Nar Phu Valley Trek

A fantastic journey to the wild and unexplored vicinity located north of Annapurna, this rugged and wild trek takes us to the exotic and enthralling valley of Nar Phu. Nar Phu Valley trek starts from Jagat following the popular trekking routes of Annapurna Circuit trail and then branch off from Koto to follow the off the beaten track to Nar Phu valley in the north of Manang and pass the Kang La pass with magnificent panorama of Annapurna massifs. 

The Kang La pass links Nar with Manang and three other Bhotia villages in the Neyshang valley. The valley system above opens up to a huge expanse of high snow-peaks, ancient villages and high altitude grazing settlements. Trekking to this hidden mountain valley offers medieval Tibetan culture in undisturbed form, dramatic mountains view and great alpine scenery. Heading  west over the Thorong La Pass and down through lower Mustang.

Nar Phu is a restricted area, and trekkers can only enter with a special permit, which must be issued through an accredited trekking agency, who will also arrange the obligatory guide. At the time of writing, the cost for the Nar Phu permit ranged from US$75 to $90 depending on the season; this is only valid for seven days so you must complete the trek in this timeframe. Be aware of the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) on this route; there is a large altitude gain from Koto to Meta and it is essential to be acclimatized to conditions above 3000m before attempting this trek.

Trails to Nar Phu Valley is remote spiralling off from the popular Annapurna circuit, largely untouched by the modern world and mass tourism and often referred to as ‘the hidden valley trek’. The route is peppered with undisturbed religious sites and villages of Tibetan heritage which embody long established traditions of yak herding, trading and harvesting indigenous herbs for medicine. The Kang La Pass (5315m) is a particular highlight where trekkers will be able to spot a myriad of peak included Annapurna II (7937m), Gangapura (7455m) and Tilicho Peak (7134m).

 This trek is relatively challenging but rewarding – particularly for those with a keen interest in remote communities and their traditional ways of life. Given the remoteness of the region, if you plan to do this trek off season, please check with a local tour operator or you can contact our tour operator agency Messenger Tours and Travel if the lodges are open and for further detail about the trek. Camping is also an option.