
You can talk with our travel experts for departure dates and price details.
The Nar Phu trek is a special trek in the Annapurna area where mass tourism is mostly unheard of. It is literally a journey into the past where you will traverse the archaic mountain landscapes, cross the wild pass, and reach the unknown valley into the pristine depths of the Annapurna.
What makes our Nar Phu trek so special is that the route we have planned will diverge you from the typical Annapurna circuit except for a few initial and latter days. The other days, expect to always walk away from the well-trodden trails of the classic Annapurna Circuit.
Besides the unique trail, the other main attraction of our Nar Phu trek is the exploration opportunity of the seldom-visited Nar and Phu villages, along with the overwhelming crossing of the less-heard Kang La Pass (5306 m).
So if you are one of those hiking lovers who like to see the uncommon yet breathtaking elements of the Annapurna that the usual crowd to Annapurna misses, then the Nar Phu trek is the one for you. However, be prepared for the very rudimentary yet authentic rural atmosphere and a bit demanding physical experience.
Nar and Phu lie only a few kilometers on east of the Mustang Valley. They are on the north side of the mighty Annapurna and are framed by the gigantic presence of the Damodar on the north, Kanguru on the east, Pisang on the south, and Kang La Pass on the west.
The time-stood medieval jungles, the bizarre rock formations and caves, and very different monasteries make up the beauty of these villages. Their attraction is enhanced by the presence of the magnetic Tibetan Buddhist Bhotiyas, who are called the Khampas.
They have less focus on tourism and thrive on the Yarsa Gumba trade, agriculture, and animal herding.
The Nar Phu trek was initiated only in 2003 and still lies in a restricted area of the Himalayas. It means entry into the area is not permitted without proper authorization. A special permit must be applied for, and at least two people are required to obtain this permit.
Our Nar Phu trek itinerary, as usual, will begin from Kathmandu, from where you will approach the beautiful Annapurna mountains. A journey to Jagat will occur the next day of our 13 days Nar Phu trek along the significant Prithvi Highway.
The initial hiking days will then lead you to Koto and Meta, after which you will be inside the Nar Phu Valley. Be prepared to be hypnotized by the magnificence of the Himlung (7126 m), Amotsang (6392 m), Pokharkhang (6372 m), Bhrikuti (6476 m), and Kanguru (6367 m).
Our Nar Phu trek will then proceed you over the less heard Kang La Pass, where again you will feel the extraordinary presence of the Annapurna II (7937 m), IV (7525 m), III (7555 m), I (8091 m), Gangapurna (7455 m), Kanguru, Tilicho Peak (7134 m), and Himlung.
Once crossed this pass, you will rejoin the well-trodden trail of the Annapurna, thus returning to Kathmandu. The greener season of spring and bright autumn will be a perfect fit for this trip in Annapurna.
So, are you ready to go on the trek where origin meets spirit of discovery, and beauty of humility? Then welcome to our Nar Phu Trek.
Welcome to the land of Mountain Giants, Kathmandu! After a nice reception from our representative, your luggage will be loaded on our pickup vehicle.
Then, you will be driven through the dense streets of Kathmandu to your hotel. Take your time to settle in and wander around for a while to get to know the city.
In the evening, our guide will meet you for the first time over a welcome dinner organized by Ambition Himalaya, and he will clarify all the details about our Nar Phu trek.
Right after your breakfast, our Nar Phu trek will commence with your gradual departure from Kathmandu. The Prithvi Rajmarga will take us west toward the Trishuli town of Galchhi.
The highway will continue on taking us onward through Chitlang and then Mugling. From here on, the Mugling Narayanghat Highway will start to show us the way through Dumre.
With a bit of luck, if the distant sky is clear enough, we may take our first look at Langtang, Lamjung, Ganesh, and Annapurna mountains. Our bus will now leave the main road and divert right along the bumpier mountain road into the Marshyangdi Valley.
Eventually, we will reach the Besisahar town, where we will leave our bus and transfer into a shared jeep. It will take us further on through the pleasing towns of Bhulbhule (840 m), Ngadi (930 m), Dobhantar, Ghermu, Bahun Danda, and Syange before we are at Jagat, indicating officially we are in Annapurna.
Our trek into the high mountains of Nepal will finally begin from today. Tying our hiking boots for the first time, we will start walking into the deeply cut Marshyangdi Valley.
But first, in Jagat, we will have to register for the Annapurna Conservation Area. Next, we will traverse our first Buddhist village of Chamje (1430 m) and then Tal (1700 m).
We are now in the immense landscape of the Manang Valley. Our hike will continue on through Karte village before we stop for the night at Dharapani.
We are consistently gaining altitude now and also leaving the humid atmosphere of the subtropical forests. After we strengthen from our morning breakfast, our route from Dharapani will proceed via Bagarchhap Village (2160 m).
The increasing trail will keep on navigating through the stunning settlements of Danakyu, Timang, and Lata Marang (2400 m) before we get to rest at Koto.
Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Lamjung, and many other peaks will offer the spectacle of their white, shiny faces.
The Annapurna circuit trail will leave us today as we venture inside the stunningly splendid Nar Phu Valley. As we continue on our trail, we will first register for the Restricted Area Permit at the police checkpost.
Now, we will direct ourselves north and then begin our steep ascent into the breathtaking cut gorge terrain. Our uphill trail will lead us through the ancient coniferous jungle high above the Nar Khola. This river, after we cross Meta village, will be known as Phu Khola.
Traversing several rustic bridges, our ascent will keep going till we are at Dharmasala. Here, a rudimentary tea house here will be perfect to eat our Dal Vat.
Strengthening with Dal Vat power, our ascent will go on through a gradually transitioning landscape to Meta Village. The extensive Himalayan terrain formed by the intense peaks of Annapurna II, Lamjung, and Pisang will simply dazzle you here.
Leaving Meta, we will hike along the north trail that runs along the man-made mule and yak path. The mountain shrub land now begins to appear as we navigate through a few Tibetan-style and now-empty villages such as Junam Goth (3690 m) and Chyako.
As we proceed to reach Kyang, the mighty Annapurna II will start to shine across the southern horizon. Passing through the now deserted old Khampa settlements, we will eventually reach Kyang, which is also largely abandoned.
Today, we will be stepping into the most gorgeous spot of our Nar Phu trek, the village of Phu. Climbing high through the path adorned with Mani Walls and chorten, we will navigate the narrow gorge carefully.
Eventually, we will be standing tall at the front of the Phu Village entrance. From here, the Phu village is still 20 minutes farther. This village is like a medieval fortress placed high above the cliff.
The area’s seclusion has made it only a few tourists to come here. Time seems to freeze here with the amazing showcase of Kanguru, Amotsang, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna South, and I, Pokhar Khang, and Gangapurna.
Tashi Lakhang Monastery, which lies just over 100 meters above the village, and the prayer ceremony conducted here daily is worth a sight.
Today, we are set to reach the second most important attraction of our Nar Phu trek, the illustrious Nar Village. From Phu, we will take the south trail and traverse the open route back towards Phu Village.
Passing through the familiar atmosphere of Kyang, Chyako, and Junam Goth, we will plunge down along the rugged trail to Mahendra Bridge, which spans over the deep gorge.
The route across the bridge now becomes a bit straight as we head to Nar Phedi (3490 m). Nar Phedi Monastery here is worth our momentary glance.
Our route will not stop to elevate us till we arrive at the broad terrain decorated by the artistic work over Mani Walls. Watching Kanguru peak, we will engage in ascending for around 3 hours before we are at the traditional ground of the Nar Village.
The name of the village means the land of BLUE SHEEP locally. The village, only a few kilometers apart from Annapurna Circuit, still, it is still secluded in its own unique tranquility and isolation.
Today, we will be experiencing the most demanding and breathtaking Himalayan day on our Nar Phu trek itinerary. We will face the challenge of the 5306 m Kang La Pass today.
After a light morning breakfast, our climb will begin up along the Temdenzon Khola from where we will progress to Kanga La Phedi, which can be regarded as the base camp for this enormous pass.
Already, the magnificence of Kanguru, Gyaji Kang, Manaslu, and Ganesh can be felt. We will now turn southwest, where our climb will progress along a narrow, scree-covered path through rugged terrain.
As we approach the pass, we will see an idyllic glacial lake. The final stretch to the pass may be covered with snow, but it will be completely manageable.
Finally, we will make it to the pass where, at first, the pile of prayer flags will greet us. Embrace the Himalayan treasures of Nepal and take countless photographs of Annapurna II, IV, III, I, Gangapurna, Kanguru, Tilicho Peak, and Himlung.
Now, we will begin our sharp descent along a scree-covered path on a moraine slope to Ngawal. We are now back on the Annapurna trail and its warming comfort.
Now that we are beneath Annapurna, in its grand presence, we will begin to end our Nar Phu trek. But first, we will journey across the Upper Marshyangdi valley.
Once barren terrain has turned into rich, dense jungle once again, as we move through Pisang and Dhukhur Pokhari to reach Chame, which functions as the administrative town of the Manang district.
From Chame, our Nar Phu trek itinerary will lead us back towards Besisahar. A sharing jeep will be our transport, journeying us yet again through Koto, Timang, Dharapani, Tal, Jagat, Bahundanda, and Ngadi before we get off at the fulfilling comfort of Besisahar.
From Besisahar, a local bus will be our traveling friend, which will carry us for a time along the uneven mountain road. The smooth Highway of Prithvi Rajmarga will soon begin to journey us through Bhulbhule and Trishuli to Kathmandu.
If you are inclined, you can later take a small tour through Kathmandu city. Revisit the lanes of your past memories of your Nar Phu trek and reflect upon your travel experiences.
Today is your final moments in Kathmandu and make it count with a delicious cup of coffee amid the impressive atmosphere of Kathmandu. Our representative will one more time take you in our private drop-off vehicle to TIA.
Not satisfied with this itinerary? Customize Now
Optional Addons
(Available addons on extra cost)
Equipment you need to bring
Pair of trek boot, sleeping bag, down jacket, pullovers, neck scarf for evening/night/morning.
Sun hat and casual warm clothes for day.
Some pairs of good quality socks, slippers, suntan lotions, personal medications etc. Click here for more
Important Note:
We prioritize your safety all the time while traveling with Ambition Himalaya Treks & Expeditions. We want our valuable guests and staff to be safe thus we have given full authority to your tour leaders to modify, cancel or update any part of the itinerary if it is considered necessary due to safety concerns.
Ambition Himalaya promises that we will do our best to stick with the planned itinerary. However, natural disasters, weather disturbances, health conditions, or any other mishap may force us to change the planned itinerary and we hope you understand these concerns. Our leaders will give you the necessary information and discuss it with you before changing the itinerary.
Ambition Himalaya will accommodate you in a double room of a very reputable three-star tourist hotel in Kathmandu. They are pleasant with a welcoming atmosphere, along with the utilities essential for a comfortable night.
However, if you are willing to spend a little extra, you can also upgrade your Kathmandu accommodation to a private single room or choose from more lavish four or five-star hotels that will catch your fancy.
These upscale hotels are known for their serene locality and excellent hospitality services to their guests. From in-house restaurants, spa and sauna facilities, and gyms to sophisticated decor, spacious bedding, luxurious marble bathrooms, and attentive staff available around the clock, you will find everything you wish for.
Please let us know what your desire is while registering for our Nar Phu trek, and we will arrange the preferred accommodation for you before you are in Kathmandu.
If you like to stay a few more extra days in Kathmandu before or after your 13 days Nar Phu trek, then we can certainly arrange all the necessary logistics for you, from accommodation and meals to any tours and trips you wish to participate in.
Kathmandu brims with numerous options of touring and trekking opportunities, such as a two-day Kathmandu Valley tour, a short mountain flight, or a Heli excursion over Mount Everest, to name a few.
Likewise, you can also add one or two days in any village along the trek, such as Nar Village or Phu Village. You can also choose to travel from Besisahr to Pokhara if you wish.
Just inform us, and we will customize your Nar Phu trek itinerary and organize the activities that you like to indulge in. Please note that this might add a few extra expenses to your total trip cost.
To give you a thrill of your life from the very beginning of our Nar Phu trek, we have chosen to organize your travel from Kathmandu to Jagat in a local bus.
It will be refreshing, but at times quite lengthy, somewhat tiring, and fearful as well. So, if you like to have the comfort and flexibility in your travel along with the short bumpy ride, then we can also arrange a private jeep transport for you between Kathmandu and Jagat.
Adding a private jeep ride, however, will incur a small surcharge, but you will have more connection to nature en route with small stops wherever you desire.
The Nar Phu trek has been open for hiking adventure only since 2003, but it still permits limited access to Western tourism. It is because the valley is designated as restricted by the Nepal government, so a quite costly special permit is required for the trek.
The Nar Phu shares an open border with Tibet, which itself has practiced limited accessibility to Western tourists. Also, the Nar Phu region is a natural home for endangered wildlife such as the Blue Sheep.
So as not to disturb the natural ecosystem and retain its primitive charm and tradition, the Nar Phu trek is still categorized as a restricted adventure.
If you are planning your Nar Phu trek, then we suggest you the changing season of spring (March-May) for this adventure. Little rain, clear, cloudless days, mild heat of around 8 degrees Celsius, and the exploding colors of the sea of flowers will make this time simply phenomenal.
The autumn time, occurring from September-November, envelops the Nar Phu Valley wth 20 degrees Celsius heat. The clearings in the forest often open up the chance to see blue sheep en route.
The Nar Phu trek is also safeguarded from the June-August monsoon rains by the massive barrier of the Himalayas. However, the lower part below Nar Phu is prone to landslides.
The winter (December-February), however, blankets the Nar Phu valley in extreme low temperatures and deep snow, often making the Kang La Pass almost inaccessible. There is also quite a lower chance of a warm night in the shelter, as locals often descend to lower villages for protection.
Our 13 days Nar Phu trek is designated as a category three upper moderate trek, which matches the difficulty and challenges of the Everest Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Circuit trek.
The highest altitude that this trek will lead you to is 5306 m of the Kang La Pass. The day you will face its challenge will be quite long and exhausting that involves a 1200 m ascent and a descent of around 1700 m.
However, the pass is not technical and is neither harder nor longer compared to the more popular Nepali passes like Thorong La or Larkya La.
As for the walking trails throughout the Nar Phu trek, they are usually in good condition, but at times, they can be a hillside path carved into the cliff.
Another factor that you have to be aware of is the limited accommodations in Nar and Phu, where you will get comfort little to none. Plus, you will also have to look out for the harsher climate, like that in Tibet.
Therefore, the Nar Phu trek will require all its guests to be reasonably fit and healthy
If you are an absolute beginner with no hiking experience on your resume whatsoever, then we suggest you not to involve in the Nar Phu trek itinerary.
The adventure has numerous challenges that can be harder for the new hikers to digest, such as high altitude, remote locations, rugged terrain, and the potential for altitude sickness.
However, if you are still intrigued and determined to get on the Nar Phu trek, then you should be prepared to exert yourself physically and mentally. You should also be ready to give up your usual comfort for a few days.
Also, train yourself extensively and try on some easier trekking trails of Poon Hill or the Langtang trek.
Altitude sickness, aka AMS, is not an exclusive condition that will impact you only at extreme altitudes. In fact, the very earlier signs of AMS will start to appear as soon as you are over 2500 m.
Our Nar Phu Valley trek is no doubt not an extreme but a high altitude trek where your average elevation will occur between 3000 to 4000 m. The elevation will also keep on increasing as the days progress, ultimately culminating at over 5000 m.
Plus, the air in Nar and Phu is drier and less humid like in Tibet, contributing to AMS. However, there is no need to panic as our Nar Phu trek itinerary has taken a more relaxed approach with a very steady and slower increase in altitude.
To prevent the occurrence of AMS, we suggest you stick to the instructions our guide gives you. Don’t ascend too quickly and rest if you begin to feel altitude.
Hydration is essential along with adequate rest. Take Diamox starting from Kathmandu so your acclimatization can be rapid. Stay alert for any signs of headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, lack of sleep, irritation, and extreme fatigue.
The Nar Phu trek can be even more adventurous and wondrous if you prepare yourself thoroughly. Since the journey is long and steep, it is very essential for you to be extraordinarily fit and healthy.
So we suggest you start working out in the gym or at your home. You can start with daily walks and stair climbing to get used to the elevation. You can also add squats, cycling, running, pull-ups, push-ups, and swimming to enhance your endurance.
When you are in Nepal, first go on trekking to Langtang, Poon Hill, or similar easy trekking journeys into the mountains. Also set realistic expectations about the Nar Phu trek with online visual information.
If you are serious about hiking and also a seasoned backpacker, then you may also think about taking a short yet challenging detour towards the highest alpine lake in the world, Tilicho.
From Nagawal, you can stop at Manang and then make your way up to Khangsar to see Lake Tilicho. You can also consider hiking the entire Annapurna circuit, which includes the added challenge of the overpowering Thorong La Pass, the highest trekking mountain pass on the planet.
Since Thorong La Pass will often be crowded, you can instead go for the staggering challenge of less-frequented Mesokanto Pass (5300 m), which is more technical.
Your route to this pass will cross Dharmasala over the pass and join the Muktinath Jomsom route.
Ambition Himalaya has arranged a double occupancy room in a medium three-star hotel in Kathmandu, including a bed and breakfast offer. On the trek to Nar and Phu, your overnight stays will be in mountain lodges.
Please understand that these lodges will be a bit simpler than those found on the Annapurna Circuit. Generally, the tourist infrastructure in Nar and Phu is not as commercialized, and some of them have been built only recently.
Therefore, bringing your own sleeping bag will be the best idea to keep yourself warm in the lodges.
When it comes to meals, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu will be up to you, as there are way too many options available. On the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with seasonal fruits after dinner, will be at your table at the lodges.
Dal vat, momos, potatoes, egg dishes, noodles, and curry are some of the common food items that you will find in the lodges.
In terms of transportation, private airport transfers will be conducted in a four-wheel vehicle provided by Ambition Himalaya. When the journey begins, a local bus will take you from Kathmandu to Besisahar, and then a shared jeep will transport you to Jagat.
Similarly, at the end of the trip, a shared jeep will take you from Chame to Besisahar, where a local bus will bring you back to Kathmandu.
We also offer accommodation and transport upgrade options for an additional fee.
Your first priority for the Nar Phu trek is getting the right kind of travel insurance for the journey. The remote atmosphere of the Nar and Phu villages is pristine, but they are also difficult to access by road.
In the event of any unfortunate incidents, the only way for the rescue would be by helicopter, which will be very expensive if you have to do it on your own.
So, the Nepalese government has mandated travel insurance wth te hiking and altitude coverage with helicopter transport up to 5500 m elevation for the Nar Phu trek.
Remember, if you fail to present the proper travel insurance document, the restricted permit will not be issued to you. Additionally, consider adding the medical and accidental coverage along with financial protection against theft, loss of baggage and gear, or any unexpected extra stays.
The Nar Phu trek occurs in the restricted section of the Annapurna, which means you can simply enter the area. You must be a part of an organized trek with a registered company like ours.
We will then apply for a special permit, which requires at least two people and a local certified guide. This permit will be given to us by the Kathmandu Immigration office, which will be active for a week.
Once crossing this time limit, an extension can be made on the permit by adding a minimal cost. The price for the Special permit for the Nar Phu trek depends on the season of your trek:
The other permits issued by the tourism office in Kathmandu that are also essential for the Nar Phu Trek include:
Our 13 days Nar Phu trek total cost already includes the permit fees.
Want to learn more about this journey in-depth? Essential Trip Information includes a thorough itinerary, information for visa processing, Accommodations, Food , Acclimatization’s and pretty much anything else you could possibly need to know about this tour. Read more inside.
The Nar Phu trek is a remote hiking expedition into the hidden corners of the Annapurna region. Nar and Phu villages are the primary attractions of this trek, which will give you glimpses of the wild nature and authentic Buddhist customs of the Khampa people.
Usually, the Nar Phu trek extends between 12 to 14 days.
The opportunity to see lesser-known Himalayan peaks of Nepal beside Annapurna or Everest, the authentic raw culture and customs of the Khampa people and their one-of-a-kind monasteries, and the wildest nature that will transport you to the bygone medieval time are some unusual attractions of our Nar Phu trek.
Ambition Himalaya offers you the option to customize your Nar Phu trek itinerary based on your available days and budget. Therefore, the total cost of your trip may vary based on the number of days you will spend trekking, your country of residence, the duration of your city visit, the quality of your guide, the equipment provided, the quality of hotels in the city, the type of transportation, the number of trekkers in your group, the quality of teahouses during the trek, the meals included, and numerous other items. So we request you to message us on WhatsApp at +977-9851148898 for an accurate cost estimate.
Yes, we suggest you get the Namaste SIM Card as it has extensive coverage in the area. You will also be able to use the occasional 4G connectivity, allowing you to be online frequently.
At Nar and Phu villages, you may not have WiFi all the time, but on the rest of the Nar Phu trek trail, you will find both paid and free WiFi options.
Certainly, now that government-supplied electricity, along with solar panels, is available in the region, you can easily charge your mobile and other gadgets, but at an extra payment to the lodge owner.
Yes, Himlung Peak (7126 m) in Phu Village can be your option.
The Nar Phu trek distance is approximately 70 to 80 km.
No, but above-average fitness is essential for this remote mountain hiking expedition.
Yes, but only if they are extremely fit, enthusiastic, thoroughly prepared, and trained.
No gear is essential for the Nar Phu trek.
October, followed by April, will open the excellent period for your Nar Phu trek.
Generally, we include from 6 to 10 travelers in a group trip, intending to keep our group small.
For a group consisting of fewer than 6 travelers, one guide, and for a larger group, assistant guides will be provided.
On the Annapurna trail, you will have a very cozy, well-built, and all utilities equipped guesthouse. In Nar and Phu, however, the living setting will be pretty rudimentary and simple.
They will be organically prepared, fresh, and very nutritious. All your preferences (Veg, Non-veg, or Vegan) will also be taken into account.
You will meet all your fellow members and our guide on the evening of your first day in Kathmandu.
Will I have to pay any extra fees on-site, or is everything included in the total cost of the trek?
Yes, only for your personal expenditure, such as WiFi, hot shower, charging, snacks, laundry, etc. Please explore our excluded list in detail.
Just visit our website, go to the Nar Phu trek, and click on the Book Now option.
As soon as the departure dates are posted on our website, we also offer an early bird discount for the trip.
We request for the 20% advance deposit to confirm your Nar Phu trek. You can clear the due amount once you are in Kathmandu, either in person or online.
You can talk with our travel experts for departure dates and price details.
20 Days / From: US$ 950
13 Days / From: US$ 970
14 Days / From: US$ 640
16 Days / From: US$ 950
Ambition Himalaya © 2025, all rights reserved. | Developed by: i3web