Nar Phu Valley, a hidden gem of Annapurna region

Nar Phu is a remote valley located north of Annapurna Massif in Manang district. Rich is natural and cultural beauty, the valley is less explored and full of wilderness because of which travelers get an exceptional opportunity to explore the unspoiled nature and less trodden trails while traveling in Nar Phu. People in the Nar Phu Valley still follow ancient Buddhist practices and they have preserved its old charm and traditions making the place even more appealing to the travelers. Besides its pristine wilderness and authentic culture, Nar Phu Valley is also famous for its stunning views of the beautiful Himalayas – Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri Massif, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak and Lamjung Himal.

Nar Phu Valley comprises of two remote villages, namely Nar and Phu. Lying between Annapurna and Manaslu regions, the Valley is considered a true hidden gem in the Himalayan wilderness. The trail was opened for trekkers in 2003 only. So, it’s a relatively new destination and offers you some rare virgin experiences of the Himalayan beauty. Nar Phu Valley trek starts from Besisahar and as you trek deeper into the Valley, you pass through unique landscape, quaint villages and ancient monasteries. If you are interested to have this amazing experience, here is some useful information about Nar Phu Valley Trek.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival Kathmandu

Day 02: Sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley and Trek preparation day

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu – Besisahar -Chamje (1430 m) (9 hours)

Day 04: Trek from Chamje to Dharapani (1920m) (6 hours)

Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Koto (2600m) (5 hours)

Day 06: Trek from Koto to Meta (3560m) (7/8 hours)

Day 07: Trek from Meta to Phu Village (4250m) (7/8 hours)

Day 08: Day rest & Excursion around Phu Village

Day 09: Hike to Himlung Base Camp (4900m)

Day 10: Trek from Phu to Nar Village (4150m) (7/8 hours)

Day 11: Explore Nar Village

Day 12: Trek from Nar to Ngawal (3660m) via Kang La Pass 5315m (8/9 hours)

Day 13: Trek from Ngawal to Manang (3549m) (4 hours)

Day 14: Explore around Manang

Day 15: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4000m) (5 hours)

Day 16: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (4600m) (4 hours)

Day 17: Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath (3800m) via Thorung La Pass 5416m (8/9 hours)

Day 18: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2715m) (5/6 hours)

Day 19: Fly to Pokhara; Free day in Pokhara

Day 20: Drive to Kathmandu; Evening farewell dinner

Day 21: Depart Kathmandu

Nar Phu Valley Permit

Nar Phu Valley is a restricted area. So, you need two different types of trekking permits.

1. Nar Phu restricted area permit –

• US$ 90 per person per week (September to November)
• US$ 75 per person per week (December to August)

2. Annapurna Conservation Area permit –

• US$ 30 per person

 Guide and Porter

There are some trekking trails in Nepal where you don’t need guides or porters, but you need them in Nar Phu Valley as it is a restricted area. Guide will lead you during your trek and arrange all the required services including your permit. They will also provide information on nature, history, culture and lifestyle of the people of Nar Phu Valley.

Food and Water

Nar Phu is a remote valley located in Annapurna region. So, you will have very limited number of teahouses in the trail offering basic services. Their menu is not very extended.  If you are camping, your food will be prepared by your kitchen team. Normally, foods available in both cases are rice, curry, noodles, chapattis, bread, omelets, soup etc. You don’t need to worry about water. You will be provided with clean drinking water. You can carry your own water bottles and purifying tablets.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not a very big problem at Nar Phu Valley. There are some tea houses or home stays. But, they provide humble facilities. Accommodation will be on twin-sharing basis. In Nar Phedi, you can also sleep in a Buddhist monastery with monks.

Best Season

The best seasons for trekking are Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May). However, trekking in Nar Phu is possible during monsoon also (June to August) as the region doesn’t receive rainfall during the time.

Communication

During Nar Phu Trek, you can use NCELL and NTC mobile network services. Some lodges (in lower altitude) can provide WIFI also, but you have to pay some extra amount for the service. As you trek higher, the network connections become unreliable.

Electricity

You can use electricity of teahouses for charging your devices but you have to pay some extra amount. In higher altitude, electricity facility may not be easily available. So, it’s better to bring your own power bank.