
Nar Phu Valley Trek
A Journey to the secret valleys of the Himalayas
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14 Days
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Trekking
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Nar Phu Valley Trek: Discover Nepal’s Hidden Himalayan Gem
Nestled between the renowned Annapurna and Manaslu regions, the Nar Phu Valley Trek is a remote Himalayan odyssey that rewards intrepid trekkers with untouched wilderness, rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture, and panoramic mountain vistas. Closed to outsiders until 2002, Nar Phu remains one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets—its narrow gorges, ancient monasteries, and medieval villages offering a raw, authentic experience far from the crowds.
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is Nepal’s untold secret—a harmonious blend of Tibetan-Buddhist heritage, spectacular alpine scenery, and rugged adventure. For those ready to step off the beaten path and into Himalayan solitude, this trek offers spiritual insight and natural grandeur in equal measure. Whether trekking through village tea houses, pausing in prayer at remote gompas, or cresting Kang La Pass, every moment here resonates with discovery.
What choose the Nar Phu valley Trek?
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unlike busy trekking routes, Nar Phu remains uncrowded. You’ll trek through forgotten villages—Nar, Phu, Nar Phedi—tucked amid towering peaks, in a landscape that feels untouched and private.
- Living Tibetan Culture: Villages like Phu and Nar have preserved their Tibetan identity—stone homes, prayer rituals, and traditional farms remain anchored in centuries-old heritage.
- Remote Wilderness & Variety: Traversing lush forest, stark alpine desert, icy gorges, and mountain passes, this trek reveals a dramatic shift in ecosystems and terrain—each segment more breathtaking than the last.
- Spiritual Sanctuaries: Remote monasteries like Tashi Lhakhang and Nar Phedi are not just scenic stops—they are places of ritual, practice, and genuine encounter with Tibetan Buddhist life.
- Spectacular Mountain Views: Surrounded by 6,000–8,000 m giants such as Annapurna II, III, & IV, Gangapurna, Manaslu, Himlung, Chulu, and Tilicho, the trek’s vistas from high passes and villages are spectacular and pristine.
- High Mountain Passes: The classic route includes crossing Kang La Pass (5,306 m) and optionally linking to the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) via the Annapurna Circuit. These are challenging but highly rewarding crossings, offering expansive views and a sense of major accomplishment.
Highlights of Nar Phu Valley Trek
- UNESCO Heritage Sites: Explore iconic World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu & Patan Durbar Squares, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and before setting off
- Scenic Approach:Enjoy scenic drives from Kathmandu to Koto via Besishahar, passing river valleys, terraced fields, and forests.
- Off-the-beaten-path trekking: Walk less-crowded trails across remote terrain, immersing yourself deeply in nature.
- Ancient Monasteries & Spiritual Life: Marvel at Tashi Lhakhang Gompa in Phu and the serene Nar Phedi Monastic Institute—both offer rare chances to observe monks and nuns in evening chants and rituals.
- Remote Villages: Visit Nar and Phu—traditional Tibetan-style stone villages where daily life unfolds as it has for centuries: locals spinning yak wool, weaving carpets, grinding mustard, and tending to blue sheep.
- Varied and Dramatic Landscapes: Trek through forests of pine and rhododendron, deep gorges, arid alpine plateaus, and glaciated ridges beneath towering skies.
- Spectacular Mountain Views: Ascend the challenging Kang La Pass to gain sweeping panoramas of towering peaks like Annapurna II–IV, Gangapurna, Himlung, Himlung base, and Chulu peaks
- Flora & Fauna Encounters: Spot Himalayan blue sheep and possibly elusive snow leopards in remote stretches.
Who is this Nar Phu Valley Trek for?
This Nar Phu Valley Trek is for experienced hikers seeking solitude, cultural depth, and a sense of adventure far off the beaten track. It’s ideal for those intrigued by Tibetan heritage and remote monastic life, offering a rare glimpse into living spiritual traditions.
Nar Phu Valley Trek itinerary
Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2. In Kathmandu
Day 3. Drive from Kathmandu to Koto
Day 4. Trek from Koto to Meta
Day 5. Trek from Meta to Phu
Day 6. In Phu (Exploration day)
Day 7. Trek from Phu to Nar Phedi
Day 8. Trek from Nar Phedi to Nar
Day 9. Trek from Nar to Ngawal (via Kang La Pass)
Day 10. Trek from Ngawal to Manang
Day 11. In Manang (Exploration day)
Day 12. Drive from Manang to Kurintar
Day 13. Drive to Kathmandu
Day 14. Departure
Cost Information
Included
- All transfers by private vehicle.
- Accommodation in 3-4* category hotels in Kathmandu, tourist standard hotels in Manang and Kurintar, and local tea house lodges during the trek with attached bathroom where possible.
- Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu.
- Three standard meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) with some hot drinks during the trek.
- One welcome dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
- 1 full day guided city tour in Kathmandu.
- Transfer from Kathmandu-Koto-Manang-Kathmandu in a private 4W jeep.
- English-speaking licensed trekking guide along with a porter (1 porter for every two trekkers).
- Duffel bag, and trekking map.
- Trekking staff accommodation, wages, meals, trekking gears, and insurance.
- All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (ACAP/RAP).
- All government tax and service charges.
Not included
- Nepal Visa.
- International airfare.
- Meals other than listed (lunch and dinner in Kathmandu).
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
- Bottled/boiled water, battery recharge, Wi-Fi and hot showers during the trek.
- Tips and gratuities to Guide, Porter and driver.
- Travel medical insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation.
- Personal trekking gears and equipments.
- Trip cancellation cost due to your health, weather condition, political situation, and any other unforeseen events.
- Any other expenses other than the listed above.
Detailed Itinerary
Expand AllArrival in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu
Drive to Koto from Kathmandu
Trek to Meta from Koto
Trek to Phu from Meta
In Phu (Exploration day)
Trek to Nar Phedi
Trek to Nar from Nar Phedi
Trek to Ngawal via the Kang La Pass
Trek from Ngawal to Manang
In Manang (free day)
Drive to Kurintar from Manang
Drive to Kathmandu from Kurintar
Departure
Trip Photos
FAQs
- Where is the Nar Phu Valley located?
The Nar Phu Valley lies in the remote northern section of Annapurna Conservation Area, close to the Tibetan border. It combines the raw Himalayan wilderness with ancient Tibetan-influenced culture.
- How difficult is the Nar Phu Valley trek?
It’s considered moderate to challenging, involving rough, steep terrain and daily hikes of around 5–7 hours. You’ll also cross Kang La Pass at roughly 5,300 m, so proper fitness and altitude acclimatization are essential
- What permits do I require for this trek?
You must obtain Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which can be only issued through a government registered trekking agency and requires at least two members in a group.
- Is a guide required for this trek?
Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory. Solo independent trekking is not allowed. Moreover guides enhance safety, share cultural insight, and support throughout the journey.
- What type accommodation and food’s available?
You’ll stay in teahouses which are basic compared to the Annapurna Base Camp or the Everest Base Camp. Meals generally include Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), as well as noodles, soups, Tibetan breads, and occasional western dishes.
- Can beginners do the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
This Nar Phu Valley trek is not recommended for complete beginners. It requires good physical fitness, altitude readiness, and some previous trekking experience due to its remoteness, elevation, and demanding terrain.
- Can I hire a porter instead of a guide?
Yes, you can hire a porter to help you with your luggage, a licensed guide is still required to do this trek as per the government regulation.