Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit
●●●●● 4.9 · 60+ TripAdvisor reviewsA restricted valley near the Tibetan border, two ancient villages unchanged for centuries, and two passes above 5,000m on one 17-day route
On The Trail
What It Really Looks Like
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit: What to Expect
Kang La Pass at 5,320m through the restricted valley and Thorong La Pass at 5,416m on the Annapurna Circuit. Both on one route
Nar and Phu villages require a special permit obtained only through a registered agency. MountainKick handles all paperwork before you leave Kathmandu
Phu at 4,050m and Nar at 4,150m. Settled around the 10th century. Fewer than 500 permanent residents between them. Almost no tourist infrastructure
After Kang La you rejoin the classic circuit at Ngawal, cross Thorong La, visit Muktinath, and fly out of Jomsom
This 17-day route combines the restricted Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit. From Koto the trail leaves the main circuit and enters a restricted zone almost no trekker sees deep gorges, ancient Tibetan villages, and two acclimatisation days in Phu and Nar before crossing Kang La Pass at 5,320m back onto the circuit at Ngawal. From there the route follows the standard circuit through Manang and Thorong La at 5,416m before flying out of Jomsom.
Nar and Phu villages sit above 4,000m, settled around the 10th century, with fewer than 500 permanent residents between them. Alcohol, meat, and tobacco are prohibited in both villages. Facilities in the restricted zone are very basic. This is a Hard trek requiring prior high-altitude experience. Minimum group size is two trekkers.
Trail highlights:
- The gorge entry into Nar Phu from Koto with almost no other trekkers on trail
- Phu village at 4,080m with Tashi Lhakhang Monastery and stone Tibetan fort ruins
- Nar village at 4,110m with women weaving on traditional looms and monks at morning prayer
- Kang La Pass at 5,320m with Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
For a comparison of Annapurna routes read our Annapurna region guide.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Your guide meets you at arrivals and transfers you to the hotel in Thamel. That evening we hold a pre-trip briefing covering the full route, restricted area permits, kit check, and altitude strategy. Bring your passport and two passport-sized photos for permit paperwork. Boudhanath and Pashupatinath are both 30 minutes away if you arrive early.
Drive to Dharapani
Private vehicle departs early following the Prithvi Highway west then north up the Marsyangdi River valley. The 200km drive takes 9 to 10 hours through subtropical lowlands, rice terraces, and pine hill country. Dharapani sits at the junction of the Marsyangdi and Dudh Khola rivers, the starting point of the classic Annapurna Circuit and the last major town before the restricted zone.
Trek to Koto
The first trekking day follows the Annapurna Circuit north along the Marsyangdi River through pine and rhododendron forest. Bagarchhap marks the transition to flat-roofed Tibetan-influenced stone architecture. Pass through Chame, district headquarters of Manang, then continue to Koto where the Nar Khola joins the Marsyangdi. Register restricted area permits at the police checkpoint here before tomorrow’s entry.
Enter the Restricted Zone, Trek to Meta
Cross the bridge at Koto and show permits at the police post. Everything changes immediately. The trail follows the Nar Khola upstream through a steep narrow gorge with dense pine, birch, and rhododendron on both sides and waterfalls dropping from cliffs above. Several wooden bridge crossings before the trail emerges onto the Tibetan plateau at Meta. No Wi-Fi, no mobile signal, very few other trekkers from here onward.
Trek to Phu Gaon
The valley reveals its full character today. The trail climbs through barren wind-scoured terrain with dramatic limestone canyons. Pass through Kyang, which served as a base for Khampa Tibetan guerrilla fighters during the 1959 uprising against Chinese rule. Beyond Kyang the trail crosses the Phu Khola and climbs to Phu at 4,080m, announced by a centuries-old carved wooden gate. Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, over 700 years old, sits at the heart of the settlement.
Acclimatisation Day in Phu Gaon
A full day at 4,080m before gaining more altitude. Explore Tashi Lhakhang Monastery with its detailed prayer hall murals and resident monks. Walk the stone alleys past drying yak meat and hand-spun wool. For those feeling strong, a hike toward Himlung Himal Base Camp at 4,540m takes 4 to 5 hours round trip and adds useful altitude preparation. Alcohol, meat, and tobacco are prohibited throughout the restricted zone.
Trek to Nar Village
Retrace toward Meta then branch south into the Nar Valley. Cross Mahendra Pul, a steel cable suspension bridge 80m above the Labse Khola gorge. The trail climbs through open valley terrain past painted stupas and bamboo prayer flag poles to Nar village, locally called Chuprung. More compact and lively than Phu with women weaving on backstrap looms, monks spinning prayer wheels, and terraced barley fields below Kang Garu peak. The Kang La ridgeline is visible from here.
Acclimatisation Day in Nar
A second acclimatisation day before the Kang La crossing. Hike to the ridge above Nar for views of Pisang Peak (6,091m), Kangaru Himal (6,981m), and the pass you cross tomorrow. Explore the monastery, observe the daily rhythm of the village, and rest well. Your guide checks oxygen saturation levels this evening and confirms the 4am departure time. Lay out all your gear tonight and sleep early.
Cross Kang La Pass to Ngawal
Pre-dawn start at 4am. The climb from Nar to Kang La at 5,320m takes 5 to 6 hours through juniper scrub, scree, and moraine. Prayer flags and views of Annapurna massif, Manaslu (8,163m), Himlung Himal (7,126m), and Kangaru Himal mark the summit. Show permits at the exit checkpoint. The descent drops over 1,660m to Ngawal on steep switchbacks before flattening into the Manang Valley. Ngawal feels like a different world after a week in the restricted zone.
Trek to Manang
A recovery day on the main Annapurna Circuit. The trail passes Braga with its 500-year-old cliff-face monastery housing one of the finest collections of Buddhist statues and thangkas in the region. Manang has bakeries, gear shops, and the Himalayan Rescue Association post with a free afternoon altitude sickness lecture. Significantly better facilities than anything in the restricted section. Attend the HRA lecture and sleep early.
Trek to Yak Kharka
The trail climbs out of the Manang Valley following the Jarsang Khola through sparse juniper into open alpine terrain. A manageable 510m gain as a buildup before Thorong La. Yak Kharka sits on a windswept plateau with wide views of Chulu East, Chulu West, and Thorong Peak. Teahouses are simple. Eat well, drink 3 litres of water, and sleep early.
Trek to Thorong Phedi
A short day to preserve energy for tomorrow. Cross the Kone Khola suspension bridge, pass through Ledar at 4,200m, then climb to Thorong Phedi. Temperatures drop well below freezing at night here. Lay out all your gear tonight, drink 3 litres of water, eat a full meal, and sleep by 8pm. The pass crossing starts before dawn.
Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
Wake-up at 4am. The climb from Phedi through High Camp to Thorong La at 5,416m takes 5 to 6 hours. One of the world’s highest trekking passes. Prayer flags and a seasonal tea stall mark the summit with views across Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the Mustang plateau. The 1,656m descent to Muktinath takes 3 to 4 hours on steep loose rock. Muktinath has 108 brass water spouts, an eternal natural gas flame, hot showers, and apple pie.
Trek to Jomsom
Start early before the Kali Gandaki valley winds build. The trail descends through Jharkot fortress village and the medieval mud-brick settlement of Kagbeni on the boundary of restricted Upper Mustang before following the river south to Jomsom. Last night on trail after 12 days in the mountains. Jomsom has good teahouses, shops, and a bakery. Confirm your flight for tomorrow morning.
Fly Jomsom to Pokhara
Early morning flight before valley winds build. The 30-minute flight follows the Kali Gandaki gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, one of the deepest gorges in the world. Flights are weather-dependent with a jeep ride as the alternative. Check into your lakeside hotel by mid-morning. Phewa Lake, the Annapurna range reflected in the water, and a proper bed are the reward for 13 days on trail.
Drive to Kathmandu, Farewell Dinner
Tourist bus departs early morning along the Prithvi Highway, 200km in 7 to 9 hours through terraced hillsides and river towns. Arrive by afternoon. That evening your guide takes you to a traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural performances. Dal bhat, momo, and a proper meal at a table that does not wobble.
Final Departure
Breakfast at the hotel then private transfer to the airport timed to your flight. If time allows, Boudhanath is 20 minutes by taxi. Luggage stored during the trek can be collected before you head out.
3D Route Map
Includes & Excludes
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Airport transfers in Kathmandu Private vehicle, arrival and departure
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3-star hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights, twin-sharing, breakfast included
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3-star hotel in Pokhara 1 nights, twin-sharing, breakfast included
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Teahouse accommodation on trek 13 nights, twin-sharing throughout
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Private vehicle Kathmandu to Dharapani on day 2
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Jomsom to Pokhara flight 20-min scenic flight
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Tourist bus Pokhara to Kathmandu Return journey Day 16
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Government-licensed trekking guide NTB-certified, English speaking, full trek
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Porter service 1 porter per 2 trekkers, 20kg load limit
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All staff costs Salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation
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Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) RAP for Nar Phu valley
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Required entry permit for the Annapurna region
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TIMS card Trekkers' Information Management System
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Oximeter and first aid kit Carried by guide throughout the trek
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Farewell dinner in Kathmandu Traditional Nepali meal with your guide
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Duffel bag Yours to keep as a souvenir
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International flights To and from Kathmandu
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Nepal visa fee 15 days $30 / 30 days $50 / 90 days $125, available on arrival
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Travel insurance Mandatory. Must cover helicopter evacuation to at least 5,500m
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All meals on trek Budget $30 to $40 per day. Teahouses serve breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara Except the farewell dinner
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Personal trekking gear Sleeping bag, trekking poles. Rentable in Kathmandu or Pokhara
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Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging Small charge at teahouses, typically $2 to $5 each
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Guide and porter tips Customary. Roughly 10-15% of the trip price
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Jomsom flight cancellation Jeep alternative
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Personal expenses Snacks, bottled water, laundry, souvenirs
Enhance Your Trek
We Handle the Details
FreeWhere You'll Sleep & What You'll Eat
Three distinct tiers on this trek. Kathmandu and Pokhara are 3-star hotels with private bathrooms and breakfast included. On the main Annapurna Circuit section from Dharapani through Koto, Ngawal, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Thorong Phedi, teahouses are well-established with twin rooms, shared bathrooms, hot showers at extra cost, and Wi-Fi at most stops. The restricted Nar Phu section from Koto to Nar is a completely different experience. Rooms are basic with wooden beds and thin foam mattresses, no hot showers, no Wi-Fi, no reliable electricity, and limited menus. Nar Phedi Monastery is the most distinctive overnight on the route. Sleeping bag rated to -15°C is non-negotiable throughout.
- Kathmandu and Pokhara: 3-star hotel, private bathroom, breakfast included
- Main circuit section: established teahouses, shared bathroom, hot showers at extra cost, Wi-Fi available
- Restricted zone section: very basic guesthouses, no hot showers, no Wi-Fi, no electricity in some locations
- Nar Phedi: overnight in a working Buddhist monastery, monks at morning prayer, very basic facilities
- Sleeping bag rated to -15°C essential throughout the restricted section
On the main circuit section from Dharapani to Koto and from Ngawal onward, teahouse menus are standard: dal bhat, garlic soup, noodle soup, fried rice, pasta, eggs, and ginger tea. Dal bhat is always the safest option, cooked fresh to order. In the restricted zone from Koto to Nar, menus are limited to dal bhat, noodle soup, and basic rice dishes. Snack options are scarce above Meta. Stock up on personal snacks and energy bars in Kathmandu before departure. Alcohol, meat, and tobacco are prohibited in Nar and Phu villages. Budget $30 to $40 per day on the main circuit and $35 to $45 per day in the restricted zone where everything is porter-carried.
| Meals on trail | $30 to $40 / day |
| Meals in restricted zone | $35 to $45 / day |
| Hot shower | $3 to $7 |
| Wi-Fi (main circuit only) | $3 to $5 |
| Battery charging per device | $2 to $5 |
| Bottled water | $1 to $3 |
What Our Trekkers Say
“An incredible off the beaten path trek”
Jeevan guided us on the Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit trek, and the Nar Phu Valley felt completely different from the more popular routes, small villages, old stone houses, and incredible mountain scenery. He knew the area well and made the whole journey comfortable. Crossing Kang La was a real…
“A special experience in the Himalayas”
Hari made this trip genuinely amazing. The Nar Phu section was exactly what we'd hoped for, quiet trails, beautiful villages, and a real sense of being off the usual tourist routes. He was patient and easygoing and took great care of our group. The Annapurna Circuit afterward gave us a…
“One of the best treks we have done”
Gopal made a genuinely demanding trek much easier. As a small group, he stayed aware of how everyone was feeling, especially on the higher sections. Nar Phu was the highlight for me, the villages and mountain scenery were incredible, and the route felt genuinely remote. MountainKick organized everything really well.
“Incredible landscapes and great guiding”
Rajkumar looked after us from day one, helpful and calm throughout. The Nar Phu Valley was spectacular and felt completely different from the Annapurna side. We loved the quiet trails and dramatic scenery before joining the circuit. Challenging, but one of the most rewarding experiences we've had in Nepal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit?
This trek is rated Hard (Level 4 on our scale). You cross two passes above 5,000m, spend 10 successive nights above 3,000m, and trek through remote terrain with limited rescue access for the first 7 days. The hardest days are Day 9 (Kang La Pass at 5,320m) and Day 13 (Thorong La Pass at 5,416m). Daily walking averages 5 to 8 hours. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended. Fit trekkers who have completed a previous Himalayan trek can manage this route with proper preparation and acclimatisation. See our full trek difficulty guide for context.
Can I do this trek solo?
As of March 2026, solo trekkers can now obtain a Restricted Area Permit independently through a registered agency. The two-person minimum previously required for restricted area permits has been removed. However, a licensed guide hired through a TAAN-registered agency remains mandatory throughout the restricted zone. You cannot trek the Nar Phu Valley independently without a guide under any circumstances. MountainKick handles all permit paperwork and guide arrangements before you leave Kathmandu.
What permits do I need and are they included?
Three permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at USD 30, the Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) at USD 100 per week September to November and USD 75 per week December to August, and the TIMS card at USD 10. All three are included in the MountainKick package price. We handle all paperwork before you leave Kathmandu. Permits are checked at Koto entry and Ngawal exit checkpoints in the restricted zone. Carry originals at all times. For full 2026 permit details read our Nepal trekking permits guide.
How is Nar Phu different from the regular Annapurna Circuit?
Most Annapurna Circuit trekkers pass Koto village without noticing the bridge over the river and the narrow forested gorge on the opposite bank. That gorge is the entrance to Nar Phu. For the next 7 days you are in terrain with almost no other trekkers, no Wi-Fi, no mobile signal, very basic guesthouses, and two medieval Tibetan villages that existed in near-complete isolation until 2002. When you cross Kang La and rejoin the circuit at Ngawal, most trekkers there will never have heard of Nar Phu. You will have just spent a week there.
What is the best time to do this trek?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the two reliable windows. Autumn has the clearest skies and best visibility for both passes. Spring is warmer with rhododendrons in bloom on the lower circuit sections. December is possible but both Kang La and Thorong La can have significant snow and are occasionally closed. Avoid monsoon (June to August) when the restricted zone approach from Koto to Meta becomes slippery and prone to landslides, though the upper Nar Phu section itself sits in a rain shadow and receives less rain.
What are the accommodation conditions in the restricted zone?
Conditions vary sharply by section. On the main Annapurna Circuit (Dharapani to Koto, and Ngawal onward), teahouses are well-established with twin rooms, shared bathrooms, hot showers at extra cost, and Wi-Fi at most stops. In the restricted zone from Koto to Nar, rooms are basic with wooden beds and thin foam mattresses. There are no hot showers, no Wi-Fi, and no reliable electricity in some locations. The overnight at Nar Phedi Monastery is the most distinctive stop on the route, with monks at morning prayer and very basic facilities. A sleeping bag rated to -15°C is essential throughout the restricted section, since none of the guesthouses there have heating.
Is altitude sickness a serious risk on this trek?
Yes. This is one of the highest and most altitude-intensive treks in Nepal. You sleep at 4,080m in Phu, 4,110m in Nar, 4,525m at Thorong Phedi, and cross two passes above 5,000m. The itinerary includes two acclimatisation days in Phu and Nar specifically to manage this. Your guide carries an oximeter and monitors oxygen saturation daily from Koto onward. Descent is always the correct response to worsening symptoms. Speak to your doctor about Diamox before departure. Read our full altitude sickness guide.
Is Kang La Pass dangerous?
Kang La at 5,320m is harder than Thorong La in one respect: the trail is less defined, the terrain is steeper and more exposed, and there are far fewer other trekkers to call on in an emergency. It is not a technical climb and requires no ropes or crampons in normal conditions. Pre-dawn departure, a steady pace, and good acclimatisation from the days in Phu and Nar are what make the crossing safe. Your guide has crossed this pass many times and manages the timing and conditions. Do not attempt it with worsening altitude symptoms.
Is there phone signal or Wi-Fi in Nar Phu?
No reliable signal or Wi-Fi exists anywhere in the restricted zone from Koto to Ngawal. This includes Meta, Phu, Nar Phedi, and Nar. Inform family and friends before you enter that communication will be unavailable for approximately 7 days. Satellite communication devices are available for hire in Kathmandu if you need emergency contact capability. Wi-Fi and mobile signal return at Ngawal when you rejoin the Annapurna Circuit.
Are there ATMs on the route?
No ATMs exist past Koto. Carry all cash from Kathmandu in small denominations covering the full 17 days. Budget USD 30 to 45 per day for meals plus additional cash for the main circuit section hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging. The restricted zone has no banking facilities whatsoever. Stock up on personal snacks and supplies in Kathmandu before departure as options are very limited above Meta.
What should I budget beyond the package price?
Budget for: international flights, Nepal visa (15-day $30 / 30-day $50 / 90-day $125), travel insurance, all meals on trek ($30 to $45 per day depending on section), hot showers and Wi-Fi on the main circuit section ($3 to $7 each), guide and porter tips (10 to 15% of trip cost), and personal snacks and supplies for the restricted zone. Most trekkers spend an additional $500 to $700 on top of the $1,450 package price.
What travel insurance do I need?
Your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation to at least 5,500m and ideally to USD 100,000 in rescue costs. Helicopter evacuation from the restricted zone or Thorong La area without insurance can cost USD 4,000 to USD 8,000. The restricted zone has limited rescue access and no road connection — helicopter is the only evacuation option in a serious emergency. Make sure your policy covers high-altitude trekking specifically, as many standard travel policies exclude it. Carry a printed copy of your policy and emergency contact number throughout. Read our travel insurance guide for what to look for.
Departure Dates & Pricing
Can't find a group date that works? Run this trip privately on any date you choose. Same route and guides, just your own group. The price depends on how many of you there are.
Ready to go? Request your preferred dates or message us on WhatsApp. We confirm availability within a few hours.
We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.
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20% deposit: due on booking Secures your place on the departure. The deposit is non-refundable. We also need a copy of your passport.
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80% balance: due on arrival Pay the rest in Kathmandu before the trip starts. Bank transfer, cash, or card (4% card fee).
| Cancel before you arrive | Deposit not refunded, nothing more to pay |
| Cancel after the pre-trip meeting | No refund |
| Date or name change | USD 200 per person |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
Weather delays and extra days cost extra, so travel insurance is required. We give you documents for any claim.
Read the full terms and conditionsPacking List
Footwear
ⓘ Do not bring new boots. Break them in on at least 3 to 4 long walks before you fly.
Clothing and Layers
ⓘ The layering system is everything on this trek. Temperature swings 20 degrees between midday and evening above 4,000m.
Head, Hands and Neck
ⓘ The pre-dawn Kang La crossing at 5,320m and Thorong La at 5,416m are the coldest moments on this trek. Pack everything in this section in your daypack the night before each pass
Gear and Equipment
ⓘ Your porter carries the duffel. Your daypack is for daily essentials only. Keep it under 5kg.
Health and Hydration
ⓘ Talk to your doctor about Diamox before you leave. You sleep at 4,080m in Phu, 4,110m in Nar, and 4,525m at Thorong Phedi. Discuss it seriously before departure. Available in Kathmandu but better prescribed beforehand
Toiletries
ⓘ Keep it minimal. No hot showers anywhere in the restricted zone from Koto to Ngawal. Wet wipes are essential for 7 days
Documents and Money
ⓘ No ATMs past Koto. Carry all cash from Kathmandu in small denominations covering the full 17 days. Budget extra for the restricted zone where everything is porter-carried
Trekking in Winter (Dec to Feb)
Trekking in Monsoon (Jun to Aug)
⚠ Monsoon is not recommended for the main circuit sections of this trek. The approach from Koto to Meta receives heavy rainfall with landslide risk. The upper Nar Phu valley sits in a rain shadow and is drier, but both Kang La and Thorong La become significantly more dangerous in wet conditions
Leave at home
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Jeans Heavy, zero insulation when wet, takes days to dry
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Cotton clothing Absorbs sweat, stays wet, causes chills at altitude
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Full-size towel Heavy and bulky. Microfiber only.
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Laptop No need and you will regret the weight
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Excessive toiletries Wet wipes are your friend above 4,000m
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Valuables / jewellery Unnecessary risk. Leave at the hotel in Kathmandu.
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Alcohol, meat and tobacco in Nar and Phu villages Both villages prohibit alcohol, meat, and tobacco out of respect for Tibetan Buddhist customs. These items may be available at teahouses on the approach trail but must not be brought into the villages themselves. Ask your guide before entering either settlement.
Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu before the trek. Trekking poles are best purchased in Thamel. We connect you with trusted shops at the pre-trip briefing. A duffel bag is provided to every trekker as part of the package
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna Circuit
Talk to Kumar and the team before you commit. Ask about gear, fitness, altitude or a private group.
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