Nar Phu Trek

Less Explored Treks in Nepalratingbased on 4 reviews
  • Duration14 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5320 m.
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Best Season March to May and September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
2 - 3 paxUS$995
4 - 6 paxUS$945
7 - 10 paxUS$895
11 - 15 paxUS$845
16 - 20 paxUS$795
Nar Phu Trek Highlights
  • Superb vistas, diverse flora, and fauna, the isolated landscape, and a pristine Tibetan culture
  • Hike to Himlung Base Camp
  • Memorable visits to the highly unique villages of Nar and Phu
  • Cross Kang La Pass
  • Overnight stay in the monastery
  • Enjoy the panorama of the Annapurna Himalayas
  • Explore the hidden valley along with it's raw beauties 

Nar Phu Valley Trek Overview

The Nar Phu Valley Trek has only been open for exploration since 2002 and offers an extraordinarily pristine cultural and scenic experience that is all the more remarkable given its proximity to the famous and well-traveled Annapurna circuit. One of Nepal’s true hidden valleys, its rugged landscapes and ancient villages bordering on Tibet have lain in peaceful solitude for years from the outside world, with relatively few trekkers making the journey to one of the last truly untouched regions in the Himalayas.

The trek begins properly at Besisahar and follows the stock route for the Annapurna Circuit through to Koto before branching away eastward towards Nar Phu Valley. The trail leads along the Nar Khola River and through a narrow gorge before arriving at the small settlement of Odar (which translates to ‘Cave’), a convenient point for a lunch stop at one of the newly constructed tea houses. From Odar the path heads out through thickets of pine, rhododendrons, and bamboo, with the soothing delights of a hot spring en route to bath in for a refreshing break. From there we head to the picturesque village of Meta and its impressive landscapes and view of the monastery at Nar Phedi in the distance.

The following day’s journey to Phu village offers some of the most memorable and unspoiled views on the trek. The trail passes below the daunting slopes of Kangaru Himal and Chyakhu before winding on through the village of Kyang. Phu itself is a remarkable and impressive village that seems as much a bastion against the forces of time as the harsh Himalayan elements, with a known history that dates back to at least the 5th century. The structures are like building blocks set side by side and seemingly one on top of the other along the sloping hill at the heart of the village, creating the semblance of terraced fields of stone. Replete with the obligatory Mani walls, prayer wheels, and its fascinating monastery, the village is a treasure house of Tibetan culture frozen in time that intrigues and beguiles at every turn and stairway, particularly for photographers.

Phu also serves as a gateway to the mountain of Himlung (7126m) and its base camp at an altitude of 4920m. With a rest day set aside for Phu, the opportunity exists to either hike to the base camp and its impressive views and glacial surroundings or simply relax in Phu for the day and use the time to further explore the labyrinthine village and its many charms.

From Phu, the trail heads westward to Nar Phedi and its monastery for a fascinating overnight stay, and on the following day climbs steeply to the impressively sited village of Nar – yes, it’s confusing! The village offers more stunning views of the Himalayas, as well as the culturally rewarding experience of observing the local people engaged in a variety of activities unique to the area. The trek through the valley culminates with the climb up to Kang La Pass (5360m) and the steep and rocky descent to Ngawal on the Annapurna Circuit Trail. The option exists to continue on the circuit up to and over Thorong La pass or head towards Mesokanto La as an alternative. Otherwise, the trek concludes by hiking back down the trail to Chame and the return drive to Pokhara or Kathmandu.

Nar Phu Trek is undoubtedly one of the premier destinations in the Himalayas for those seeking a glimpse into a region of raw beauty and Tibetan culture that's a throwback to a distant past, one that even Tibet itself has long since forgotten about. Nepal Trekking Experts has the experience and the personnel to make it happen - just drop us a line and discuss the various options with our staff to explore this fascinating valley.

There are many more trekking routes in Nepal which are still very less people know about them, such as Kanchenjunga Trek, Makalu Base Camp Trek, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, Rara Lake Trek, Lower Dolpo Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek etc.

Useful Information
  • Kindly get permission to take photos of locals.
  • Respect the local culture.
  • Proper trekking gear
  • Bring some snacks in case you get sick or need some quick energy.
  • Take a wall side or safe side while passing donkeys on the way.
  • If you are in the landslide area, please head up and pass without delay.
  • It is better to avoid alcohol or smoking above 3000 m.
  • Drink more than 3 liters of water per day.
  • Water purification tablets or filter machines
  • Be aware of altitude symptoms.
  • A minimum of two trekkers are required to obtain Nar Phu Valley special permits.
  • Extra Nepali rupees just for unusual circumstances or extra snacks in tea houses
  • Proper acclimatization is essential for a successful trip
Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Welcome at the airport then transfer to your Hotel.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Final trekking preparation then spends a day the way you prefer.

  • Max. Altitude:1300m/4265ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Pick up from your hotel and drive to Jagat, where we rest up for the overnight in preparation for the next day's trekking.

  • Max. Altitude:1860m/6102ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Another reasonable day of hiking through a diverse landscape of farmland, river crossings, and numerous waterfalls. The pretty village of Tal (meaning Lake) gives us time to pause before finishing up for the day at Dharapani, one of the region's key trekking hubs.

  • Max. Altitude:2600m/8530ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The morning sees the trail climbs steadily through forested slopes towards Timang, one of the trek's scenic outlooks with fine views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal. The day finishes at Koto, the gateway to Nar Phu where we check in with our permits at the local field office.

  • Max. Altitude:3560m/11680ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The real adventure begins as the trek leads into the restricted and rarely visited the valley of Nar Phu, a semi-arid region very similar geographically to Manang yet one with its own highly unique and largely untouched Tibetan culture. 
For those who have flexibility on holiday, we recommend having the first acclimatization day in Meta where you may discover the Kanggaru Base Camp if you are interested.

  • Max. Altitude:4080m/13386ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The day's stunning landscapes and secluded nature of the trail are only superseded by the magic of coming upon the medieval walled village of Phu at day's end, a cubist painting comes to the life of block-like homes and structures ringed around the core hill.

  • Max. Altitude:4080m/13386ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A rest day at Phu allows us to explore the heights and spectacular views on offer of Himlung Base Camp, with plenty of time left over in the afternoon to relax and wander the myriad laneways of Phu and bask in the genuine warmth, hospitality, and traditional culture of the local people.

  • Max. Altitude:3500m/11483ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trek to Nar Phedi offers further opportunities to take in the unique landscape of the valley, while the village provides a fascinating opportunity to stay overnight in the nearby monastery.

  • Max. Altitude:4200m/13780ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Nar is almost as impressive as Phu in both size and scope, with a picture-perfect setting atop a hill that provides superb views of the Himalayas.

  • Max. Altitude:3660m/12008ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A day to savor, as well as a day to test one's resolve. The trail moves steadily away from Nar Village and climbs through the most remote area of the valley to Kang La and the streaming prayer flags that mark the apex of the trek. After pausing to celebrate the moment, take appropriate pictures, and admire the glorious views, we head over the pass to begin the steep descent to Ngawal, the village which marks our return to the standard route for the Annapurna Circuit.

  • Max. Altitude:2650m/8694ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A quick descent back down the Annapurna route brings us to Chame, the administrative center for the Manang region.

  • Max. Altitude:Kathmandu 1400m/4593ft, Pokhara 822m/2697ft..
  • Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

A local jeep takes us as far as Besisahar, after which we switch to another transportation for the journey to Kathmandu.

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included (on a twin-share basis)
    • All necessary trekking permits, such as the Nar Phu special permit, the Annapurna conservation area permit, and the TIMS card
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee each time with the meal
    • Fresh fruit each day, if and when available
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, and sleeping bag
    • Government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First-aid kit
    • Drive to Jagat from Kathmandu.
    • Drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara by bus or Jeep.
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax (VAT)
    • Certificate of achievement, if needed
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fee, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tips for staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Nar Phu Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:MondayMar 25, 2024
    End:SundayApr 07, 2024
    PriceUS$995
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

    Photos & Videos
    4Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Nar Phu valley trek with guide Resham

      All,
      Do not hesitate and book your Nepal trek with Nepal Trekking experts!
      It is by far the best Trekking agency in Nepal!!

      A few months before our trip, we read excellent reviews so we contacted Rajesh through email to ask about his suggestions of Nepal treks.
      As we are a couple who have been Trekking through Europe Alps, we asked to have a challenging and remote (less crowdy) trek in Nepal, keeping in mind we only had 9 days to do it.
      Rajesh answered within minutes with a detailled overview of the Nar Phu Valley trek, which we had never heard before.
      Immediately we were thrilled about his passion in his answer about the remote Nar Phu valley trek so we continued with several questions which were all answered very professionally within a few hours.
      It was almost impossible not to book this trek so we confirmed and looked forward to our trip a few months later.
      Upon arrival in Kathmandu we met with Rajesh to go over the trip details, which was very usefull, and gave us a relax comfortable feeling to start the trek.
      The night before departure, we met our Guido Resham and went to dinner with Rajesh and his brother Rabin to discuss the last things.
      It was really wonderfull to have this dinner with the 2 brothers Rajesh & Rabin as this made us very at ease to start the exciting adventure.

      We had the luxury to start our trek together with another couple (also from Belgium) who did the Annapurna. So the first 2 days we trekked together with our guide Resham and the other guide Radjan and porter Ram.
      This group was really amazing and in only 2 days we made a strong band all together which we will never forget. Thank you Radjan, Ram & Resham for this excellent start!!

      In Koto our paths seperated as we continued with the Nar Phu part of our trek. The next days were outstanding as the landscape and remoteness of the Nar Phu valley is really ashtonishing! It is a challenging trek, but with Resham as your guide, you will always feel cared and motivated to complete the Trekking day.

      All good words, and believe it or not, but the best is yet to come.
      Our guide Resham is truely one of a kind. We could not wish, dream or think of someone better to guide us during this trek.
      His competence as a guide goes beyond what you expect. Some examples here below:
      - he is very caring and will always help you when needed! He caried our sleeping baggs for a few days as we both suffered from some pain due to heavy backpack.
      - he knows the people, region extremely well. This is usefull as he will fix you always the best rooms and views possible and can be flexible when the planning is changed due to weather or other Conditions.
      - he speaks English very well. Easy to communicate with him and get to know him as a person and also get to know the Nepali culture and nature.
      - always in for a laugh. We enjoyed his presence during the walking and also in the evening when playing "Dumball" card games
      - very smart and empathic. He evaluates from the start your walking rythm and habits and adapts the trek accordingly. He also sees when you have a more difficult day and will offer his help always
      - he brings some snacks along the way so it helps getting your energy boosted when needed
      - so many more...

      Sorry for the long review, but these guys are worth spending time to write and read excellent reviews.

      Thanks Rajesh, Rabin, Radjan, Ram and our "Dai" Resham for this beautifull experience which we will never forget.

      Nepal trekking experts is the best and we will recommend you to everyone we know!!

      Rosa & Dylan

      D
      Dylan DOct 14, 2023Belgium
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Experience for life

      This August we decided to discover Nar-Phu region for 3 weeks, due to monsoon rain in other parts of Nepal. We are a sporty, nature loving family with two kids, age 8 and 10 years. Excellent internet ratings brought us straightly to the office of Nepal Trekking Experts in Thamel, Kathmandu. We enjoyed a cordially welcome by Rabin Neupane, brother of founder Rajesh. From the first minute we found us in specialized, fondly competent hands. Rabin listened carefully to our plans and made a phone call to invite Resham Neupane, a young guide, who he chose to be the right company for us. And he was right! Resham was the guarantee for 21 days of pure and untroubled Trekking through the lonely and inexpressible beautiful landscape of Jagat, Koto, Meta, Nar, Phu, Kang La (5320 m) towards Tilicho Lake and Ice Lake. We experienced all comfort we needed in conciously chosen tea houses. Hs never ending cordiality and patience towards our two children and their needs was outstanding. Resham motivated the kids whenever necessary, he gave mental and - from time to time by a little goody out of his heavy backpack - physical energy to them! He never felt tired making also fun with them, and we enjoyed playing a family card game from Germany together in the evening! Resham as our very experienced guide helped us to adjust the initially planned route with his knowledge with regard to distances and the physical skills he observed in us. We felt safe and in best hands throughout the whole trek We already are planning to come back. If possible again with Resham as our guide! An unforgettable vacation for us! Thank you Trekking Experts!

      R
      Roving33599712854Sep 17, 2023Germany
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