Nar Phu Valley Trek

Embark on a Kathmandu Valley day tour, exploring the rich cultural heritage sites of the region. Visit the iconic Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), the historic Durbar Square with its ancient temples and the Kumari (living goddess), Patan Durbar Square, the revered Pashupatinath Temple, and the majestic Bouddhanath Stupa, the largest stupa in the world. A private car and driver will provide convenient transport, taking you to each site and waiting at the entrances. Please note, entry tickets and lunch are not included in the package.

The journey westward to Dumre and Pokhara takes you through the lush forested Middle Hills, connecting the towering Himalayas with the lowlands. Along the way, you'll pass Hindu villages, terraced farms, and cross rivers fed by the northern ice fields. At Dumre, the route turns north into the Marsyangdi Valley, reaching Besi Sahar (760m) and continuing to Syange (1,080m), where it skirts a hydroelectric project. The road then ascends to Jagat (1,330m), a historical trade hub, before passing through Chamje (1,410m) and crossing a suspension bridge to Tal. This picturesque village, surrounded by a waterfall and palm trees, offers a peaceful overnight stop, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the serene surroundings.

Following the Marsyangdi River upstream, the trail passes through fields of barley, wheat, and potatoes, gradually ascending through dense pine forests. It crosses to the west bank near Khotro (1,860m) and continues towards Dharapani (1,960m), a vibrant Tibetan village located at the confluence of the Dudh Khola in the Manang Valley. From here, the trail veers west, scaling steep forested ridges and carefully navigating landslides as it climbs the southern slopes of the valley. Along the way, stunning views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II (7,937m), and Annapurna IV enhance the trek. The day culminates with an overnight stay in Koto, a village nestled amidst these awe-inspiring Himalayan peaks.

The trek to the remote Nar and Phu Valleys begins in Koto, leading north through the Nar Khola Valley. Over the next four days, the trek becomes increasingly challenging due to the scarcity of teahouses along the route. The trail weaves through areas known for their winter kharkas, seasonal grazing grounds used by local herders. It's essential to stay hydrated, as some parts of the trail lack water sources, although they offer spectacular views of the Annapurna range.

These valleys are home to around 800 inhabitants who speak Nar-Phu, a Tibetan-influenced dialect distinct from the languages spoken along the Annapurna Circuit. The region has retained its traditional way of life, with strong Tibetan cultural roots influenced by the local monastery. Despite being officially restricted since 2002, the valleys’ language and customs remain intact, supported by ongoing conservation efforts.

The locals engage in farming, yak herding, and the collection of Yartse Gumpa (a rare fungus used for trade), especially with China, while maintaining a lifestyle largely unaffected by external influences. The route crosses the Marsyangdi River, winding up the Nar Gorge through ancient forests. The trail is carved into the rock in places and involves multiple river crossings and dense pine and bamboo forests.

The trek culminates with a rest in Dharamsala before the final stretch to Meta, Nar's winter settlement. This section ascends past herder huts and terraced fields, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region. With Pisang Peak and Lamjung Himal towering above, the breathtaking landscape marks a significant milestone before an overnight stay in Meta, making this part of the trek a truly captivating experience in the heart of the Himalayas.

Leaving Meta, the trek to Phu begins with a visit to a chorten, followed by a level trail offering views into the Nar Valley. As you proceed north past the kharkas (grazing fields), the landscape gradually changes into juniper forests as you make your way toward Nar Phedi. The route then leads to Jhunam, a historically significant site, before briefly descending and then ascending steeply up a glacial moraine, guided by a series of chortens marking the way to Chyakhu.

Beyond Upper Chyakhu, the trail crosses the Mruju Khola, providing expansive views of the Annapurnas, and continues to Kyang, Phu’s winter settlement, where you’ll enjoy a picnic en route. As you near Phu, the environment transforms into alpine juniper scrub, and the path crosses the Phu Khola to ascend the eastern gorge bank. This section features a narrow, cliffside trail with steps and dramatic rock formations, leading to the Phupi Gyalgoe Gate, the gateway to Phu.

The trek concludes with a descent to Phu's main village, which is adorned with vibrant chortens and framed by ancient fortifications. This offers a captivating overnight stay amidst the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

Phu, located at the end of the valley, lies at the confluence of the Phu and Kyajo Kholas. This small village, consisting of around 40 traditional mud-brick houses, clings to the slopes and is centered around the ruins of an ancient fort. The local community thrives on livestock such as sheep, goats, and yaks, which they use for trade and labor. They also cultivate barley, potatoes, and vegetables during the brief summer at high altitudes. In winter, the village is blanketed in snow, prompting a seasonal migration to lower pastures. A visit to Phu is incomplete without exploring the Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, a significant cultural site nestled under the shadow of Chako Peak. The gompa is home to Anis (nuns) who showcase a collection of masks, musical instruments, and thangkas. It also houses a library and an apothecary, both crucial for studying herbal medicine, a key skill for Lamas aiming to become Amchis in this remote Himalayan region. The kora (circumambulatory path) around the gompa offers breathtaking panoramic views of Phu, while acclimatization hikes to Himlung Base Camp or Ngoru Kharka are highly recommended for trekkers. The day concludes with a restful stay at a local teahouse, allowing you to experience the serene and timeless beauty of Phu in the heart of the Himalayas.

The return journey from Phu is marked by ease and speed, offering stunning views of the Annapurna Himal as you traverse open terrains. Retracing the path to Kyang, you’ll pass through the aromatic juniper forests around Jhunam and descend to the higher trail junction. From here, the path leads past eroded gullies and a dilapidated fort, eventually crossing twin bridges over the narrow Dho Khola gorge. A leftward trail just after offers an alternative descent to Nar Phedi.

The trek to Nar begins with a challenging 600-meter ascent, initially steep, revealing breathtaking views of Kang Garu. The trail then mellows as it nears Nar’s welcoming gate. The landscape opens up, offering magnificent views of Pisang Peak and an impressive octagonal chorten. Nar, a vibrant village with approximately 65 houses and around 200 residents, is nestled above barley fields in a natural amphitheater, providing a picturesque setting for an overnight stay.

Known for sightings of bharal (blue sheep), Nar offers a perfect culmination to a day of trekking through Himalayan history and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable stop on your adventure.

Departing early from Nar, the trek begins with a gentle ascent through yak pastures, passing the lower kani as you make your way towards Kang La Phedi (4,620m), with the high camp reached in about 1.5 hours. As you climb, the views of Pisang Peak and its dramatic ridge become more striking. The 700m ascent to Kang La Pass takes approximately 2.5 hours and is straightforward in clear conditions, though it may be challenging if snow is present. The trail winds through a chorten, follows a ridge to a river, and ascends to a cairn with sweeping views of the Nar Valley. The final stretch circles a lake before the steep zigzag climb to the pass, which is marked by flags and a cairn. The descent offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himal, leading down steep, loose scree before leveling out to easier trails and yak kharkas. The day concludes in the charming village of Ngawal on the Annapurna Trail, where you’ll find a peaceful rest at a lower altitude, reflecting on the day's stunning journey through the Himalayas.

The journey continues with a gentle descent to Mungji, home to a serene nunnery perched above the village. From here, the trail leads to the stunning village of Braga (3,470m), known for its houses cascading down a rugged slope, culminating in an impressive Gompa—the oldest and most richly decorated in the Manang District. A short trek from Braga brings you to Manang, where you'll enjoy a well-deserved rest and exploration. Immerse yourself in the village's unique culture and indulge in its delicious culinary offerings, marking a peaceful end to the day with an overnight stay in Manang. This section of the trek offers the perfect opportunity to absorb the beauty of the Annapurna Region and the region’s cultural heritage.

Today serves as an essential acclimatization day in Manang, designed to help you adjust to the higher altitudes ahead. Take this opportunity for some leisurely exploration by visiting the peaceful Gangapurna Lake or the tranquil Bocho Gompa, both offering stunning views and serene environments amidst the majestic Annapurna Region. A visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association office will also provide valuable information on recognizing and managing Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS), a crucial part of staying safe during your trek at high altitudes. After gaining useful insights and enjoying the calm beauty of the surroundings, return to your teahouse for a restful night, preparing for the next leg of your adventure in the Himalayas.

Leaving Manang, the trail heads northeast towards Tengi, gradually ascending out of the Marsyangdi Valley and veering northwest into the Jarsang Khola Valley. The trek is taken at a cautious pace to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. As you pass through summer kharkas (grazing areas) surrounded by juniper scrub, the trail steadily climbs, passing above Gunsang, known for its unique flat mud roofs. The path continues towards Ghyanchang, descending briefly to cross a stream before climbing past pastures where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a wooden bridge, the route leads to an ancient mani wall and arrives at Yak Kharka, a picturesque settlement with breathtaking views. Here, you'll spend the night, surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas.

Today's trek entails a steady 500m ascent to the seasonal settlement near Thorung Pass, navigating a high-altitude landscape that transitions from sparse vegetation to barren rock and scree. The trail winds through rugged terrain, occasionally crossing exposed landslide zones, before reaching Thorung Phedi, the base for the challenging final ascent. This small enclave has a single teahouse, providing a cozy refuge with dining and accommodation for up to 150 trekkers, though it remains closed during the harsh winter months. Above Thorung Phedi, perched on a cold ridge, lies High Camp, offering stunning views and managed by lodge staff. While it's tempting to shorten the trek to the summit from High Camp, staying at Thorung Phedi allows for better altitude acclimatization, preparing you for the challenging summit day ahead.

Embarking before dawn is crucial for the challenging day ahead, featuring a 900m ascent followed by a 1,600m descent. The trek begins with a steep climb up the valley from Thorung Phedi, then tackles a rugged ascent through an ancient moraine, softening as it nears Thorung La. This iconic pass, adorned with prayer flags, sits between Thorung Peak and the towering cliffs of Yakwakang, offering expansive views of the snow-capped Himalayas to the north and the Kali Gandaki-Mustang Valley below. The majestic Dhaulagiri Range dominates the southwest, while the distant peaks of Dolpo extend to the north.

The descent to Muktinath takes around 4 hours, requiring careful navigation over loose gravel before transitioning to a rockier path. Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site, embodies Nepal’s spiritual harmony, featuring holy springs, the Vishnu Temple, and Buddhist shrines. A short walk from the temple leads to Ranipauwa, where you'll rest and reflect on the day’s journey, surrounded by prayer flags and tranquility. This spiritual haven marks the perfect spot for an overnight stay.

The journey from Muktinath intersects with a rugged road that traces trekking trails from the lowlands, connecting to a newly constructed Chinese road from Tibet through Upper Mustang, near Kagbeni. A detour to Kagbeni, known as the gateway to the mystical Upper Mustang, offers a glimpse into its unique cultural and architectural heritage. Due to the daily winds that whip up dust between 10:00 and 16:00, trekking along this route can be less appealing, making jeep transport a favored option for traversing the stark yet picturesque landscape.

Jeeps transport travelers to Jomsom, the administrative hub of Lower Mustang, where a vehicle change is necessary for the journey to Tatopani, famous for its rejuvenating hot springs. The final stretch of the day's travel diverges from the road, entering verdant forests and away from Buddhist culture. The day ends with a peaceful overnight stay in Tatopani, a perfect retreat surrounded by nature's calming embrace.

Embarking into the Ghar Khola Valley, the trail veers southeast, bringing trekkers closer to the majestic Annapurna Range. This segment winds through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, birch, and magnolia, areas rich in wildlife under protection. Along the route, you'll pass agricultural communities such as Ghara, Phalate, and Chitre, perched on elevated ridges, each offering breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas. The journey culminates in Ghorepani, a vibrant tourist hub located just below the iconic Poon Hill, renowned for its panoramic mountain vistas. Here, you'll find rest and spend the night, preparing for the early morning trek to Poon Hill, a highlight of the journey

The trek to Poon Hill begins with an early, brisk ¾ hour ascent, leading to its grassy summit. From this vantage point, enjoy unmatched panoramic views of the Himalayan range, featuring Dhaulagiri I and Upper Dolpo to the west, stretching across the Annapurnas, with Annapurna I, Machhapuchhare, and extending eastward to Manaslu. The sweeping vistas are complemented by a vast expanse of Sal forests descending towards the lowlands of India. After breakfast, the journey continues eastward through lush pine and rhododendron forests, crossing ridges and flat stretches. These high points offer mesmerizing views of the northern snow-capped peaks. The day's trek concludes in Tadapani, a tranquil spot for an overnight stay, where trekkers can reflect on the majestic Himalayas under the starlit sky.

The day's trek begins with a leisurely downhill journey through vibrant farmland and lush forests, with occasional glimpses of the towering Himalayan peaks above. The path leads to Ghandruk, a modern Gurung village that seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary life. The afternoon offers ample time to explore the village, visit its museums, and immerse yourself in the rich Gurung culture, gaining insights into the area's history and traditions. This cultural exploration deepens your understanding of the local heritage. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Ghandruk, a serene village surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.

Descending along stone staircases, the trail leads to the Modi Khola, which originates from the Annapurna South Glacier and flows through the breathtaking Annapurna Sanctuary. After crossing the river, the path ascends to Landruk and continues through scrub brush to reach Tolka. The trek advances for about two hours through picturesque forests, eventually arriving at the ridge village of Deorali, where expansive views of Pokhara and Lake Phewa unfold, with the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri fading into the distance. The trail then winds down a broad, red-earth path to Pothana, where trekkers can rest for the night, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas.

The final leg of the trek begins with a gentle descent to Dhampus, a village renowned for its agricultural practices, situated at an elevation of 1700 meters. The trail then winds through smaller hamlets, offering views of lush rice paddies, until reaching Dhampus Phedi, where it intersects the Pokhara-Baglung highway. From here, a short drive will return you to the comforts of your hotel in Pokhara. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful exploration of the serene lake and its vibrant waterfront or immerse yourself in the region's cultural heritage at the Mountain Museum. The day offers a smooth transition back to urban life, with a restful overnight stay in Pokhara, reflecting on the trek surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

After a fulfilling breakfast, we’ll begin our journey back to Kathmandu. The tourist-standard vehicle provided ensures a comfortable and pleasant ride along the well-maintained Pokhara-Kathmandu highway, which offers breathtaking scenic views throughout the journey. Upon reaching Kathmandu, our team will escort you to your hotel, where you can check in and enjoy some free time to explore the city. As your journey nears its end, take the opportunity to wander through the vibrant streets of Thamel, indulging in some window shopping or savoring the local culture. In the evening, we will host a farewell dinner to celebrate the conclusion of our adventure, and you will receive a trek certificate as a memento of your journey. For those wishing to return to Kathmandu more quickly, a 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is available for an additional fee.

Congratulations on completing one of the most challenging and exhilarating treks in the Himalayas! As your incredible journey comes to an end, it’s time to head home. Our team will assist you with a smooth departure, escorting you to Tribhuvan International Airport, ensuring you arrive at least three hours before your flight departs from Nepal. Thank you for choosing to embark on this adventure with us. We hope the memories of your Himalayan trek stay with you forever, inspiring future journeys.

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