Nar Phu Valley Trek
Trek to the hidden valleys of Nar Phu
Trip Overview
Trip Highlights
- Explore the UNESCO Heritage Sites around Kathmandu Valley
- Scenic drive through winding mountain road
- Trek to the remote villages of Nar & Phu.
- Trek off the beaten path that a few have walked.
- Stay in ancient villages that have seen only a few changes over decades.
- Observe the Tibetan-influenced lifestyle and culture of the people.
- Enjoy great views of the Annapurna, Himlung, Gangapurna, and other peaks.
Trip Description
The Nar Phu Valley Trek, situated in the Annapurna region, presents the opportunity to discover the hidden valleys nestled amidst the majestic peaks of Annapurna and Manaslu. The journey to Nar Phu Valley requires significant physical endurance and resilience, offering a rewarding challenge for enthusiastic trekkers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.
The landscapes along the trail are breathtaking, featuring exotic terrains, dramatic mountain vistas, and diverse ecosystems. You are treated to surreal views of snow-capped peaks, rugged terrains, and pristine wilderness, showcasing the raw beauty of nature at its finest.
Moreover, what sets Nar Phu Valley apart is the opportunity to engage with remote communities that have preserved their traditional lifestyle and ancient practices for centuries. These valleys are inhabited by the Khampa people, of Tibetan origins. Immerse yourself in the social fabric of these isolated villages and understand their distinct culture, traditions, and way of life.
The trek route to Nar and Phu Valley opened to outsiders in 2003, marking a relatively recent inclusion among Nepal’s trekking destinations. Due to its remote location near the Tibetan border, traveler to this valley requires a special restricted area permit to gain entry.
This limited accessibility and the permit requirement have played a pivotal role in preserving the pristine and off-the-beaten-path allure of the region. For adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience amidst Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes, this trek stands as an irresistible choice.
The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. Besisahar serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region. Initially, the trek follows the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek route until Meta. After crossing the Marshyangdi River at Meta, the trail diverges toward the less-traveled path leading to the Nar Phu Valley.
This segment of the trek navigates narrow forest trails, offering breathtaking vistas of prominent peaks such as Pisang Peak and Kusum Kanguru, among others. Exploring the Nar Phu Valley provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique local culture.
Upon leaving the Nar Phu Valley, you will cross the Kang La Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Beyond the pass, the trail again rejoins the Annapurna Circuit Trek at Ngawal. From Ngawal, the journey continues toward Chame, followed by a drive to Besisahar, culminating in Kathmandu to conclude the trip.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2. In Kathmandu
Day 3. Drive to Koto
Day 4. Trek to Meta
Day 5. Trek to Kyang
Day 6. Trek to Phu
Day 7. In Phu (exploration day)
Day 8. Trek to Nar Phedi
Day 9. Trek to Nar
Day 10. Trek to Ngawal (via the Kang La Pass)
Day 11. Trek to Chame
Day 12. Drive to Besisahar
Day 13. Drive to Kathmandu
Day 14. Departure
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu
Drive to Koto
Trek to Meta
Trek to Kyang
Trek to Phu
Exploration day
Trek to Nar Phedi
Trek to Nar
Trek to Ngawal via the Kang La Pass
Trek to Chame
Drive to Besisahar
Drive to Kathmandu
Departure
Included
- All airport & hotel transfers by private vehicle.
- 3 nights accommodation in 3-4* category hotels in Kathmandu.
- 10 nights’ accommodation in a tea house during the trek with an attached bathroom where possible.
- Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu.
- Three standard meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) during the trek.
- 3 hot drinks (coffee/tea) after every meal during the trek.
- One welcome dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
- 1 full day guided city tour in Kathmandu.
- Transfer from Kathmandu-Koto-Besisahar-Kathmandu in a private 4W jeep.
- English-speaking licensed trekking guide along with a porter (1 porter for every two trekkers).
- First aid kit, 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.