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The Nar Phu Valley trek opened in 2003 and is still relatively unexplored. To enter this hidden valley, you need to first get a special permit.
Nar and Phu are two tiny villages sitting in the midst of the Himalayas. Slender canyons, old monasteries, challenging passes, beautiful forests, and absolutely amazing rock formations make this trekking experience unmatched. For centuries, time has stood still in this valley of 300 people. Hidden Trek Nepal’s Nar Phu Valley trek will offer you an amazing time trekking in the land of the youngest mountains.
Nar Phu Valley Trekking, located just off the Annapurna Circuit route, is an excellent option for those looking for an alternative to the more popular Annapurna Circuit.
Despite being open to foreign visitors in 2003, it only gained popularity when visitors began to be welcomed by local homestays in 2010. Until then, camping was the only option.
After leaving Kathmandu for Besisahar, we make a stop in the beautiful village of Dharapani. Above Odar, you will be captivated by the fascinating views of Mt.Manaslu, Annapurna range, Lamjung Himal, Himalchuli, and various other oldest peaks of Himalayas.
The Nar Phu Valley trek may be ideal for those who want to visit Annapurna and see the area's high, white, glittering mountains but prefer to be off the beaten track. Book Your Trip Now!
Located in the foothills of the towering peaks of Nepal, Nar Phu Valley is an idyllic trekking destination that offers the opportunity to explore the mystery of the combined natural and cultural beauty that is concealed in one of the most isolated and secluded areas of the Annapurna and Manaslu regions. Visitors are also welcomed by the welcoming atmosphere of the local ethnic communities. On the Nar Phu Valley trek, expect:
The Nar Phu Valley trek usually requires 10-15 days for completion, depending on the itinerary and walking pace. The trek connects two separate valleys, Nar and Phu, and leads you through high mountain passes, rugged terrain, and isolated villages rich in Tibetan culture and traditions.
The trek is classified as moderate to difficult, demanding strong physical fitness along with some past trekking experience.
The trail includes long, strenuous walking days, challenging ascents and descents, and high-altitude passes. It is very important to get used to the higher altitude because you will be trekking at over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) for a long time.
To complete this challenging trek, you must have a high level of physical fitness, and previous trekking experience.
Furthermore, tea houses and accommodations are more basic than on other popular trekking routes in Nepal like Annapurna and Everest. It's a good idea to bring essential supplies like trekking gear, cozy clothing, and a sleeping bag.
With the proper preparation, this trek can be highly enjoyable as well as thrilling through the remote yet culturally unique landscapes of the Nar Phu Valley.
Anyone trekking to Nar Phu Valley requires two types of permits. Because the Valley is part of a restricted area, you must be assisted by a licensed guide and at least two trekkers.
Hidden Trek Nepal will fully arrange your permit to trek through this diverse land.
To obtain a Nar Phu area trek permit, you must provide a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photograph, and the original passport with a visa stamp to the Hidden Trek Nepal team.
From Sunday to Friday, it will take 3-4 hours to obtain the permit (opening hours are 10:00 am to 5 pm). If you don't have time, your trek agent can do it for you.
According to the regulations, at least two trekkers must be in one group to obtain the permits.
The Government of Nepal and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has made it mandatory to hire a professional guide for the Nar Phu Valley Trek. We also strongly advise it to help to reduce the pressure on these difficult paths.
In order to control all other trek-related expenses on your own, Hidden Trek Nepal now provides a "guide only" service whereby you can hire a licensed guide and pay just for the guide's price. With this service, we provide you with a government-licensed, experienced trekking guide who knows the region inside and out.
We understand that many travellers today prefer a more flexible and cost-effective approach to adventure. That is why this service especially targets budget-conscious tourists looking for a real Himalayan adventure. It lets you manage your own logistics like transportation, accommodation, and meals along the route, thus welcoming different tastes and budgets.
Trekkers can start an unforgettable trip among some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes with the freedom to personalize travel, food, and accommodation combined with an expert local path.
| Day | Route | Altitude (m / ft) | Duration | Activity Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu - Besisahar - Dharapani | 1,860 m / 6,102 ft | 7–8 hrs drive | Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and continue to Dharapani by jeep |
| 2 | Dharapani - Koto | 2,600 m / 8,530 ft | 5–6 hrs trek | Begin trek; pass pine forests and Tibetan villages |
| 3 | Koto - Meta | 3,560 m / 11,680 ft | 7–8 hrs trek | Trek through the restricted Nar–Phu Valley; cross forested gorges |
| 4 | Meta - Phu | 4,080 m / 13,386 ft | 7–8 hrs trek | Trek through desert landscapes, ancient Tibetan villages |
| 5 | Phu Acclimatization + Himlung Base Camp Hike | 4,900 m / 16,076 ft (max) | 6–7 hrs hike | Acclimatization and exploration hike to Himlung Himal Base Camp |
| 6 | Phu - Naar Phedi | 3,490 m / 11,450 ft | 6–7 hrs trek | Descend and trek along the Phu Khola, camp below Naar |
| 7 | Naar Phedi - Naar Village | 4,110 m / 13,484 ft | 2–3 hrs trek | Steep climb to the isolated but beautiful Naar village |
| 8 | Naar - Ngawal via Kang La Pass | 5,320 m / 17,454 ft (pass) 3,615 m / 11,860 ft (Ngawal) | 7–8 hrs trek | Cross challenging Kang La Pass with spectacular Annapurna views |
| 9 | Ngawal - Manang Valley | 3,540 m / 11,614 ft | 3–4 hrs trek | Easy walk to Manang; a more developed village |
| 10 | Manang - Chame | 2,650 m / 8,694 ft | 6–7 hrs drive | Drive back through Marsyangdi valley to Chame |
| 11 | Chame - Besisahar - Kathmandu | 760 m / 2,493 ft (Besisahar) 1,400 m / 4,593 ft (Kathmandu) | 8–9 hrs drive | Long drive back via Besisahar to Kathmandu |
Early in the morning, we start our day by taking a bus to Besisahar, stopping for breakfast and lunch along the way. We will reach Besisahar after about 7 hours of driving. There we will change vehicles to continue to Dharapani.
During our rocky drive to Dharapani, we will pass through Chamje and Ghermu waterfalls, and the Marshyangdi River and observe the views of Mt. Manaslu peeking through the hills. We will reach Dharapani after about an extra 3 hours drive from Besisahar. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Following breakfast, we will continue our trek through pine forests with a few glimpses of Annapurna II. Today’s trek mostly passes through the forest, until we reach Koto where we spend our night. The initial day is challenging, as there are numerous stairs to ascend and challenging trails to navigate. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
We eat breakfast, register our restricted area permits at the checkpoint, and set out on our journey with excitement. We begin by following the Nar Khola riverbank, passing through other small streams. The sound of flowing water relaxes us.
We'll cross a few suspension bridges before arriving in Dharamsala, which takes about 5 hours. We eat lunch here before ascending steeply to Meta village, which is not far from here. We officially arrive and reach the Tibetan Plateau. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
The hike today takes you from Meta to Phu Gaon, a beautiful village. Absorb yourself in the ancient traditions and way of life of the people who live here as you walk along rough terrain and rocky paths.
The old "dzong" (Tibetan fortress) and the remains of two ruined forts are impressively set on top of the flatlands in front of the village. From here, you can see all three villages in the area. Just before you cross the bridge to Phu, there is a line of beautiful chortens that color the landscape. Enjoy the peace of the village in the Himalayas. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Because of the high altitude, it is advisable that you spend an acclimatization day on Phu. Today, we will explore Himlung Base Camp.
The hike to Himlung Himal Base Camp takes approximately 3 hours, with an additional 2 hours to return to Phu village. Himlung Himal base camp provides an incredible view of Himlung A, Phu village, and the glacier valley, providing a further challenge.
The Himlung peak has recently been opened for climbing. Herds of blue sheep can be seen gently climbing over the cliffs up the trail. When we return from our day hike, we eat lunch and explore the monastery and ancient village.
Recently the Himlung peak was opened for climbing. You’ll see herds of blue sheep gently clambering the steep cliffs up the trail. When we back from our day hike we have our lunch and explore the monastery and the ancient village. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
We will take the same path today near the Kyang Village. We will walk from Phu Village to Mahendra Pul, which takes about two hours, passing a few streams and suspension bridges on the way. After lunch, we will continue the trail.
We go by a high suspension bridge that is located 80 meters above the Lapche River Gorge. After having a good time at Mahendra Pul, we will continue our 30-minute hike up to Nar Prasar.
In fact, Nar Phedi is only made up of the monastery! Watch them prepare dinner in a small fireplace by joining them in the kitchen. At 5 pm, they do a puja (blessing), and you are invited to attend it.
The views of Pisang Peak and other nearby mountain peaks will be well worth your time. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today is a particularly pleasant day. Trek out of Nar Phedi and take the narrow path to Nar. On your way to the old town, you'll pass a line of gorgeously decorated bamboo chortens. Arrive around lunchtime in town. Although Nar is close to Annapurna's main trail, it is rarely visited by trekkers and is as beautiful as can be.
Nar is slightly more social and vibrant than Phu, and during the day, the village square is full of chatting women with looms knitting wool fabric for blankets and rugs. Overnight in the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
We're going to get up early this morning and head back to the Kang La Pass, which leads to the popular Annapurna Circuit trek route. Today is a long day. The day may be lengthy due to the effects of altitude, although it is not a difficult pass.
Once you get to the top of the pass, you'll have a great view of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The path starts out steep, but you can have fun if you like running screens. Have lunch on a plateau with a view of the top, then keep going to Ngawal.
It's clear that Ngawal is not at all like the old villages that were seen on the upper Pisang route of the Annapurna circuit. The lodges are bigger, the menus are longer, and most of them have phone and Wi-Fi connections. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today, our bodies appreciate shorter trekking times and less steep trails. Our souls also benefit from the rich Buddhist heritage that we will see today. We descend from Ngawal, passing Sher Gompa and its surrounding settlements, as well as Milaperpa's cave.
Milaperpa, a devoted yogi, spiritual leader, and teacher, is a key figure in Tibetan Buddhism's Kagyu tradition. Born around 1052, he traveled to what is now Nepal, and several sites honor his memory. We also pass Braga Gompa, which is approximately 900 years old, and Godzo Gompa before passing the Ghatte Khola and arriving in Manang. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today, after breakfast, we will descend toward Chame. The return journey to Chame will be primarily downhill. The lower region of the Annapurna Circuit is passed through by the walking route. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
The temperature increases significantly, and the landscape becomes more lush as one descends. Today is the final day of our journey, as we travel by vehicle from Besisahar to Kathmandu. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Tea houses and lodges provide basic but comfortable accommodations. Enjoy the simple comforts and friendly atmosphere of the local lodges instead of expecting high-end amenities.
During the peak season, you may have to share a room with other trekkers. Most guesthouses have a shared bathroom.
In short, if you are used to trekking or are ready to give up some comfort for the beauty of the Himalayas, you will not be disappointed.
Trekkers can enjoy traditional Tibetan and Nepali dishes, usually pretty simple, but it fills you up. Don't expect a menu with Western or other types of food. Trekkers can eat simple local foods while they're on the trail.
General Breakfast Items:
General Lunch and Dinner Items:
The food menu may vary depending on the seasons and the altitude, some restaurants don’t even have a food menu and they provide seasonal foods on the table.
Road transportation is the primary mode of transportation to and from the Nar Phu Valley trailhead. Typically, we travel to Besisahar by tourist bus and then transfer to a jeep to reach Dharapani according to our itinerary.
Your transportation is already included in the Hidden Trek Nepal package when you make a reservation, allowing you to fully concentrate on your adventure without any worries.
Mobile connectivity and access to the internet are limited in the Nar Phu Valley. Mobile signals are frequently weak or nonexistent, and Wi-Fi is accessible in numerous lodges; however, it may be unreliable.
To organize and schedule a Nar Phu Valley trip, it is best to hire the services of a well-known trekking company in Nepal, such as Hidden Trek Nepal.
We are concerned about your safety whenever you book a local company like ours, and we are here to help. Throughout every step of your trip, you will constantly have someone with years of experience to provide you with the best recommendations.
By making the reservations as early as possible, particularly during the peak trekking seasons, you may assure that you will be able to secure your desired accommodation without encountering any difficulties. Given that the majority of the most desirable places to stay in the region are often reserved well in advance, it is always a good idea to begin your planning process as early as possible.
Kathmandu has many great hotels, and we recommend staying in Thamel, the city’s vibrant tourist hub. It's packed with bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops. Thamel is also the perfect place to rent or buy trekking gear.
For shopping, there are plenty of nearby places to explore. Plus, our office is conveniently located in the heart of Thamel.
If you need assistance with hotel booking, Hidden Trek Nepal is here to help.
It is possible to obtain a visa on arrival for individuals from the majority of countries by visiting the online website of the Immigration Department of Nepal. Online forms must be filled out, printed, and brought with you.
The online system can be accessed at https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ from any location and at any time. The Online Application System can keep your application for 15 days in its system, allowing you to apply at your convenience and present it to the Immigration Authority at the time of admission or visa extension.
Visas on arrival are valid for 15, 30, or 3 months and are priced at:
We recommend hiking before the Nar Phu Valley Trek, helping your body adjust to higher elevations. Test your gear and break in your hiking boots on these short walks to find and correct any problems while still near city shops and resources.
Some suggestions for hiking places near Kathmandu are: Champa Devi Hiking, Jamacho (Nagarjun Hill) Hiking, Sundarijal Hiking, Chandragiri Hiking, etc.
You can also visit some very popular cultural locations carrying significant histories while in Kathmandu before the trek: Boudhanath (Boudha), the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and three Durbar Squares (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur).
After the Nar Phu Valley Trek, relaxing and enjoying Nepal's splendor is worth it. After the lengthy trek, Nepal is also a great place to relax with views, and cozy cafés. We recommend:
Hidden Trek Nepal is known for having skilled porters and making each tour unique. They know both the history and geography of the area well enough to make sure you have a safe and useful trip.
Our goal is to give you an experience that immerses you in the awe of the great Nepalese wilderness, whether that means customizing your schedule or making changes to the trail in real time or helping you through the tough parts of the trip.
We also provide flexible solutions, such as a "guide only" service for independent trekkers who would rather handle their own logistics with expert advice. With Hidden Trek Nepal, you interact with people, environment, and the desire of adventure at every turn rather than simply travel.
