Nar Phu Trek

The Nar Phu Trek is one of the most remote and adventurous trekking routes in Nepal, leading into the hidden valleys north of the Annapurna region. This trek explores the isolated Nar Phu Valley, where traditional Tibetan culture and ancient mountain lifestyles remain well preserved. By combining the remote valley with the extended Annapurna Circuit route, the trek offers a complete Himalayan experience with dramatic landscapes and authentic cultural encounters.

The journey begins in Kathmandu and follows the Marsyangdi Valley to Koto, the gateway to the restricted Nar Phu Gaon. From here the trail enters a rugged mountain landscape of narrow canyons, high plateaus, and traditional stone villages rarely visited by trekkers.

After visiting the historic villages of Phu and Nar, the route crosses Kang La Pass (5,320 m) and joins the Annapurna Circuit near Ngawal. The trek continues through Manang Valley before crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the journey. The trek finishes in Jomsom with a scenic flight to Pokhara and a return to Kathmandu.

This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a remote Himalayan adventure that combines high mountain passes, unique culture, and less crowded trails.

Nar Phu Trek Highlights (18 Days)

• Complete Nar Phu Trek and Extended Annapurna Circuit route
• Cross Kang La Pass (5,320 m)
• Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
• Explore remote Nar and Phu villages
• Tibetan Buddhist culture and monasteries
• Spectacular Annapurna mountain views
• Less crowded trekking route
• Visit sacred Muktinath Temple
• Scenic flight Jomsom to Pokhara
• Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu
• Restricted area trekking experience

Nar Phu Trek Route

The Nar Phu Trek follows a remote trail north of the Annapurna region before joining the Annapurna Circuit.

The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani and continues on foot to Koto, where the trail enters the restricted Nar Phu Valley. The route passes through Meta and continues to Phu Village, one of the oldest settlements in the region where traditional Tibetan culture remains strong.

From Phu, the trek continues to Nar Phedi and Nar Village before crossing Kang La Pass. After descending to Ngawal, the route joins the Annapurna Circuit trail and continues through Manang Valley.

The trek then crosses Thorong La Pass before descending to Muktinath and Jomsom. The journey ends with a scenic flight to Pokhara and a drive back to Kathmandu.

Nar Phu Trek Double Pass Adventure

The Nar Phu Trek is a challenging double-pass Himalayan trek that crosses two major mountain passes above 5,000 meters.

Kang La Pass (5,320 m) connects Nar Valley with Ngawal and offers excellent views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and surrounding peaks.

After joining the Annapurna Circuit route, the trek continues through Manang Valley before crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the trek, before descending to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.

This combination makes the trek one of the most adventurous routes in the Annapurna region.

Nar Phu Trek Difficulty

The Nar Phu Trek is considered a challenging high-altitude trek in Nepal.

Trekkers typically walk 5–8 hours per day across remote mountain terrain and cross two high passes above 5,000 meters.

Good physical fitness and previous trekking experience are recommended for a comfortable and safe trek.

Nar Phu Trek Permits

Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area, and special permits are required.

Trekkers need:

• Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• TIMS Card

This trek must be arranged through a licensed trekking agency with a registered guide.

Best Time for Nar Phu Trek

The best seasons for Nar Phu Trek are:

Spring (March – May)

• Clear views
• Stable weather
• Moderate temperatures

Autumn (September – November)

• Best visibility
• Dry trails
• Ideal trekking conditions

Winter trekking is possible but snow may block Kang La and Thorong La passes.

Nar Phu Trek Itinerary Brief (18 Days)

Day 01 – Arrival Kathmandu
Day 02 – Drive Kathmandu to Dharapani
Day 03 – Trek Dharapani to Koto
Day 04 – Trek Koto to Meta
Day 05 – Trek Meta to Phu Village
Day 06 – Acclimatization Phu
Day 07 – Trek Phu to Nar Phedi
Day 08 – Trek Nar Phedi to Nar Village
Day 09 – Trek Nar to Kang La Pass to Ngawal
Day 10 – Trek Ngawal to Manang
Day 11 – Acclimatization Manang
Day 12 – Trek Manang to Yak Kharka
Day 13 – Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 14 – Trek Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
Day 15 – Trek Muktinath to Jomsom
Day 16 – Fly Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 17 – Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 18 – Departure