The Nur-Phu Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and adventures treks, located in the restricted Annapurna region. This 18days journey takes you deep into the hidden valleys of Nar and Phu, where ancient Tibetan-influenced village, monasteries, and traditional lifestyles remain well preserved. Leaving the busy Annapurna circuit at Koto, the trail enters dramatic gorges, high alpine landscapes, and isolated mountain terrain. The major highlight of the trek is crossing the challenging Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters, which offers spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Himlung Himal Due to its high altitude, remoteness, and restricted status, this trek is best suited for Physically fit trekkers seeking a true off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure.
Outline itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 2: Trek preparation and permit in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and onward to Chame (2,670m/ 8-9hours drive)
Day 4: Trek from Chame to Koto (2,610m/ 5-6 hours trek)
Day 5: Trek from Koto to Meta (3,560m/ 6-7 hours trek)
Day 6: Trek from Meta to Phu Village (4,080m/ 6-7 hours trek)
Day 7: Acclimatization day in Phu Village (4,080m/ 3-4 hours optional hike)
Day 8: Trek from Phu Village to Nar Village (4,110m/ 6-7 hours trek)
Day 9: Acclimatization day in Nar Village (4,110m/ 3-4 hours optional hike)
Day 10: Trek from Nar Village to Kang La Base Camp (4,530m/ 4-5 hours trek)
Day 11: Cross Kang La Pass and Trek to Ngawal (5, 320m/ 3,660m/ 8-9 hours trek)
Day 12: Trek from Ngawal to Manang (3,540m/4-5 hours trek)
Day 13: Acclimatization day in Manang (3,540m/4-6 hours optional hike)
Day 14: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m/4-5 hours trek)
Day 15: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m/ 3-4 hours trek)
Day 16: Cross Thorong La Pass and trek to Muktinath (5,416m/ 3,800m/ 8-9 hours trek)
Day 17: Travel from Muktinath to Jomsom and Pokhara (820m/ 1-2hours drive+ flight)
Day 18: Return to Kathmandu or final departure (1,400m/ 25 minutes flight or 6-7hours drive)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, we (Snow Bank Adventure Pvt Ltd) will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check- in, you can relax from your journey or explore the nearby streets. In the evening, a brief introduction to the trek is provided, covering safety, altitude awareness, and general expectations.
Day 2: Trek Preparation and Permits in Kathmandu (1,400m)
This day is dedicated to trek preparation and official formalities. You meet your trekking guide, review the itinerary in detail, and check your trekking equipment. Necessary Permits, including the Nar-Phu Restricted Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), are processed. You may also use this day to purchase or rent any last-minute trekking gear.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and Onward to Chame (2,670m/8-9 hours trek)
Early in the morning, you begin a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, passing through Hills, rivers, farmland, and traditional village. From Besisahar, the journey continues by jeep along a rough mountain road to Chame, the administrative center of Manang District. The drive follows the Marsyangdi River and offers your first close views of Himalayan landscapes.
Day 4: Trek from Chame to Koto (2,610m/ 5-6 hours trek)
The trek officially begins today as you walk from Chame to Koto along a pleasant trail through pine and fir forests. You cross several suspension bridges and enjoy views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. The trail is gradual and comfortable, allowing your body to adapt to trekking conditions. Koto is the main checkpoint and the gateway to the Nar-Phu restricted area.
Day 5: Trek from Koto to Meta (3, 560m/ 6-7 hours trek)
Today you enter the restricted Nar-Phu Valley, leaving the busy Annapurna Circuit behind. The trail follows a narrow gorge with dramatic rock walls, waterfalls, and rugged terrain. The landscape becomes wilder and more isolated as you gradually gain altitude. After a long but rewarding walk, you reach Meta, a seasonal settlement surrounded by barren hills and alpine scenery.
Day 6: Trek from Meta to Phu Village (4,080m/ 6-7 hours trek)
The trail opens into a vast alpine landscape as you trek higher toward Phu Village. You pass ancient chortens, prayers flags, and mani walls that reflect strong Tibetan Buddhist influence. The air becomes thinner, and the scenery more dramatic with views of snow-capped peaks. Phu Village appears like a fortress on a hill, untouched by modern development.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in PhuVillage (4,080m/3-4 hours optional hike)
This day is reserved for acclimatization to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. You explore Phu Village, interact with locals, and visit the centuries- old monastery perched above the Settlement. An optional hike toward Himlung Himal Base Camp or nearby ridges provides excellent acclimatization and mountain views. The rest of the day is spent resting and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Day 8: Trek from Phu Village to Nar village (4,110m/ 6-7 hours trek)
Leaving Phu, the trail descends briefly before climbing again toward Nar Village. You cross alpine meadows used for yak grazing and walk through dry, high-altitude terrain. Nar Village is larger than Phu and feels equally ancient, with stone houses, narrow alleys, and strong Tibetan cultural traditions.
Day 9: Acclimatization Day in Nar Village (4,110m/6-7 hours trek)
Another acclimatization day is spent in Nar Village to prepare for the upcoming high pass. You take short hikes to nearby ridges and viewpoints, gaining additional elevation during the day and returning to sleep lower. This day also allows time to explore local monasteries and observe daily village life.
Day 10: Trek from Nar Village to Kang La Base Camp (4,530m/ 4-5 hours trek)
The trek today is shorter but more demanding due to the altitude and steeper terrain. The trail climbs steadily toward Kang La Base Camp, passing glacial streams and rocky landscapes. Upon arrival, you rest, hydrate, and prepare for the long and challenging day ahead.
Day 11: Cross Kang La Pass to Ngawal (5,320m/3,660/ 8-9 hours trek)
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You start early in the morning to cross Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters. From the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and surrounding glaciers. After spending time at the pass, you descend carefully along a steep trail to Ngawal, rejoining the Annapurna Circuit.
Day 12: Trek from Ngawal to Manang (3,540m/4-5 hours trek)
Today’s walk is relatively easy and scenic, following a well-established trail through alpine landscapes. You enjoy impressive views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna before reaching Manang, a popular stop on the Annapurna Circuit with good lodges, bakeries, and Mountain facilities.
Day 13: Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540m/ 4-6 hours optional hike)
This acclimatization day helps prepare for Thorong La Pass. You may hike to lce Lake or Gangapurna Lake, both offering stunning views and effective altitude adaption in the afternoon, you can relax, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic, or explore the village.
Day 14: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m/ 4-5 hours trek)
The trail gradually ascends through a wide alpine valley as vegetation becomes sparse. You may see yaks and blue sheep grazing along the hillsides. The pace is slow and steady to allow proper acclimatization.
Day 15: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m/3-4 hours trek)
A short but important trekking day brings you to Thorong Phedi, the base of Thorong La Pass. The afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and mentally preparing for the next day’s long climb.
Day 16: Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath (5,416m/ 3,800m/8-9 hours trek)
You begin the ascent before sunrise to cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek. After reaching the pass and enjoying panoramic Himalayan views, you descend steadily to Muktinath. The landscapes changes dramatically as you enter the dry Mustang region.
Day 17: Travel from Muktinath to Jomsom and Pokhara (3,820m/ 1-2 hours drive + flight/ drive)
You travel by jeep from Muktinath to Jomsom. From Jomsom, you either take a short scenic flight to Pokhara or continue by read. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax by Phewa Lake and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
Day 18: Return to Kathmandu or Final Departure (1400m/25 minutes flight or 6-7 hours drive)
You return to Kathmandu by flight or tourist bus, depending on preference. This marks the end of the Nar- Phu Valley Trek, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s hidden Himalayan valleys.
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Nice Trip Organized By Snow Bank Adventure Pvt Ltd. We had a very great experience of Everest base camp trek. The cost offered by them was also very reasonable than other company…
The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that delivers on every front—stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a profound sense of accomplishment.
I am great thankful to entire team of snow bank adventure and mr sujan for managing our trip. We are enjoying the nature and fully utilise our time.
Again thanks to Mr Sujan and team.
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Snow bank adventure is well trip planner. We collect great experience from this company, they customize our trip and well manage. Langtang valley treks is awesome i will recommend. Thank you Mr Sujan and Snow Bank Adventure
Special thanks to Mr sujan and team for making the enjoyable and memorable trip (kulekhani overnight trip). I strongly recommend to others. We found loyalty, time management of each point of activities. Again thanks to Team Snow bank adventure and team!!
The service and guidelines are very good. Thank you for taking me to so many beautiful places. You made this holiday a lot of fun. I will book again for my next vacation. I hope you will visit more beautiful places. thank you .
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a ‘must-do’ trek for all trekkers. Walk on Nepal’s oldest trekking trail and arrive at the heart of Annapurna Region. Trek through a typical Nepalese mountain…