Nar Phu
Hidden beauty of the Himalayas
Trek Details
Opened some twenty years ago, this trek takes you off the beaten track into the Nar and Phu valleys, north of the Annapurna range, towards the Tibetan plateau. Following the Nar Khola river, you will discover impressive mineral landscapes, surrounded by lesser-known but equally spectacular peaks. After reaching the village of Phugaon, we will accompany you along the Pangri glacier to the Himlung base camp (4,920 m), where you can admire, among others, the Himlung Peak (7,126 m) and the Nemjung Peak (7,140 m). After crossing the Nar valley and crossing the Kang La pass (5,320 m), you will join the Annapurna circuit at Ngawal. From this pass, you will marvel at a stunning view over the majestic Annapurna range.
This unique trek takes you through traditional and remote villages, inhabited by Tibetan communities and Buddhist ethnic groups.
Duration from Kathmandu to Kathmandu : 11 days
Trek level : challenging 3/4
It is good to have previous experience of hiking and/or trekking but a beginner in good condition can do it. You must be able to hike 6 to 8 hours and climb at least 1,000 m (3,300 ft) per day, for several days in a row.
Altitude : 2,590 m - 5,300 m
Distance : 96 km
Accommodation : guesthouses
Ascent : 9,028
Descent : 8,058 m
Travel tips : Everything you need to know before trekking with us HERE
Cost : From 1,150 EUR per person (rate based on 4 people minimum).
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Airport transfers - pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
Transportation until the trekking departure point
Trekking permit and TIMS fee
Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara if needed
English or French speaking trekking guide as well as his necessary insurance, accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Supporting staff (porters), as well as their necessary insurance, and accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner - 3 meals per day, tea-coffee, seasonal fruits, and overnight in double rooms in local lodge along the trek
First aid kit box
You can hire our services for your stay in Kathmandu (accommodation, cultural guide and excursions).
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International flight ticket and airport tax
Lunch and dinner during the Kathmandu and other cities’ stay
Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Tips for guide and porter
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral water) during the trek
Additional costs due to extra days stay, in case of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather and other unforeseen circumstances
Personal trekking gear for the trip
Itinerary
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Early travel to Besisahar from Kathmandu by private jeep or local bus and travel from Besisahar to Koto (2,610 m) by local jeep, that offers a great panorama of central Nepal region and Himalayas. After Besisahar, the road becomes rough and narrow as it follows the Marsyangdi River. Approx. 10 to 11 hours drive.
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The trek starts by entering the restricted Nar-Phu region, following the narrow Nar Khola river through dense forests of pine and bamboo. This day begins slightly along the Nar Khola and finishes with a climb to Meta (3,560 m), a Gurung and Tibetan village with views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Approx. 6/7 hours hike, ascending 1,000 m and descending 50 m.
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A day in a mineral and colorful setting over the Phu Khola, that brings you to Kyang village (3,820 m), at the foot of Kang Guru Himal (6,981 m) and where Tibetan Khampas army barracks were installed. Approx. 4/5 hours hike, ascending 530 m and descending 260 m.
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The trail follows the Phu Khola through a majestic landscape of cliffs, gorges, and narrow canyons, up to the large, fortified village of Phu (4,080 m), a remote Tibetan settlement perched on a cliff with impressive views. Visit the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant in the region. Approx. 5/6 hours hike, ascending 790 m and descending 600 m.
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This acclimatization trail ascends gently along a ridge and the glacier offering magnificent views of Himlung Himal (7,126 m) till Himlung Base Camp (4,900 m). Enjoy a magnificent spot surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. Approx 6/7 hours hike, ascending and descending 940 m.
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This day takes you to Nar Phedi (3,490 m). Nar Phedi is a small and quiet settlement with a monastery where you will spend the night. You can enjoy the view of Pisang Peak. Approx 6/7 hours hike, ascending 970 m and descending 1,460 m.
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The trail climbs gradually toward Nar Village (4,110 m), another remote Tibetan-influenced settlement, along a nice trail with chortens and “mani walls” (stone walls carved with Tibetan mantras). Nar is larger than Phu and sits on a plateau with views of Pisang Peak and Kang Guru. Explore the village and its monasteries, getting insight into local Tibetan culture. Approx 3 hours hike, ascending 730 m and descending 100 m.
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The day begins with a steep ascent to the Kang La Pass (5,320 m), a challenging but rewarding high-altitude pass offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna II (7,937 m), III (7,555 m), Gangapurna (7,454 m), and Tilicho Peak (7,134 m). After crossing the pass, you’ll descend steeply into the Manang Valley, reaching the village of Ngawal (3,660 m), on the Annapurna Circuit. If needed, it is possible to complete this stage in two days, camping one night below the pass. Approx 8/10 hours hike, ascending 1,140 m and descending 1,670 m.
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This section is relatively short with scenic and cultural experiences. The ancient Bhraka Monastery is a key cultural and spiritual site, it is one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in the Manang region. Then, you can explore the old village of Manang (3,540 m), its Gompa, “mani walls”, chortens and the Manang Culture Museum. Approx. 3/4 hours hike, ascending 250 m and descending 370 m.
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The trek ends at Manang, then you will reach back Besisahar by local jeep, through typical villages of Marsyangdi River. Approx 5 hours drive.
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Back to Kathmandu by private jeep or local bus. Approx. 6 hours trip.
Gallery
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