Nar Phu Valley Trek

Difficulty of Nar Phu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley trek is considered moderate to strenuous in difficulty due to its rugged terrain, high altitude (crossing Kang La Pass at 5,240 meters), and long daily hikes (6-8 hours), requiring good physical fitness and acclimatization.

Trekking to the remote village of Nar Phu involves crossing the Kang La pass on a narrow path, with daily distances ranging from 10-12 kilometers and occasionally up to 15 kilometers.

The trip altitude starts at an elevation of 2,610 meters (Koto Village) and reaches the highest point at Kang La Pass (5,240 meters).  But as we have included Annapurna Circuit Trek in this Nar Phu Valley Trek itinerary, it reached an altitude of 5,416 meters (Thorong La Pass).

The hiking hours per day will be 5 -6 hours on average, involving both uphill and downhill sections, requiring good stamina and endurance.

Due to the high altitude, we have included multiple acclimatization days in the trip to prevent altitude sickness.

Special consideration: Generally, the Nar Phu Valley Trek starts and ends in Koto as a loop and involves traveling by bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar and then to Manang, with a local jeep ride from Besisahar to Koto. However, we have introduced a unique itinerary for the Nar Phu Valley package with the all-time popular Annapurna Circuit. Our Trek starts in Koto village and ends in Pokhara.

Best Time for Nar Phu Valley Trek

The best times to trek the Nar Phu Valley are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

Spring (March to May):

During springtime, trekking to Nar Phu Valley offers the best chances for clear skies and stunning high mountain views. The weather is generally mild, with pleasant temperatures that are comfortable for trekking. All guest houses/tea houses along the Nar Phu route are typically open during this season.

Autumn (September to November)

During autumn (September to November), the Nar Phu Valley offers a spectacular trekking experience with clear skies and pleasant and moderate temperatures. Trekkers can experience the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Even during the peak season, the trails of Nar Phu Village are not crowded; it is the best option for off-the-beaten Annapurna Region Trekking for peaceful hikers.

Monsoon Season (Late June to Early September):

The interesting fact about Nar Phu Valley is that it lies in a rain shadow, resulting in low chances of rainfall.  The monsoon season (June to August) can still bring challenges like muddy trails, landslides, and leeches. Expect rain in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other lower villages. Hence, you can even opt for this trek during the monsoon season.

Winter in NarPhu Village: Why Avoid a Nar Phu Hike in winter?

Winter in the Nar Phu Valley (Annapurna region of Nepal) brings very cold temperatures, potentially with snow on the trails, and the possibility of mountain passes being closed due to heavy snowfall. Expect bitterly cold temperatures, with nighttime temperatures potentially dropping to -10°C or lower in high-altitude areas. Mountain passes (both Thorong La and Kang La Pass) in the area may be closed due to heavy snowfall, potentially making trekking difficult or impossible. Phu Village, in particular, is largely abandoned by residents during the winter months as they seek warmer locations.

Immunization

While no Mandatory or specific immunization requirements for Nar Phu Valley trekking in Nepal aren't explicitly mentioned, it's crucial to consult with your doctor about recommended vaccinations and to be aware of the high altitude and potential risks of altitude sickness.

Permit for Nar Phu Valley Trek

To trek in the Nar Phu Valley, you'll need both a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The permit cost for the Nar Phu Trek in Nepal differs from season to season.

During peak season time, which is during the month of September to October, the cost of a permit to Nar Phu Valley (RAP) is slightly higher. While ACAP price remains the same.

These permits are already included in your trip package. We will arrange all the permits.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory, and arguably essential, for any trek in Nepal, including the Annapurna Circuit and Nar-Phu region. The trek takes place in a remote, mountainous area, making access to medical care challenging and potentially expensive.

Crucial travel insurance coverage includes medical expenses, emergency evacuation (including helicopter rescue, essential for high-altitude treks), and potential repatriation costs. Consider policies covering altitude sickness, personal liability, loss of luggage, and cancellation/curtailment (cancellation or shortening of your trip due to unforeseen circumstances like injury).

Distance Guide: Kathmandu to Nar Phu Village

To get to Nar Phu village from Kathmandu, you'll first drive to Dharapani via Besisahar, then to Koto, and then trek through the Annapurna Circuit route, eventually reaching Phu and Nar villages.

The distance from Kathmandu to the initial point of Nar Phu Valley, i.e., Dharapani, is approximately 180km (7-8 hours). From Dharapani, continue the trek to Koto (2060m), where the trekking portion of the journey begins.

From Koto, the trekking distance to Nar Phu Valley is around 55 km one way. In total, from the initial Koto village to the High Mountain pass of Annapurna Circuit and lastly to Muktinath, it is around 95 km to 105 km. It takes 7 -10 days to complete Nar Phu Valley trek, and including Annapurna Circuit routes with Thorong La pass, it takes 17 – 21 days.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Cost

The cost for a Nar Phu Valley trek in Nepal can range from $1099 to $1599 per person, depending on factors like group size, itinerary, and services included, and it typically covers permits, transportation, guides, porters, accommodation, and meals.

A standard 10-day trek to Nar Phu may cost between $1099 to $1599 per person. Longer itineraries, such as a 12-day trek, may cost slightly more, potentially upwards of $1440 per person. Combined treks, like Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit, could range from $1340 to $2200 per person, depending on group size.

Nar Phu Valley Trek – 2025 with Nepal Hiking Team

As per our itinerary, you will travel through the remote villages of Nar Phu and widely popular Annapurna Circuit Trails, which make our trip package slightly higher than the other trekking agencies.

With Nepal Hiking Team, the price for the Nar Phu Village Trek with High Altitude Thorong La Pass Trek is $2,150 per person.

This cost covers 21 nights of accommodation, including guesthouses during the trek and hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara, as well as meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and breakfast while in Kathmandu & Pokhara.

Additionally, trekking permits and government taxes are included, along with the services of a licensed guide and porter.

The package also provides essential trekking gear, such as a duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket, all of which must be returned after the trip.  Moreover, the price includes all necessary transportation.

Additional Cost

During the Nar Phu Valley trek, aside from permits, food, accommodation, transportation, and guide costs, you may encounter additional expenses like personal shopping, emergency supplies, and tips for staff. We recommend taking Nepalese cash of around 25,000 to 30,000 as an additional cost for the trip. This cost is used during the trip for your personal expenses like hot showers, drinks, electricity, WiFi, extra meals, medication, and toiletries.

Accommodation During Nar Phu Valley Trek in Nepal

Although Nar and Phu Valley lies in a remote region of Nepal, you will find lodges and teahouses along the trail that cater to trekkers. Trekkers can primarily find basic but clean teahouses and guesthouses, offering shared or private rooms (often on a twin-sharing basis) with varying amenities and prices, with options ranging from budget-friendly to slightly more comfy.

The lodges during the trails may not be as par as those found on Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp, yet they offer all basic amenities needed to survive in the isolated and wild trail.

Expect basic amenities like shared bathrooms, food, shelter, and limited electricity to charge your devices, though some teahouses may offer hot showers.

Meals

During the Nar-Phu Valley trek, you can expect to find a mix of Nepali and Tibetan-influenced cuisine, with staples like Dal Bhat (a hearty and nutritious meal of lentils, rice, and curry), Momos (steamed dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soups), and Chow Mein (stir fried noodles) being popular choices, along with options like Tsampa (made from roasted barley flour, often eaten with yak butter and yak milk) fried rice, pancakes, and Tibetan bread.

We, Nepal Hiking Team, offer all trekkers the flexibility to choose their meals from the menu provided by the teahouse.

Drinking Water

During the Nar Phu Valley Trekking, you’ll encounter fresh, relatively clean and drinkable fresh streams off the mountain, and bottled water and hot water is available for purchase in villages. Water sources are typically available on the trail every 1-2 hours.

While the water may seem clean, even though locals around there drink this water directly, we recommend purifying it using purification tablets, drops, or a portable water filter to avoid any potential upsets.

Bottled water is available with prices varying based on altitude (US $ 1 -5). Apart from the drinking water, in the Nar Phu Valley, the cost of tea, coffee, and other fluid items is generally comparable to other mountain regions, with tea costing USD 1.5 to 3 and coffee USD 2 to 4.

Electricity

While the lower regions of the Annapurna trek have electricity, the Nar Phu Valley trek, being a remote, high-altitude area, has limited and unreliable electricity, especially at higher elevations. Some teahouses in the Nar Phu Valley even use solar panels for the power, but the capacity may not be sufficient for charging multiple devices.

Charging your devices at lodges can cost around $1-3 per hour, depending on the device and location. The higher the elevation, the higher the cost of charging.

Recommendation: Carry extra batteries and a power bank for your camera, phone, and other devices to ensure you have enough power throughout the trek.

Wi Fi

Nar Phu Valley Trek route offers Wi-Fi, though it’s not guaranteed and comes at an additional cost. The Wi-Fi connectivity can be poor, and it's advisable to buy a Nepali SIM card (NTC or Ncell) for mobile data access where available. You can buy these local SIM cards from local phone shops in Kathmandu or at the Airport to have mobile data access when available.

NTC and Ncell are generally considered the best SIM cards for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, including the Nar Phu Valley Trek, with good network coverage in most areas except Thorong Phedi.

Highest point of the Trek

The highest point on the Nar Phu trek, which includes Kang La Pass, is at an altitude of 5,320 meters (17,454 feet). Kang La Pass is the highest point on the standard Nar Phu trek route, reaching 5,320 meters. Whereas Nar and Phu villages are located at an altitude of approximately 13,724 feet (4,183 meters).

According to our specialized itinerary, the Nar and Phu village trek is combined with the Annapurna Circuit route. The highest point is Thorong-La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 17,769 feet (5,416 meters).

Preparation for the Nar Phu Trek

To prepare for the Nar Phu Valley trek including Annapurna CIrcuit side trip, focus on building stamina and endurance through regular cardio exercises like hiking & trekking with a pack, running, or cycling. Train for at least 2-3 months, pack appropriately with layers, and practice acclimatization by ascending slowly and taking breaks. 

Allow your body time to acclimatize on a scheduled day (Manang) to the altitude by spending a few days at a lower altitude before moving to higher altitudes.

Packing List for Nar Phu Valley Trek

For a comfortable and safe trek to Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit, pack sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, a good sleeping bag, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first-aid kit.

Essential Gear & Clothing:

• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, warm socks (wool or technical fabric), and consider ice cleats/micro spikes for summer/winter months.
• Clothing: Layers are key, including base layers, insulating layers (fleece or down), and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf.
• Sleeping: A good quality sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, and consider a sleeping mat for extra comfort.
• Backpack (15 – 25 kg): A comfortable and durable backpack with multiple sections and a rain cover.
• Hydration: Hydration bladder and water bottles with filtration system.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, UV protected sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the strong sun at high altitudes.
• First Aid: A well-stocked first-aid kit with essential personal medications and supplies.
• Other: Trekking poles can be helpful, especially on steep inclines and descents.
• Altitude Sickness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, shortness of breath, nausea) and take precautions to prevent it, such as acclimatizing slowly and staying hydrated. Consider Diamox for altitude sickness prevention.
• Energy: Pack energy bars (Snickers, nuts) or snacks to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
• Navigation: Carry a Nar Phu Valley map and compass and know how to use them.
• Cash: Carry some local currency (NRS) for teahouse payments and tips.

Where to buy Trekking gears in Kathmandu, Nepal? Trekking gear is widely available in Kathmandu's Thamel area. The shops offer various trekking equipment such as jackets, portable water bottles, trekking sticks, sleeping bags, duffle bags, boots, and others.

What trekking gear does NHT provide?

We, Nepal Hiking Team, provide all the trekkers with a four-season sleeping bag, a down jacket (available sizes: M, L, XL), a duffle bag for packing your essential clothing of capacity 70 ltr, and a hand map of Nar Phu Valley.

These items must be returned after your trip upon completion. Additionally, as a token of appreciation with us Nepal Hiking Team, we offer complimentary items such as a Nepal Hiking Team t-shirt, cap, and a trip completion certificate mentioning the maximum height reached during the trip, which you can keep as a memento of your Nepal Nar Phu Trek.

Nar Village: What is special about it?

Nar village located in the Nar-Phu Valley of the Annapurna Region, is a hidden jewel of the Nepal Himalayas.  The people of Nar and Phu village are believed to be descendants of Khampa warriors who migrated from Tibet (Tibet's Kham province) generations ago. The local villages of Nar and Phu are preserving their Tibetan heritage and culture, including their language, customs, pride, and religious practices.

The inhabitants of Nar Phu are traditionally nomads. During the trip to Nar, you can encounter nomadic camps/shelters with herds of sheep or yaks. Some of these nomads still reside in tents woven out of yak hair.

Witness the ruins of citadels (dzongs) built by them, practice a blend of Buddhism and Bon religion, and visit the ancient Tashi Lakhang Gompa & Nar Phedi Monastery, which dates back three hundred years.

Customization

You can customize the Nar Phu Valley trek by extending it to include Tilicho Lake (the highest lake in the world), adjusting the duration and starting/ending points, and incorporating acclimatization days and side treks. 

The standard Nar Phu Valley trek is typically 10-12 days, but we provide 17 days of Nar Phu valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek. We offer trekkers to customize their trekking package to be longer or shorter based on their preferences and time constraints. You can stay longer in Kathmandu and Pokhara as well and explore these famous city on your own or opt for our day tour package with an additional cost.

Contact our travel expert for support and booking assistance anytime

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