Nar Phu Valley Trek: 17 Days
Explore a very remote part of the western Himalayas in Nepal and learn about Tibetan Buddhism on our Nar Phu Valley trek with Outfitter Himalaya. On this adventurous, off-beat trek, you follow a less crowded trail packed with jaw-dropping mountain panoramas and encounter exotic flora and fauna.
Nar and Phu are two remote villages at 4,200 meters and 4,080 meters, respectively. Tucked between the famous Annapurna and Manaslu regions, Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area in Nepal and is less visited by travelers.
The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime venture and a rare opportunity to relish unspoiled landscapes. This trek contains natural wonders like lush forests, remote villages, narrow canyons, passes, glaciers, unique rock formations, rivers, and waterfalls.
The locals' undisturbed lifestyle and the region's soothing, fresh aura let the trekkers experience a magical, time-traveling experience. Far away from the chaos of modern society, Nar Phu Valley trekking takes you into the arms of the Himalayas, where you not only quench your adrenaline thirst but also rejuvenate and unwind.
As you discover one village after another, you can see the medieval Tibetan Buddhism conventions among the locals.
Nar Phu Valley Trek was opened in 2003. The trodden route, insufficient availability of basic tourist infrastructure, and a long trek in an isolated area are some of the primary reasons why only a few trekkers prefer Nar Phu Valley.
The Nar Phu Valley Trail is near the famous Annapurna Region. To your surprise, our Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary joins the Annapurna Circuit trail in the latter half of the trek.
Yes, you read it correctly. After exploring Nar and Phu villages, descend to Nagwal (3,660 m). Instead of ending the trek here, you'll ascend to Manang village (3,519 m) and gradually trek to Thorong La pass (5,416 m) via Yak Kharka (4,030 m) and Thorong Phedi (4,450 m).
You'll leave the restricted area. This part of the trail has a relatively larger crowd. The trail from Thorong La descends to Muktinath temple (3,750 m), one of the significant temples in Nepal, making the venture even more culturally enriching.
The trek ends at Muktinath; you will drive through the Gandaki Gorge (the deepest gorge in the world) and the narrow alleys to Pokhara.
If you have extra days, you can ascend to stunning Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), the second-highest lake in Nepal. Or, explore the beautiful villages of the lower Annapurna region by trekking to Ghorepani.
An itinerary with a perfect balance of a less-crowded and lively trail
The initial part of the Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary explores the isolated trails and remote settlement areas. You'll be less likely to see other trekkers on the way. Therefore, this trek is an excellent option for someone looking for tranquil trekking. You get to keep all the views to yourself and be unbothered by anyone else.
The latter part of the itinerary joins the famous Annapurna Circuit. You'll see comparatively more fellow trekkers in this part of the trail. Watching other trekkers enjoying the journey and the scenery has its unique charm. You'll enjoy the best of both worlds on the Nar Phu Valley trek.
Off-beat trekking, challenging passes, and narrow trails
The off-beat, steep terrain makes the Nar Phu Valley trek different. Most of the trail is rugged and rocky. You have to cross old suspension bridges and walk through canyons.
Likewise, crossing 5,000 meters above passes is strenuous. Some parts of the trail may involve snow and glacier walking. And the beautiful narrow trails always open up to glorious views.
Witness Tibetan Buddhism and the unique lifestyle in Nar and Phu villages
Nar Phu valley is close to the Tibetan border, which justifies Tibetan Buddhism's influence on the locals.
While trekking, you'll learn a lot about this religion and the values of the locals. As the valley is not connected with other modern cities of Nepal, it is still the same as it was 100 years ago, which means you get to see the authentic and unique lifestyle of the locals.
Cross Thorong La pass
Thorong La, specifically, is the highest pass in Nepal. Crossing both passes requires solid physical fitness, no doubt. Still, at the same time, reaching the top of the pass and getting rewarded with spectacular mountain scenery is just out of this world.
Visit Muktinath Temple
Visit the holy Muktinath Temple and walk alongside the deepest gorge in the world to Jomsom. Muktinath is a significant pilgrimage site in Nepal, visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
The Muktinath temple is a place of tremendous religious value for both Nepalese Hindus and Buddhists. Around the temple premises, there are many small souvenir shops where you can buy calligrams and other stones.
Travel through the deepest gorge in the world
The Road from Muktinath to Pokhara follows the Kali Gandaki River gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. The gorge separates Mt. Dhaulagiri on the west from Mt. Annapurna on the east.
This gorge has been a trade route between India and Tibet for centuries.
Get to see a range of mountains and gorgeous landscapes.
Nar Phu Valley, with the Thorong La pass, is a holy grail for breathtaking sceneries. After enjoying the dry-barren landscapes of Nar Phu Valley, you will witness lush green meadows and forested hills once you join the Annapurna Circuit trail.
The Himalayan mountains like Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), and Pisang Peak (6,091 m) along the trail.
