Nar Phu Valley Trek

Q: How difficult is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is considered challenging because of its remote location, high altitude and the crossing of Kang La Pass at approximately 5,320 meters. Previous high-altitude trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.

Q: Do I need a special permit for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Yes. The trek enters a restricted area, so trekkers need a Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit. The package also includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and required trekking registration/TIMS, as applicable.

Q: What is the highest point of the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The highest point is Kang La Pass at approximately 5,320 meters (17,454 feet). The pass crossing is the most challenging section of the trek

Q: What is the best time for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months generally offer better weather, clearer mountain views and more favorable trekking conditions.

Q: Is the Nar Phu Valley Trek suitable for beginners?

The trek is best suited to experienced and adventure-seeking trekkers. Beginners may undertake it with proper physical preparation, a licensed guide and adequate acclimatization, but the high-altitude Kang La Pass crossing makes it more demanding than many standard teahouse treks.

Maximum Altitude
approx. 5,320 m
Tour type
Trek
Best season
Spring & Autumn
Accomodation
Teahouse/Lodge
Language
Nepali, English and Sherpa

Overview

Itinerary

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FAQs

Map

Overview

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FAQs

Map

Overview

Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally fascinating Himalayan adventures. Located in the northern part of the Annapurna region, the restricted Nar Phu Valley offers a rare opportunity to experience ancient Tibetan-influenced villages, dramatic gorges, high-altitude pastures, Buddhist monasteries and spectacular Himalayan landscapes.

The trek enters the restricted valley from Koto, following the narrow Nar Khola gorge toward the remote villages of Phu and Nar. After exploring these traditional settlements, the trail crosses the challenging Kang La Pass at approximately 5,320 m before descending to Ngawal and reconnecting with the Annapurna Circuit.

This trek is ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking a less-crowded Himalayan experience, authentic Tibetan-Buddhist culture and high mountain scenery.

Highlights

Cross the spectacular Kang La Pass – approx. 5,320 m
Explore the ancient villages of Nar and Phu
Experience one of Nepal's most remote restricted valleys
Visit traditional Buddhist monasteries and gompas
See ancient stone houses and Tibetan-style architecture
Enjoy views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna and Pisang Peak
Experience traditional Himalayan yak-pasture culture
Walk through dramatic gorges and high-altitude landscapes
Trek on a quieter alternative route to the main Annapurna Circuit
Excellent opportunities for Himalayan photography
Experience authentic local culture away from mass tourism

Day 01 :

Kathmandu → Dharapani

Altitude: Approx. 1,860 m
Drive: 8–10 hours

Early morning departure from Kathmandu by road toward Besisahar and then onward to Dharapani.

Enjoy views of green hills, rivers, waterfalls, terraced farmland and traditional villages along the journey.Overnight: Dharapani

Day 02 :

Dharapani → Koto

Altitude: Approx. 2,600–2,630 m
Trekking: 5–6 hours

Begin trekking through the beautiful Marsyangdi Valley toward Koto, the gateway to the Nar Phu restricted area.

The landscape gradually becomes more rugged and alpine as you approach Koto.

Overnight: Koto
Koto is the principal entry point where the Nar Phu trail leaves the main Annapurna Circuit.

Day 03 :

Koto → Meta

Altitude: Approx. 3,560 m
Trekking: 6–7 hours

Today you officially enter the Nar Phu restricted area.

Follow the narrow Nar Khola gorge through dramatic cliffs, pine forests, waterfalls and suspension bridges.

Continue gradually uphill to Meta, a beautiful high-altitude settlement surrounded by impressive mountain scenery.Overnight: Meta

Day 04 :

Meta → Phu Village

Altitude: Approx. 4,080 m
Trekking: 6–7 hours

Continue toward the remote Phu Valley.

The trail passes through dramatic rock formations and ancient cave dwellings before reaching the magnificent Tibetan-style settlement of Phu.

Explore the village and enjoy views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.Overnight: Phu Village
Phu is one of the valley's principal traditional settlements and lies at approximately 4,080 m.

Day 05 :

Phu Village – Acclimatization & Exploration

Altitude: Approx. 4,080 m

Today is dedicated to acclimatization and exploration.

Visit the traditional village, ancient Buddhist monasteries and Tashi Lhakhang Gompa. You can also take a short hike to a higher viewpoint for spectacular views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

This rest day helps your body prepare for the higher elevations ahead.Overnight: Phu Village

Day 06 :

Phu → Nar Phedi

Altitude: Approx. 3,500 m
Trekking: 5–6 hours

Leave Phu and retrace part of the trail before heading toward Nar Phedi.

The trail descends through dramatic landscapes and follows the river valley.

Reach Nar Phedi and visit the peaceful monastery situated in this remote Himalayan setting.Overnight: Nar Phedi

Day 07 :

Nar Phedi → Nar Village

Altitude: Approx. 4,110 m
Trekking: 3–4 hours

A relatively shorter but steadily ascending day takes you to the beautiful Nar Village.

Nar is famous for its traditional stone houses, Buddhist monasteries, chortens and authentic Tibetan-influenced culture.

Spend the afternoon exploring the village and preparing for the Kang La crossing.

Overnight: Nar Village
Nar is generally situated at around 4,110 m and is one of the two major settlements of the restricted valley.

Day 08 :

Nar – Kang La Pass – Ngawal

Kang La: Approx. 5,320 m
Ngawal: Approx. 3,660 m
Trekking: 8–9 hours

This is the most challenging and spectacular day of the trek.

Start very early and climb toward Kang La Pass. The ascent is demanding, but reaching the top rewards you with incredible panoramic views of the Annapurna massif, Gangapurna, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV and Pisang Peak.

After crossing the pass, descend carefully toward Ngawal.

Overnight: Ngawal
The Kang La crossing is the physical climax of the classic Nar Phu route and reaches approximately 5,320 m.

Day 09 :

Ngawal → Manang

Altitude: Approx. 3,540 m
Trekking: 3–4 hours

Continue through the upper Manang region toward Manang.

Enjoy beautiful views of the Annapurna range, Gangapurna and surrounding valleys.

After reaching Manang, relax and explore the village.Overnight: Manang

Day 10 :

Manang → Besisahar

Drive: Approx. 6–8 hours

After breakfast, take a scenic jeep drive down the Marsyangdi Valley toward Besisahar.

The landscape changes dramatically from high Himalayan terrain to greener hills and lower valleys.Overnight: Besisahar

Day 11 :

Besisahar → Kathmandu

Drive: Approx. 6–8 hours

Drive back to Kathmandu through scenic countryside, rivers, terraced fields and traditional settlements.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.Overnight: Kathmandu

Day 12 :

Kathmandu – International Departure

Enjoy your final breakfast in Nepal.

Depending on your flight schedule, you can spend some free time shopping or exploring Kathmandu before our representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Expand all

How difficult is the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Do I need a special permit for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

What is the highest point of the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

What is the best time for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Is the Nar Phu Valley Trek suitable for beginners?

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

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Itinerary

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Frequently Asked Questions

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