Nar Phu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley trek is one of the most exciting trekking holidays in Nepal, as it enters a land that was closed to visitors until 2003. Truly an off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines remote villages, narrow canyons, amazing rock formations, and untouched Himalayan cultures. It’s a challenging but immensely rewarding route that’s ideal for experienced trekkers who want to avoid the busy trails elsewhere in the country and head into the real wilderness.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Highlights.

• Trek to Nar and Phu, a remote region that was off-limits until 2003 for the trekkers.
• Explore the secluded Phu Village and its surrounding area, a charming Buddhist village renowned for its purity and charm.
• Hike to the Mount Himlung Himal Base Camp for a close view of breathtaking Himalayan vistas, including Mount Himlung at 7,126 meters, Nemjung Himal at 7,140 meters, and Cheo Himal at 6,812 meters.
• Reach new heights at Kang La Pass, 5320 meters, which connects Nar Phu Valley and Manang Valley.
• Enjoy a breathtaking Himalayan vista, including Annapurna and Manaslu Massif from the Kang La Pass.

The Nar Phu Trek is a genuine adventure off the beaten path in Nepal.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, meaning the landscape is much drier and more barren than at lower elevations to the south, and much more similar to Tibet. It is rarely visited, meaning the villages are simple and the landscape rugged. Traveling here is a perfect way to see how Nepal once was, before the development of roads and modern conveniences. The trails are rugged and, at times, are cut high into the sides of the cliff. There are also high passes to cross. The trek in general is quite challenging and best suited to experienced trekkers who are confident in the mountains.

Explore the hidden valley of Nar and Phu village.

The journey starts from Koto via Besisahar, and Dharapani drives the initial part of the old Annapurna Circuit route, as it was before the road was built. The trek itself begins from Koto at 2600 meters.

The trekking trail leaves the secondary road as you head up the Nar Khola (river) Valley, which was previously off-limits to trekkers. This valley is sparsely populated, with the villages far less developed, and the valley gets narrower as you get deeper in. The trail passes through pine forests, and many beautiful waterfalls and towering rock faces as it continues to climb, all the way up to the village of Phu (4080m). Spend an acclimatization day here, where there are stunning views of the valley.

Continue on to Nar, the other main village in this area, which is a bit more lively than Phu. Push on to cross the Khang La (5320m). Crossing the pass will be a challenge at this altitude and requires one of the longest walking days on the trek. After crossing the pass, descend to Ngawal, significantly lower at 3670m. Connecting the Popular Annapurna Circuit trail at Pisang toward Chame via Gyaru, and from Chame, we will drive back to Kathmandu.

The Nar Phu Trek Route.

The journey to the Nar Phu begins from Kathmandu, with a scenic drive to Koto village at an elevation of 2600 meters. This drive takes about 9 to 10 hours by private jeep to Koto village. We will stop overnight here at Koto, and the next day, our Nar Phu Trek will begin from here.

The Nar Phu Trek Route: Kathmandu →Dumre →Besisahar → Dharapani → Koto →Chhongche Cave →Dharmasala → Meta →Nar Phedi → Chyakhu →Kyang → Phu village → Himlung Himal Base Camp →Nar Village → Nar Phedi → Kang la Phedi →Kang La Pass → Ngawal →Ghyaru → Pisang → Chame → Bedisahar → Kathmandu.

Nar Phu Trek Distance.

The Nar Phu Trek covers a distance of approximately 100 to 120 kilometers, beginning in Koto village and ending in Chame. During the trek to Nar Phu, we will visit the stunning and culturally rich Buddhist villages of Phu and Nar. Along the way, we will explore traditional Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, and stupas that are characteristic of the Nar Phu trekking route.

Nar Phu Trek daily walking distance breakdown details;

• Kathmandu to Koto by drive about 230 kilometers / 140 miles, about 9-10 hours.
• Trek distance from Koto 2600 meters to Meta 3560 meters, about 14 -16 kilometers, takes about 6-8 hours.
• Trek from Meta 3560 meters to Kyang 3887 meters, about 7 -9 kilometers, takes about 3 -5 hours.
• Trek from Kyang, 3887 meters, to Phu village, 4080 meters, about 8-10 kilometers, takes about 3-5 hours.
• Side trip from Phu Village to Himlung Himal Base Camp, located at 4,920 meters, is approximately 9 to 10 kilometers long and takes about 4 to 5 hours.
• Himlung Base Camp to Phu Village, about 9-10 kilometers, takes about 3 -4 hours.
• Phu Village to Nar Phedi, about 16-18 kilometers, takes about 5-7 hours.
• Nar Phedi to Nar village, about 5 -7 kilometers, takes about 3 -4 hours.
• Nar village to Ngawal over Kang La Pass, about 16-18 kilometers, takes about 7-10 hours.
• Ngawal to Chame, about 16-20 kilometers, takes about 6-8 hours.
• Chame to Kathmandu, about 230 kilometers, takes about 9-10 hours drive.

The Nar Phu Trek Itinerary,

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu Airport, meet at the airport, and transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley (Unesco world heritage site), Nar Phu Restricted area permits Issuing (Preparation Day)
Day 03: Drive to Koto (2,600 meters) via Besisahar and Dharapani. Stay overnight at a tea house in Koto.
Day 04: Trek to Meta (Methang) (3560 meters).
Day 05: Trek to Kyang (3887 meters).
Day 06: Trek to Phu village (4050 meters).
Day 07: Side trip to Himlung Himal Base Camp and back to Phu, stay overnight at Phu village.
Day 08: Explore Phu monastery, Mani wall, and trek back to Kyang / Nar Phedi, stay overnight at a tea house.
Day 09: Trek to Nar village (4150 meters).
Day 10: Cross Khang La (5320 meters) and trek to Ngawal (3670 meters).
Day 11: Trek to Chame 2670.
Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu via Besisahar, stay overnight at Hotel KTM.
Day 13: Free day in Kathmandu.
Day 14: Departure.

What makes the Nar Phu trek so special?

(a) A Traditional Local Village Phu.

Phu village is situated at an elevation of 4,080 meters (13,386 feet) above sea level in the remote Manang district of the Annapurna region in Nepal. This high-altitude village consists of approximately 38 to 40 individual households and is known for its Buddhist culture, often described as a medieval walled settlement.

(b) Visiting an old Buddhist Monastery, Tashi Lhakhang Gompa.
Tashi Lhakhang Gompa is a 700-year-old traditional Buddhist monastery located at the top of Phu village. It was built by the 10th Karmapa and serves as an important spiritual site in the Nar Phu Valley. The monastery is particularly known for its beautiful mani wall and prayer flags, which are significant attractions for visitors.

(c) Side trip to Himlung Himal Base Camp.
The Himlung Himal, standing at 7,126 meters, is one of the most popular mountains in the Manang district, near the Tibetan border. Recently, it has gained significant popularity for climbing. Many climbers use Himlung Himal as preparation before attempting the 8,000-meter peaks, as it serves as a valuable training ground for tackling higher elevations.

Visiting Himlung Himal Base Camp allows trekkers to experience stunning Himalayan peaks, including Mount Himlung Himal at 7,126 meters, Nemjung Himal at 7,140 meters, and Cheo Himal at 6,812 meters.

(d) Kang La Pass (5320 meters)
The Kang La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,320 meters, lies between the Nar Valley and Manang Valley. It is the highest point trekkers reach while trekking to Nar Phu. From the top of the Kang La Pass, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the Annapurna Massif and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

FAQ - Practical Information for the Nar Phu Trek.

The Tea House / Lodge Availability along the Nar Phu Trek.

The Nar Phu trek is a truly off-the-beaten-path destination. Accommodations along the route, including hotels and tea houses, are quite basic. However, local homestays and tea houses with minimal facilities are available. We ensure you have access to the best available tea houses, featuring clean and comfortable beds, along with shared toilets and bathrooms. En route to the Nar Phu Trekking Route, comfort is available only in Koto, Ngawal, and Chame.

Food Availability Along the Nar Phu Trek.

During your stay in Kathmandu (KTM), our package includes hotel accommodation and a buffet breakfast at the hotel both before and after the trek. For lunch and dinner, you are free to explore the many excellent dining options available throughout the KTM valley. On the Nar Phu Trek, the package includes 10 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 9 dinners, along with hot drinks such as tea and coffee.

The following food items are available along the trekking route to Nar Phu Valley in Nepal.

Breakfast Options While on the Trek:

Oats, Porridge, Pancakes, Bread, Eggs (boiled, scrambled, omelettes), Muesli, Hot drinks (tea, coffee), Tibetan bread, Cornflakes with hot milk.

Lunch Options:
Dal Bhat (traditional rice and lentil dish), Fried noodles (veg or egg), Chowmein, Tenthuk (Tibetan noodle soup), Thukpa (noodle soup), Pasta (mixed macaroni, cheese-fried), Momos (dumplings, Vegetable, or cheese), Fried potatoes, Boiled potatoes.

Dinner Options:
Dal Bhat, Fried rice, Chow mein, Thukpa, Pasta (various styles), Momos, Soup (mixed, vegetable, garlic), Fried potatoes, Boiled potatoes.

I am a vegetarian. Is it possible to have vegetarian food during my trek to Nar Phu?
Many of our clients frequently ask about the availability of vegetarian food while trekking in Nepal. We want to assure you that it is indeed possible to enjoy vegetarian meals during your trek. Along the trekking route, our clients will receive a free menu, and you will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of vegetarian options available on the menu.

How can I effectively manage the drinking water during my trek to the Nar Phu, Nepal?
Most trekking routes in Nepal offer the option to purchase mineral water. You can also buy boiling water at tea houses or lodges along the way. Additionally, we provide a water treatment tablet for every group to ensure safe drinking water. We suggest bringing your own water bottle to fill and carry with you along the trek.

What is the highest point we will reach on the trek to Nar Phu in Nepal?
While trekking to Nar Phu, we will cross the Kang La Pass, which has an elevation of 5,320 meters. This pass is situated between the Nar and Manang valleys and is the highest point we will reach during our trek to Nar and Phu in Nepal.

On our acclimatization day, we will hike to Himlung Himal Base Camp from Phu Village. This base camp is situated at an elevation of 4,920 meters and will be the second-highest point we reach during our trek to Nar and Phu in Nepal.

How difficult is the Nar Phu Trek?
The straightforward answer is that the difficulty level of the Nar Phu trek is Moderate Grade. To complete the trek to Nar Phu, trekkers must have excellent physical fitness and be able to walk each day for 4 -9 hours.

The Nar Phu Trek is a remote, off-the-beaten-path high-altitude trek that involves crossing the Kang La Pass at an elevation of 5,320 meters. This trek requires long days of walking through a deep valley and navigating Himalayan terrain, which includes both uphill climbs and downhill descents on rocky and moraine trails.

When is the best time to trek to Nar Phu in Nepal?
When trekking in the Himalayas or in a remote corner of the country, choosing the best time for our journey enhances enjoyment and creates lasting memories, offering clear views of the landscapes and, of course, the breathtaking Himalayas of Nepal.

(a) Autumn season Nar Phu Trek.
September to mid-December is the best time to trek in Nar Phu, similar to other popular treks in Nepal.

(b) Winter season Nar Phu Trek.
Mid-December to early March is not an ideal time to trek in the Nar Phu Valley. Because of the high Himalayan region of Nepal, from mid-December to early March, heavy snowfall and the trekking trail is completely blocked by the snow.

(c) Spring season Nar Phu Trek.
One of the best times to trek in Nar Phu is during the spring season, which lasts from mid-March to May. The weather in spring is considerably warmer than in autumn. Additionally, the blooming of Nepal's national flower, the Lali Guras (Rhododendron), enhances the beauty of the lower sections of the trekking route.

(d) Summer season Nar Phu Trek.
There are not many trekking routes suitable for the summer season due to the rain. However, the Nar Phu trek can be undertaken during this time. Some trekking destinations, such as the Nar Phu Trek, Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, and the Annapurna Circuit, are located in the rain shadow area, making them viable options for summer trekking.

During the summer, if you are looking for a rain shadow trekking location in Nepal, then the Nar Phu Trek, Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, and Annapurna Circuit Trek are excellent options.

Is Nar Phu Trek beginner-friendly?
The Nar Phu trek involves a long day of walking uphill, downhill, through a deep valley, and along a narrow trail. The highest point of the trek is Kang La Pass, which stands at 5,320 meters, connecting the Nar Phu Valley to the Manang Valley.

A complete beginner may find it challenging to complete the Nar Phu Trek. Instead, we recommend some beginner-friendly treks in Nepal, such as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, and Pikey Peak Trek. These options are more suitable for those who are new to trekking.

Is it possible to Solo trek to Nar Phu?
You can trek solo in Nar Phu, but you must go through an authorized trekking company. The Nar Phu trekking route is in a restricted area, which requires a Restricted Area Entry Permit. The Nepalese government authorized trekking companies (Visit Himalaya Treks) to arrange these permits for you, and trekking is only allowed with a guide.

Trekking in Nar Phu, Nepal, is possible solo with a guide and, if needed, a porter through authorized trekking companies.

What permits are required for the Nar Phu Trek, and how can they be obtained?
The Nar Phu trekking destination is situated in a restricted area of Nepal. The trekking route to Nar Phu opened to trekkers in 2003. To trek in the Nar and Phu Valley, you must obtain restricted area entry permits. Additionally, an Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit is also required. At Visit Himalaya Treks, we will handle all the necessary permits before you begin your Nar Phu Trek.

What standard of transportation will you provide for the Nar Phu Trek?
Our journey from Kathmandu to Koto, the starting point of the Nar Phu Trek, covers approximately 230 kilometers. To navigate this challenging terrain, we will travel in a comfortable private 4-wheel drive jeep.

The road conditions can be difficult due to the region's geographical landscape, so it is essential to have suitable 4-wheel transport to ensure a smooth and safe journey. For this reason, we at Visit Himalaya Treks provide reliable 4-wheel transport, ensuring a secure and comfortable experience as we travel from the trek's starting point to Koto and the endpoint in Chame back to Kathmandu.

Is Guide and Porter mandatory for Nar Phu Trek?
Trekking in Nepal's restricted areas requires an entry permit and a guide. The Nar Phu region is one such restricted area where these permits and guides are mandatory.

Trekking in the high Himalayan region can be challenging, especially with a heavy backpack. Having a porter to carry your trekking bag can make your experience much more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the trek. Our Nar Phu trek package includes everything you need for a successful journey: mandatory permits, a guide, a porter, and transport.

Packing list for the Nar Phu Trek.
The Nar Phu Trek takes us to the cold and remote village of Phu, the Himlung Himal Base Camp at 4,920 meters, Nar village, and the Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters. It is important to prepare by packing well-equipped gear to handle the cold temperatures and high altitudes. For a complete list of essential gear needed for the Nar Phu Trek in Nepal, please visit the following link: Nar Phu Trek Packing List.

How much additional money will you need for the Nar Phu Trek?
Our 14-day Nar Phu Trek Package is comprehensive. We provide 3-star hotel accommodation before and after the trek with breakfast in Kathmandu. It includes tea house accommodations and all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, as well as tea and coffee). However, you will need to budget for additional expenses such as drinking water, showers, WIFI, and extra snacks. We recommend setting aside approximately USD 15-20 per day, totaling USD 150-200 per person for these extra costs.

Tipping Culture in Nepal: Guidelines for Tipping Your Guide and Porter.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is an appreciated gesture to thank your guides and porters. The amount you choose to tip should reflect your satisfaction, your budget, and your personal connection with your guide and Porter. We recommend budgeting 10% to 15% your total trip cost for tips, which can be distributed to your guide and Porter.

Availability of Electricity, Phone, Internet, Wi-Fi on the Nar Phu Trek.
The Nar Phu trek is one of the most remote trekking destinations in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Availability of electricity, phone service, internet, and Wi-Fi along the route is very limited or non-existent. Local landline phones can be found in the villages of Phu and Nar, which you can use to connect with family, friends, and loved ones. It is recommended to carry a personal power bank to keep your electronic devices charged, especially your camera.

Where should I store the extra goods that I won't need during my treks?
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is where you will stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel. We will accommodate our clients here before you begin your trek to the Nar Phu. At the hotel, you can store any items you won't need during the trek at no extra cost, as all hotels provide free storage facilities.

Additionally, you can leave your belongings with us at our office, and after your trek, you can easily collect them when you return.

Last-minute bookings with guaranteed departures.
The Nar Phu Trek is a pure off-the-beaten-track located in the Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal. We offer both solo and group treks based on your preference, even on very short notice. Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee a 100% departure for your trip to Nar Phu, regardless of whether you choose a solo or group option.

Are you still unsatisfied? Contact us to plan your Nar Phu Trek itinerary.
We have created a 14-day itinerary for the Nar Phu Trek, spanning from your arrival in Kathmandu to your departure, which concludes your journey to Nar Phu starting from Koto and ending at Chame. If this itinerary does not suit your needs, we can customize it to better fit your preferences.

Additional days for side trips can easily be added. Please GET IN TOUCH with us to discuss your options.