Nar Phu Valley Trek

Your adventure begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The journey takes about 9 hours and passes through scenic landscapes, rivers, terraced fields, and traditional villages. Dharapani is a small town at the edge of the Annapurna region where you will spend the night preparing for your trek ahead.

Today you start trekking through beautiful pine forests and charming villages along the Marsyangdi River. The path gradually ascends to Koto, which is known as the gateway to the Nar Phu Valley. You will enjoy your first views of the surrounding mountains while getting a feel of rural Himalayan life.

From Koto, you enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley, an area known for its isolation and traditional Tibetan culture. The trail passes through narrow gorges, dense forests, and small settlements before reaching Meta. Along the way, you may spot local wildlife and stunning natural scenery.

This is a longer day as you trek deeper into the valley. You will pass the villages of Chyakhu and Kyang, each reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Finally, you arrive at Phu Village, a medieval settlement that seems frozen in time, with traditional stone houses and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

Today is for rest and acclimatization to the high altitude. You can explore Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, interact with the friendly local people, and enjoy breathtaking views of Himlung Himal. Take it slow, relax, and soak in the unique culture and serene environment.

You descend gradually today towards Nar Phedi. The trail offers peaceful walks through valleys and along small streams. Nar Phedi is a small settlement where you will stay in a monastery guesthouse, experiencing local hospitality in a spiritual setting.

A steep climb brings you to Nar Village, which is more vibrant and colorful compared to Phu. The village is home to traditional stone houses, mani walls, and prayer flags. You can wander around, observe local life, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Spend a day hiking around Nar to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. The nearby trails provide beautiful views of the Nar Phu Valley, Annapurna II, and surrounding mountains. This is also a great day to interact with locals and learn more about their way of life.

Today is one of the most challenging but rewarding days. You will cross the Kang La Pass, which offers spectacular views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and other peaks. After the climb, you descend to Ngawal, a picturesque village on the Annapurna Circuit.

A relatively short and easy day as you trek to Manang, a well-known village on the Annapurna Circuit. Manang is a popular stop for trekkers to rest, acclimatize, and enjoy its friendly tea houses and shops.

If time and energy allow, you can take an optional side trek to Tilicho Base Camp. The trail passes through beautiful valleys and moraines with stunning mountain vistas. This trek gives you a closer look at Tilicho Peak and the surrounding landscape.

For those willing, an early morning hike takes you to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The views are absolutely breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks reflecting in the crystal-clear water. After soaking in the scenery, you return to Tilicho Base Camp for the night.

You start reconnecting with the Annapurna Circuit trail today, descending to Yak Kharka, a small settlement surrounded by grazing lands for yaks. Enjoy the alpine scenery and the quiet environment of this peaceful village.

A shorter trek today allows you to reach Thorong Phedi, the base camp for Thorong La Pass. Prepare your gear, rest well, and get ready for the long day ahead. The surrounding mountains create a dramatic landscape that feels otherworldly.

This is the grand finale of your trek. You will cross Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. After a long descent, you arrive at Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. From here, you can drive or trek down to Jomsom and fly or drive back to Pokhara or Kathmandu, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through Nar Phu Valley and the Annapurna region.