Nar Phu Valley Trekking 19 Days
Explore a very remote part of the western Himalayas in Nepal and learn about Tibetan Buddhism on our Nar Phu valley trek 19 days. Follow a less crowded trail packed with jaw-dropping mountain panoramas and come across exotic flora & fauna on this adventurous off-beat trek.
Nar and Phu are two remote villages at 4,200 meters and 4,080 meters, respectively. Tucked between the famous Annapurna and Manaslu region, Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area in Nepal and less visited by travelers. Nar Phu valley trek offers a lifetime venture and a rare opportunity to relish unspoiled landscapes. This trek is full of natural wonders like lush forests, remote villages, narrow canyons, passes, glaciers, unique rock formations, rivers, and waterfalls.
The undisturbed lifestyle of the locals and the soothing fresh aura of the region lets the trekkers experience a magical time-traveling-like event. Far away from the chaos of modern society, Nar Phu valley trekking takes you into the arms of the Himalayas, where you do not just 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 almost an isolated area are some of the major reasons why not many trekkers prefer Nar Phu valley trekking. The Nar Phu valley trail is located nearby the famous Annapurna Circuit. And 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, you cross Kang La pass (5,306 m) and 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 more crowd.
The trail from Thorong La descends to Muktinath temple (3,750 m), one of the very important temples in Nepal, making the venture even more culturally enriching. The trek ends at Jomsom (2,720 m), where you reach by walking alongside the Kali Gandaki Gorge (the deepest gorge in the world) and the narrow alleys of Kagbeni (2,804 m).
If you have some extra days in your hand, you can further ascend to stunning Tilicho Lake (4,919 m). It is the second-highest lake in Nepal. Or, explore the beautiful villages of the lower Annapurna region by trekking to Ghorepani.
If you want, you can also tailor-make the Nar Phu valley trek into a short trek and skip Annapurna Circuit. Manaslu Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek and Tsum Valley Trek are our other restricted area trekking options that you can check out too.
For any information regarding the Nar Phu valley trek or the package cost, you can contact us freely.
Nar Phu valley trek attractions
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 a great option for someone who is 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 get to 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 from other treks. 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 too. Some parts of the trail may involve snow and glacier walk. And the beautiful narrow trails always open up to glorious views.
Witness Tibetan Buddhism and very unique lifestyle in Nar and Phu villages
Nar Phu valley is closely situated on the Tibetan border, which justifies Tibetan Buddhism's influence on the locals. You'll get to learn a lot about this religion and the values of the locals while trekking. As the valley is not connected with other modern cities of Nepal, it is still the same as it was 100 years ago. This means you get to see the authentic and unique lifestyle of the locals.
Cross Kang La and Thorong La pass
Kang La and Thorong La are the two high passes in the western Himalayas. Thorong La specifically is the highest pass in Nepal. Crossing both passes requires strong physical fitness no doubt, but at the same time, the process of reaching the top of the pass and getting rewarded with spectacular mountain scenery is just out of this world.
Visit the holy Muktinath Temple and walk alongside the deepest gorge in the world to Jomsom
Muktinath is one of the significant pilgrimage sites in Nepal. It is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. Dates back to the 7th century, the Muktinath temple holds huge religious values for both Nepalese Hindus and Buddhists. There are many small souvenir shops around the temple premises where you can buy a range of calligrams and other stones.
The trail from Muktinath to Jomsom follows the Kali Gandaki River gorge. It is the deepest gorge in the world. The gorge separates Mt. Dhaulagiri on the west and Mt. Annapurna on the east. This gorge has been used as the trade route between India and Tibet for centuries.
Get to see a range of mountains and gorgeous landscapes
Nar Phu valley with Annapurna is a holy grail for breathtaking sceneries. From enjoying the dry-barren landscapes of Nar Phu valley, you will witness lush green meadows & forested hills once joining 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), Pisang Peak (6,091 m), etc are seen along the trail.
