THE HIDDEN NAR-PHU VALLEY
Trip Facts
Overview
Adventure beyond the massive Himalayan range of Annapurna and Chulu’s. Explore the hidden highland of scenic Manang Valley to remote Nar-Phu villages. Exciting walks from deep gorge to an open exposed picturesque Nar Phu Valley. From green temperate alpine forest towards windswept mountain wilderness. Walk towards impressive villages of ancient Tibetan traditional heritages. Trekking on off-the- beaten tracks to Nar Phu and traverse high Kang-La Pass
The Best Seasons for Adventure Around the Hidden Nar Phu Valley:
The best favored seasons are spring and autumn/fall. The spring begins from March to May, most days are longer with sunlight hours.
Normally the morning till mid-afternoon days are clear for views and scenic walks can get overcast late afternoon sometime.
Can expect snowfalls, cold mornings and in the nighttime, the mid-hills are covered with tall rhododendron, pine and juniper trees. A lively time with wildflowers are in seasonal bloom, especially the rhododendrons of various colors.
The next high season is autumn/fall, starts from September and ends in November. Most days are fine with crystal clear blue sky, a pleasant time for scenic walks. Days are shorter due to limited sunlight hours, cold afternoons, and nights till morning time. Expect snowfall, and with a bright starry night sky.
Adventure Around Hidden Nar-Phu Valley, with the guidance of Dhan Kumar Rai.
An expert and veteran guide of the Nepalese company Kirat Society Adventure and Hiking.
Adventure Around Hidden Nar-Phu Valley, leads you to an exciting highland country of remote Manang Valley. The walk takes you from the mainstream of famous and popular Annapurna Circuit Trek, towards off-the-beaten trails.
Nar Phu Valley and its exotic ancient villages, falls within the Restricted Area of
Nepal. It was closed to the outside world until it was open for foreign travelers from 2003 onwards. A special permit is required to enter this amazing highland wild country of Nar Phu, located beyond the massive Annapurna Himalayas.
Adventure Around Hidden Nar Phu Valley is designed for two weeks, allowing trekkers to enjoy the serene scenic walks. As well supports acclimatization on daily walks with rest day at Phu Village, before heading towards the high Kang-La
Pass. An exclusive high country walks around the far North Mid-West Himalayas, beyond Annapurna and Manaslu massive mountain ranges.
The Hidden country of Nar Phu Valley and quaint villages still retains its age-old heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. Trekkers can experience the colorful cultures and farm activities, as it were since hundreds of centuries.
The walk takes you around the remote Manang areas, following the river gorge, amidst dense rhododendrons and pine trees. Reaching an open and exposed highland at the picturesque Nar Phu Valley, surrounded by an array of snow-capped peaks.
The northern region of Annapurna Himalayan range, around Manang district.
Inhabited by the highlanders of Tibetan origin, as early from 9th to 10th Centuries AD. Around the wide Manang Valley and Nar-Phu areas, the villages are adorned with Buddhist prayer walls and monuments of Stupas.
Trekkers will have opportunities visiting its old monasteries of great cultural and religious interest. On this scenic trek to Nar-Phu and Manang villages in the close shadow of giant snow mountain ranges.
The first part of the adventure takes you to Phu Village, and you have time to explore its scenic surroundings. In the harmony of native immense cultures and traditional hospitality of the Nar Phu highlanders. The adventure continues heading west through the sleepy village of Nar, en route towards high Kang-La Pass.
Our last stage of the adventure leads you to sheer mountain wilderness to traverse over high Kang-La Pass. On leaving the Nar heading towards the main scenic valley to major Manang Village. From the pass spectacular panorama of staggering towering mountain ranges of Annapurna, Chulu’s, Pisang Peak with Damodar Himal towards north. Includes views of Manaslu and Himlung Himal towards east, as the walk follows downhill to wide Manang Valley.
The trail follows the main route of the Annapurna Circuit trail, reaching Manang Village. Having ample time at Manang Village to explore its scenic surroundings with a lively culture. Manang Village, enclosed by Annapurna’s and Chulu’s peaks, after a wonderful experience at Manang Village.
Our journey heads back on the scenic trail to Chame Town for the last overnight around the beautiful Manang region. Next morning an exciting drive leads you to Kathmandu via the large town of Bhesishar. After a great mesmerizing experience and Adventure Around Hidden Nar Phu Valley.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to a hotel
On arrival at Kathmandu and Nepal International Airport, after visa formalities, and claiming the baggage. Outside the exit terminal our staff and guide receives you for a short transfer to the hotel. After getting refreshed at the hotel, then join with other members of Adventure Around Nar Phu Valley for a briefing. Briefing is done by our guide, group leader with full information of the treks, including hotels in Kathmandu. Local cultures with do’s and don’ts. In the evening a lovely dinner and introduction to Nepali foods and culture.
Day 2: Tour of Kathmandu heritage sites of great interest
Morning after breakfast, our city guide takes you on a tour around thenworld heritage sites within Kathmandu city. After an exciting and interesting tour back to the hotel, preparation and packing for trekking. Non-essential clothing and items not required for treks, can be stored in the Hotel or with Kirat Society Adventure.
Day 3: Drive to Dharapani 1,825m - 08 hrs
Depart from the hotel for an exciting overland journey to Dharapani at Manang. The drive passes through farm villages and towns, then diverts from the Pokhara and Kathmandu highway. Heading towards Bhesishar, the headquarters town of Lamjung district. From here, the drive follows the Masrsyangdi River to Syange village, then winds up to Jagat and Chamje. Reaching Tal Besi village, to enter the Manang district, the drive finally ends at Dharapani village. nThe air gets cooler within the coniferous forest of pines and Rhododendron trees. nDharapani is a village, located above Masrsyangdi River, at the junction of Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit trekking routes. Enjoy a pleasant overnight stop at Dharapani, in the comfort of a nice simple lodge. After an interesting long drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani.
Day 4: Trek to Kodo village 2,680 m near Chame town 2,710 m -05 hrs
Morning the walk follows on a gradual winding up through a lovely cool forest of pines and rhododendrons trees. The trail leads through traditional mountain villages of Bagarchap and Danaque. On leaving the main motor road, a steep climb to a large village of Timang. For lunch stop with grand vista of Manaslu, Annapurna peaks with Lamjung Himal. Afternoon walk down to join the main trail following the Masrsyangdi River upstream to Kodo village. From here the trekking route of Upper Manang and Nar Phu starts. At Kodo, check into a nice lodge for an overnight stop, arriving on time for late afternoon refreshment and dinner. Kodo is close to Chame, the headquarters town of Manang district, and non the famous Annapurna Circuit route.
Day 5: Trek to Meta 3,560 m past Dharmasala - 06 hrs
From Kodo, our route heads north, leaving the Annapurna Circuit trail from Kodo village. The walk leads towards Nar and Phu Valley, and beyond the Annapurna Himalaya. It is also en route to the Tibet border and the Upper Mustang region. The adventure continues around sheer mountain wilderness, chances of spotting some wildlife like blue sheep, snow leopard. n nThe trek leads to a narrow river gorge amidst towering rocky cliffs covered in pines and rhododendron trees. The trek progresses, reaching an open nice pasture field with a few huts of the Yak herder. The adventure continues following the Phu River upstream to Dharmasala, a small farm village for refreshing stops. After a short rest, walk further for an hour to Meta, a small farm village, for an overnight halt.
Day 6: Trek to Kyang 3,020 m - 05 hours
From Meta, the morning leads north toward Phu village, around the remote part of the Mid-West Himalayas. The dramatic landscapes of the Phu Valley arensimilar to the Tibetan dry terrains. Finally, the day ends reaching Kyang for an overnight stop after an exciting day. Kyang provides dozens of Tibetan-style houses and lodges, with an impressive Buddhist culture.
Day 7: Trek to Phu 4,150 m - 04 hrs
Today's adventure takes you to our first destination at Phu village, the morning walk follows Phu River upstream. Then descends with a climb to enter a river gorge, climb continues towards a wide glacial valley at Phu village of strong Tibetan influence with Buddhist culture. nEnjoy the rest of the day at Phu village, an amazing place to explore the impressive village activities. Time permitting, visit the old Tashi Khang, Samdu Choeling Monastery, and the views of Kyuchi waterfalls. Phu Village has approx. 30 houses for 100 to 150 local inhabitants.
Day 8: Acclimatization day at Phu and short exploration
At Phu village for another overnight, have a day off from packing. After breakfast explore around Phu Village and the viewpoints, a perfect place for acclimatization. Visit the impressive village and Tashilkhang, Samdu Choeling Monastery and Kyauchyu waterfalls nearby. Phu Village, of about 30 houses for 100 to 150 local inhabitants.
Day 9: Trek to Nar Phedi / Mahendrapul 4,090 m- 05 hrs
From Phu village, the trail leads back on the same path for a few hours, descending to a narrow gorge at Phu Khola. From here, a slow climb to reach Yughat small village with Mani, Chorten, and Buddhist shrines. Then, finally, reaching a flat field at Nar Phedi for an overnight stop.
Day 10: Trek to Nar-Gaon / village 4, 140 m - 04 hrs
The morning walk leads back to Phu Khola for a few hours to cross overna suspension bridge over Phu Khola. After crossing the bridge, a steep climb for a few hours to Nar village for lunch and overnight. Nar Gaon, in comparison tonPhu, looks similar but smaller due to its remoteness, with high altitude and dry land. Afternoon is free to explore the lively village culture and farm activities of ancient Tibetan farm activities and heritage.
Day 11: Trek Kang-La Phedi / Yak Kharka 4, 460 m - 04 hrs
The Nar-Gaon walk leads to remote areas, an interesting walk with short ups and downs towards rocky, arid terrains. The route leads through several Yak herders' shelters and grazing fields, and the trek follows west, crossing Temdenzon Khola. Enjoy the walk amidst sheer mountain wilderness, surrounded by views of the snow-capped peaks. Then the trek ends for the day, reaching Kang La pass base for an overnight stop in a simple lodge. The rest of the afternoon, relax and enjoy the views, before the tough day of the adventure crossing over Kang-La Pass.
Day 12: Cross Kang-La Pass 5,306 m trek to Ngawal 3,650 m - 07 hrs
Start the morning with an early breakfast, carrying a packed lunch, for the long day hike. The path follows a steep climb, as the walk progresses, with stunning views of Pisang Peak and Chulu Far East Peak. Finally, the tough struggle reaches you on top of the pass, surrounded by spectacular views of the Annapurna massif range. Includes views of all Chulu Peaks, Lamjung Himal, and adjoining peaks of the Annapurna range. After an exciting and scenic moment on top Kang-La Pass. The trail leads downhill to Ngawal via Julu village. The walk heads close to the lower scenic Manang Valley. After a long ups and downs reaching an isolated settlement of Ngawal for an overnight stop. This small, remote village provides a few nice lodges with a warm, friendly traditional hospitality.
Day 13: Trek to Manang 3,540 m- 05 hrs
After Nar Phu crossing Kang-La pass that separates away from main Manang villages. The walk today leads to main Manang villages on scenic and popular Annapurna circuit route. Heading downhill to Humde village, then walking to Braga village and visiting its old monastery. Enriched with ancient artifacts of old statues of various Buddha with mind blowing panorama of the snow-capped mountains. After a wonderful time in the monastery, an hour walk leads to main Manang village for an overnight. Have time to explore the Manang Village surrounded by towering peaks of Chulu’s and Annapurna Himalayas.
Day 14: Trek back to Pisang-05 hrs
From Manang village following the dusty trail with excellent views of Chulu and Annapurna. After a few hours of a pleasant and scenic walk, reaching the windblown village of Pisang. Enjoy the comfort of a nice lodge and good food, located close beneath Pisang Peak and Annapurna II and IV.
Day 15: Trek to Chame-05 hrs
Enjoy the morning grand views of the Chulu range with majestic Pisang Peak, after a good breakfast at Pisang Village. The walk follows up to a small settlement with few Tea-Houses, located on a high ridge. Facing grand views of Pisang Peak and Chulu’s Himal range. From here down to cross a bridge, then entering a lush green forest to Brathang and then towards Chame. The headquarters town of thenManang District with views of Lamjung Himal. At Chame check in to a nice lodge and explore the mountain town of great cultural interest,
Day 16: Drive to Kathmandu-07 hours.
At Chame after a last overnight trip around Manang, board a 4WD Jeep or similar vehicle. An exciting drive brings you to Kathmandu via Bhesishar Town, the drive follows winding downhills past Kodo, Dharapani, and Tal Village. nLeaving the Manang area to enter Lamjung district, from Tal Besi, the drive leads towards Jagat and Chamje. The downhill continues to Syange, following the Masrsyangdi River towards lower, warm sub-tropical farm areas. An exciting journey past Bulbule and Khudi Village to Bhesishar Town for lunch before heading towards Kathmandu and an overnight halt. On the last day of the adventure, enjoy the interesting overland journey to Kathmandu. The drive follows Dumre Town, connecting the Kathmandu and Pokhara highways. Enjoy the drive on a busy road along the Trisuli River for a few hours. Leaving behind the Trisuli River, then winding up towards the western rim of Kathmandu Valley. Enjoy the fabulous views of Kathmandu city as the drive heads towards the main city area. nOn reaching the bustling Kathmandu city, transfer to your hotel after a great and interesting drive. Arriving by late afternoon for dinner and a good rest in thencomfort of a nice hotel room.
Day 17: Free day in Kathmandu for individual activities.
Enjoy a leisure day for individual activities, and shopping souvenirs or enjoy the tour of Patan and Bhaktapur. It is well-worth visiting the ancient kingdom and world heritage sites.
Day 18: International departure for homeward bound
Final day in Kathmandu and Nepal, as time for your international flight for homeward bound or next port of call. Transfer to Kathmandu, Nepal international airport bidding farewell to your guide and staff. After a marvelous adventure around the Hidden Nar Phu Valley.
What is included and excluded in this trek?
What's Included?
- Permits: Nar-Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and TIMS.
- Guide & Porter: A licensed English-speaking guide and, depending on the agency, porters (often one porter for every two trekkers).
- Meals & Accommodation: All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and teahouse/lodge accommodations during the trek.
- Safety: Basic first-aid kits and travel/rescue arrangement support.
- Transportation: Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu, plus ground transport (usually via shared/private 4WD jeep) from Kathmandu to Besisahar and on to Koto.
What's Excluded?
- International Flights: Flights to and from Nepal.
- Visas: Nepal entry visa fees.
- City Hotels & Meals: Hotel accommodations and meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek (unless explicitly stated in a premium package).
- Beverages: Bottled drinks, alcohol, and boiled drinking water/tea along the trekking route.
- Personal Gear: Personal trekking equipment, clothing, and sleeping bags.
- Tips & Extras: Tips for your guides, porters, and drivers at the end of the trip.
- Communication & Tech: Wi-Fi fees, battery charging costs at teahouses, and personal travel insurance (which is mandatory for emergency helicopter evacuation).