NarPhu Valley is the hidden gem located in the Heart of the Himalayas. NarPhu Valley is still unknown to many trekkers. It is located in the Annapurna region and lies north of the Annapurna Circuit with a spectacular view of the Himalayas. The valley is situated in Manang District and is home to two villages Nar and Phu. It is also a part of the Tibetan Kingdom of Mustang. The valley was opened in 2003 and it has become a popular destination for tourists with less crowd and unbeaten track.
You will trek through dense forests, climb high mountains, and explore the remote village. This trek also involves high passes such as Kang La Pass (5,240m), you will get a mesmerizing view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
Trek Highlights
- NarPhu Valley is a hidden gem in the Heart of the Himalayas
- Spectacular view of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Annapurna II, and Himlung Himal
- It is an ancient village that changed over the century
- Trek to Kang La Pass
Best time for NarPhu Valley
Before going trekking, it is essential to gather information and prepared properly. We need to prepare for the best time to trek and what to pack for the trek.
Best time for trekking to NarPhu Valley
The best to visit Nar Phu Valley is September, October, November and March, April, and May. During this time the weather will be suitable and the skies will be clear, making the good condition for trekking. You can also trek from June to August but be prepared for heavy rainfall and possible landslides.
Permit for Nar Phu Valley
In this region, trekkers are only allowed to enter with a special permit, which will be arranged by a trekking registered company. The permit cost around $75 to $90 depending on the season, the permit is valid for only 7 days, and you must complete the trek specified time.
The difficulty of the trek
This required a high level of physical fitness, it is a high-altitude trek, which can make the trek difficult for some trekkers. There is high altitude gain from Koto to Meta so acclimatization is essential. It is essential to acclimatize properly by drinking lots of water, taking a rest day, and eating good food. Trekkers must be prepared for unpredictable weather, this region is known for heavy snowfall and harsh weather.
9 Days Itinerary for NarPhu Valley
Day 1. Kathmandu to Jagat (1300m)
The trek starts with an 8-hour drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. You will pass through Nepali villages, lush forests, and terrace fields. Jagat is a small village at an elevation of 1300m. We will stay overnight at Jagat.
Day 2. Jagat to Dharapani (1860m)
On this day you will trek to Jagat, the trail passes through the forest of rhododendron, and pine trees and a spectacular view of the Manaslu range. You will climb uphill through the Marsyangdi River on a suspension bridge until to reach Dharapani. Dharapani is situated at an elevation of 1,860m which is also known as an entry point for the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Day 3. Dharapani to Koto (2600m)
On this day you will trek to Koto, a small village at an elevation of 2,600m. During the trek, you will pass through a dense forest of pine, oak, and maple trees, with an amazing view of the Annapurna Range. You will pass through Gurung Village and Koto is the gateway to Nar Phu Valley.
Day 4. Koto to Meta (3570m)
On this trek, you will trek to Meta. It is one of the challenging days, the trek is long and you will gain high altitude on this day. Beware of Altitude Mountain Sickness, drinks plenty of water, and take rest during the trek. Meta Village offers you an amazing view of Kang Guru Peak.
Day 5. Meta to Phu (4080m)
On this day, you will hike to village Phu, it is a remote village at an elevation of 4,080m. During the trek, you will climb through a series of steep climbs and descents, as you cross rocky terrain and small streams.
Today you will see an amazing view of Himlung Himal (7,126m). As you trek you will encounter several chortens and the opportunity to explore the ancient fort.
Day 6. Explore Phu
You will extra day to explore Phu Village and its surrounding. Phu is a small village of around 20 families. The village is located at the base of Tashi Lhakhang Peak and provides a stunning view of the surrounding mountains.
Some of the highlights on these days are Tashi Lhakhang Monastery and Himlung Base Camp, which offers stunning views of mountains.
Day 7. Phu to Nar (3490m)
On this day, after leaving Phu you will trek to Nar Phedi, a small village at an elevation of 3,490m. During the trek, you will follow the Phu Khola River, which will lead us to Nar through a beautiful valley.
The main highlight of this trek is that you will get an opportunity to stay in a monastery. The monastery offers basic accommodation and meals, and it is great to experience the local culture.
Day 8. Trek to Nar Village (4110m)
On this day, you trek to Nar Village at an elevation of 4,110m. Nar is a traditional Tibetan Village and home to around 300 people. The village offers you an amazing view of the surrounding mountains.
Day 9. Trek to Ngawal via the Kang La Pass (5240m)
On this day, you trek to Ngawal village at an elevation of 3,675m via Kang La Pass. The trek is a challenging and longest trek on the entire trek. It takes around 9-10 hours to cover the distance of around 15km.
After leaving the Nar Village, you ascend uphill. After a few hours of trekking, you will reach the base of Kang La Pass at 5,240 meters. To reach Kang La Pass you need proper acclimatization and trekking gear.
Once you reach the top, you will encounter a stunning view of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. After spending some time you will trek back to Ngawal village at an elevation of 3,675 meters.
