Short Nar Phu Valley Trek 12 Days Itinerary- Best Cost for 2024

Short Nar Phu Valley Trek 12 Days Itinerary- Best Cost for 2024
At a Glance
  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude 5,322 m/17,460 ft
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Trip Style Trek
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • A restricted area trek in Nepal with less crowded trails and offbeat terrain
  • Perfect for experienced individuals looking for a quick, adventurous, and challenging trek 
  • Trek through lush forests and ascend via rocky gorges to glacier moraines
  • Enjoy diverse landscapes during the trek, along with stunning mountain vistas
  • Get to see the unique and simple lifestyle of the locals of Nar and Phu villages
  • Visit old monasteries and stupas on the way
  • Come across wildlife like Himalayan tahr and blue sheep
  • Cross the challenging Kang La pass

The short Nar Phu Valley trek is a fantastic trekking venture in one of the restricted areas of Nepal. Untouched by the crowds of trekkers, the region boasts raw nature and a pristine trekking experience. It is a challenging trek and is only recommended to trekkers with previous high-altitude experience.

The Nar Phu Valley was opened in 2003. Situated between the Damodar Kunda and the Annapurna Circuit, the Narp Phu Valley is a hidden gem in the western Himalayas. The trekking route lacks tourist infrastructure, so best for travelers looking for a true Himalayan trekking experience. As the region is restricted, you will need to follow strict rules.

What to expect during the short Nar Phu Valley trekking?

Usually, the Nar Phu Valley trek is around 16 to 18 days long, but we have designed this short itinerary for travelers bound by time. This trek takes you far away in one of the less visited parts of the Western Himalayas in Nepal. The Nar Phu Valley trek route is considered offbeat, so you will come across many steep and rocky sections.

The overall trek is demanding, so the trekkers have to be in good shape physically and mentally to do the short Nar Phu Valley trek. The trail winds via small settlements where you will spend nights in tea houses. The locals are friendly and welcoming. Their unique and simple lifestyle will surely amaze you.

Along the trail, there are stupas, mani walls, and chortens. You will also visit an ancient monastery called Tashi Lhakhang. Nar and Phu are two different villages and make up the Nar Phu Valley. Following the lush forests, rocky gorges, remote villages, and moraines, you will reach the top of Kang La pass (5,322 m/17,460 ft) and descend to Pisang village (3,250 m/10,663 ft), where the trek ends.

What are the mountain views during the Nar Phu Valley short trek?

During the Nar Phu Valley short trek, you will get to see many mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), etc. Likewise, the trekking route offers diverse landscapes as the trail ascends to the Kang La pass.

Is the short Nar Phu Valley trek the right package for you?

If you are someone with previous trekking experience and looking for a quick trek in Nepal, then we highly recommend the Nar Phu Valley trek 12 days. This trek has every element that makes it one of the most adventurous and distinct trekking ventures in Nepal.

Short Nar Phu Valley trek 2024/2025 booking open with us

We have opened booking for a short Nar Phu Valley trek 2024/2025. You can book the trek now to get the best cost. Our short Nar Phu Valley trek cost is affordable and covers all the logistics involved in the trek.

If you have any questions, regarding our short Nar Phu Valley trek price or wish to customize the Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary, feel free to talk to our consultant.

Itinerary

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Accommodation: Hotel

Meals: Welcome dinner

You will be picked up by our team on your arrival day in Kathmandu. The team will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport and escort you to the hotel. You will have a couple of hours free to relax and freshen up. Later, we will meet in our office for a trek briefing and end the day with a delicious welcome dinner.

    Distance: 260 km/161 miles

    Altitude: 1,410 m/4,626 ft

    Duration: 8-10 hours

    Accommodation: Teahouse

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    We will leave Kathmandu early in the morning and drive to Chamje. The drive will be long. Following a well-made, scenic highway, we will first drive to Besisahar. From here, the drive continues to Chamje, following a rugged road along cliffsides and via small villages. The ride will offer stunning landscapes and mountain views.

      Distance: 12.5 km/7.7 miles

      Altitude: 1,860 m/6,200 ft

      Duration:  6-7 hours

      Accommodation: Teahouse

      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      The trail from Chamje follows the Marsyangdi river and gradually ascends to Tal (1,700 m). Here, we will witness a beautiful waterfall and continue trekking to Dharapani. On the way, we will cross a wide valley and ascend a long stairway that leads to 1,860 meters.

        Distance: 13.5 km/8 miles

        Altitude: 2,610 m/8,563 ft

        Duration: 5-6 hours

        Accommodation: Teahouse

        Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        The trail from Dharapani continues via a forested route and enters the Nar Phu valley. We will ascend along forests of pine and fir. The trail goes past small stupas and villages like Bagarchhap. Mountains like Manaslu and Annapurna II are seen on the way. The final part of the route goes through the pine forest to Koto.

          Distance: 14.5 km/9 miles

          Altitude: 3,560 m/11,680 ft

          Duration: 7-8 hours

          Accommodation: Teahouse

          Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

          We will register the permits at the police checkpost and continue trekking from Koto to Meta. Following the banks of the Soti Khola, the trail ascends via lush forests. On the way, we will cross many suspension bridges and come across beautiful waterfalls. We will reach Dharamshala and trek for one and a half hours more from here via forests to reach Meta. The views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II are fantastic from Meta.

            Distance: 16.5 km/10 miles

            Altitude: 4,250 m/13,944 ft

            Duration: 7-8 hours

            Accommodation: Teahouse

            Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

            From Meta, we will follow an ascending and descending route to Chyaku. On the way, we will cross a suspension bridge as well. From Chyaku, we will trek, enjoying stunning views of Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Annapurna II, and Pisang Peak. The trail goes through Kyang and Phu Khola. Further, we will follow a rocky trail to Phu village. Here, we will visit the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery and get to see blue sheep and a striking view of Himlung Himal.

              Distance: 20 km/12.4 miles

              Altitude: 4,250 m/13,944 ft

              Duration: 6-7 hours

              Accommodation: Teahouse

              Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

              The trail from Phu village descends, following the same trail back to Nar Phedi, and continues to Nar village. We will cross the Phu Pass (5,050 m) and Nar Pass (5,400 m) on the way. Likewise, this part of the trail has lovely streams and rivers. We will cross the long Mahendra Pul (bridge) and ascend to Nar village, relishing views of Himlung Himal, Manaslu, and Pisang Peak.

                Accommodation: Teahouse

                Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                Today, we have an acclimatization day in Nar village, which means we will spend one more night here. In the early morning, we will hike to a nearby viewpoint and later explore some villages, monasteries, and chortens. Similarly, we will get to have a close look at the lifestyle of the locals and enjoy the serenity of the region.

                  Distance: 14 km/8.6 miles

                  Altitude: 5,322 m/17,460 ft

                  Duration: 7-8 hours

                  Accommodation: Teahouse

                  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                  On this day, we will cross a high mountain pass. The day begins early. We will gradually ascend from Nar to Kang La pass. The trail ascends along the lateral moraine of Temdenzon Khola. We will then trek via lovely yak pastures and ascend to Kang La Phedi.

                  From here, a steep route leads to the top of the pass. From the top, the views of Annapurna II, Tilicho Peak, Mt. Gangapurna, Himlung Himal, etc are phenomenal. Further, the trail descends to Ngawal village, where we will be spending the night.

                    Distance: 91 km/56 miles

                    Altitude: 760 m/2,493 ft

                    Duration: 7-8 hours

                    Accommodation: Lodge

                    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                    From Ngawal, we will trek to Pisang village. The climate is much more different here than in Nar Phu valley. We will find ourselves surrounded by a lot more greenery. From Ngwal, it is a long descent to Pisang village via picturesque villages and lush forest. Upon reaching Pisang, we will take a few hour's drive back to Besisahar.

                      Distance: 175 km/109 miles

                      Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft

                      Duration: 7 hours

                      Accommodation: Hotel

                      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and farewell dinner

                      On this day, we will drive back to Kathmandu. We will be using the same highway that we followed at the start of the trek. It will be a comfortable and scenic ride back. Once we reach Kathmandu, we will drop you at the hotel. The rest of the day is leisure. As today is your last day in Kathmandu, window shop in Thamel, have some local delicacies, and visit local markets. In the late evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner.

                        Meals: Breakfast only

                        Today, you will be flying back to your home. Pack your stuff in time and be ready to leave the hotel at the designated time. Our team will pick you up from the hotel lobby and drop you at the international airport.

                          Cost Details
                          Includes
                          • All airport pick-up and drop-off services are complimentary.
                          • A complimentary welcome dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
                          • The two nights stay in Kathmandu, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                          • Transportation from Kathmandu to Chamje and Pisang to Kathmandu.
                          • All necessary trekking permits, like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the TIMS Card, etc.
                          • During the mountain season, three meals per day are consumed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
                          • All accommodations during the mountain.
                          • Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, and pomegranates, if available.
                          • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt (for your trekking stuff, if needed).
                          • Government-approved, first-aid-trained (with a medical kit), an English-speaking professional local guide, and for each of the two guests, 1 porter.
                          • Staff insurance, a well-paid salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
                          • If necessary, rescue arrangements will be made.
                          • Certificate of achievement, if needed.
                          • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT.
                          Excludes
                          • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
                          • Lunch and dinner in the city, or Kathmandu.
                          • Personal insurance, trekking gear, personal expenses, items lost or stolen, and so on.
                          • Temple and monastery entrance fees.
                          • Personal guide and porter.
                          • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
                          • All drinks, chocolate bars, desserts, laundry, hot showers, battery charges, wifi, etc.
                          • Tipping to staff.
                          • Extra nights on the mountain and city, which are not maintained.

                          Useful Information

                          Short Nar Phu valley trek difficulty

                          • Trek distance: The short Nar Phu Valley trek distance is approximately 95 kilometers. The daily walking hours range from 6 to 8 hours.
                          • Difficulty level: The Nar Phu Valley trek is one of the most difficult trekking ventures in the Himalayas. It is not a famous trekking route in Nepal, so the trail lacks basic tourist infrastructure, and the region is very remote. Likewise, during this trek, you will ascend over 5,000 meters and follow an offbeat terrain. The short Nar Phu Valley trek suits experienced trekkers the best.
                          • Terrain: The Nar Phu Valley trail unfolds through diverse terrains, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and arid landscapes. Trekkers will encounter river crossings, suspension bridges, and high mountain passes. The ever-changing scenery offers a visual feast, but the varied terrains pose physical challenges, requiring adaptability and perseverance.
                          • Altitude sickness: As the short Nar Phu Valley trek reaches altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters, altitude sickness becomes a potential concern. Trekkers may experience symptoms such as vomiting, headache, shortness of breath, nausea, and fatigue. Acclimatization is crucial to minimize altitude sickness risks. We will take an acclimatization break in Nar village.
                          • Preventive measures: To mitigate the risks of altitude sickness during the short Nar Phu Valley trekking, you should prioritize keeping yourself hydrated. Likewise, listen to your body and maintain your pace. You also have to eat enough food to keep yourself energized during the trek.
                          • Previous trekking experience: While previous trekking experience is not mandatory for the short Nar Phu Valley trek, individuals with prior high-altitude trekking exposure may find the Nar Phu Valley adventure more manageable. However, novice trekkers can also successfully undertake the journey with proper preparation, including cardiovascular training and strength exercises.
                          • Trek preparation: To prepare for the Nar Phu Valley trek, you can go on regular walks and exercise to strengthen your muscles. You do not have to be athletic to do this trek, but a fit body and mind is crucial. As the Nar Phu Valley is more remote than famous trekking routes, having enough information about the region will be quite beneficial. So, do your research.

                          The best time to do the Nar Phu Valley trek in Nepal

                          • Spring: March to May is one of the ideal times to do the Nar Phu Valley trekking because of stable weather. These months also have a moderate climate and clear sky, so you will enjoy trekking and stunning mountain vistas. As the Nar Phu Valley trek route does not see a crowd of trekkers even during the peak trekking seasons, you will get to enjoy a very peaceful trek.
                          • Autumn: September to November is another great time to trek to Nar Phu Valley. The landscapes are fantastic in this season, with a lovely climate and stable weather. The visibility is excellent, and you may also get to see some of the biggest Nepali festivals. The air is crisp and clear.
                          • Summer/monsoon: June to August brings the summer/monsoon season. Even though a part of the Nar Phu Valley is in the rain shadow area that does not receive rainfall, the trek is still not manageable in summer/monsoon. The challenges increase way too much because of the heavy rainfall and bad weather in summer/monsoon.
                          • Winter: From December to February, Nar Phu Valley experiences a deep, dark winter. You can do the Nar Phu Valley trek in the winter season, but the cold will be extreme. So, you have to be well-packed. Likewise, you may have to walk on snow-covered paths, and Kang La pass may be closed. Make sure to plan the itinerary well.

                          Accommodation and Meals

                          • Rooms: The tea house accommodation is common during the Nar Phu Valley trek. The limited tea houses along the way may result in sharing rooms with fellow trekkers. You may get a single room in some villages, but not guaranteed. In some villages, you may spend the night in a monastery, sharing the space with monks. The accommodation will be simple, showcasing the basic lifestyle of the locals.
                          • Washroom: Washrooms are mostly shared as well. Squat toilets are much more common, but some places may have Western-style toilets. Make sure you have all the toiletries with you.
                          • Hot shower: Hot shower is not readily available throughout the trail, but you may get it in a few tea houses by paying a few extra bucks. Pack wet wipes to keep yourself clean.
                          • Charging and WiFi: You can charge your electronic devices in the tea houses during the Nar Phu Valley trek. Some places may charge you a few bucks for the service. Likewise, given the remoteness of the Nar Phu Valley, the network connection is not good here. We recommend you carry a local SIM during the trek for a better chance of connectivity.
                          • Meals: During the trek, you will get fresh meals cooked and prepared by the tea houses. Veg dishes are much more common. Non-veg items may not be available everywhere, and it is better to inquire about meat freshness for ordering. Dal bhat, thukpa, Tibetan bread, thenduk, momo, and fried rice are common dishes. Likewise, toast, eggs, oats, pancakes, soups, and porridge are available during breakfast.
                          • Drinking water and beverages: You will be drinking boiled water during the trek. You can further sterilize it with water purification tablets. Additionally, beverages like a variety of tea, coffee, soft beverages, local wine, etc are available too.

                          Additional Information

                          • Travel insurance: Nar Phu Valley is a remote area with no hospital or transportation. During the emergency, we have to use a helicopter to evacuate you from the region, and for that, we need travel insurance that covers emergency air evacuation. Travel insurance is necessary to join the short Nar Phu Valley trek.
                          • Passport and visa: A passport and tourist visa are necessary to enter Nepal. You can obtain both documents in your country. Likewise, you also have the option to get a tourist upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Check out more details about tourist visas on the Nepal immigration website.
                          • Money exchange: In Nepal, you have to use Nepali rupees to buy things and services. ATMs are available everywhere in major cities and towns. You can exchange money in the bank or money exchange centers in Thamel. Do carry small notes with you all the time.
                          • Tips: You are supposed to tip drivers, trek guides, tour guides, and porters at the end of their service. Of course, only if you are satisfied with their service. If you are trekking in a group, every member can contribute small amounts and can tip collectively.
                          • Luggage: You will use a duffel bag as your main luggage during the Nar Phu Valley trek and a daypack to carry essentials and important documents with you. Every trekker has a 10 kg weight limit for a duffel bag and a 5 kg weight limit for a daypack.
                          • Personal expense: Budget additional money for expenses that are not covered in our Nar Phu Valley trek cost. You will need additional money for international flights, tips, travel insurance, shopping, and extra drinks and food.

                          FAQs

                          • The difficulty level of the Nar Phu Valley trek is moderate to challenging. The trek involves ascending to altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), which may pose a challenge for some individuals. Additionally, the remote nature of the route means that facilities and accommodations are basic, requiring a degree of self-sufficiency.

                          • The Nar Phu Valley trek is suitable for experienced trekkers with a good level of fitness and stamina. Due to the challenging nature of the trail, including high altitudes and varied terrains, individuals with prior trekking experience in the Himalayas or other mountainous regions would find this trek more manageable.

                          • Yes, Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area in Nepal. To enter Nar Phu Valley, trekkers need a special permit. The restrictions are in place to preserve the unique culture, traditions, and natural environment of this remote Himalayan valley.

                          • The best time to do the Nar Phu Valley trek is during the main trekking seasons in Nepal, which are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.

                          • To undertake the Nar Phu Valley trek in Nepal, trekkers are required to obtain two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Restricted Area Permit for Nar Phu Valley.

                          • No, you cannot do the Nar Phu Valley solo because it is a restricted area. As per restricted area rules in Nepal, foreign travelers cannot visit these areas alone and have to be in a group of at least two trekkers. Guide and porters are not counted, and the trip must be organized by a local authorized trek operator like us.

                          • Yes, you can extend the Nar Phu Valley trek to Thorong La pass. From Ngawal, you will trek to Manang and continue to Thorong La pass instead of returning to Kathmandu via Besisahar.

                          • During the peak trekking seasons, the daytime temperatures in lower altitudes range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). However, at higher elevations, particularly above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), temperatures can drop considerably, often reaching below freezing point, especially at night.

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