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Nar Phu Valley Trek
Distance: 130 km
Duration: 14 - 17 days
Country: 
Nepal
Nepal
The Nar Phu Valley Trek takes you on an incredible journey through the lesser-known region of the Himalayas, offering a unique and captivating experience. As you hike through this remote area, you will be enchanted by the untouched beauty of the landscapes. The trek will lead you to traditional villages where ancient customs and traditions are still preserved, providing a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. The Nar and Phu valleys are adorned with stunning natural features, including deep gorges, hanging bridges, and magnificent waterfalls. The rugged canyons and towering cliffs create a dramatic backdrop for your adventure. Along the way, you may have the opportunity to encounter rare wildlife and engage with the warm and friendly locals. The Nar Phu Valley Trek promises an unforgettable journey, combining breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and a sense of exploration that will leave you with cherished memories of the Himalayas.
Table of contents
Prepare for an adventure treking Nar Phu Valley Trek. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful trek.
Distances
- 14 - 17 days, 130 km, +4,850 m, 5,416 m high point
- daily: 4 - 8 hours, 8 - 15 km, +200 - 800 m gain
Route
- Through hike
- starting in Jagat
- ending in Jomsom
When to go
- April to June
- September to November
Permits
- 2 permits are needed
- costing around $130 total
Guide mandatory?
- yes
- It requires at least two group members
Accommodation
Teahouses, Basic LodgesThese are pictures taken while trekking Nar Phu Valley Trek. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of hiking Nar Phu Valley Trek, to help the community of hikers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting Nar Phu Valley, exploring remote villages and breathtaking landscapes.
Day 1
Drive to Jagat
Take a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, the starting point of the trek. Enjoy picturesque views of terraced fields, rolling hills, and traditional villages along the way.
Day 2
Trek to Dharapani (1,960 m)
Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +710 m
Embark on the trek and pass through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy glimpses of cascading waterfalls. Reach Dharapani, a charming village nestled amidst the mountains.
Day 3
Trek to Koto (2,610 m)
Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +540 m
Continue the trek through captivating landscapes, passing through quaint villages and terraced fields. Arrive at Koto, a small village located at the entrance of the Nar Phu Valley.
Day 4
Trek to Meta (3,560 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +950 m
Today's trek takes you deeper into the Nar Phu Valley, surrounded by towering mountains and unique rock formations. Reach Meta, a picturesque village perched at an elevation.
Day 5
Acclimatization Day in Meta (3,560 m)
Spend a day in Meta for acclimatization. Explore the surroundings, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and take in the stunning mountain views.
Day 6
Trek to Phu Gaon (4,080 m)
Distance: 7 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +520 m
Resume the trek and ascend through beautiful alpine landscapes, passing yak pastures and glacial streams. Arrive at Phu Gaon, a traditional village rich in Tibetan culture.
Day 7
Rest Day in Phu Gaon (4,080 m)
Take a well-deserved rest day in Phu Gaon. Immerse yourself in the unique culture, interact with the friendly locals, and explore the ancient monasteries in the village.
Day 8
Trek to Nar Phedi (3,490 m)
Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -590 m
Leave Phu Gaon behind and trek towards Nar Phedi, passing through rocky trails and enjoying breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Day 9
Trek to Nar Village (4,110 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +620 m
Today's trek takes you to Nar Village, a picturesque settlement perched on a hillside. Explore the village, interact with the hospitable locals, and soak in the authentic atmosphere.
Day 10
Trek to Ngawal (3,660 m)
Distance: 14 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: -450 m
Bid farewell to Nar Village and descend to Ngawal, a charming village known for its stunning views of the Annapurna range. Enjoy the serene surroundings and relax.
Day 11
Trek to Manang (3,540 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -120 m
Continue the trek to Manang, a popular town on the Annapurna Circuit trail. Witness the unique blend of Tibetan and Nepali cultures and indulge in local cuisine.
Day 12
Trek to Yak Kharka (4,020 m)
Distance: 9 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +480 m
Embark on a scenic trek from Manang to Yak Kharka, a grazing pasture surrounded by towering peaks. Marvel at the rugged landscapes and spot yaks grazing in the meadows.
Day 13
Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450 m)
Distance: 6 kmTime trekking / climbing: 4 hoursElevation change: +430 m
Continue the ascent towards Thorong Phedi, the last stop before crossing the Thorong La Pass. The trail offers stunning mountain views and a sense of accomplishment.
Day 14
Cross Thorong La Pass, Trek to Muktinath (3,800 m)
Distance: 15 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -1,616 m
Today's highlight is crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass, standing at an elevation of 5,416 meters. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views before descending to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site.
Day 15
Trek to Jomsom (2,720 m)
Distance: 15 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -1,080 m
Descend further down to Jomsom, a charming town located in the Kali Gandaki Valley. Experience the unique landscape of the Mustang region and celebrate the completion of the trek.
Day 16
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara, Return to Kathmandu
Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From Pokhara, return to Kathmandu by either flight or road, concluding your unforgettable Nar Phu Valley Trek.
The trek is 6 / 10, based on the below factors:
Terrain & route condition 7 / 10
Treks that involve rugged or uneven terrain, such as rocky paths, scree slopes, or dense forests, may require more technical skills or physical effort.
Altitude / Elevation 9 / 10
Considering the maximum altitude reached during the trek. Higher altitudes can present challenges like thin air, low oxygen levels, and potential altitude sickness.
Distance 6 / 10
The total distance of the trek. Longer treks generally require more endurance and physical fitness.
Elevation gain 8 / 10
Total elevation gain throughout the trek. Treks with significant altitude changes can be more challenging, especially if they involve steep ascents or descents.
Technical difficulty 4 / 10
Some treks may require basic technical skills like river crossings, using ropes, or scrambling over rocks.
Access to facilities / Remoteness 3 / 10
Based on the availability of support facilities such as accommodation, food, water sources, and emergency services. Treks with limited infrastructure or remote areas can be more challenging due to self-sufficiency requirements. The less support facilities there are the harder the trek.
Climate & weather 6 / 10
How tough are the prevailing weather and climate conditions during the trek. Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, or unpredictable conditions can add to the difficulty.
Nar Phu Valley Trek weather
How is the weather on Nar Phu Valley Trek, and when is the best time to go.
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is popularly done during the months of April to June and September to November when you can expect mild to warm temperatures and lower chances of rainfall, providing pleasant conditions for trekking in the region.
The best time to trek Nar Phu Valley Trek is in these months:
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
Be prepared for variable conditions and sudden changes, especially in higher altitudes.
Nar Phu Valley Trek Gear Packing List
What To Take to trek Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking T-shirts
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Fleece or down jackets
- Hiking pants
- Waterproof and breathable pants
- Thermal base layers
- Hiking socks
- Hat for sun protection
- Gloves
- Warm hat for cold weather
- Waterproof jacket
- Footwear:
- Hiking boots
- Sandals or trekking shoes for relaxation
- Extra pairs of socks
- Equipment:
- Trekking backpack
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Personal first aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Knife or multi-tool
- Quick-dry towel
- Navigation and Communication:
- Map or guidebook of the trekking route
- Compass
- GPS device or smartphone with offline maps
- Portable charger for electronic devices
- Food and Snacks:
- High-energy snacks
- Trail mix
- Instant meals or dehydrated food
- Miscellaneous:
- Cash (in local currency)
- Identification documents
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
- Travel adapter
- Waterproof bags or dry sacks
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
Nar Phu Valley Trek Services
Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation
The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers a range of services to support trekkers throughout their journey. Here's a brief overview of the services available on this route:
Accommodation
Accommodation options on the Nar Phu Valley Trek typically include teahouses and basic lodges, providing simple yet comfortable lodging facilities for trekkers.Food
Food is available along the route at teahouses and lodges. Expect to find a variety of meals, including local Nepalese dishes and international cuisine, with options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians.Guides
Experienced guides are available for hire on the Nar Phu Valley Trek, providing valuable assistance in navigating the route, offering cultural insights, and ensuring your safety. Costs for guides can vary, and it's advisable to compare services and prices to find a suitable guide for your needs.Porters
Porters can be hired to carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight and enjoy the journey. Porters are helpful for those who prefer a lighter load and are available for hire along the route.Medical facilities
While there may not be dedicated medical facilities along the route, some teahouses and lodges may have basic medical supplies. It is advisable to carry your own personal first aid kit and any necessary medications.Gear rental
There are gear rental services available in nearby towns like Kathmandu or Pokhara, where you can rent equipment such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, and down jackets. It's recommended to have your own personal gear, including appropriate clothing and footwear, before starting the trek.Transport
To reach the starting point of the trek in Jagat, you can hire private transportation or take a bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar and then change to a local jeep or bus to reach Jagat. At the end of the trek, you can return using similar transportation options.Internet / Phone
While internet and mobile phone connectivity may be limited along the Nar Phu Valley Trek, some teahouses and lodges might have Wi-Fi available for a fee. It's advisable to inform your loved ones about the limited communication options and make necessary arrangements beforehand.ATMs
ATMs are not available along the trekking route, so it's recommended to withdraw enough cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.Shops
There are a few small shops along the route where you can purchase basic supplies such as snacks, water, toiletries, and trekking gear. However, the options may be limited, so it's advisable to carry essential items with you.Nar Phu Valley Trek Accomodation
What is the accommodation like treking Nar Phu Valley Trek
The accommodation options along the Nar Phu Valley Trek are basic but comfortable tea houses and lodges. These lodges offer rooms with twin beds or dormitory-style accommodations. The prices range from $5 to $20 per night, depending on the location and amenities. Most lodges provide blankets, but it's advisable to carry a sleeping bag. Meals are available at the lodges, with options such as dal bhat (traditional Nepali meal), noodles, soups, and tea or coffee. It's recommended to carry some snacks and water purification tablets as well.
Nar Phu Valley Trek permits
What permits are needed for treking Nar Phu Valley Trek
For the Nar Phu Valley Trek, you will need to obtain the following permits:
1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- $30 (~3,000 in the local currency)
- Permit to enter and trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Available for purchase at the ACAP checkpoint in Besisahar or in Kathmandu.
2. Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (NRA)
- $100 (~10,000 in the local currency)
- Permit specifically required for the restricted Nar Phu Valley area. It costs USD100 for September to November, USD75 for December to August per person per week.
- Obtainable through registered trekking agencies in Nepal. It is recommended to arrange this permit in advance.
Nar Phu Valley Trek access - getting there
How to get to Nar Phu Valley Trek
There are several options available for getting to and from the start of the Nar Phu Valley Trek:
- Private Transportation: You can hire a private vehicle or taxi to reach the starting point of the trek in Jagat. This provides flexibility and convenience, but it can be relatively more expensive.
- Public Bus: You can take a public bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar, and then change to a local jeep or bus to reach Jagat. This is a more budget-friendly option, but it may involve multiple transfers and longer travel time.
- Shared Jeeps: Shared jeeps are a common mode of transportation in Nepal. You can find shared jeeps in Besisahar or nearby towns that can take you to Jagat or other entry points of the trek.
At the end of the trek in Jomsom, you can take a flight back to Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Get inspired by these incredible videos capturing the experience of climbing Nar Phu Valley Trek. From route highlights to summittrail views, these clips showcase the treks beauty and the challenges it presents. Have your own Nar Phu Valley Trek video? We'd love for you to share it with the community to inspire future trekkers.
These are variations on the typical route. Which could be added on; either part way along or at the start / end to extend the trek.
Tilicho Lake Side Trip
add 3 - 4 extra days
If you have extra days to spare and want to explore a stunning natural wonder, consider taking a side trip to Tilicho Lake from Manang. It is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). The side trip can be made between Manang and Yak Kharka and adds approximately 3-4 days to the trek, including acclimatization. The route takes you to the beautiful lake, surrounded by majestic peaks, and offers a unique and rewarding experience. Please ensure you are adequately prepared for high-altitude trekking and camping.
Nar Phu Valley Trek questions
What to know about trekking Nar Phu Valley Trek
Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.
Nar Phu Valley Trek Links
useful websites, Groups and communities
Groups / links with more info on the Nar Phu Valley Trek route.
Use facebook groups to find up to date info, plan trips and find trekking buddies.
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