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Nar Phu Valley Trek
The Nar Phu Valley Trek follows a remote route through the Annapurna region, passing the villages of Nar and Phu. Opened to trekkers only in 2003, this restricted area is the kind of place where Tibetan Buddhist traditions shape the landscape, and mountain views like Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Huichuli steal the show. Fair warning: this trek isn’t easy. It’s one of Nepal’s toughest, so prepare your legs and strong determination.
Starting and ending in Kathmandu, the journey usually takes about three weeks. But the actual trek starts from Jagat. Don’t expect crowded trails or fancy teahouses here. You’ll only find thick forests, high-altitude calm, and villages where locals’ hospitality is the real five-star treatment. If you like peaceful travel, cultural, and naturally beautiful, this trek is more than perfect.
We at Himalayan 360 proudly offer the best 18-day Nar Phu Valley Trek package. Reach out to us directly or continue reading below to find out what makes this trek so special.
Max. Altitude
5,416 m/17,770 ft
Best Season
March, April, May, September, October & November
Difficulty
Destination
Nepal
Transportation
Bus, jeep
Start / End
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accommodation
Meals
Language
English
Route
Kathmandu – Phu – Nar – Manang – Muktinath – Pokhara – Kathmandu
Activities
Hiking or Trekking
Trip Type
Trekking
Trek Distance
145 km/90 mile
Major highlights of trekking in Nar Phu Valley
- Witness the glorious views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Make a short visit to the ancient Nar Phedi Monastery and explore its spiritual and peaceful atmosphere.
- Trek through and experience the remote and Tibetan-influenced Phu and Nar Village.
- Travel through thick forests, rivers, suspension bridges, rugged terrain, and high-altitude passes.
- Spot diverse flora and fauna within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Cross two high passes: Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass.
A Day on the Nar Phu Valley Trek
A typical day on the Nar Phu Valley Trek will start early in the morning, around 6:30 AM. You will have a warm breakfast before packing our gear and beginning our trek by 7:30 AM. The trail will take us through rugged landscapes, narrow canyons, and traditional Tibetan villages. Along the way, you will take short breaks to enjoy the views and rest. By midday, around 12:30 PM, you will stop at a teahouse or a scenic spot for lunch, enjoying a warm meal and rehydrating before continuing the journey.
After lunch, you will resume trekking, gradually ascending or descending, depending on the trek route. The afternoon trek will be more relaxed, allowing us to explore monasteries, interact with locals, or take in the breathtaking surroundings. By 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, you will reach our destination for the day, where you will settle into a teahouse, freshen up, and relax. A hearty dinner will be served around 6:30 PM, followed by an evening of storytelling or stargazing before resting for the next day’s adventure.
Nar Phu Valley Trek Outline Itinerary
18 Days Nar Phu Valley Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Highest Altitude: | 1,355m/4,446ft |
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and assist you with the transfer to the hotel. You will be staying in Thamel. It is a tourist hub, known for its shops, restaurants, and cultural vibrancy. This day is reserved for rest and acclimatization after your journey. No meals are included, so that you can explore local eateries at your leisure.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | N/A |
Accomodations: | 3 Star Hotel |
Day 02: Trek Briefing and Preparation of Restricted Area Permit
This day is dedicated to preparing for your trek. You will attend a detailed briefing session where your guide will explain the trek itinerary, safety measures, and what to expect during the journey. Additionally, the necessary permits for trekking in restricted areas will be arranged. You will have the rest of the day to explore Thamel, shop for any last-minute gear, or relax.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | Breakfast |
Accomodations: | 3 Star Hotel |
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Jagat
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Time: | 8 Hours Drive |
Highest Altitude: | 1,300 m/4,265ft |
An early morning drive will take us from Kathmandu to Besisahar, passing through green hills, rivers, and terraced farmlands. From Besisahar, we will switch to a four-wheel-drive vehicle for a rough off-road journey to Jagat. Along the way, we will see Syange, where a beautiful waterfall cascades down the cliffs, and we will follow the Marshyangdi River through lush valleys and remote villages before reaching the stone-built village of Jagat.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | Lunch and Dinner |
Accomodations: | Tea House or Lodge |
Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 14 km/8.6 mile |
Ascent: | 623 m/2,044 ft |
Descend: | 63 m/207 ft |
Trek Duration: | 6 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 1,860 m/6,102 ft Dharapani |
Leaving Jagat, we will begin our trek through terraced fields and dense forests, following the Marshyangdi River. We will cross a suspension bridge to reach Chamje, a small village surrounded by cliffs. The trail then ascends steeply into the Manang district, leading us to Tal, a stunning village situated in a wide, flat valley beside a calm river. From Tal, we will walk along rocky paths, pass Karte village, and continue through pine forests until we reach Dharapani, one of the largest villages in this region.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea House or Lodge |
Day 05: Trek Dharapani to Koto
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 14.6 km/9 mile |
Ascent: | 836 m/2,743 ft |
Descend: | 96 m/315 ft |
Trek Duration: | 6 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 2,600 m/8,530 ft Koto |
We will leave Dharapani and walk through a forest of pine and fir trees. The fresh mountain air will make the trek enjoyable. As we walk, we will see Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. After a few hours, we will reach Bagarchhap. The trail will then take us to Timang. From Timang, we will continue trekking through rhododendron and pine forests. We will pass by Thanchowk, a quiet village with Buddhist chortens. The final part of the trek will follow the river and take us to Koto.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 06: Trek from Koto to Meta
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 15.8 km/9.8 miles |
Ascent: | 1,030 m/3,379 ft |
Descend: | 70 m/393 ft |
Trek Duration: | 6 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | Tea house or lodge |
Leaving Koto, we will enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley. We will walk along the Soti Khola River, following a trail that winds through dense pine and fir forests. As we ascend, we will reach Dharmasala. Here, we can take a short break and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The landscape will start to change from thick forests to open meadows, offering breathtaking views of Kang Guru and Pisang Peak. The final stretch of our trek will take us on a steep climb to Meta.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Hotel |
Day 07 : Trekking from Meta to Phu Village
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 18.1 km/11.2 miles |
Ascent: | 440 m/1,445 ft |
Descend: | 80 m/262 ft |
Trek Duration: | 6 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 4,080m/13,386 Phu Village |
Continuing from Meta, we will trek toward Phu Village, walking through a rugged, remote trail with unique rock formations and deep gorges. We will pass Chyakhu and Kyang, both of which were ancient Tibetan refugee settlements. Along the way, we will see colorful chortens and mani walls, showing the strong Tibetan influence in the region. The trail will then descend before making a final ascent to Phu Village. This village is rich in Tibetan culture, with a historic monastery and traditional stone houses stacked against the hills.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 08: Rest in Phu Village
We will spend a full day in Phu Village to explore its rich culture and natural beauty. In the morning, we will visit the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, where we may see monks performing daily prayers. The village offers stunning views of Himlung Himal. Walking through the narrow alleys, we will observe the daily life of the villagers. We can interact with them and learn about their traditions. In the evening, we will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Phu before resting for the night.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 09: Trek from Phu Village to Nar Phedi
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 16.5 km /10.2 miles |
Ascent: | 0 m/0 ft |
Descend: | 590 m/1,936 ft |
Trek Duration: | 5 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 4,080m/13,386 ft Phu Villag |
Leaving Phu Village, we will retrace our steps along the rugged trail, passing through the windswept landscape and deep canyons. We will walk past Kyang, where we can see the ruins of old stone settlements once used by Tibetan traders. The trail then descends gradually toward Nar Phedi, a peaceful spot where we will stay in a simple monastery lodge. Here, we can interact with the monks and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the region.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 10: Trek from Nar Phedi to Nar Village
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 5.2 km / 3.2 miles |
Ascent: | 665 m/2,182 ft |
Descend: | 45 m/148 ft |
Trek Duration: | 4 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 4,110 m/13,484 ft Nar Village |
The next morning, we will start our steep ascent toward Nar Village, passing through winding trails and Buddhist chortens decorated with prayer flags. The climb will be challenging, but the breathtaking views of Pisang Peak will make it worth it. As we approach Nar Village, we will see its unique cluster of stone houses, built tightly together for warmth. The village is rich in culture, with ancient monasteries and traditional farming terraces surrounding it.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 11: Trek from Nar Village to Nawal (3,660 m/12,008 ft) Via Kang La Pass
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 16 km / 10 miles |
Ascent: | 1,196 m/3,924 ft |
Descend: | 1,646 m/5,400 ft |
Trek Duration: | 8 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 5,306 m/17,408 ft Kang La Pass |
An early morning start will lead us on a steep ascent toward Kang La Pass, one of the highest points of our trek. As we reach the top, we will be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of Annapurna II, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu East. As we descend, we will pass through alpine meadows and yak pastures. We will make our way through small settlements like Ngawal. Finally, we will arrive in Nawal, a remote village offering stunning mountain vistas and cultural insights.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 12: Trek from Nawal to Manang
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 13 km /8 miles |
Ascent: | 83 m/272 ft |
Descend: | 203 m/666 ft |
Trek Duration: | 4 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 3,660 m/12,008 ft Nawal |
Our trek will begin with a descent through fields and forests, passing through villages like Braga, known for its ancient monastery and panoramic views of Annapurna III. We will walk along the banks of the Marsyangdi River, which has dramatic mountain views, including Gangapurna Glacier. As we approach Manang, we will pass small Tibetan-style villages like Yak Kharka, eventually arriving in Manang, where we can explore monasteries and enjoy the incredible views of Annapurna III and Tilicho Peak.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 13: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 9.8 km /6 miles |
Ascent: | 478 m/1,371 ft |
Descend: | 0 m/ 0 ft |
Trek Duration: | 4 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 4,018 m/13,182 ft Yak Kharka |
On day 13, we will leave Manang and walk through Tenki Village, continuing along the riverbanks. The path will gradually climb through alpine meadows. We will pass through small settlements like Ghunsa, where we might encounter yaks and trekkers heading to the high-altitude regions. The trail to Yak Kharka will offer stunning views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Chulu West, with the rocky terrain giving us a sense of the remote wilderness of the area.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 14: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung High Camp
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 8 km /5 miles |
Ascent: | 854 m/2,802 ft |
Descend: | 53 m/174 ft |
Trek Duration: | 5 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 4,925 m/16,158 ft, Thorung High camp |
Our ascent from Yak Kharka will take us through Ledar, a small settlement with basic tea houses, and then onto a steep climb to the base of Thorung La Pass, known as Thorung Phedi. We will pass rugged terrain, slowly gaining altitude with each step. As we approach Thorung High Camp, we will be surrounded by dramatic peaks, including Thorung Peak and Syagang.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 15: Trek from Thorung High camp to Muktinath via Thorung La pass and drive to Jomsom
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Trek Distance: | 14 km / 8.6 miles |
Ascent: | 535 m/1,755 ft |
Descend: | 1,747 m/5,732 ft |
Trek Duration: | 9 Hours |
Highest Altitude: | 5,416 m/17,769 ft, Thorung la pass |
We will begin the day early and head up to the Thorung La Pass, which passes through challenging high-altitude terrain. From the pass, we will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and several other peaks. After reaching the pass, we will descend through meadows and rocky landscapes, passing small Tibetan settlements like Muktinath. Afterward, we will drive to Jomsom, passing through picturesque villages like Kagbeni, nestled on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | B,L,D |
Accomodations: | Tea house or lodge |
Day 16: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Time: | 8 Hour Drive |
Highest Altitude: | 2,720m/8,924ft Jomsom |
Our scenic drive from Jomsom will take us through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, where we will pass small villages like Marpha, famous for its apple orchards and cider distilleries. Along the way, we will travel through beautiful landscapes, crossing bridges and passing by traditional villages such as Tukuche and Ghasa, before reaching Pokhara. In Pokhara, we will enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Phewa Lake and the bustling atmosphere of Lakeside.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch |
Accomodations: | 3 Star Hotel |
Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
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Time: | 7 Hours Drive |
Highest Altitude: | 1,355m/4.446ft Kathmandu |
The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu will take us along the Prithvi Highway, passing through villages like Damauli and Mugling, offering scenic views of the Trishuli River. We will also pass by Manakamana Temple, a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site. As we approach Kathmandu, the landscape becomes more urbanized. We will arrive at Thamel, where we can explore the busy streets filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Itinerary Fact | Details |
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Meals: | Breakfast, Dinner |
Accomodations: | 3 Star Hotel |
Day 18: Final Departure
With unforgettable memories of the Annapurna region, we will prepare for our journey home. If time allows, we may take a final stroll through Thamel, purchase souvenirs, or enjoy a last taste of authentic Nepali cuisine. A transfer to the airport will mark the end of this incredible adventure, leaving us with lasting impressions of Nepal’s mountains, culture, and warm hospitality.
Explore with Local Experts! Our experienced guides, porters, and staff are locals who know every trail, culture, and hidden gem. Travel with us for an authentic adventure!
Landmarks of the Nar Phu trail
Nar Phedi Monastery
Nested in Nar Phu Valley at an altitude of 3,490 meters (11,450 ft), Nar Phedi monastery is accessible from Phu Valley. The place is considered to be a major location for Buddhist people. This oldest and most ancient monastery offers you a peaceful environment, and you can see many monks chanting and making prayers. Giving you a spiritual ambiance, the place is perfect for you to witness the unique culture and tradition followed by the people of this trek.
Kang La Pass
This is the second-highest point you will reach in this entire journey. Located at an altitude of 5,306 meters (17,408 feet), to reach this point, you might feel a lot more challenges due to rugged terrain, steep ascents, and high altitude. Upon reaching there, you can witness a panoramic view of Himlung Himal, Saribung Peak, Annapurna II, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal.
Phu village
On day 8, you will get an acclimatization period where you can explore this beautiful village. At 4,080 meters, you can see beautiful views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges in the backdrop. The village is culturally rich and offers you a chance to witness the ancient architecture and Tibetan-influenced traditions. The friendly people make your stay here wonderful.
Phu Khola
The Phu Khola is between Nar Valley and Phu Valley. To cross this river, you will pass through a suspension bridge. The beautiful flowing water river offers you a chance to witness the natural beauty along with sights of various species of birds and water animals. The area is serene and offers a unique experience during the trek.
Nar Village
This remote village is within the restricted area of the region. This village has roughly 100 homes and 20 teahouses and gives you the ideal balance of people, culture, and beauty. The unique culture and old monasteries there can give you beautiful insights into the village. At 4,183 meters (13,724 feet), you can also see mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagari, and Makalu ranges.
Thorung La Pass
At an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 ft), Thorung La Pass is the highest point you will cross during the Nar Phu Valley Trek. A lot of preparation and acclimatization are necessary for this difficult pass. The pass offers a remarkable sense of achievement and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Annapurna II
Annapurna II is one of the highest peaks in the Annapurna range at 7,937 meters. The peak is a dominant feature of the trek’s landscape. Its snow-covered slopes provide stunning views throughout the journey. The peak is a significant part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, contributing to its natural beauty.
Annapurna Conservation Area
Considered to be the largest protection area in Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area is rich in biodiversity and landscapes. You can see various species of plants and animals, such as musk beer, Himalayan tahr, and many more, along with subtropical forests and alpine meadows. The area is a highlight of the Nar Phu Valley trek, providing unforgettable scenic beauty.
Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple, located at 3,710 meters, is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is famous for its 108 water spouts and its spiritual significance. You can experience rich spiritual and cultural traditions there while taking in the surrounding natural beaut
Cost for Trekking Nar Phu Valley
The cost of trekking to Nar Phu Valley will range from USD 1,000 to 1,500 per person, depending on the duration, services, and level of comfort. This includes necessary permits, guide and porter fees, accommodation, food, and transportation. Additional personal expenses, such as travel insurance (USD 50 to 100), snacks (USD 2 to 5 per day), battery charging (USD 1 to 3 per hour), hot showers (USD 2 to 5 per shower), and Wi-Fi (USD 2 to 5 per hour), may add to the overall cost of $100 to $200.
A Day on the Nar Phu Valley Trek
A typical day on the Nar Phu Valley Trek will start early in the morning, around 6:30 AM. We will have a warm breakfast before packing our gear and beginning our trek by 7:30 AM. The trail will take us through rugged landscapes, narrow canyons, and traditional Tibetan villages. Along the way, we will take short breaks to enjoy the views and rest. By midday, around 12:30 PM, we will stop at a teahouse or a scenic spot for lunch, enjoying a warm meal and rehydrating before continuing the journey.
After lunch, we will resume trekking, gradually ascending or descending, depending on the trek route. The afternoon trek will be more relaxed, allowing us to explore monasteries, interact with locals, or take in the breathtaking surroundings. By 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, we will reach our destination for the day, where we will settle into a teahouse, freshen up, and relax. A hearty dinner will be served around 6:30 PM, followed by an evening of storytelling or stargazing before resting for the next day’s adventure.
Nar Phu Valley Trekking Difficulty
The Nar Phu Valley Trek will be a challenging adventure as a part of Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trek involves remote trails, high altitudes, steep ascents, and long days. The trek will require good physical fitness as we will walk for 6 to 7 hours daily on rugged terrain. The paths will be less traveled, making navigation tricky, and we will need to cross high passes, including Kang La Pass at 5,322 meters.
Throughout the trek, we will gain significant altitude, starting from around 800 meters in Besisahar and gradually ascending above 5,000 meters. The altitude gain will be noticeable, especially after entering Nar and Phu villages, where we will trek above 4,000 meters for several days. Proper acclimatization will be essential to avoid altitude sickness, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Permits required for trekking in the Nar and Phu Valley
To trek in the Nar Phu Valley, we will need special permits as the area is a restricted region. The essential permits include the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Nar Phu Valley and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The Restricted Area Permit is mandatory since Nar and Phu’s villages are located in a controlled zone. It require you to travel with a registered guide and in a group of at least two people.
Cost of Permit
Permit Type | Cost per Person |
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Restricted Area Permit (Nar Phu) (Sep-Nov) | USD 100 for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per day |
Restricted Area Permit (Nar Phu) (Dec-Aug) | USD 75 for the first 7 days, then USD 15 per day |
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3000 |
Foreign travelers will need a tourist visa to enter Nepal, which can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various land border entry points. Alternatively, visas can be applied for in advance at Nepalese embassies or consulates worldwide. The cost of a Nepal tourist visa depends on the duration: USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days.
Important things to know before trekking to Nar Phu Valley
- Essential Gear: You should pack sturdy hiking boots, warm layered clothing, a down jacket, gloves, a hat, and a sleeping bag suitable for extreme cold.
- Avoiding Altitude Sickness: Ascend gradually, take acclimatization days, and avoid trekking too fast. You should stay hydrated, eat well, and avoid alcohol and smoking. Carry altitude sickness medication like Diamox if necessary and descend immediately if severe symptoms appear.
- Highest Altitude: The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,322 meters at Kang La Pass, where oxygen levels are significantly lower.
- Safe Drinking Water: You should avoid drinking directly from streams or rivers. Always use water purification tablets, a filtration system, or a UV sterilizer. You can also buy boiled water at teahouses, but it may cost extra.
- Limited Facilities: Nar Phu Valley is a remote region with fewer teahouses and services. You should carry extra snacks, basic medicines, and a power bank for charging devices. There are no ATMs on the trail, so withdraw enough cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Nar Phu Valley Trek Common Questions
Is there internet access during the Nar Phu Valley trek?
Do you need a sleeping bag during the Nar Phu trek?
What is the maximum elevation of the Nar Phu Valley trek?
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Is electricity available during the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
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