Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Pass - 16 Days

Quick Overview
Duration16 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5,416 meters
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeAutumn &Spring

Nar Phu Valley Trek highlights

  • Explore the remote villages of Nar and Phu, which are tucked inside the Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Enjoy Kang La Pass (5,300 m) with the views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Manaslu.
  • You can extend to Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and join the classic Annapurna Circuit route
  • Get a chance to see the panoramic views of Annapurna Massif, Tilicho Peak, Manaslu Range, and Chulu East & West
  • You can also add the days in your Nar Phu trek itinerary to trek to world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake
  • Experience the authentic Tibetan Culture, ancient monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags.
  • Combine Nar Phu Valley Trekking with the Annapurna Circuit, crossing the Kang La and Thorong La Passes. 
  • Perfect for the trekkers who are searching the peaceful, and less crowded alternative to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit
  • Get a chance to visit Manang and Muktinath in the same trek. 

Overview of Nar Phu Valley Trek 

If you’re dreaming of stepping into the hidden Himalayan world, then NarPhu Village can be your perfect adventure. It is an untouched area of Nepal, which is tucked silently in the Manang district inside the Annapurna Conservation Area.Nar and Phu are the two villages separated by mountains and valleys. Nar village is situated at about ~4,110m and Phuvillage at ~3,700m.

Narphu Valley is surrounded by the stunning peaks like Manaslu,Annapurna II,Gangapurna, and Chulu East. This valley lies in a restricted area of Nepal, and it has been open for foreigners only since 2023. So, trekkers will need special permits to trek here. 

Nar Phu region is home to the Tibetan Buddhist Communities. People here are warm-hearted and still live in traditional mud-and-stone houses. Local people survive their lives doing yak herding, barley farming, and animal husbandry. The culture of this region has been preserved for centuries due to its remoteness. 

Kang La (5,200m) and Thorong La (5,416m) are the highest points of the Nar Phu Valley Trek. While returning, you’ll experience the picturesque Manang Village with its rich Tibetan culture. After leaving Manang, you’ll get a chance to visit the Sacred Muktinath Temple, which is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Everything in just one trek, which you’ll definitely enjoy. 

Himalayan Partner offers you to trek to Nar Phu Valley with us for the best experience. For more information and inquiries regarding Nar Phu Valley, feel free to contact us.  

Narphu Valley Trekking Route 

Journey to Narphu Valley Trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. Then the trek starts from Koto, gradually ascending through Meta, Kyang, Phu Village, and to Nar Village. You’ll be exploring Nar Phu villages with short hikes near the village and cultural immersion around Nar and Phu

If you plan to do the Nar Phu Valley Trek through the Kang La Passroute, then you’ll trek through Nar and ascend to Kang La Pass (~5,300m), then to Ngawal, and then Manang and rejoin the route of the Annapurna Circuit. 

If you have more days and want to explore Tilicho Lake then you can also add Tilicho Lake in your trek which adds one or 2 days in your itinerary. Also you can also skip both Kang La and Thorong La Pass if you have less time and want to finish the trek in less days. 

In this package, we will mainly discuss the most popular trekking route to Nar Phu Valley which is through Kang La and Thorong La Pass(Annapurna Circuit)

Why is this Narphu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Special?

The Narphu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Pass is a special trek that brings remote areas, high altitude passes, and deep culture everything in a single journey. Here’s some reason why this trek is special:

  • Hidden Tibetan Villages: You’ll explore the untouched Nar and Phu Villages.  Meet locals, witness Tibetan Buddhist culture and visit ancient monasteries. 
  • Two high-pass adventure: Conquer two high Himalayan passes in one Trek. Kang La Pass at 5,300m  and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). 
  • All-in-one Experience: In a single itinerary you’ll explore remote villages, walk in the route of Annapurna Circuit and visit the Nepal’s two most iconic places: Manang and Mustang
  • Panoramic Himalayan Scenery: Best views of Annapurna Massif, Tilicho Peak, Chulu Range, and Manaslu Himal is seen. Also you can do the optional trek to Tilicho Lake. 
  • Peaceful Trails: Experience the quiet trails with few trekkers unlike Everest and Annapurna route. Best for the people who are in search of peace. 

This Nar Phu trek with Kang La and Thorong La is special because it is everything from Tibet valleys, high passes, the worlds famous Annapurna Circuit, and Nepal’s sacred places, all in one journey. This is the reason why people love this trek. 

Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Pass - 16 Days Itinerary

Trip PlanExpand all

Driving Distance: 378km, 7-8 hrs

Your journey begins from Kathmandu to the Dharapani drive, along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. You’ll also pass through charming villages and terraced fields. This journey ends at Dharapani. Dharapani is a gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, where the Himalayan adventure begins. 

Max Altitude: 1,960m Meals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Trekking Distance: 12 km, 5-6 hrs

From Dharapani our trek begins. Follow the classic Annapurna Trail through pine forests and small Gurung settlements. You’ll reach Koto at the evening. It is the official entry point to the restricted Nar Phu Valley. 

Max Altitude: 2,600m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 16km, 6-7 hrs 

When you enter the Nar Phu region, you’ll trek through narrow gorges, suspension bridges, and dense woods before arriving at Meta. Meta village is a high plateau that offers stunning views of Lamjung Himal. 

Max Altitude: 3,560m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 4-5hrs

After having breakfast at Meta, you’ll start your walk. Today you will walk across rugged landscapes, abandoned khampas, and windy trails. In around evening you’ll reach Kyang. It is a beautiful settlement with the views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. 

Max Altitude: 3,840m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 10 km, 5-6hrs

Today’s trail takes you to the ancient walled village of Phu, where Tibetan culture thrives. Also explore stone houses, chortens, and colourful monasteries in one of Nepal’s most hidden Himalayan valleys. 

Max Altitude: 4,080m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

This is your rest day to get used to the air and to explore around Phu Gaon. Visit Tashi Lakhang Monastery, yak pastures, and high viewpoints. This day is essential for altitude adjustment before tackling Kang La Pass. 

Max Altitude: 4,080m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 14km, 5-6 hrs

Today you’ll descend along the Nar River. Then you’ll reach Nar Phedi Monastery, where trekkers can join evening prayers and experience the best Himalayan Hospitality.

Max Altitude: 3,490m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 7km, 3-4 hrs

Today, we’ll climb gradually towards Nar Village. It is a picturesque Tibetan-style village. The locals of this place is so sweet and welcoming. They offer you the warm tea and their sweet gossip. From here, you can also see the panoramic views of the beautiful Himalayan Views.

Max Altitude: 4,110m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 20km, 8-9hrs

This is a challenging day. We’ll pass the famous Kang La pass. The pass looks icy and beautiful. From the top, enjoy the sweeping views of Annapurna II, Tilicho Peak, and the entire Manang Valley before descending to Nagwal. 

Max Altitude: 3,660 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 8 km, 3-4 hrs

Here, you’ll descend from Nagwal to Manang. Manang is a beautiful valley famous as a hub of the Annapurna Circuit. It is also famous for its bakeries and glaciers. You can also do the optional hike to Tilicho Lake from here.

Max Altitude: 3,540m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 7 km, 4-5 hrs

From Manang you’ll trek steadily to the alpine pastures of Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka is surrounded by rugged cliffs and grazing yaks. It is a perfect stop for acclimatization before Thorong La. 

Max Altitude: 4,050 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 7km, 3-4 hrs

Today you’ll continue your walk to Thorong Phedi, which is the base of Thorong La Pass. Rest in Thorong Phedi early to prepare for the next day’s high-altitude crossing. 

Max Altitude: 4,450 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

This is the biggest day. Today you’ll cross world’s highest pass, i.e. Thorong La Pass. After that then descend to the sacred Muktinath Temple in Mustang. Muktinath is a holy pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Max Altitude: 3,760 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Trekking Distance: 20 km, 6-7 hrs

Today you’ll trek through the windy Kali Gandaki Valley to Jomsom. Here you also have an option to go to Jomsom in a jeep instead of walking. Jomsom is famous its apple orchards and the stunning mountain views. 

Max Altitude: 2,720 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Driving Distance: 150 km, 7-8 hrs

Take a scenic flight or drive to the lakeside city of Pokhara. Enjoy the place where the Annapurna range creates the perfect spot for relaxation. 

Max Altitude: 820 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge

Driving Distance: 200 km, 6-7 hrs

Your journey ends when you drive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Reach your hotel and take a rest. 

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge
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Cost Details

Includes

Accommodation & Meals

  • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during trekking days.

Transportation

  • Private vehicle for airport pick-up and drop-off.
  • Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Jomsom to Pokhara flight or drive (depending on the itinerary).

Permits & Entry Fees

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  • Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Trekking Staff & Support

  • Experienced, English-speaking licensed trekking guide.
  • Porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers, max 20 kg combined).
  • Guide and porter insurance.
  • First aid kit and necessary safety equipment.

Other Services

  • All government and local taxes.
  • Necessary trekking documents and route arrangements.
  • Company service charge.

Excludes

Travel & Insurance

  • Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at the airport).
  • International flights.
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory).

Personal Expenses

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and bottled water.
  • Snacks, energy bars, and personal items.
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging fees in teahouses.

Additional Costs

  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver 
  • Extra accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara for early arrival or late return.
  • Trekking gear and personal equipment.
  • Any cost not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section.

Essential Information

Extended Itinerary:

Nar Phu Valley with Tilicho Lake, Kang La & Thorong La Pass (18 Days)

If you want to include the stunning Tilicho Lake along with Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass, then this 18-day route is: 

  • Day 1: Kathmandu to Dharapani (drive)
  • Day 2: Dharapani to Koto
  • Day 3: Koto to Meta
  • Day 4: Meta to Kyang
  • Day 5: Kyang to Phu Gaon
  • Day 6: Acclimatization day at Phu
  • Day 7: Phu to Nar Phedi
  • Day 8: Nar Phedi to Nar
  • Day 9: Nar to Ngawal via Kang La Pass
  • Day 10: Ngawal to Manang
  • Day 11: Manang to Siri Kharka (Tilicho route)
  • Day 12: Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp
  • Day 13: Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake and back to Siri Kharka
  • Day 14: Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka
  • Day 15: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
  • Day 16: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
  • Day 17: Muktinath to Jomsom
  • Day 18: Jomsom to Pokhara (flight/drive) to Kathmandu

Shorter Nar Phu Valley & Manang Route ( Without Kang La or Thorong La Pass)

If you are short on time or prefer to skip the high passes, you can follow this itinerary, which is a shorter version while still enjoying the beauty of Nar, Phu, and Manang. 

  • Day 1: Kathmandu to Dharapani
  • Day 2: Dharapani to Kyang
  • Day 3: Kyang to Phu Village
  • Day 4: Acclimatization at Phu
  • Day 5: Phu to Nar
  • Day 6: Nar to Kyang
  • Day 7: Kyang to Manang
  • Day 8: Acclimatization in Manang
  • Day 9: Manang to Yak Kharka
  • Day 10: Yak Kharka to Muktinath
  • Day 11: Muktinath to Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Day 12: Pokhara to Kathmandu  

Tips for trekkers:

  • Tilicho and high passes itinerary is best for experienced trekkers who want a full challenge and scenery. 
  • The short route with out high passes is great for trekkers who want a cultural adventure with less altitude risk and fewer days.

What permits are required during the Nar Phu Trek?

Suppose you’re planning to trek Nar Phu Valley with Kang La Pass & Thorong La Pass. In that case, permits are required because you’ll be trekking in a restricted area, conservation zones, and crossing through protected regions of the Annapurna region. The permits that you need are: 

  • Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS)

Trekking Difficulty & Physical Preparation during Nar Phu Valley Trek 

The trek to Nar Phu Valley with Kang La and Thorong La Pass is moderate. The main difficulty is due to the High altitude. Nar Phu Valley sits at 3,700 m to 4,100m, Kang La Pass is at 5,300m and Thorong La Pass sits at 5,416m, which is the highest trekking pass in the world. So, you’ll need proper acclimatization to adjust to the air. The trail to Nar Phuvillage is less popular so the route might be steep, so trekkers will need good stamina. Sometimes the altitude might hit you hard, but this trek is suitable if you’re physically fit and if you’ve done proper preparation before the trek. Here are some preparation tips before your hike.

Physical Preparation

  • Start doing some cardio exercise like running, cycling, or brisk walking a month before trek. 
  • Focus on your legs, core, and the back muscles for long ascents. 
  • Go on short one-day hikes before attempting high-altitude trekking. 

Mental Preparation

  • Be ready for remote area trekking.
  • Internet and phone signals might be limited, so embrace everything.  
  • Some days might be hard, the weather might not be on your side, and nights might be cold, so make your brain fully prepared. 

Accommodation and Food during the Nar Phu Village Trek

The Nar Phu valley is a restricted place, so the accommodation is basic but comfortable in the Tea house and Lodges. The rooms are twin-sharing with shared bathrooms. If you want a single room and bathroom, then we can provide that to you for an extra charge. Electricity is usually provided, but hot showers are available only at limited points. During peak trekking season like Spring and Autumn, the lodges might be filled so consider pre-booking. 

Warm and Healthy foods are served during the Nar Phu Valley Trek. Local Cuisine like Dal Bhat (rice & lentils) is served with vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat. You’ll also get other options like Noodles, soups, pancakes, omelets, Tibetan bread, etc. Tea and coffee is also available. Safe drinking water is available at lodges. but it’s recommended to use water purification tablets.  You can also carry some frequent snacks like energy bars, dry fruits,  or chocolates.

Packing List for Nar Phu Valley Trek

Make sure to pack smart. The weather in Nepal’s mountains can change any time. So, pack every essential and try to remove unnecessary things from your backpack. Here’s a packing list that we created for you during your Nar Phu Valley Trek.

Clothing

  • Base Layer: Moisture-wicking tshits, thermal tops and leggings
  • Mid Layer: Sweater or fleece jacket
  • Outer Layer: Waterproof and Windproof Jacket and pants.
  • Down Jacket: For cold nights
  • Trekking Pants & Shorts
  • Undergarments and Socks: moisture-wicking underwears and warm socks for high altitudes. 
  • Gloves and Hats: Warm gloves, sun hats and warm hats for nights. 

Footwear:

  • Trekking Boots: For your comfortable trek
  • Camp shoes / Sandals: Lightweight shoes or sandals for evenings in lodges. 

Sleeping Gear:

  • Sleeping Bag: It keeps you extra warm during cold nights. 

Backpack & Daypack:

  • Main Trekking Backpack: 50-60L, with rain cover. 
  • Daypack: 20-30L, for daily hikes.
  • Dry Bags: To keep clothes and electronic items dry

Trekking Essentials:

  • Trekking Poles
  • Headlamp with Extra Batteries
  • Sunglasses: for UV rays protection
  • Sunscreen & Lip Balm: Keep it of SPF 50+ because there is high UV rays in High altitudes.
  • Water Bottles: For Hydration
  • Snacks & Energy Bars: This keeps you energetic. 

Personal and Health items

  • Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer
  • Quick-Dry Towel
  • Wet Wipes / Toilet Paper
  • Personal Medications and First Aid Kit
  • Altitude sickness Medication (Diamox): this one is optional

Electronic & Documents

  • Mobile phone, charges, powerbank, camera
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Passport, ID, trekking permits

Tips for Packing

  • Pack light but smart, don’t overpack because heavy backpacks slow you down.
  • Rain and snow can happen unexpectedly, so don’t forget waterproof gear. 

Best Time for Nar Phu Valley Trek

The best time for Nar Phu Valley trek is during Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) seasons, just like other treks in Nepal. The spring season brings clean weather with clear mountain views. Rhododendrons bloom over the forests and make the trekking trails beautiful. This season is also good for photography. Autumn Season has stable weather with the best visibility which makes it perfect for trekking conditions. Most trekkers love trekking in Nepal during the Autumn season. 

Winter and Monsoon are considered off-season in trekking. But for the experienced trekkers, those who want peaceful trails and who can bear cold, Winter can be a good time to trek. Best views of snow-capped mountains are seen in this season. Monsoon brings greenery all over. But the trails can be slippery. So, it is not highly recommended. 

Conclusion

The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Pass is a rare Himalayan journey that combines remote culture, rugged landscapes, and high-altitude adventure. You will get a chance to explore the hidden Tibetan villages of Nar and Phu, cross the dramatic Kang La (5,320 m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), and soak in the magical views of Annapurna II, Tilicho Peak, and the Manang Valley.

This Nar Phu Valley trek lets you to experience the Annapurna Circuit highlights, visit Manang and the sacred Muktinath Temple, and witness timeless Himalayan traditions, all in one unforgettable route. A perfect choice for trekkers seeking both thrill and authentic Nepalese culture.