Nar Phu Valley Trek

Once breakfast concludes, embark on a cultural tour that visits three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the iconic Monkey Temple), historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, and the artistic Patan Durbar Square. Enjoy lunch in the city, sampling authentic Nepali flavors or international cuisine along the way.

Swayambhunath: Swayambhunath Stupa, affectionately called the Monkey Temple, is Nepal’s ancient spiritual landmark. The stupa’s gleaming white dome looms over Kathmandu Valley, its all-seeing Buddha eyes peering through swirling prayer flags, while golden spires and lesser shrines cluster at its base like devoted attendants. This UNESCO World Heritage Site draws pilgrims and travelers alike, offering sacred energy, resident monkeys, and panoramic Kathmandu Valley views.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the historic heart of Nepal's capital. This open-air museum showcases exquisite Newari architecture through its palaces, temples, and courtyards. Key highlights include Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the living goddess' Kumari Ghar, and the towering Kal Bhairav statue - together preserving centuries of Malla dynasty grandeur.

Patan Durbar Square: Patan Durbar Square (Lalitpur's crown jewel) dazzles as a UNESCO-listed showcase of Newari mastery. Wander among architectural gems like the stone-carved Krishna Mandir, gilded Golden Temple, and Patan Museum's bronze treasures. Each courtyard and temple whispers centuries of artistic tradition in this living museum of Nepal's cultural heritage.

Hotel

B

The day begins with an early departure from Kathmandu for the scenic 8–9 hour drive to Jagat (1,300m), the gateway to the Nar Phu Valley. Wind along the Prithvi Highway by private vehicle, tracing the Trisuli River past terraced fields and villages, stopping in Mugling for a local lunch. As you enter the Marsyangdi Valley, the terrain becomes more dramatic, offering your first mountain views. Upon late afternoon arrival in Jagat, settle into your teahouse accommodation and prepare for tomorrow's trek. The evening includes a gear check and orientation before enjoying your first dinner in the mountains. Overnight in Jagat.

Driving: 8-9 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Begin your first day of trekking with a scenic walk along the Marshyangdi River. Cross swaying suspension bridges and pass through traditional villages like Chamje and Tal, with their charming stone houses and prayer wheels. The trail alternates between lush forests and open valleys, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks. Arriving in Dharapani, a key entry point to the Annapurna Conservation Area, you'll check in at the ACAP checkpoint before settling into your teahouse. Explore the village's stone-paved alleys and historic monasteries before a well-earned dinner.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Today's trail ascends gently through fragrant pine and rhododendron forests, with occasional clearings revealing Annapurna II's snow-capped peak. Pass through timeless villages like Bagarchhap and Timang, where traditional stone houses boast intricately carved windows. Descend to Koto, Nar Phu's gateway, tracing the Marsyangdi's thunderous path. Upon arrival, complete your special permit formalities at the police checkpoint. Visit Koto's 36-house monastery, one of Nepal's oldest, before settling into your teahouse. This marks your last night before entering the remote valley. Charge devices and prepare gear accordingly.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Crossing the suspension bridge at Koto, you officially enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley. The rugged trail climbs steeply through dramatic gorges where sunlight barely touches the floor, passing waterfalls and ancient mani walls. As vegetation thins, the valley reveals its raw Himalayan grandeur, sheer rock faces, and distant snow peaks. Arriving in Meta, a cluster of stone teahouses perched on a high plateau, you’re rewarded with your first panoramic views of Pisang Peak and Kang Guru. This remote outpost offers critical acclimatization, hydrates well, and watches for blue sheep at dusk.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Today's journey reveals the Nar Phu Valley's true wilderness as you ascend through a dramatic canyon to Kyang Glacier's moraine. The trail carved between 1,000m cliffs passes ancient salt-trading routes marked by crumbling chortens. Suddenly, Phu Gaon appears like a mirage: three-story stone houses clinging to cliffs, prayer flags snapping in the wind. Visit Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, where 15th-century murals glow in butter lamp light. As one of Nepal's highest settlements, Phu demands slow movement; sip sea buckthorn tea with locals while admiring Annapurna III's silhouette at dusk.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Today is dedicated to adapting to the altitude while immersing in Phu’s ancient Tibetan culture. Start with a gentle hike to the ruined dzong (fortress) for panoramic views of Himlung Himal. Join locals in the 600-year-old Tashi Lhakhang Monastery for morning prayers, spinning antique prayer wheels alongside villagers. Learn to grind barley in traditional stone mills or help herd blue sheep (a protected species unique to this valley). Afternoon options include visiting the village’s three family-run carpet workshops or hiking to Choling Cave (1 hour round trip). Warm up with local herbal infusions and munch on yak butter biscuits as you acclimate, tomorrow’s high-altitude challenge looms ahead.

Simple Lodge

B

Leaving Phu Gaon behind, you’ll trek deeper into the valley toward the isolated village of Nar. The trail winds through rugged landscapes, narrow gorges, and rocky paths, offering a truly off-the-beaten-track experience. As you gain elevation, you'll cross suspension bridges and be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

Upon reaching Nar, situated at around 4,110 meters, you'll find a traditional Himalayan village known for its rich culture and scenic beauty. Explore ancient monasteries, engage with the welcoming locals, and experience their unique way of life. Comfortable teahouses and lodges offer rest and warm meals for the night.

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

This essential rest day allows your body to adjust to the high altitude, helping to prevent altitude sickness while you explore the charming village of Nar. It’s a crucial pause in your trek, ensuring you’re ready for the adventures ahead. Use this day to rest, recover, and soak in the village’s serene beauty. Nar, with its Tibetan-style architecture and deep Buddhist roots, offers a rich cultural experience. Discover ancient monasteries, engage with locals, and experience their way of life. Participate in traditions like spinning prayer wheels or sharing butter tea, gaining insight into their way of life. The warm hospitality of Nar’s residents provides a unique opportunity to connect deeply with the region. This day of rest and cultural immersion prepares you for the adventures ahead while leaving you with unforgettable memories of this remote Himalayan gem.

Simple Lodge

B

Your day starts before dawn as you leave Nar village, embarking on the demanding but breathtaking ascent to Kang La Pass. The steep climb rewards you with panoramic Himalayan views, making every step worth the effort. The steep ascent rewards you with breathtaking Himalayan vistas before descending to Ngwal (3,660m). Traverse diverse landscapes—lush valleys, rugged trails, and high-altitude terrain—while maintaining a steady pace. The pass crossing demands endurance, but the panoramic Annapurna views make every step worthwhile. Upon reaching Ngwal, a charming Tibetan-influenced village, unwind and explore its cultural gems. Visit the local monastery, chat with welcoming residents, or simply admire the mountain scenery. This day blends physical challenge with culture immersion, transitioning from Nar Phu's remote beauty to Ngwal's serene ambiance. Remember to stay hydrated, pace yourself, and savor this unforgettable Himalayan experience. Overnight in Ngwal prepares you for the next leg of your adventure.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

After breakfast in Ngwal, begin your scenic trek to Manang, surrounded by the majestic Annapurna and Gangapurna ranges. The trail winds through lush meadows, crosses gentle streams, and offers glimpses of Himalayan wildlife. As you descend, notice the shift to Tibetan-style architecture, signaling your arrival in Manang—a cultural hub at 3,540m. Explore its ancient monasteries, wander the stone-paved alleys, or simply soak in the panoramic mountain views. Settle into a cozy teahouse, rest, and recharge for the days ahead. This peaceful stop blends natural beauty with rich traditions, making it a highlight of your trek. Overnight in Manang prepares you for the next leg of your Himalayan adventure.

Hiking: 4-5 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

After a restful stop in Manang, your trek begins with a gradual ascent through stunning landscapes, passing Tenki Manang village with its breathtaking mountain and valley views. The terrain grows more rugged as you climb, transitioning to rocky alpine trails, crossing small streams, and noticing sparse high-altitude vegetation. After several hours, you’ll reach Yak Kharka, a tranquil settlement vital for acclimatization en route to Thorong La Pass. At 4,040 meters, this remote outpost offers basic but cozy teahouses where you can rest and recharge. Spend the afternoon hydrating, taking short exploratory walks, or simply soaking in the dramatic Himalayan vistas. Listen to your body; this is a critical step to adjust safely. As evening falls, settle into your lodge, preparing for the challenges ahead while surrounded by the raw beauty of the high mountains.

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Leaving Yak Kharka after breakfast, the trail ascends steadily to Thorong Phedi, the crucial staging point before tackling Thorong La Pass.". The trail climbs through stark alpine terrain, where thinning vegetation gives way to rocky slopes and sweeping mountain views. The higher you climb, the harder each breath becomes—slow down, sip water constantly, and let your body adapt. This is altitude’s unforgiving classroom. Use the afternoon to rest, acclimate, and prepare for tomorrow’s challenge: review the pass route, organize gear, and hydrate well. Teahouses here are basic but warm, offering a crucial night’s sleep before your predawn start. Embrace the quiet intensity of this high-altitude pause, where the Himalayas remind you of both their beauty and demands.

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Your predawn start from Thorong Phedi (4,450m) begins the most demanding yet rewarding day of the trek—the crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Move slowly up the steep, switchbacking trail as the altitude tests your endurance; pause frequently to hydrate and catch your breath. Prayer flags flap in the wind as you and your fellow hikers pause at the pass, surrounded by the vastness of the Himalayas. The descent to Muktinath (3,800m) is long and rugged, but the landscape softens into arid hills dotted with chortens. In Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists, visit the revered temple complex before resting at a cozy lodge. This day of extremes—from thin-air struggle to spiritual fulfillment—will linger in your memory long after the blisters fade.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

After breakfast in Muktinath, begin your scenic descent along the Kali Gandaki River valley, passing through Kagbeni—a medieval-feeling village of narrow alleys and Tibetan-style homes that marks the gateway to Upper Mustang. The trail winds through striking desert landscapes, with wind-sculpted cliffs and views of Nilgiri peak towering above. By midday, you'll reach Jomsom, Mustang's bustling administrative center, where apple orchards and modern amenities greet you after days in remote terrain. Celebrate your accomplishment with a hot shower, fresh apple pie from a local bakery, and a stroll through the vibrant bazaar. This transition day blends cultural discovery with well-earned comfort, offering both reflection on your journey and a taste of mountain-town life before continuing onward.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Begin your morning in Jomsom with a relaxed breakfast, savoring your final Himalayan views before transferring to the small domestic airport. The spectacular 25-minute flight to Pokhara treats you to breathtaking aerial vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges - a bird's-eye farewell to the mountains you've trekked through. As you descend into Pokhara, the landscape transforms from rugged peaks to lush valleys and serene lakes.

After checking in, immerse yourself in Pokhara's peaceful charm. Visit the iconic Tal Barahi Temple, perched on an island in Phewa Lake, accessible by a scenic boat ride. Feel the mist of David’s Fall, uncover secrets in Gupteshwor’s caverns, and find peace amid the hilltop bells of Bindabasini Temple. Stroll along Lakeside, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and reflecting on your incredible journey through the Annapurna region.

Tal Barahi: Tal Barahi Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga’s boar-headed incarnation, Barahi, sits on a tiny island in Phewa Lake. Visitors can take a short boat ride from Pokhara’s lakeside, soaking in stunning views of the water and the Annapurna range. The tranquil atmosphere cements its place as both a sacred sanctuary and a breathtaking natural wonder.

David’s Fall: Davis Falls (Devi’s Fall) is a captivating waterfall in Pokhara, where raging waters vanish into an underground tunnel. Named after a Swiss traveler, David, who perished here, it’s also tied to the Hindu goddess Devi. This natural wonder blends myth and tragedy, drawing visitors to its powerful cascade and mysterious subterranean path.

Gupteshwor Mahadev: Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, a revered Hindu shrine and natural wonder in Pokhara, lies near Davis Falls. This limestone cavern, dedicated to Lord Shiva, draws pilgrims and explorers alike. Visitors often combine trips here with the nearby waterfall, experiencing both spiritual significance and geological marvels in one journey.

Bindabasini Temple: Bindabasini Temple, perched atop a serene hill in Pokhara’s old bazaar, is one of the city’s oldest and most sacred shrines. Dedicated to Goddess Durga—the fierce embodiment of divine strength—it draws devotees seeking protection, power, and blessings. The tranquil hilltop setting adds spiritual charm to its significance.

Flight: 20 min

Hotel

B

The journey back to Kathmandu begins with an approximately 8-hour drive (210 km) from Pokhara. Travel time may vary depending on road and traffic conditions. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of Nepal's countryside as you transition from Pokhara's lakeside tranquility to Kathmandu's urban energy.

Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and unwind. You may choose to relax or explore Kathmandu's vibrant nightlife, reflecting on your incredible Himalayan adventure as your trip comes full circle.

Driving: 7-8 hrs.

Hotel

B

As your Nepal journey ends, arrive at the airport 3 hours early. Reflect on the memories made and dream of your next Himalayan adventure—this land of wonders will always call you back.

B

Ø  The best time for this trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.

Ø  This trek is moderately challenging and not recommended for beginners. Prior trekking experience and some experience with high altitudes are beneficial.

Ø  A guide is not mandatory, but it's highly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Restricted area permits for Nar and Phu valleys require trekkers to be in a group with a registered guide.

Ø  You will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, and special restricted area permits for Nar and Phu valleys. Your trekking agency can arrange these for you.

Ø  A good level of physical fitness is necessary for this trek due to the challenging terrain and long trekking days. Cardiovascular training and strength are recommended.

Ø  Essential items include warm clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, a rain jacket, a daypack, a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather, and a trekking pole.

Ø  Highlights include exploring the remote Nar and Phu valleys, witnessing unique Tibetan culture, visiting ancient monasteries, and enjoying pristine natural beauty.

Ø  Some customization is possible. You can extend your stay in specific regions, add side trips, or explore nearby attractions. Discuss these options with your trekking agency.

Ø  Altitude sickness can be a concern as you'll be trekking to high altitudes. Proper acclimatization and monitoring are essential to minimize the risk.

Ø  Teahouses and lodges are available along the route, providing basic but comfortable accommodations and meals. Facilities may be more limited in the remote Nar and Phu valleys.

Ø  It's best to book through a reputable trekking agency before your trip. They can assist with permits, accommodations, and logistics for this unique and remote journey.

Ø  Yes, you can rent or buy trekking gear in Kathmandu and nearby towns like Pokhara. There are many shops and rental services available.

Ø  It's strongly advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, including medical evacuation, in case of emergencies.

Ø  Yes, you can combine the Nar Phu Valley Trek with other treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp for a more extensive trekking experience.