embrace racing rivers that have carved out the valley over millennia. From mighty Himlung Himal to the iconic Annapurna II, spectacular peaks surround you from all sides. This certainly creates a beautiful picture that will be imprinted in your memory forever.

2. Cultural Experience:

The Nar Phu Valley is certainly a cultural paradise waiting to be explored. Scattered across the valley are picturesque traditional villages where an ancient Tibetan culture still thrives. At every step, you will find the Tibetan Buddhist influence with Prayer flags, Mani (prayer) Walls, Chortens (small Stupas), and ancient monasteries. It is really fascinating to witness friendly locals in their vibrant traditional dress who will welcome you with warm smiles.

The music of monks chanting ancient Tibetan Mantras and the smell of incense give you a spiritual vibe. The rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage has been very well preserved in the valley for centuries. 

3. Remote and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience:

The best part about the Nar Phu Valley is its remoteness and lack of maddening crowds. This allows you to truly immerse yourself in the raw and untouched beauty of the Himalayas. The trails here are virgin, waiting to be conquered. Lose yourself in the valley’s profound serenity, with only the mountains and sky as your companions. It gives you the real wilderness experience.

Nar Phu Valley is a paradise for nature lovers that offers diverse flora and fauna. Lush forests, alpine meadows, and barren high-altitude landscapes provide a haven for endangered wildlife like the snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, and countless bird species.

4. Challenging Trails:

The Nar Phu Valley offers a thrilling adventure to travelers who want to push their physical limits. Challenging trails with steep ascents across high mountain passes promise to get your adrenaline racing. Be prepared to test your physical and mental endurance.

Truly, the Nar Phu Valley is a magical Himalayan kingdom where one can retreat from the chaos of modern life. Step into this Himalayan paradise and let its raw, wild beauty captivate your soul. Lose yourself willingly amidst its rich cultural traditions preserved from ancient times. Challenge yourself on its demanding trails for an adventure unlike any other. Discover your nirvana in Nepal’s hidden jewel, the wondrous Nar Phu Valley.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Overview

Nar Phu Valley Trek is certainly one of the most picturesque and pristine treks that is second to none in Nepal.  This untouched Valley has essentially been hidden from the outside world for so long. It was opened to the outside world only in 2003. Nar Phu is purely wild which gives anyone the genuine feeling of remoteness and an off-the-beaten-track experience.

It is, however, considered a hidden gem of Nepal. If anyone is looking for a trek that goes beyond the natural beauty and is intending to escape the commercial traditional trekking route and prefers to depart into the wilderness then Nar Phu Valley would surely be an ideal choice. This epic 16-day trek takes you to the magical remote villages of Nar and Phu and the incomparable Annapurna Circuit Trek.

About Nar and Phu Valley:

This ancient valley of Nar and Phu has a very medieval setting that peacefully sits in the North of Annapurna in Manang District. It is still very untouched by the outside world. Nar Phu is the gateway to the famous 7000m peak called Himlung (7126m). The remoteness of the region is still very tranquil and gives anyone the real feeling of being in the wilderness. Nar Phu has a diverse topography which makes it exclusive, unlike many other Himalayan valleys of Nepal.

Trekking into Nar Phu Valley is certainly a beautiful experience that cruises through narrow canyons, amazing woodland, primeval villages, and monasteries with exceptional Himalayan culture, customs, and beliefs. Every day you would witness to comprehend the Tibetan-influenced lifestyle and the authentic rustic everyday life which is very typical.

Besides, this trip delivers travelers one of the most outstanding views of the mountains including Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Tilicho Peak, and Annapurna. The valley of Nar Phu is a restricted area and still very unaffected because it was opened to the outside world only in 2003. The valley is very rich in its natural beauty, different history, myths, and in its unique culture.

Nar Phu is, without a doubt, a hidden gem purely adorned by its natural beauty, remoteness, and its soothing serenity. Besides the mountains and the cultured villages, the highlights of Nar Phu Trekking are the local traditions, their rituals, their dress, and ample sacred monasteries that bear fascinating myths and legends.

Challenging Kang La pass 5320 m / 17,454 feet

The Nar Phu Valley Trek involves the Mighty KANG-LA PASS which sits at an elevation of 5,320 meters / 17,450 feet. The Kang La Pass is an icy gateway that connects to yet another breathtaking heaven, the prominent Annapurna Circuit. Kang La Pass stands formidable but it's very fascinating that rewards adventurers with the most beautiful view. 

This stunning high mountain pass connects two Himalayan jewels - the culturally rich Nar Phu Valley and the grand Annapurna Circuit. These Himalayan hidden gems are two of Nepal's most beloved trekking paradises. Kang La forms the crucial, icy bridge between these regions, promising incredible rewards for those bold enough to conquer it.

The journey to the top of Kang La is certainly challenging. Treacherous slopes blanketed in ice and snow test the limits of climbers. When the icy wind chill pierces your bones and threatens to know you off, your every resolute step feels like a phenomenal triumph. However, with remarkable vistas unfolding at every turn, your exhaustion transforms into mesmerizing wonder. 

The landscape transforms drastically once you've claimed victory upon the windswept summit. In an instant, the clouds part to reveal Himalayan giants surrounding you with divine magnificence. Annapurna II, III, and IV and Gangapurna stand tall, wearing crowns of glittering white. Below, a massive glacial landscape spreads silently through the valley, gleaming radiantly in the afternoon sun.

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu - The Capital City of Nepal (1400 m / 4593 feet)
  • Day 02:Half day city tour / afternoon trek briefing and preparation / welcome dinner
  • Day 03:Drive to Dharapani (1,960 m / 6,430 feet): 8/9 hours
  • Day 04:Trek to Koto 5/6 hours (2600 m / 8530 feet)
  • Day 05:Trek to Meta 6/7 hours (3560 m / 11,679 feet)
  • Day 06:Trek to Kyang 5/6 hours (3820 m / 12,532 feet)
  • Day 07:Trek to Phu Village 4/5 hours (4080 m / 13,385 feet)
  • Day 08:Phu Village: Acclimatization day – side excursion
  • Day 09:Trek to Nar Phedi 6/7 hours
  • Day 10:Trek to Nar Village 3 hours (4110 m / 13484 feet)
  • Day 11:Nar Village: Acclimatization day – side excursion to Nar Peak
  • Day 12:Trek to Ngawal (3,660 m/12,007 feet) via Kang La Pass 9/11 hours (5320 m / 17,454 feet)
  • Day 13:Trek to Chame (2,710 m/8,891 feet) 7 hours
  • Day 14:Trek to Dharapani (1,960 m/6,430 feet) 5 hours
  • Day 15:Drive to Kathmandu
  • Day 16:Departure – Drive to Kathmandu international airport.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Detailed Itinerary

PLEASE NOTE: As per Nepal Government regulations, to access restricted mountain areas like Nar Phu Valley, we require your original passport and passport-sized photos to swiftly secure the Special Trekking Permit. This document must be temporarily submitted to the Nepal Immigration Department. It is a golden ticket to unseen vistas and untouched valleys away from the maddening crowd. So, we will be collecting these documents upon your arrival at the hotel.

                                  The above itinerary is simply a guideline and is subject to alteration as per the circumstances. Your group leader is solely liable to bring about changes in the best interest of the group.

                                  What's Included
                                  • PERMITS: All Essential permits + SPECIAL TREKKING PERMIT (Restricted Area Permit) required to trek in the region.
                                  • PICKUP AND DROPS: Airport pickup and drop facilities on both Domestic and International flights are included.
                                  • ACCOMMODATION: Three-star twin bed sharing hotel Accommodation in KATHMANDU and POKHARA on a Bed / Breakfast basis.
                                  • WELCOME DINNER: Welcome dinner in a typical traditional Nepali restaurant.
                                  • SIGHTSEEING: Half-day guided city sightseeing to two most sacred World Heritage Sites with a paid entrance fee.
                                  • TAXES: All Government and Local tax.
                                  • GROUND TRANSPORTATION: All Ground transportation to and from the preferred destination as per the itinerary – PRIVATE VEHICLE.
                                  • STAFF TRANSPORTATION: All ground transportation for all staff as required.
                                  • DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: One-way domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
                                  • EQUIPMENT: Fundamental trekking gear like a sleeping bag with fleece liners, Primaloft jacket, Rain Poncho, Yak-Track, Trekking Poles, etc.
                                  • LODGING: Local Tea-house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis – A single supplement is provided on request OVER MINIMAL COST, however, depends solely on the availability.
                                  • DRINKING WATER: Properly boiled hot water for drinking is provided every evening and morning – so it’s wise to have bottles equivalent to 3 liters or bottles along with a Rehydration Bag (camel bag).
                                  • GLORIOUS FOOD: All Meals (Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast with hot beverages) during the trek.
                                  • TREK LEADER: An accomplished Trekking Group Leader (Legitimate Guiding License Holder) and assistant guide.
                                  • STAFF INSURANCE & ALLOWANCES: All Ground Staff and their Allowances + their insurance.
                                  • SAFETY CONCERNS: Oxygen cylinders and an all-inclusive comprehensive medical kit on all trips.
                                  • COMPLIMENTARY TAKE AWAY: Take away the Nepal Pyramids duffel bag, T-shirt, Buff (multi-functional head-wear), and trekking Map.

                                   

                                  What's Excluded
                                  • NEPAL VISA: A fee of $50 that is levied on a 30-day Nepali visa.
                                  • INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE: The cost of all international flights.
                                  • PERSONAL EXPENSES: All personal expenses that may include Nepalese SIM card, internet, battery charging, hot shower, laundry, fizzy drinks, Alcohol, etc.
                                  • EMERGENCY: A medical examination of any kind, High Altitude Evacuation over any circumstances, Air Evacuation and Rescues.
                                  • DONATIONS: Donations of any kind.
                                  • STAFF TIPPING: Tipping is entirely a personal matter, however, it’s a trekking culture.
                                  • EXTRA NIGHTS: Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu on early arrival or Late departure.
                                  • SANCTIONS: Permits or the letter of Authorization that is required for special Filming, big Drones, and Filming Cameras.
                                  • INSURANCE: All-inclusive Travel or medical insurance is a must.
                                  • EXTRA PORTER: Over request Extra Porter or Assistant is provided that may include the cost of $25 per day.
                                  • OPTIONAL TOURS: Optional tours and sightseeing or any activities during free time.
                                  Essential Trip Information

                                  Nar Phu Valley Trek Details:

                                  The Nar Phu Valley trek starts from the prominent Annapurna Circuit Trek. From Kathmandu, we drive to Dharapani via Besisahar. Despite a long drive the view and the fun of driving through the narrow highways and the mountain gorges are interestingly unbelievable. From Dharapani we skip the legendary Annapurna Circuit trial and enter into the most stunning hidden valley of Nar and Phu.

                                  Progressively, we complete a small loop, a small circuit in the next 9 days, and meet up with the remarkable Annapurna Circuit Trek. Earnestly, this Small Circuit takes you into the paradise-like valley with so much to see and so much to learn.

                                  Though the walking distance is short the walking hours are governed by your pace and the time you spend adoring the mesmerizing sights. Gradually we explore this practically untouched valley walking into the remote magical surroundings with its enchanting charm. Eventually, we go over the amazing Kang La pass 5320 m / 17,454 feet and once again join the famous Annapurna Circuit Trial. As we get down to Ngawal the view of the Annapurna massif is simply unbelievable.

                                  From Ngawal we take the Annapurna circuit trail and walk the most beautiful Marsyangdi Nadi (river) Valley towards Dharapani. Overnight at Dharapani and next, we drive back to Kathmandu.

                                  When is the Best Time to Trek to Nar Phu Valley:

                                  When most trekking destinations shut down during monsoon in Nepal, there shines a light of hope for Himalayan adventurers - the magnificent Nar Phu Valley. This hidden gem, a Shangri La nestled high up in the Himalayas far from the madding crowds is located in the trans-Himalayan region. Its location shields it as a rain shadow area keeping the monsoon rainclouds largely at bay, opening up thrilling possibilities even during monsoons. So to say Nar Phu is in reality a monsoon trekking destination too.

                                  However, besides monsoon, the best time for a magical trek through this trans-Himalayan wonderland is during the pre-monsoon season of spring or post-monsoon of Autumn. 

                                  SPRING:

                                  Spring season (March till May) is when spring flowers bloom in colors against snow-capped Annapurna. The weather is moderate with a bright blue sky as we pass through the alpine forests and charming villages where smiling locals welcome us into their simple lives.

                                  AUTUMN

                                  Post-monsoon autumn (September till November) brings weather that turns moderate during the day and sharply cold at night, perfect for trekking. At this time of year, foggy hills wear robes of red, yellow, and brown, against bright blue skies. The view of all the soaring peaks of the Himalayas looks incredible, leaving trekkers spellbound.

                                  WINTER IS NO-NO:

                                  In winter beauty of Nar Phu Valley remains hidden behind a thick blanket of snow and the mountain chill. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold cause temperature drop as low as -20 degrees Celsius, making it extremely dangerous to venture out resulting a threat of hypothermia and frostbite. Furthermore, the paths to Nar Phu Valley remain inaccessible to outsiders from December through February. The sleeping valley only wakes up when spring warmth melts away the icy impediments.

                                  Permits Required for Nar Phu Valley Trek:

                                  To trek in the Nar Phu Valley you will need the following permits:

                                  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP): The Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area which means you will need a Restricted Area Permit OR Special Permit. The RAP is obtained from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or in Pokhara. The cost of a Special Permit from September-November is around USD 100 per person for the first week and USD 15 per day per person thereafter. However, from December to August, the Special Permit cost is USD 75 per person for the first week and USD 10 per day per person thereafter, payable in Nepali currency.
                                  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Since we start and end our Nar Phu Valley trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area ACAP permit is necessary. The cost is about USD 25 or equivalent to NPR 3000 and can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board either in Kathmandu or Pokhara. For SAARC country nationals the cost of the permit is NPR 1000 per person
                                  • Trekking Information Management System (TIMS): The implementation of TIMS was discontinued after COVID-19, but the authorities are trying to enforce it beginning in 2024. However, the details have not yet been finalized so the permit requirement is still uncertain. If implemented, the cost of TIMS will be USD 15 or equivalent to NPR 2,000. For SAARC country nationals the cost of the permit is NPR 400 per person.

                                  It's important to note that trekking in the Nar Phu Valley is not allowed on an individual basis. You must be accompanied by a registered trekking agency and have a licensed trekking guide. We will help you obtain the necessary permits and arrange logistics for your trek.

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