Nar Phu Trek: Situated north of the renowned Annapurna Circuit, the Nar and Phu Valleys had their first explorer in the 1950s, courtesy of Tilman, predating the conception of the Annapurna Circuit. However, it remained closed to trekkers until 2002. It is home to ethnically Tibetan people and it is still a very remote area and one seldom visited by foreigners it is still easier to trek the two days northward to Tibet than it is south and into Nepal.
In the era before the construction of the ‘new’ path, those heading south for trade faced a daunting journey. The Nar and Phu Valleys’ environment mirrors that of Tibet, featuring rugged trails cut into steep rocky gorges.
Embarking on the trek into the ‘Hidden Valley’ offers a stark departure from the Annapurna Circuit. Beginning at Koto, the journey follows the Nar Khola north through a dense, forested gorge. Beyond the tree line, the true remoteness unfolds—rugged mountains, a barren Tibetan-like landscape, and sparse villages.
The ascent to Phu may seem formidable, but it traverses a broad path leading through a gateway and alongside a lengthy mani wall into the upper valley. Phu offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in its wonders or continue towards Tibet and Himlung Base Camp for those seeking the ultimate remote experience.
Returning to Nar Phedi from Phu, the trek branches northwest towards Nar, passing beneath the north face of Pisang Peak. After a rest day in Nar, the journey continues over Kang La at 5322m, leading to Ngawal on the upper Pisang route, reconnecting with the Annapurna Circuit.
A special trekking permit is required to visit these valleys so numbers are restricted. Once back on the Annapurna Circuit, there are two options, a) to continue around Annapurna, crossing the Thorong La and so onto Jomsom or b) cross over the Circuit trek and follow through the Tilicho Valley, past the highest lake in Nepal on then onto Jomsom. The new road allows a choice of starting points, once back on the Annapurna Circuit the trekking days can be as long or as short as desired, lodges are plentiful!
Nar Phu Trek Trip Highlights
Category: The ‘Nepal Himalaya Adventure’ trek
Region: Annapurna, Nepal
Grade: Grade 4
Time: Minimum recommended 20 trek days
Height: Maximum 5322m
Style: Camping
Nar Phu Trek Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu
Day 02: Sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03: Drive Besisahar, trek to Khudi 790m
Day 04: Trek to Bahundanda 1310m
Day 05: Trek to Chamje 1430m
Day 06: Trek to Bagarchap 2160m
Day 07: Trek to Koto 2600m
Day 08: Trek to Singenge Dharamsala 3230m 6hrs
Day 09: Trek to Kyaang 3280m 5hrs
Day 10: Trek to Phu 4080m 6hrs
Day 11: Rest day and time to enjoy and explore the locality
Day 12: Trek to Junam 3500m 6hrs
Day 13: Trek to Nar 4110m 6-7hrs
Day 14: Nar rest day time to explore this wonderful old community
Day 15: Trek to Kangla Phedi 4530m 6hrs
Day 16: Trek to Ngawal via the Kang La 5322m 7hrs
Day 17: Trek to Manang 3540m 4hrs
Day 18: Trek to Thorung Phedi Base Camp 4450m
Day 19: Trek to Muktinath 3760m via the Thorung La 5415m
Day 20: Trek to Kagbeni 2810m
Day 21: Trek to Jomsom 2720m
Day 22: Fly to Pokhara and then on to Kathmandu
As with all ‘Travel Nepal Blog’ trekking itineraries, this is just a brief outline of the possibilities that this region can offer.
