Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit

Detailed itinerary

• day 01
  Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

  Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you’ll have a trek briefing session where you’ll meet your guide who will provide detailed information about the journey ahead. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hub, or simply rest and prepare for your upcoming trek.

  Points of Interest:

  • Thamel district (shopping and restaurants)
  • Durbar Square (if time permits)
  • Local markets and temples

  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel in Kathmandu
• day 02
  Private Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,860m/6,102ft)

  After an early breakfast, we’ll depart Kathmandu by private vehicle for Dharapani, providing superior comfort and flexibility compared to tourist bus alternatives. The journey takes approximately 8-9 hours along scenic mountain roads, offering spectacular views of terraced farmlands, lush hills, and river valleys. The private transport allows for comfortable stops and schedule adjustments as needed. We’ll follow the Prithvi Highway initially, then branch toward the mountains, passing through several traditional villages as we gain altitude gradually.

  Drive Distance: 200km | Drive Duration: 8-9 hours

  Points of Interest:

  • Scenic views of the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers
  • Terraced hillsides and distant mountain peaks
  • Traditional Gurung and Tamang villages
  • Gradual transition from subtropical to temperate climate

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 03
  Trek from Dharapani to Koto (2,610m/8,563ft)

  Today marks the beginning of our trekking adventure. From Dharapani, we follow the classic Annapurna Circuit route, trekking through beautiful landscapes along the Marsyangdi River. The trail passes through traditional stone houses and terraced fields, offering our first views of the Annapurna range. We’ll walk through several small villages including Timang, crossing suspension bridges and enjoying the changing vegetation as we gain altitude. Koto marks the gateway to the restricted Nar Phu Valley, where we’ll register our permits and prepare for the more remote sections ahead .

  Trek Distance: 12km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Views of Annapurna II and Annapurna III
  • Traditional stone architecture of mountain villages
  • Marsyangdi River gorge and suspension bridges
  • Permit registration point for Nar Phu Valley

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 04
  Trek from Koto to Dharamsala (3,100m/10,170ft)

  We enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley area, leaving the main Annapurna Circuit trail behind. After crossing the river and checking permits at the police post, our trail leads through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The path becomes more rugged and wild, with fewer trekkers and a sense of entering truly remote territory. We’ll cross several streams and traverse through a spectacular narrow valley with sheer cliffs on both sides. The route gradually climbs through beautiful forest sections to reach Dharamsala, a simple settlement with basic accommodation.

  Trek Distance: 14km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Entry into restricted Nar Phu Valley area
  • Dense rhododendron and pine forests
  • Dramatic narrow valley with steep cliffs
  • Remote wilderness atmosphere
  • Multiple stream crossings

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 05
  Trek from Dharamsala to Meta (3,560m/11,680ft)

  Continuing deeper into the Nar Phu Valley, today’s trek takes us through varied terrain including forest sections, open meadows, and rocky areas. The trail follows the river valley, crossing several tributaries on wooden bridges. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes more arid and the vegetation sparser. We’ll pass through increasingly dramatic scenery with towering peaks beginning to dominate the horizon. Meta is a small settlement positioned beautifully in the valley with spectacular mountain views .

  Trek Distance: 10km | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Transition from forest to alpine environment
  • Views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal
  • Dramatic valley scenery with towering peaks
  • Traditional settlement architecture
  • Increasing altitude effects

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 06
  Trek from Meta to Phu Gaon (4,250m/13,944ft)

  Today we trek to one of the most remote and fascinating villages in the Himalayas. The route takes us through an increasingly barren landscape with spectacular rock formations and narrow canyons. We’ll encounter ancient ruins at Kyang village, offering glimpses into the area’s rich history. The trail becomes more challenging as we cross the Phu Khola river and climb steeply toward the village. Phu Gaon is an extraordinary settlement perched dramatically on a high plateau, virtually unchanged for centuries. The village offers incredible views and a rare opportunity to experience authentic Tibetan mountain culture.

  Trek Distance: 8km | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

  Points of Interest:

  • Ancient ruins at Kyang village
  • Spectacular rock formations and narrow canyons
  • Crossing of Phu Khola river
  • Phu Gaon’s dramatic cliff-top setting
  • Traditional Tibetan architecture and culture

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 07
  Acclimatization Day in Phu Gaon (4,250m/13,944ft)

  Today is dedicated to proper acclimatization and exploration of this remarkable village. Phu Gaon offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Tibetan mountain life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. You can explore the village’s narrow alleyways, observe local people engaged in traditional activities like spinning yak wool, and visit the Tashi Lakhang Monastery. For those feeling well-acclimatized, there’s an optional hike to Himlung Himal Base Camp (4,540m) which provides spectacular mountain views and excellent preparation for the high passes ahead.

  Optional Hike Distance: 6km round trip | Hike Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Tashi Lakhang Monastery exploration
  • Traditional Tibetan mountain lifestyle observation
  • Optional Himlung Himal Base Camp hike
  • Spectacular mountain photography opportunities
  • Authentic cultural interactions with local villagers

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 08
  Trek from Phu Gaon to Nar Phedi (3,490m/11,450ft)

  We retrace our steps partway before taking the trail toward Nar Valley. The route descends initially, passing the MahendraPul suspension bridge (80m high) over the Labse River, then climbs through a different valley system. The trail passes several ancient monasteries and offers changing perspectives of the surrounding peaks. Nar Phedi is a simple settlement consisting mainly of a monastery where we’ll spend the night. The monastery setting provides a peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to witness traditional Buddhist practices.

  Trek Distance: 10km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • MahendraPul suspension bridge crossing
  • Ancient monasteries along the trail
  • Transition between Phu and Nar valley systems
  • Monastery accommodation experience
  • Buddhist cultural immersion

  • Accommodation: Monastery/Guesthouse
• day 09
  Trek from Nar Phedi to Nar Village (4,110m/13,484ft)

  A relatively short but scenic trek takes us to Nar village, one of the most culturally rich settlements in the region. The trail climbs steadily through the Nar Valley, crossing suspension bridges and passing a line of beautifully painted, bamboo-topped stupas that mark the approach to the ancient village. Nar offers spectacular views of surrounding peaks and provides insight into traditional Tibetan way of life. The village feels more social and lively than Phu, with opportunities to observe traditional weaving and other cultural activities.

  Trek Distance: 4km | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Beautiful painted stupas approaching the village
  • Traditional stone architecture of Nar village
  • Ancient Buddhist monasteries and cultural sites
  • Views of Pisang Peak and surrounding mountains
  • Traditional weaving and cultural activities

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 10
  Trek from Nar to Ngawal via Kang La Pass (5,322m/17,460ft)

  Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek as we cross the high Kang La Pass, connecting the Nar Phu valleys to the main Annapurna Circuit. We start early to avoid afternoon winds at the pass. The ascent is steep but steady, taking us through increasingly sparse vegetation to reach the pass marked with prayer flags. From Kang La Pass, we enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The descent is equally dramatic, eventually bringing us to Ngawal village on the classic Annapurna Circuit upper route.

  Trek Distance: 12km | Trek Duration: 8-9 hours | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging

  Points of Interest:

  • Spectacular views from Kang La Pass (5,322m)
  • Panoramic mountain vistas of Annapurna range
  • Prayer flags and pass ceremonial significance
  • Dramatic landscape changes during descent
  • Connection to main Annapurna Circuit

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 11
  Trek from Ngawal to Manang (3,540m/11,614ft)

  After the challenging pass crossing, today offers a more relaxed trek as we descend to Manang. The route takes us through the picturesque villages of Braga, where we can visit the 900-year-old Braga Monastery housing ancient Buddhist artifacts, thangkas, and statues. The trail offers magnificent views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Manang is the largest settlement in the upper Manang Valley and serves as a major stop on the classic Annapurna Circuit, offering good facilities and the famous Himalayan Rescue Association post.

  Trek Distance: 8km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Braga Monastery with ancient Buddhist artifacts
  • Views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
  • The Manang Valley’s unique semi-arid landscape
  • Traditional stone houses reflecting Tibetan influence
  • Himalayan Rescue Association center

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 12
  Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540m/11,614ft)

  Today is crucial for proper acclimatization before crossing the high Thorong La pass. Rather than complete rest, we’ll take an acclimatization hike to either Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake (Kicho Tal). The turquoise Gangapurna Lake is fed by the Gangapurna Glacier and offers stunning reflections of surrounding peaks. The more challenging Ice Lake trek reaches 4,600m and provides spectacular mountain views. You can also attend the free altitude sickness prevention lecture offered by the Himalayan Rescue Association or explore Manang’s bakeries and shops.

  Optional Hike Distance: 5-10km round trip | Hike Duration: 3-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

  Points of Interest:

  • Gangapurna Lake’s turquoise waters and glacier views
  • Views of Gangapurna (7,455m), Annapurna III (7,555m), and Chulu East (6,584m)
  • 500-year-old Manang Monastery
  • Himalayan Rescue Association altitude lecture
  • Traditional Manang village exploration

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 13
  Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft)

  After proper acclimatization in Manang, we begin our approach toward Thorong La pass. Today’s trek is relatively short but involves steady uphill climbing to allow for gradual acclimatization. The trail climbs out of the Manang Valley, following the Jarsang Khola through sparse juniper vegetation. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly barren with spectacular views of surrounding peaks. Yak Kharka, meaning “yak pastures,” is a small settlement where you’ll likely see yaks grazing on the sparse high-altitude vegetation.

  Trek Distance: 10km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

  Points of Interest:

  • Panoramic views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
  • Transition to high alpine terrain and sparse vegetation
  • Traditional herding lifestyle and yak grazing areas
  • Dramatic mountain landscapes and increasing altitude effects
  • Preparation zone for Thorong La pass crossing

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 14
  Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m/14,600ft)

  Today’s trek is another important acclimatization day as we continue gaining altitude in preparation for tomorrow’s pass crossing. After crossing a suspension bridge over the Kone Khola, we climb to Ledar (4,200m), then descend to cross the Jarsang Khola before making the steep climb to Thorong Phedi, which means “foot of the hill.” This is the last settlement before crossing Thorong La pass. The high-altitude environment becomes increasingly apparent, and proper rest is essential for tomorrow’s challenging day.

  Trek Distance: 7km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

  Points of Interest:

  • Dramatic views of Thorong Peak and Chulu West
  • Stark high-altitude landscape and sparse vegetation
  • Last settlement before the ultimate pass crossing
  • Final preparation point for Thorong La
  • High-altitude adaptation and rest

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 15
  Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft) to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft)

  Today is the highlight and most challenging day of the entire trek. We start very early (around 4:00 AM) to cross Thorong La pass before strong winds develop later in the day. The ascent is steep but steady, taking 4-5 hours to reach the pass marked by colorful prayer flags and a small tea house. At 5,416m (17,769ft), Thorong La is one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Mustang region, and Tibetan plateau . After celebrating at the pass, we begin the long descent to Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists.

  Trek Distance: 16km | Trek Duration: 8-10 hours | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging

  Points of Interest:

  • Panoramic views from Thorong La pass (5,416m)
  • Dramatic landscape change from green valleys to arid terrain
  • Muktinath Temple complex with 108 water spouts
  • Buddhist monastery and eternal flame of natural gas
  • Sacred pilgrimage site for multiple religions

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
• day 16
  Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m/8,924ft), Flight to Pokhara (822m/2,697ft)

  After exploring the sacred Muktinath temple complex in the morning, including the 108 water spouts and eternal flame, we take a short trek or drive to Jomsom airport. The scenic 20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is considered one of the world’s most spectacular mountain flights, offering aerial views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your lakeside hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest by beautiful Phewa Lake. The transition from high mountains to subtropical lakeside environment marks the successful completion of your trek.

  Trek/Drive Distance: 8km | Trek/Drive Duration: 2-3 hours | Flight Duration: 20 minutes

  Points of Interest:

  • Muktinath Temple exploration and spiritual significance
  • Spectacular mountain flight with aerial Himalayan views
  • Transition from high mountains to subtropical lakeside
  • Phewa Lake and relaxed Pokhara atmosphere
  • Celebration of successful trek completion

  • Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel in Pokhara
• day 17
  Tourist Bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft), Farewell Dinner

  After breakfast and some leisure time in beautiful lakeside Pokhara, we board a comfortable tourist bus for the return journey to Kathmandu. The drive follows the scenic Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River, offering views of terraced farmlands, rural villages, and distant mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural performances to celebrate the successful completion of your Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek .

  Drive Distance: 200km | Drive Duration: 6-7 hours

  Points of Interest:

  • Final mountain views from Pokhara lakeside
  • Scenic Prithvi Highway journey through rural Nepal
  • Return to Kathmandu’s vibrant atmosphere
  • Traditional farewell dinner with Nepali cuisine and cultural shows
  • Celebration of trek achievements

  • Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel in Pokhara
  • Meal: Breakfast
• day 18
  Final Departure

  After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. If you’re extending your stay in Nepal or planning another adventure, our team will be happy to assist with arrangements.

  Airport Transfer: Scheduled according to your flight time (typically 3 hours before international flights)

  Practical Information:

  • Standard hotel check-out time is 12:00 PM
  • Luggage storage available for those with evening flights
  • Late check-out may be arranged (subject to availability and additional cost)

  • Meal: Breakfast