Narphu Valley & Annapurna Circuit Trek

Nar & Phu trek is the one and only off the beaten trek in Annapurna Region, Nar Phu valley blended with the most frequented Annapurna Circuit Trek comprises two authentic tribal villages Nar and Phu as well as the elevated highlights of Nepalese most frequented trekking trail. Extremely strenuous walk to these exceptional highland hamlets through narrow canyons, dense lush vegetation, amazing rocky landscapes and traditional hamlets having centuries old monasteries along with the traverse across Kang La Pass plus the crossing over world’s highest Himalayan Pass Thorung La 5416m, the trek caters magnificent Himalayan vistas, uniquely delightful cultural aspects and the revered site Muktinath.

The trek is not definitely for those who cannot endure walking six to seven hours every day for almost three weeks. Kicking off at Chamje, the trek initially chases the trails of famous Annapurna Circuit Trek and deviates after couple of days walk towards the off the beaten destinations which obviously is Nar. After the exploration of Nar and Phu, the trek goes over Kang La Pass 5315m to arrive at Manang. From Manang, the trek again treads along the Annapurna Circuit Trail to Thorung -La Pass and slides down to Jomsom via Muktinath. 

The trek is operated on teahouse basis however, we can operate the trek on Full Board Basis as well because the teahouses in the region considering the location offer basic facilities only.

Trip Highlights 

• The sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley prior to the trek
• The culture of natives of Nar & Phu- rarely explored villages
• The sacred elevated monasteries of Nar and Phu, which are explored by thousands Buddhist pilgrims every year
• The walk across Kang La Pass that cater the magnificent views of peaks like Annapurna II, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak
• The typical trail of trekking in Nepal, that goes up and down the rolling hills so many times like the waves in a ocean. Moreover, the trails of Annapurna Circuit Trek also cater an opportunity to tread along the gorges of Marsyangdi River.
• The authentic culture of diverse ethnical tribes living on the trails of famous Round Annapurna Trek. The major and the unique cultures trekkers get to encounter is of of Gurungs, Thakalis and Marphas.
• The challenge of getting across Throng La Pass 5416m, which is a strenuous walk uphill on the rock strewn trail.
• The panorama of Himalayan giants dominated by Annapurna to the north and the deep Marsyangdi Valley to the south.
• The floral and faunal biodiversity of Annapurna Conservation Area Project.
• The common pilgrimage of Buddhists, Hindus, Jains and the ancient Bon-Po religions, Muktinath.
• The Himalayan panorama so well blended with lush vegetation
• Jomsom, the windy city of Nepal also known as Apple Orchard and the deepest gorge in the world Kali Gandaki Gorge are the highlights of latter half of the trek.
• An opportunity to sight the Kali Gandaki River Valley civilization

Can I Accomplish This Trek Easily?
If you have, the ability to walk around 6-8 hours a day with a light daypack and passionate feeling, this trek will be highly suitable as this is moderate trek. It is fact that having walk in higher altitudes is definitely more physically demanding than walking in lower altitudes. Therefore, you need to be prepared to adjust in the high altitude. Advance Adventure Kindly request to all the clients to prepare them for Narphu Valley & Annapurna Circuit Trek 22 day/s by Jogging and exercising regularly at least 3 month prior to the start of the trek. If you have the subtle experiences on walking /trekking in high altitude, environment this trek will be really easier. Your Past hiking experiences may be worthy but you need special technical skill for this trek. To accomplish the trek you should have excellent health with average physical fitness, positive attitude, self-confidence and strong determination. If you have pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood diseases please kindly inform us before booking the trip. We are highly conscious about your health and safety. You can have the experiences of more demanding and challenging episode while in Trek.

Customize Your Own Trek !

This trek itinerary provided here is a standard itinerary prepared to this trip but if you want to customize your own itinerary for this trekking adventure at your timeline and interest, do write us, and we will be very pleased to customize this trek to your need. We are more than happy to customize this trip to your requirements. 

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft 
Meals Plan: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Upon our arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative who will take you to our hotel. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali Restaurant where we will be able to enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02 Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Altitude: (1350m/4428ft)
Meals Plan: Breakfast
Activities: Sightseeing tour
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

After breakfast, we start a guided tour to the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu Valley which are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. We visit the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), which is also one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, we get introduced to fellow participants, and discuss our trip. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 03 Kathmandu to Besisahar Drive
Altitude: (1,300m / 4,265ft) 
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Drive 5 – 6 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

After breakfast at your hotel we begin our journey at early dawn as we have a long drive ahead of us. We see picturesque views of Nepali countryside, lush greeneries, rivers, villages, farms and mountain vistas throughout the drive. After 5-6 hours of drive we reach Besishahar. We explore the city here and stay overnight in Besisahar.

Day 04 Drive from Besishahar to Koto
Altitude: 2,610m / 8,563ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Drive 5 – 6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

Today after breakfast start our Nar Phu Valley Trek where we will begin our day with an off-road drive from Besisahar to Koto. Our drive passes through the villages such as Jagat, Chamje, Dharapani, Bagarchhap, Timang, and Thanchock. We will get to witness the famous Annapurna I Peak from Bagarchhap and Mount Manaslu and Lamjung Himal on the way from Bagarchhap to Timang Village which is located at 2460 meters. 

Upon our arrival at Koto, the settlement of Gurungs, we will check in and rest. In the evening, we could take a walk in the village and interact with the locals and get to know about their lifestyle. 

Day 05 Koto to Meta
Altitude: 3,560m / 11,680ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 7 – 8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

From here we entered the restricted area so, we register our restricted area permit at the Police Check Post. Then we trek through the River bank of Soti Khola again through wonderful pine forests, streams and suspension and reach Dharmasala. We have our packed lunch on the way. We then continue the trek through forests and ascend steeply towards Meta village. Finally, we arrive on the Tibetan Plateau where we have a very good view of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in Meta.

Day 06 Meta to Phu Gaon
Altitude: 4,250m / 13,944ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 7 – 8 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

We start our day traversing up and down and crossing suspension bridges over different streams. After almost 4 hours of trek we reach Kyang where we can see the remnants, particularly the ruined forts of the Khampa settlement (the place which Khampa refugees from Tibet once captured and lived). We further keep walking past the Phu Khola on a rocky trail and finally reach the Phu village in another 3 to 4 hours. Overnight in Phu Gaon.

Day 07 Acclimatization at Phu Gaon
Altitude: 4,250m / 13,944ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Explore 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

Today is our acclimatization day whereby we are suggested to rest and get acclimatized with the altitude. As we are in the Lost/Hidden Valley, we can explore the culture, natural diversity, and religious practices of the village. Besides this, we can trace out how people make their survival depending on agriculture, animal breeding and seasonal migrations in such remote location or in the hidden valley. It is also the day for us to explore the Tashi Lakhang Monastery – the old Buddhist Monastery listed out of the 108 world’s great Buddhist Monasteries; it is supposed to be the last monastery constructed by Karmapa Rinpoche. Apart from exploring the cultural avenues of the lost valley, the valley also offers us a great view of Himlung Himal and other snow peaks in the region. Overnight at Phu Gaon.

Day 08 Phu Gaon to Nar
Altitude: 4,110m / 13,484ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 6 – 7 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

The trail descends passing many streams and suspension bridges until Mahendra Pul which takes about 4 hours. We pass the high suspension bridge 80m over the Gorge of Lapche River. We have lunch here and after lunch, the trail steeply ascends passing many Buddhist stupas until Nar Village which takes about 2 hours. We find several Buddhist Monasteries here to visit coupled with the glorious vistas of Pisang Peak and other small peaks. Overnight in Nar.

Day 09 Explore day at Nar Gau
Altitude: 4,110m / 13,484ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Explore 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

This is the second acclimatization day for this trek. We spend the day taking a day hike nearby and explore Nar village and have a close look over the local culture and lifestyle. We also prepare for the next day trek. Overnight in Nar.

Day 10 Nar to Kang-La Pass to Ngwal
Altitude: Kang La Pass 5,322m / 17,460ft & Ngawal 3,660m / 12,008ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 7 – 8 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

Today is adventurous day with long day hike so we get up early in the morning and head to Kang-la pass. From pass we can see the Annapurna massif. We further trek down to Ngwal for overnight.

Day 11 Ngwal to Manang
Altitude: 3,540m / 11,614ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 4 – 5 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

From Ngwal, we head for Manang today. We pass through the isolated village of Paugh overlooking the amazing views of Annapurna range. We then move gently uphill to Mungli and then to the main trail of Annapurna Trail at Mungli. We eventually reach Manang for our overnight.

Day 12 Manang to Yak Kharka
Altitude: 4,110m / 13,484ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 3 – 4 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

From Manang village, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to a village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola. The trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, a scrub of juniper trees, as it steadily gains elevation. The trail further passes near the small village of Ghunsa, a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trailhead. Now the trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. Overnight at Yak Kharka.

Day 13 Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Altitude: 4,600m / 15,092ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 3 – 4 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

We make our way to the foot of the pass, Throng Phedi. Thorong Phedi is a small busy settlement catering to the needs of tired trekkers and climbers. Trekkers like us use this point as a base camp. Some visitors also attempt a hike to the High Camp today so that the next day can be easier for them. Although we will have a tough day tomorrow, we stop at Thorong Phedi so that we can have sound sleep in lower altitude rather than risking sleeping in a higher altitude at High Camp. Overnight at Thorong Phedi.

Day 14 Thorong Phedi to Thorong La to Muktinath
Altitude: Thorong La Pass 5,4525m / 17,764ft & Muktinath 3,800m / 12,467ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 7 – 8 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

Crossing the arduous Thorong La Pass at a dizzying height of 5,416m/17,764ft is another highlight of this trek. An early start is important to go through the icy high-altitude trail. But the picturesque mountain vistas are more than compensates the strenuous walk through the grueling trail. We reach Muktinath by sunset which is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhist. We can stroll around the area which hosts a Vishnu temple and a Monastery nearby. Overnight at Muktinath.

Day 15 Muktinath to Jomsom
Altitude: 2,715m / 8,910ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 
Activities: Trekking 4 – 5 hours 
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge

We begin descending down the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge through the arid land. We pass by Jharkot and Khingar villages which has typical Tibetan architecture. Following the valley floor most of the way sprawled along the banks of the Kali Gandaki, we reach Jomsom. Overnight in Jomsom.

Day 16 Jomsom to Pokhara Flight
Altitude: 850m / 2,789ft
Meals Plan: Breakfast 
Activities: Flight 25 Minutes 
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara

After breakfast, we fly to Pokhara. The scenic flight takes us through the gorge of the two huge mountains, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. On arrival at Pokhara airport, we will be transferred to lakeside hotel. We get some rest and explore the beauty of Pokhara Valley in the evening. While we leisurely walk along the bank of Fewa Lake, admiring the mountain view of Machhapuchhare. We can end the day with a leisurely stroll around the mesmerizing lakeside area. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 17 Pokhara to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1350m/4428ft
Activities: Drive 5 - 6 hour
Meals Plan: Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Today, after breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our hotel. We can spend the evening leisurely or perhaps catch up on some last-minute shopping. Either way, we celebrate the successful completion of our journey with a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Day 18 Final departure from Nepal
Altitude: (1350m/4428ft)
Meals Plan: Breakfast
Activities: Departure

Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! Our airport representative will drop you off at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
"End of our services"

Cost Includes:

• All ground transportation in Kathmandu by private vehicle (Including airport pick and drop) 
• 03 Nights twin sharing three-star deluxe accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan
• Welcome and Farewell dinner at one of the finest restaurant in down town
• Annapurna Conservation Areas Project (ACAP) Permits & Fees & TIMs card
• Kathmandu to Besishahar transfer by avaiable public bus( 5 to 6 hours drive)
• Besisahar to Koto by sharing Jeep drive
• Nar Phu to Annapurna Circuit Trekking on full board of meals (B, L, D, tea /coffee in cups only), seasonal fruits etc. 
• Nar Phu to Annapurna Circuit Trek accommodation in comfortable Mt. Lodges & Guest Houses on twin share- (Nights in Besishahar, Tal & Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom will be in attached bathroom/hot shower)
• Jomsom- Pokhara flight, transfer 
• 01 Nights twin share 3 star deluxe hotel in Pokhara with breakfast plan 
• Pokhara- Kathmandu transfer by deluxe tourust bus 
• One Advanced Adventures Trek Leader (Gov. Licensed, first aid, altitude trained/experienced and eco trained), assistance leader/s in a group, their entire expenses, equipment and insurance 
• One trek porter to carry trek luggage’s for every two trekkers in a group, all payment, trekking equipment and insurance 
• Sleeping Bags and Down Jacket for Trek use (Need to return after trek), Trek Duffle Bag and T- shirt, Trekking Maps & Adventure Certificate 
• Group Medicine kit Box, with Diamox- AMS Medicine 
• All Gov. and local taxes as applicable 
• Final departure transfer from Kathmandu to airport on your departure

Cost not Includes:

• Nepal Visa, International flights in/out Nepal 
• Lunch & evening meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (If any) 
• Cost of beverages such as mineral water, coca cola, Beer etc., cost of battery charge, laundry etc. on trek 
• Travel insurance (Must include Helicopter evacuation, Medical Exp. and trip cancellation) 
• Personal trekking gears 
• Personal nature expenses & Tips 
• Any extending trips

Passport & Visa Information
Nepal visa is the easiest visa to obtain; you may buy your Nepal visa at your nearest Nepalese Embassy/ Consulate or Mission offices abroad or buy this upon on arrival to Kathmandu international airport as per your convenient. You have to have 2 passport size photographs, Visa fees in US cash & valid passport at least for 6 months valid at the starting of the trip.

Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days - US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days - US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Download visa form-: www.nepalimmigration.gov.np

Group Size
In this Nar- Phu to Annapurna Circuit Trek, the minimum group size would be two and maximum group size is ten or more on request. We can also organize private trip to solo person with single supplement cost. Else, join our estimated group departure dates available online or ask us with your personal dates, we will open group date on the same date.

Our Guides, Trip & Safety
Because these hikes take you on the remote Himalayan region, it is very essential that you are accompanied with the very experienced and qualified & equipped leader for the safe and successful trip. We Advanced Adventures employee the local trek guide and stuff who are trained and qualified on the trip we worked on. Our guides are trained and licensed from Nepal Gov, certify from TAAN & Nepal Mountaineering Association. All of our leading Trekking and Climbing Guide are experience from last 8 to 10 years. We have train them specially for your trip, to cater the flexible needs of our peoples in the group joining from different countries, this double assure you that your trip is at the right and professional hands.

At every trip, there would be our one Trek leader and one assistance leader on each additional 2 peoples on the trek- this arrangement would ensure that even if any of our guide/ assistance guides get sick or if any travelers gets sick and need to be back or delay the days of walking, it would still works smoothly and there would not be any impact on our original trek plan. Also each two trekker would have one Sherpa helper for carrying your trekking bags.

Acclimatization 
There is no way to prepare for altitude other than to spend time at altitude. Being in very good physical condition will help ameliorate some of the exhaustion that people often feel, but it will not prevent altitude caused medical problems such as Acute Mountain Sickness. This itinerary is designed with a high degree of awareness of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) in mind and to ensure a comfortable and safe adventure trek in the Himalayas. Staying well hydrated and getting plenty of rest may help. 

The maximum elevation of this trek will be reached at Thorong la at altitude of 5416m above sea level. Obviously this altitude range is high, but as we would be e range of altitude, and we are hiking from the 820m to this altitude range with enough days of hiking en route, it is not considered a high risk zone for AMS. However, AMS could affect to the peoples indifferently. 

Travel Insurance & Vaccination
You must obtain personal travel insurance to join us for our Himalayan trips. You must be having a travel insurance which must cover helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation and medical expenses. And it is suggested that you buy your insurance policy from you homeland country before traveling as it is difficult buying local travel insurance policy for foreigners in Nepal. 

Vaccination is required to plan to your trip to Nepal but it is not a must to have thing to come, but highly suggested. Your doctor will have the information of vaccination you would require to the country you will be traveling. 

Hepatitis A, Japanese Encephalitis, Polio, Rabies, Tetanus, Typhoid and Malaria etc. are the recommended vaccination for traveling to Nepal. 

Meals and Accommodations
While in Kathmandu and in Pokhara, your accommodation is at 3 star deluxe hotel that comfort your stays in city and while in trek, your accommodation is at Mt. Lodge and Guest House which is clean and comfortable. Our entire accommodation is at twin share unless stated but single supplement accommodation is also available on personal request at the additional cost of US$- 350.

In city, only breakfast is included on the offered trip itinerary but while in trek full board of meals is included (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, and Tea- Coffee). We provide you food from the local tea- house/ Mt. Lodge from en route. Breakfast and dinner is to be provided from the same tea- house/ guest house we would overnight but lunch would be en route in between.

Foods provided are depends on the availability of the Mt. lodges we would be staying but in general, you can have Nepalese foods (Dal Bhat), Tibetan fried bread, various soups, Momo’s (steamed dumplings), potatoes, pastas and even a version of pizza! So, over all you have a different choice of food on trek.

Trekking Seasons
We do have two best seasons to attempt this trek to Nar Phu & Annapurna Circuit Trek. We always suggest you to come at the right time of the year as far as possible to enjoy this trip at best weather condition. 

Spring: - (March, April, May) - Best warmest time to trek. Rhododendron flowers in bloom- excellent trails and clear skies, best visibility. Good Temperature, warmest weather of the year.

Autumn:- (Mid September, October and November) - Excellent trails, clear blue skies, best visibility. Best Time to Trek

Winter Months: - (December, January and February) are also good, but it’s obviously colder. You have to be prepared for this. It is up to you to plan this trek at this cold time or not.

Summer: - Monsoon, so rain and visibility can be a big issue (from Mid June, July and August). We do not suggest you this time for the trek.

Caring Porter
Our porter are fully equipped and insured for each trip they are undertaking with us. As you know that we are very sincere with the porter issues and their situation while on trek thus we make sure that our porter are fully prepared for the trip. We are closely working with International Porter Progress Association for the welfare and befit for the touristic porters. The maximum load carried by our porter is 20 to 25 KG maximum so be sure that your trekking bag so not load more than 12 KG.

To Book
Once you would choose which trip you would like to book with us, write us with the information or phone us on our phone number for the trip booking confirmation. We have online trip booking option, you may go on that link, choose your trip and date and follow the instruction with information required and summit us. Once your trip booking request would be received, we would suggest you the final trip booking procedure with advance payment of the trip. Non-refundable deposit of 20% (per person) is required to confirm a place on your selected adventure.

Please do not hesitate to contact us in relation to any questions you may have regarding our trip booking Process.