The Nar Phu Valley Trek is an 18-day adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched regions, nestled between the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Covering approximately 75–80km, this moderate-to-challenging trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,416m at Thorong La Pass. Opened to trekkers in 2003, Nar Phu remains a restricted area, preserving its pristine landscapes and medieval Tibetan culture. The trek offers a rare blend of rugged wilderness, high-altitude passes (Kang La at 5,306m and Thorong La), and cultural immersion in the villages of Nar (4,110m) and Phu (4,080m), inhabited by Khampas (Tibetan descendants) practicing Buddhism.
Trekkers traverse narrow canyons, alpine forests, glaciers, and yak pastures, with panoramic views of Annapurna II (7,937m), Gangapurna (7,455m), Tilicho Peak (7,134m), Manaslu (8,163m), and Himlung Himal (7,126m). Highlights include ancient monasteries like Tashi Lhakhang, vibrant chortens, and encounters with wildlife such as blue sheep and snow leopards. The trek begins and ends in Kathmandu, with drives to Jagat and back from Jomsom, and includes an optional visit to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), the world’s highest lake. Less crowded than the Annapurna Circuit, this trek is ideal for those seeking solitude, cultural depth, and Himalayan adventure.
Organized by Hairy Yak Adventures, this trek combines the Nar Phu Valley with parts of the Annapurna Circuit, offering a comprehensive Himalayan experience. Starting with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (8–9 hours), the itinerary follows the Annapurna Circuit trail to Koto before diverging into the remote Nar Phu Valley. Trekkers stay in teahouses or homestays, enjoying Nepali cuisine like dal bhat and momos, and engage with Gurung, Lama, and Khampa communities. The route includes challenging ascents to Kang La and Thorong La passes, acclimatization days in Phu and Manang, and a visit to the sacred Muktinath temple. The trek concludes with a flight or drive from Jomsom to Pokhara, followed by a return to Kathmandu. Professional guides and porters ensure safety and cultural insights, making this a bucket-list journey.
Explore the hidden Nar and Phu villages, showcasing medieval Tibetan culture and Khampa hospitality.
Cross high-altitude Kang La Pass (5,306m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416m) with views of Annapurna II, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri.
Visit Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, one of the world’s 108 great Buddhist monasteries, and other ancient gompas.
Optional side trip to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), the highest lake in Nepal, with stunning glacial scenery.
Trek through diverse landscapes: lush forests, narrow canyons, glaciers, and arid Tibetan-like plateaus.
Spot wildlife like blue sheep, snow leopards, and Himalayan birds in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Stay in authentic teahouses, homestays, or Nar Phedi monastery, supporting local economies.
Experience the sacred Muktinath temple, a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
Enjoy a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat and a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
Immerse in Gurung and Khampa traditions, including festivals and yak herding.
This trek is suited for moderately fit adventurers with some trekking experience, as it involves long days (6–8 hours) and steep ascents to high passes (5,306m–5,416m). The remote nature and basic accommodations (teahouses, homestays, or monastery stays) require adaptability, but the cultural and scenic rewards are unparalleled. Ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, it’s less suitable for beginners due to altitude and terrain challenges. Acclimatization days and a mandatory guide (per Nepal’s 2023 rules) ensure safety, but trekkers should prepare for limited connectivity and facilities in remote areas.
Preparation: Build stamina with cardio, hiking, or cycling 4–6 weeks prior; prior high-altitude experience is beneficial.
Footwear: Wear broken-in trekking boots with good grip; crampons may be needed for snowy passes.
Packing: Include a 4-season sleeping bag, layered clothing, a 20–30L daypack, and water purification tablets.
Hydration: Drink 3–4 liters daily; bottled water costs ~$2–$4 at higher altitudes.
Altitude: Acclimatization days reduce AMS risk, but monitor symptoms like headaches or nausea.
Cash: Carry Nepalese rupees (NPR); no ATMs or card facilities after Besisahar.
Connectivity: Limited Wi-Fi; emergency VHF phones are available in villages.
Power: Bring a power bank; charging costs ~$2–$5 at teahouses.
Culture: Respect Buddhist customs, ask before photographing, and engage with locals respectfully.
Permits: A drone permit is required for aerial photography.
The trek starts with an 8–9-hour drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300m) via Besisahar, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. From Jagat, the trail follows the Annapurna Circuit to Koto, then diverges into Nar Phu Valley. The trek ends with a 20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (or a 7–8-hour drive), followed by a 6–7-hour bus ride or 25-minute flight to Kathmandu. Book transport early during peak seasons (March–May, September–November) to secure seats. Flights are weather-dependent, so include 1–2 buffer days for flexibility.
Package Cost (18 Days with Hairy Yak Adventures): Starting from ~$1,850 per person (includes Kathmandu-Jagat transport, Jomsom-Pokhara flight, Pokhara-Kathmandu bus, 3-star hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara, teahouse/homestay accommodation, meals during trek, guide, porter, ACAP, TIMS, and Restricted Area Permit)
Permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): ~$30 per person.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card: ~$10 (group trekkers) or ~$20 (independent trekkers).
Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $100/week (Sept–Nov) or $75/week (Dec–Aug), plus $15/day (Sept–Nov) or $10/day (Dec–Aug) beyond the first week. Requires 2+ trekkers and a guide.
Nepal Visa: $30 (15 days), $50 (30 days), or $125 (90 days).
Meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara: ~$5–$10 per meal.
Tips for guides/porters: ~$10–$15 per day (optional but expected).
Personal expenses (Wi-Fi, charging, snacks, water): ~$25–$70/day.
Travel insurance (mandatory, covering trekking up to 6,000m and evacuation): ~$100–$200.
Optional Pokhara-Kathmandu flight: ~$100–$150 one way.
Total Estimated Cost (per person): ~$2,100–$2,600 (assuming $1,850 package; varies with season and group size).
Contact – Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal, offering clear skies, mild weather, and vibrant scenery. March–May features blooming rhododendrons, while September–November provides crisp mountain views. Winter (December–February) is colder but quieter, with possible snow at higher altitudes. Monsoon season (June–August) is wet, with risks of landslides and leeches.
Moderate to challenging, with 6–9-hour days and high passes (5,306m–5,416m). Suitable for fit trekkers with some experience; acclimatization days reduce altitude sickness risks.
Yes, since April 2023, a licensed guide is required for restricted areas like Nar Phu. A minimum of two trekkers is needed for permits.
ACAP (~$30), TIMS (~$10–$20), and RAP ($100/week Sept–Nov, $75/week Dec–Aug, plus $10–$15/day thereafter). Agencies handle permits.
Basic teahouses and homestays offer twin beds, shared bathrooms, and Nepali meals (dal bhat, momos). Nar Phedi may involve a monastery stay. Wi-Fi and hot showers cost ~$2–$5.