Nar Phu Valley & Annapurna Circuit TrekkingNar Phu Valley & Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trekking - 19 Days

Highlights
  • Explore the allure of untouched villages of Nar and Phu
  • Discover the Tibetan influence over the Nar Phu valley by witnessing the lifestyle of Khampas (Tibetan refugees)
  • Cross various unformidable high mountain passes like Kang La Pass and Thorung La Pass
  • Picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Koto
  • Visit Tashi Lakhang Monastery- the last monastery built in the Nar Phu Valley
  • Enjoy the breathtaking view of mountains throughout the journey

‘An adventure covering the whole of Manang areas beyond Annapurna Himalayas’

Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Nar Phu Valley trek takes you to one of the most untouched and restricted parts of Nepal, situated beyond the north of Annapurna massif, with the Chulu range flaunting its presence on the backsides and Mt. Himlung(7,126 m/23,380 ft) nestling by perching over the Nar and Phu area. Likewise, Annapurna Circuit Trekking is one of the mainstream trekking routes that encircles the Annapurna massifs, highlighting Thorung La Pass, Muktinath, and Manang. So, the excellent blend of Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek allows trekkers to experience the best of the two exciting worlds.

A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Koto is totally a great start for the trek. This Annapurna circuit trail to Meta before crossing the Marshyangdi River gives you views of magnificent peaks looming before your eyes. As you enter the Nar Phu Valley, you will enter more open spaces with untouched Tibetan villages. Exploring the Nar and Phu villages, you will head towards the Kang La Pass, where you can have an up-close view of Annapurna II (7937m), Gangapurna (7455m) & Tilicho Peak (7134m).

Leaving behind the Nar Phu Valley, you will join the classic Annapurna circuit trek from Manang. Accomplishing one of the highest passes, Thorung La Pass, you will descend toward the sacred Muktinath. Exploring the Kali Gandaki Valley, you will then head towards Jomson to get back to Kathmandu with a scenic flight over Western Nepal.

Once closed, Nar Phu Valley, for outside trekkers and adventurous alike, has been opened again for widening the horizon of exploration over the past two decades. Being in a secluded area with seldom visitors, this valley has been able to preserve its raw and unique form with its roots. Thus, this 19-day Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek package, along with the companionship of Explorer Adventure promises a wonderful voyage filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural essence, spiritual discovery, and awe-inspiring mountain views.

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Itinerary

Soaring above the sky, you will land at Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon completing your customs procedure and retrieving your luggage, you will be welcomed by our company representative at the terminal of the airport. They will pick you up and transfer to your designated hotels. After checking in, you can rest for a while to reduce the fatigue of long hours of flight.

Then, you will join the briefing sessions with other fellow trekkers, where our guides will give an overview of how your trek is going to be. They will provide you with the necessary information on accommodations, meals, trekking routes and even give you a heads-up on dos and don'ts during the trek. If you have any queries or confusion, then feel free to ask the guides and other staff.

In the evening, our company has prepared a welcome dinner for you at an authentic Nepalese restaurant. You will be able to cleanse your palate with traditional Nepali food and enjoy the cultural program. This may be a platform for you to interact with other fellow trekkers and increase the horizon of your friendship.

    Kathmandu is a cultural hub full of architecture and religious sites that can help you understand the culture and traditions of Nepal in person. So early in the morning, after having breakfast, you will follow our guides, who will take you to the most amazing places in Kathmandu city. There are many landmarks in Kathmandu Valley that are categorized as World Heritage sites by UNESCO.

    You can head out towards Swayambhunath Temple or Monkey Temple, which will offer you a spectacular view of the dense Kathmandu Valley from the top. Moreover, you can visit the Pashupatinath temple located on the Bagmati riverbank. This temple carries huge religious significance for Hindu people.

    You can stroll around the alleyways of Durbar Square to observe the architecture and structure of old buildings. You definitely can't miss out on the Boudhanath stupa, where the aroma of incense and Tibetan music playing in the background can bring more positivity to your life.

    After sightseeing at Kathmandu Valley, you will return back to your hotel rooms, where you will make the necessary preparations for more than 2 weeks of Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek.

      Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400m/4,592ft

      Koto Elevation: 2,610m / 8,563ft

      Drive Duration: 9 to 10 hours

      After having a hearty breakfast, you will kick off your Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek by boarding the tourist bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar. You will follow the picturesque Trishuli River over Prithvi highway. During this drive, you can witness beautiful pasture lands, villages, distant views of mountain ranges, and terrace fields.

      Departing from the main highway heading to Pokhara, you will divert north towards Besisahar. Upon reaching Besisahar, you will switch your vehicle to the local jeep and start your overland drive, aligning with the route of the classic Annapurna circuit trek. The overload journey may not be smooth, but this drive will offer you some incredible views of cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and gorges as you pass Chame, Tal, Jagat Dharapani, and Bagarchhap.

      You have already entered Nar Phu Valley once you have passed Jagat. As you come to the end phase of your drive, you will be rewarded with mesmerizing views of snow-covered mountains, including Annapurna II. Manaslu, Lamjung, and other surrounding peaks. Once you drive through the path alongside the pine forest, you will arrive at a small village inhabited by the Gurung community, Koto.

        Koto Elevation: 2,610m / 8,563ft

        Dharamshala Elevation: 3230 m/ 10567 ft

        Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

        You will finally walk on the trails of Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek. You must be really excited today. However, keeping your excitement aside for a moment, you will get your permits checked at the police check post at Koto. Then, you will hike alongside the banks of Soti Khola, which will later lead you to the trail surrounded by the lush forest of pine.

        You will make your way to Dharamshala by crossing many suspension bridges, cave shelters, cascading waterfalls, and rough, steep ascents. Upon reaching Dharamshala, you will stay overnight at a local tea house.

          Dharamshala Elevation: 3230 m/ 10567 ft

          Kyang Elevation: 4,080m/13,383ft

          Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

          Leaving behind the Dharamshala, you will return to the trails that will take you deep into the Nar Phu Valley. Moving forward with the trek, you will come across a narrow gorge below the rows of waterfalls. The forest region slowly starts to get thinner as you progress to reach your final destination, Kyang, today. Once the trail of the forest disappears, you will ascend steeply to reach the Meta(3,560m / 11,680ft) village located on the Tibetan plateau. The view of snow-capped Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal from Meta is very captivating.

          Catching a glimpse of those mountains, you will proceed further with the trek, making different ascents and descents before you reach Chyaku. The uphill from Chyaku is going to be more interesting as you keep one step forward, and you can get a crisper and closer view of mighty Annapurna II. With your arrival at Kyang, Pisang Peak will join the picturesque backdrop along with Annapurna II, making the hike for today worthwhile.

            Kyang Elevation: 4,080m/13,383ft

            Phu Elevation: 4,250m / 13,944ft

            Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

            Waking up with such spectacular views, you may not want to leave Kyang. But to complete the trek, you will have to leave Kyang behind and follow the rocky trail that will pass through Phu Khola. Then, you will come across a few campsites before arriving at Phu Gate. This gate indicates the entry point for Phu village.

              This small Phu village has so much to offer. The Tibetan-influenced village has one of the antique Tashi Lhakang Monastery, which is enlisted as one of the top 108 monasteries in the world. The religious value and belief of this landmark skyrocketed as it was believed that this monastery was the last monastery built by Karmaoa Rinpoche in the Nar Phu Valley.

              Moreover, this village is popular for its distinct blue sheep. Trying to spin the sheep wool under natural light and blue sky is truly an exciting activity to do in Phu village.

                Phu Elevation: 4,250m / 13,944ft

                Nar Phedi Elevation: 3490 m/ 11,450ft

                Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

                Today, you will retrace the same path from Phu village until you reach a small gorge at Phu Khola. From then on, you will arrive at Yughat by crossing many small streams and suspension bridges. Yughat is a small village characterized by a heavenly-influenced Buddhist religion. You can witness how the small village is beautifully decorated by many walls, shrines, and chorterns encircled by prayer flags. Heading forward, passing the Lapche River Gorge, you will finally arrive at Nar Phedi

                Upon arriving at Nar Phedi, you will just witness a Tibetan monastery on the flat land. Since there is no any mode of accommodation, you will have to stay overnight at the monastery. You can even be part of their evening prayer during your stay and interact with monks and nuns to learn more about the religion and place.

                  Nar Phedi Elevation: 3490 m/ 11,450ft

                  Nar Village Elevation: 4,110m/13,481ft

                  Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

                  Today will be the most relaxing and comfortable day in your entire Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek. You will just have to walk the winding paths for a few hours to reach Nar village. The sight of winding paths with stupas and chortens with bamboo tops is surely something you have never witnessed before.

                  As you arrive at Nar village, you will feel some kind of familiarity with the atmosphere. Nar and Phu villages are somewhat identical in terms of geographical features and climate, but Nar village is smaller and much more livelier than Phu village.

                  You will have so much time on your hands to explore the village. Despite being a unique village near the Annapurna trail, this village has yet to be discovered by many trekkers. This time gives you a wonderful opportunity to understand the lifestyle of the people in the Himalayan region. You can witness people weaving wool to make rugs and blankets.

                    Nar Village Elevation: 4,110m/13,481ft

                    Kang La Phedi Elevation: 3,660m/12,005ft

                    Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

                    Leaving the Nar village behind, you will ascend the rugged path of the lateral moraine of Temdenzon Khola. While making your ascent, you will pass through beautiful pasturelands where you can find yak grazing. Moreover, the west ridge of the Pisang Peak will be flaunting its beauty as you progress your trek to Kang La Phedi. Arriving at the base of Kang La Pass, you will end your day.

                      Kang La Phedi Elevation: 3,660m/12,005ft

                      Ngawal Elevation: 3,660m / 12,008ft

                      Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

                      As you are making your way through Kang La Pass, you will set out early in the morning to avoid the strong winds during the daytime. The path to the top is steep but not too difficult. So you will have to take the ascent slowly by taking short breaks to catch your breath. Once you make it to the top of Kang La Pass, you will be surrounded by the Himalayas, including Gangapurna, Annapurna II, and Tilicho Peak. Moreover, you will have an expansive view of Hunde Airport and Marsyangdi Valley from the top.

                      Immersing in those beautiful views, it's time to descend to Ngawal. You will pass chortens and shrines decorated by prayer flags as you continue your descent. After waking for almost 2 hours, you will arrive at Ngawal.

                        Ngawal Elevation: 3,660m / 12,008ft

                        Manang Elevation: 3,540m / 11,614ft

                        Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

                        After having a hearty breakfast early in the morning, you will walk on the banks of Marsyangdi River. Passing through lush forests and meadows, you will cross the village of Braga. Then, you will make your way towards the mountainous village of Paugh. This beautiful village, perched on the side of a mountain, is notorious for its stone buildings.

                        As you are moving forward from the Paugh, the distant view of glorious Annapurna massifs will captivate your attention. After walking for a few miles, you will be connected with the small village of Mungli. From here onwards, you will walk on the main Annapurna trail. You will continue to trek until you reach the final destination for today, Manang.

                          Since you have been elevated to a significant altitude, you will take a rest today to let your body adapt to the lower oxygen level of high altitude. Many trekkers have different perspectives on acclimatization. Some trekkers prefer to stay in the teahouse area and interact with the locals by exploring their high Himalayan lifestyle. At the same time, other trekkers prefer to go on short hikes to explore the side highlights of Manang.

                          One of the most preferred hikes at Manang is exploring the nearby Ice Lake. Lying under the towering Chulu East, Ice Lake, also known as Kicho Tal, offers some unbeatable views. First, you will encounter the Lower Ice Lake. Then, you can continue walking for about 10 minutes to get introduced to the second Ice Lake. The large stupa decorated with prayer flags marks the arrival of the second lake. These lakes are fed by the Chulu River. You can soak in the wonderful atmosphere and get back to the teahouse, where you can enjoy the regional delicacies.

                            Manang Elevation: 3,540m / 11,614ft

                            Yak Kharka Elevation: 4,110m / 13,484ft

                            Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

                            More incredible views of Annapurna massifs and Gangapurna are awaiting you on the route to Yak Kharka. From Manang, you will head towards the Tenki Village. Upon arriving at the village, you will head northwest, coming out of the Marshyangdi Valley to meet the area of Jar Sang Khola Valley. More incredible views of Annapurna massifs and Gangapurna are awaiting you on the route to Yak Kharka. You will transverse juniper forest and pasturelands to arrive at the village of Gunsan, where house roofs are made up of mud.

                            Since horses are one of the common modes of transportation in this region, you can see horses and mules walking on the trail. Moreover, you can witness interesting sights of blue sheep, and Himalayan tars grazing on the mountain grass. Afterward, you will cross a wooden bridge to come across the wide valley opening of a peaceful meadow known as Yak Kharka.

                              Yak Kharka Elevation: 4,110m / 13,484ft

                              Thorung La Phedi Elevation: 4,600m / 15,092ft

                              Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

                              Today's trek will bring you one step closer to Thorung La Pass. Starting your trek, leaving yak Kharka behind, you will walk on the narrow-traveled trail that hugs the side of the barren hill. As you move above the tree line, it can get dusty and windy. Then you rest for some time at Thorung La Phedi, which is surrounded by vertical cliffs. After catching some breath, you will ascent steeply towards the Thorung La high camp.

                                Thorung La Pass Elevation: 4525m / 17,764ft

                                Jomson Elevation: 2,715m / 8,910ft

                                Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

                                Today is the day you have been dreaming of since you started the trek. You will wake up early in the morning and head towards the top of the pass. You have to avoid the strong wind during the daytime and cross the pass before the weather gets foggy and vigorously windy.

                                The steep ascent on the rugged terrain will definitely be taxing. You will have to ascend on a steep lane in a single-lane path. However, once you reach the top, you will have magnificent views of the Himalayan panorama from south to north and Annapurna massifs behind you. After soaking in the beautiful moment, you will descend towards Muktinath.

                                Muktinath is a sacred site for followers of both Hinduism and Buddhism. It is said that this place allows the soul to Nirvana. There are 108 sprouts, along with 2 kundas. Bathing with holy water from these sources is believed to wash away all the sins of people. Additionally, the 2000-year-old eternal flame fed by natural underground gas is something magical.

                                After soaking in the religious vibe of Muktinath, you will pass through lush meadows alongside the streams to reach Kagbeni. This incredible place is well known for its horticulture business.

                                Moving forward from Kagbeni, accompanied by the panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, you will walk in the Kali Gandaki Valley to arrive at Jomsom.

                                  Jomson Elevation: 2,715m / 8,910ft

                                  Pokhara Elevation: 850m / 2,789ft

                                  Flight Duration: 25 minutes

                                  The less than 30-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is one of the most comfortable ways to wave goodbye to the trails of Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek. By soaring alongside the magnificent peaks, you will land at the city of Lakes Pokhara.

                                  This paradise city has so much to offer, from exploring various lakes and temples to enjoying paragliding and much more. During your spare time in the afternoon, you can explore the unparalleled beauty of Pokhara to the fullest.

                                    It is upto you if you want to take a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu or take an aerial way to reach Kathmandu. In both of the modes, it is sure that you will relish every moment to the fullest. After arrival at Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your respective hotels, where you will be staying overnight.

                                      Congratulations, you have successfully completed your Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek. despite a lot of difficulties along the way, you didn't give up but built the courage to fight against the odds to achieve this accomplishment.

                                      You undoubtedly deserve a pat on your back. Creating a lot of memories alongside the Explorer adventure, you are going back to hoke boarding an international flight today. We wish you a safe flight and look forward to seeing you on your next travels in Nepal.

                                        Route Map

                                        Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trekking - 19 Days map
                                        What's Included
                                        • Airport pick up and drop by private vehicle
                                        • Three night hotel in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis with B.B.
                                        • One  night Hotel in Pokhara on twin sharing  Basis with B.B
                                        • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System
                                        • Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek on twin sharing basis 
                                        • Half Day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
                                        • Government license holder guide 
                                        • Salary, food, accommodation and insurance for guide and porters
                                        • Duffel bag for packing your things for the trek 
                                        • From Muktinath to Jomsom Local Bus or Local Jeep
                                        • flight from Jomsom to Pokhara 
                                        • Pokhara to Kathmandu Torist Bus 
                                        • Hire sleeping bag and down jacket for the trekking.,
                                        • Transportation from Kathmandu to beshishar  Tourist Bus and from beshishar to syange Local Jeep
                                        • Annapurna Conservation Area Project ( ACAP) Entry  Permit.
                                        • Government taxes and official expense
                                        What's not Included
                                        • Domestic flight from Pokhara to  Kathmandu 
                                        • All food pay your self  during the trek  
                                        • Flight to Kathmandu, Nepal
                                        • Tips for porters ($70-100) and guides ($80-100)
                                        • Food and drinks ($20-30 per day)
                                        • Nepal Visa ($50)
                                        • Insurance (must include emergency evacuation by helicopter, check worldnomads.com
                                        • In some places: hot water, wifi, battery charging - $2-5
                                        • Drinking water, price depends on altitude (linear regression)

                                        Departure Dates

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                                        Trip DateOct 18, 2024 - Nov 05, 2024
                                        PriceUS$1095
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                                        Trip DateOct 21, 2024 - Nov 08, 2024
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                                        Trip DateOct 24, 2024 - Nov 11, 2024
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                                        Trip DateOct 27, 2024 - Nov 14, 2024
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                                        Trip DateOct 30, 2024 - Nov 17, 2024
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                                        Useful Information

                                        Trek Grade

                                        nar phu valley Trek Grade

                                        Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek is graded as challenging trek with walking back and forth in the rugged terrains. Despite the panoramic Himalayan views that will keep you motivated to move forward with the trek, crossing high passes, Kang La Pass and Thorung La Pass will keep testing your patience and strength. Moreover, the lower oxygen level at the higher altitude will increase the difficulty level of your trek. If you decide to trek during winter or early spring, you will find the trails covered with snow, for which you will need basic snow skills and the use of crampons and ice axes.

                                        The physically and mentally demanding trek can be 18 to 25 days long based on the highlights and itinerary you choose. During these days, you will have to hike for about 6 to 8 hours daily to cover about 10 to 15 km. If you are new to trekking, then it can be very taxing for you. So, prior experienced trekkers are encouraged to embark on this trek. Even though Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek seems like a hard-core trek, every moment of this trek will be rewarded with solidarity amidst the mountains in the remote region, which will later be transitioned to mainstream trekking trails.

                                        Best Time for Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek

                                        This amazing trek is usually preferred during the peak season of spring and autumn. Both seasons offer warm weather with a stable climate. The clear skies provide an unobstructed view of the himlayan ranges.

                                        During spring( March to May), the temperature in higher elevations of the Nar Phu valley hovers between 0 to 8 degrees Celsius, and the lower region remains warmer. Additionally, the rhododendrons blossom in the dense forest, makes the trail more attractive and pleasant.

                                        Likewise, the green fading to the red and yellow hues makes the landscapes more attractive during autumn(September to November). The warm temperature with the cool breeze during the daytime will elevate your mood. Moreover, the festive delight in the trekking route will make your journey more worthwhile.

                                        Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost and Permits

                                        Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost and Permits

                                        Nar and Phu region fall under the restricted area, so you will have to pay some fees to acquire the restricted area permit. Moreover, you will be trekking in the trails under the care of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, so you will have to acquire the Annapurna Conservation Area permit.

                                        If you opt for our Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek package of 19 days, then it will cost you around USD 1095, which will not include the bar and bottled drinks along with recharging your electrical appliances and access to WiFi and hot shower.

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                                        Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trekking - 19 Days FAQs

                                        • Even though the infrastructure in the Nar Phu Valley is basic, you will find teahouses and lodges for accommodations along the trekking route.

                                        • Since this trek will take you to the top of Kang La Pass(5,320m) and Thorung La Pass(5,4525m), there are high chances of falling prey to altitude sickness during Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek.

                                        • Nar Phu Valley is nestled between the most visited Annapurna and Mansalu regions.

                                        • Since you will be trekking to a restricted area in Nepal, it is mandatory to have a guide with you.

                                        • Apart from combining Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit trek, you can combine it with various other treks, like the Tilicho Lake trek.

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