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Arrive in Kathmandu: (Altitude: 1,350 m/4,430 ft)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our team will be there to warmly receive you and transfer you to your hotel. As your trusted trekking agency, we handle all logistics for your Nar Phu Valley adventure, including restricted area permits, ACAP, TIMS cards, and transportation to the trailhead. We’ll host a pre-trek briefing to go over the itinerary, safety precautions, and gear checklist.
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Drive to Tal: (Altitude: 1857 m / 6092 ft | Distance: 160 km / 100 miles | Drive duration: 8-10 hrs)
We begin the journey to Nar Phu with a scenic drive toward the Annapurna region. Our private vehicle takes you through lush hills and river valleys to Besisahar, from where we switch to a rugged jeep for the off-road ride to Jagat or Dharapani, depending on road conditions. Along the way, you'll witness Nepal’s rural beauty, crossing suspension bridges and remote villages. This drive not only brings you closer to the trailhead but also eases you into the pace and atmosphere of the mountains before the trekking adventure truly begins.
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Trek to Koto: (Altitude: 2610 m / 8891 ft | Distance: 15 km / 9 miles | Trek duration: 6 hrs)
From Dharapani, we begin our trek to Koto, the official gateway to the Nar Phu Valley. This is a scenic and steady ascent along the Annapurna Circuit trail, passing through lush pine and fir forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages like Timang and Thanchok. The route offers our first close-up views of towering peaks like Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and eventually Annapurna II. After about 5–6 hours of trekking, we reach Koto (2,600 m), a small settlement where the Nar Khola meets the Marshyangdi River. Here, we register our special permits at the police checkpost before entering the restricted Nar Phu region the next day. It's a peaceful spot to rest, with a few basic lodges and stunning Himalayan backdrops.
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Trek to Meta: (Altitude: 3560 m / 10826 ft | Distance: 18 km / 11 miles | Trek duration: 7-8 hrs)
From Koto, we leave the main Annapurna Circuit and officially enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley. After registering our permits at the police checkpost, we follow a narrow trail alongside the roaring Nar Khola, crossing several suspension bridges and navigating through dense pine and bamboo forests. The path is quieter and more remote, with occasional glimpses of waterfalls and dramatic cliff faces. We pass small settlements like Dhulikona and take lunch near Chyame Khola before continuing the steep ascent to Meta (3,560 m). The landscape changes noticeably, forest gives way to open alpine terrain, and Tibetan-style chortens begin to appear. After about 7–8 hours of trekking, we reach Meta, a windswept plateau offering striking views of Kangaru Himal and a stark, high-altitude beauty that signals our entry into truly wild Himalayan terrain.
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Trek to Kyang: (Altitude: 3820 m / 12,533 ft | Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles | Trek duration: 3-4 hrs)
From Meta, we continue deeper into the remote Nar Phu Valley with a scenic trek to Kyang (3,840 m). The trail leads across a rugged, open landscape, dotted with ancient chortens and mani walls that reflect the strong Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region. We traverse high plateaus and descend into deep river gorges, occasionally crossing small wooden bridges over glacial streams. Along the way, the views of Kangaru Himal, Pisang Peak, and the jagged cliffs surrounding the valley become increasingly dramatic. The air is noticeably thinner as we climb steadily, but the terrain is not too steep, making it a relatively moderate day. After about 4-5 hours of trekking, we reach Kyang, once a winter settlement for the people of Phu. Though now mostly uninhabited, it offers wide views of the valley and is a peaceful and atmospheric place to rest before we push onward to Phu the following day.
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Trek to Phu: (Altitude: 4250 m / 11614 ft | Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles | Trek duration: 4-5 hrs)
Today’s trek from Kyang to Phu is one of the most scenic and culturally rich sections of the journey. The trail follows a high, barren valley carved by the Phu Khola, winding past dramatic rock formations, narrow canyons, and layers of ancient Buddhist chortens and mani walls. After several river crossings and about 4–5 hours of trekking, we arrive at a narrow entrance gorge that opens into the wide, stunning valley of Phu (4,080 m), a centuries-old Tibetan village perched on a rocky hilltop. As we approach, the landscape becomes more mystical, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, comes into view. In Phu, time feels suspended: the stone houses, terraced fields, and roaming herds of blue sheep reflect a lifestyle unchanged for generations. We settle into a basic teahouse here, with time to explore the village, interact with locals, and take in the powerful energy of this remote Himalayan outpost.
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Acclimatization day: (Altitude: 4250 m / 11614 ft)
We spend a full day in Phu (4,080 m) for essential acclimatization, allowing our bodies to adjust to the higher altitude before crossing Kang La Pass later in the trek. This rest day not only supports safe trekking but also offers a rare chance to explore one of the most culturally rich and untouched villages in the Himalayas. In the morning, we take a short hike to Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, a revered monastery perched above the village, believed to be one of the last places blessed by the great Buddhist master Lama Karma Sonam Rinpoche. The hike offers panoramic views of Himlung Himal, Kangaru, and other snowcapped peaks. You can also wander through the narrow stone alleyways of Phu, observe yak herding, or visit local homes to experience the ancient Tibetan lifestyle firsthand. This day of acclimatization not only prepares us physically but deepens our connection to the land and culture of this remote Himalayan valley.
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Trek to Nar Phedi: (Altitude: 3490 m / 11450 ft | Distance: 16 km / 10 miles | Trek duration: 6 hrs)
Leaving Phu behind, we retrace our steps down the valley before branching off toward Nar Phedi (3,490 m), a peaceful monastery outpost nestled below the village of Nar. The trek takes about 6–7 hours, descending past familiar chortens and high cliffs before diverging from the Phu trail. The path then follows the Labse Khola, winding through dramatic canyons and across suspension bridges. Unlike other stops, Nar Phedi is not a village but a simple monastic retreat, run by a small group of nuns who warmly welcome trekkers. We stay at their monastery guesthouse, basic but clean and peaceful, with delicious home-cooked meals often prepared by the nuns themselves. It's a beautiful place to reflect, rest, and enjoy the spiritual calm of the valley before the climb up to Nar village the next day.
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Trek to Nar: (Altitude: 4110 m / 13484 ft | Distance: 6 km / 4 miles | Trek duration: 2-3 hrs)
From Nar Phedi, we begin a steady uphill trek to the traditional village of Nar (4,110 m), a journey that takes about 2-3 hours. The trail climbs through open alpine terrain with sweeping views of the surrounding cliffs, rivers, and distant snow-covered peaks. Along the way, we pass rows of ancient chortens and prayer stones, signaling our approach to the culturally rich upper valley. As we arrive in Nar, we find a beautiful, windswept village of tightly packed stone houses, set against the dramatic backdrop of Pisag Peak and Kangaru Himal. Nar is larger and more vibrant than Phu, with fields of barley, fluttering prayer flags, and several active monasteries. We settle into a local teahouse and spend the afternoon exploring the village or simply resting in preparation for the challenging Kang La Pass crossing the next day.
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Acclimatization at Nar: (Altitude: 4110 m / 13484 ft)
We spend a valuable acclimatization day in Nar (4,110 m) to prepare for the demanding Kang La Pass crossing ahead. This extra day at high altitude helps our bodies adjust, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring a safer, more enjoyable trek. During the day, we can take a short acclimatization hike above the village for panoramic views of Pisang Peak, Kangaru Himal, and the wide, open valley below. It’s also a chance to immerse ourselves in Nar’s unique atmosphere, exploring its narrow stone lanes, visiting local monasteries, and observing daily life in this remote Tibetan-influenced settlement. The villagers here are warm and welcoming, and the slower pace offers a rare cultural window into one of Nepal’s most isolated communities.
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Trek to Ngawal Via Kang La Pass: (Altitude: 3600 m / 12171 ft | Distance: 18 km / 11 miles | Trek duration: 7-9 hrs)
Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek as we cross the high and scenic Kang La Pass (5,320 m) and descend to Ngawal (3,660 m). We start early, usually before sunrise, to avoid strong afternoon winds and ensure clear mountain views. The climb to the pass is long and steady, taking about 4–5 hours over rugged alpine terrain and loose scree. As we ascend, the landscape opens up to reveal breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the surrounding snowcapped giants. At the summit of Kang La, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and we pause to soak in the panoramic vistas—a well-earned reward for the effort. The descent to Ngawal is steep and can be hard on the knees, dropping nearly 1,700 meters over 3-4 hours. We pass through high meadows and yak pastures before reaching the green, terraced village of Ngawal on the upper Annapurna Circuit. Compared to Nar and Phu, Ngawal feels more developed, with comfortable lodges, bakeries, and Wi-Fi, offering a perfect place to rest and celebrate a major milestone of the trek.
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Trek to Manang: (Altitude: 3540 m / 8759 ft | Distance: 10 km / 6 miles | Trek duration: 3-4 hrs)
From Ngawal (3,660 m), we rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit trail and enjoy a relatively gentle and scenic trek to Manang (3,540 m), which takes about 3–4 hours. The trail descends gradually through alpine forests and traditional villages like Braga, where you can visit the 600-year-old Braga Monastery, perched on a cliff with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. As we approach Manang, the landscape becomes greener and more open, with views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak dominating the skyline. Manang is a bustling village compared to Nar and Phu complete with teahouses, bakeries, gear shops, and even a Himalayan Rescue Association clinic. It's a great place to rest, rehydrate, and reflect on the remote journey behind you, while preparing for whatever lies ahead, whether it’s continuing on the Annapurna Circuit or heading toward Tilicho Lake or Thorong La Pass.
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Trek to Yak Kharka: (Altitude: 4110 m / 8300 ft | Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles | Trek duration: 4-5 hrs)
From Manang (3,540 m), we begin a steady ascent toward Yak Kharka (4,050 m), a small settlement used seasonally by yak herders. The trek takes about 4–5 hours, gradually gaining altitude as we leave the tree line and enter the open alpine landscape. The trail winds through dry meadows and sparse juniper forests, with occasional sightings of grazing yaks and blue sheep. Along the way, we pass the village of Gunsang, a good place to take a short break and enjoy views of Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu West. The trail then climbs gently along the valley before reaching Yak Kharka, a windswept cluster of lodges with wide mountain views. This is an important acclimatization stop before heading to Thorong Phedi and eventually crossing Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
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Trek to Thorong Phedi: (Altitude: 4600 m / 3937 ft | Distance: 8 km / 5 miles | Trek duration: 4 hrs)
From Yak Kharka (4,050 m), we make a gradual but steady climb to Thorong Phedi (4,540 m), the base camp for crossing the Thorong La Pass. The trek takes about 3–4 hours and follows a high-altitude trail along the valley, offering dramatic views of Gundang, Syagang, Thorong Peak, and Khatungkan. We pass through rocky terrain and cross a wooden bridge over the Marsyangdi River, followed by a short but steep section leading to Phedi. Along the way, you may notice the effects of thinner air, so we take a slow and steady pace, staying well-hydrated. Thorong Phedi is a small settlement with basic lodges, often cold and windy, but a crucial rest point before tackling the high pass the next morning. Some trekkers choose to ascend a bit further to High Camp (4,880 m) for a shorter push the next day, depending on fitness and acclimatization.
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Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass: (Altitude: 3710 m / 2723 ft | Distance: 16 km / 10 miles | Trek duration: 8 hrs)
Today is the most demanding and rewarding day of the trek, as we cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and descend to the sacred village of Muktinath (3,760 m). We begin before dawn, usually around 4:00 AM to take advantage of stable morning weather and avoid strong winds at the summit. The climb from Thorong Phedi (or High Camp) is steep and slow, gaining nearly 900 meters over 3-4 hours across rocky, snow-dusted terrain. Reaching the top of Thorong La, marked by a sea of prayer flags and a large signboard, is an unforgettable moment. At 5,416 meters, you're standing on one of the highest trekking passes in the world, surrounded by breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and the surrounding snowcapped ranges. After taking time to rest and celebrate, we begin the long descent, about 1,600 meters down over 4-5 hours to Muktinath, a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trail gradually transitions from alpine wilderness to the dry, windswept landscapes of the Mustang region. In Muktinath, you can visit the famous temple complex with its 108 water spouts and eternal flame, and enjoy a well-earned rest in one of the comfortable local lodges.
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Drive to Pokhara: (Altitude: 822 m/2624 ft | Distance: 180 km / 112 miles | Drive duration: 5-6 hrs)
After breakfast in Muktinath, we begin our overland journey back to Pokhara with a full-day jeep drive. The route takes us through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, passing the villages of Jomsom, Marpha, and Tatopani, and gradually descending from the dry Mustang landscape to the lush hills of lower Annapurna. Though the road is rough and winding in parts, the changing scenery makes for a memorable ride. After 8-10 hours on the road, we arrive in Pokhara, a welcome return to warmth, comfort, and the serenity of lakeside life.
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Drive to Kathmandu: (Altitude: 1300 m / 4265 ft | Distance: 200km/ 124 miles | Drive duration: 8-10 hrs)
After a restful stay in Pokhara, we set off on the scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The journey typically takes around 6 to 7 hours, traveling along the well-maintained Prithvi Highway that winds through picturesque hills, river valleys, and charming towns like Mugling and Dhading. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of terraced fields, traditional villages, and glimpses of the Himalayas in the distance. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we’ll transfer you to your hotel, marking the end of a remarkable journey through Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
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Departure to home country
As your unforgettable Nepal adventure comes to a close, we’ll arrange your transfer from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your departure flight home. Our team will ensure a smooth and timely journey, helping with any last-minute details or questions. We hope the memories of the Nar Phu Valley and the Himalayas stay with you forever.
Contact Us
Thado dhunga, Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur, Nepal