The Nar Phu Valley Trek blends remote Himalayan culture with two classic high passes. After a road approach to the Koto check post, the trail leaves the busy circuit and slips into a world of cliffs, gorges and stone villages—Meta, Kyang, Phu and Nar—before crossing Kang La Pass (~5,320 m) to rejoin the Annapurna side above Ngawal/Manang. Many trekkers then continue the circuit to cross Thorong La (5,416 m) and exit via Muktinath–Jomsom, making this one of Nepal’s most rewarding “hidden valleys + high pass” combinations. The Nar–Phu region opened to foreign trekkers only in 2003 and remains a restricted area, so permits are controlled and a licensed guide is mandatory. Expect 5–8 hours of walking most days, with two acclimatization days in the valleys to prepare for the passes. Best windows are (Mar–May) and (Sep–Nov) for stable weather and lodge services.
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Tea House
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Kathmandu
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Spring / Autumn
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5,416 m
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Kathmandu
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Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner on trek (as stated)
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Private vehicle(s) for road segments; Jomsom–Pokhara flight or overland (season-dependent)
Highlights
- Crossing Kang La Pass (~5,320 m) to the panoramic ridges above Ngawal and Manang.
- Crossing Thorong La (5,416 m) to the sacred precincts of Muktinath and the Kali Gandaki.
- Time in Phu and Nar villages; visit Tashi Lakhang Monastery (one of the 108 great monasteries).
- Optional day hike from Phu toward Himlung Himal Base Camp (~4,850–4,900 m) for big north-side ice views.
