Nar Phu Valley with Tilicho Lake
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Accommodation Hotel and Teahouse
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Duration 16
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Trip Difficulty Strenuous
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Activities Trekking
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Best Time Sept, Oct, Nov, Apr, May, and June
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Max. Elevation 5,320m
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Group Size Min-02 pax
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Transportation Bus, Car & Flight
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Meals B L D During Trek
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Start/End Kathmandu to Pokhara
Overview
The Nar Phu Valley with Tilicho Lake trek is one of Nepal’s most thrilling and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventures, offering a perfect blend of remote wilderness, ancient Tibetan culture dramatic mountain landscapes, and high-altitude exploration in the Annapurna region. This trek takes travelers through the hidden valleys of Nar and Phu, isolated mountain villages that remained closed to outsiders for many years and still preserve centuries-old Buddhist traditions, stone houses, monasteries, prayer walls, and a unique trans-Himalayan lifestyle. Along the route, trekkers pass through deep canyons, alpine forests, rugged cliffs, glacier-fed rivers, yak pastures, and breathtaking viewpoints surrounded by the towering peaks of the Annapurna, Gangapurna, Pisang, and Manaslu ranges. One of the major highlights is crossing the challenging Kang La Pass at over 5,300 meters, which rewards trekkers with panoramic Himalayan scenery before decending toward Manang and continuing to the spectacular Tilicho Lake, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water and dramatic setting beneath snow-covered mountains. The trek is ideal for adventure seekers looking for a less crowded alternative to the classic Annapurna circuit while still experiencing authentic mountain culture, stunning natural beauty, and the excitement of high-altitude trekking in one unforgettable journey.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu – Besishhar- Taal (1700m)
Day 02: Trekking from Taal to Koto (2600m)- 5-6 hours trek
Day 03: Trekking from Koto to Meta (3570m)- 7 hours trek
Day 04: Trekking from Meta to Phu village (4080m)- 6 hours trek
Day 05: Acclimatization day at Phu Village (4080m)
Day 06: Trekking from Phu Village to Nar Village (4100m)- 6-7 hours trek
Day 07: Trekking from Nar to Ngawal via Kang La Pass (5322m)- 7 hours trek
Day 08: Trekking from Ngawal to Manang (3540m)- 3-4 hours trek
Day 09: Acclimatization Day at Manang (3540m)
Day 10: Trekking from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m) 5-6 hours trek
Day 11: Hike to Tilicho Lake (4900m) and Return to Base Camp – 5-6 hours trek
Day 12: Trekking from Tilicho Base Camp (4100m) to Yak Kharka (4060m)
Day 13: Trekking from Yak Kharka (4060m) to Thorang Phedi (4525m)
Day 14: Trekking from Thorang Phedi to Muktinath (3760m) via Thorang La Pass (5416m)
Day 15: Drive to Jomsom and flight to Pokhara
Day 16: Drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara by tourist bus: 7hours drive (200km)
This is our standard itinerary. It can be customized or slightly changed if required considering your pace and trekking habit that cause a change of day-to day plan.
Detailed Itinerary
Your journey begins with an early drive from Kathmandu towards Besishahar along scenic highways filled with rivers, terraced farms, and traditional villages. After reaching Besishahar, you continue by local jeep toward Taal, one of the most beautiful villages on the Annapurna Circuit. The road follows the Marsyangdi River through waterfalls, cliffs, and narrow mountain tracks. Upon arrival in Taal, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning mountain surrounding before overnight stay at the lodge.
- Accommodation: Overnight at tea house
- Meals: B L D
After breakfast, the trek begins along the Annapurna trail passing through forests, suspension bridges, waterfalls, and charming villages such as Dharapani and Timang. The route gradually climbs while offering excellent views of snow-capped peaks and deep river valleys. You will walk through pine and fir forests with fresh mountain air and beautiful Himalayan scenery. By late afternoon, you reach Koto, a quiet village located at the entrance of the Nar Phu region.
- Accommodation: Overnight at tea house
- Meals: B L B
Today you officially enter the remote Nar Phu Valley. The trail follows the Nar Khola through dense forests, rocky canyons, and narrow mountain paths carved into steep cliffs. The route is peaceful and far less crowded than the main Annapurna Circuit. Along the way, you pass ancient chortens, waterfalls, and traditional shepherd shelters while enjoying dramatic Himalayan landscapes. After several hours of trekking, you reach the small settlement of Meta with spectacular mountain views.
- Accommodation: Overnight at tea house
- Meals: B L D
The trail today leads deeper into the hidden valleys of the Himalayas. Walking through barren landscapes and Tibetan-influenced villages such as Chyakhu and Kyang, you experience the untouched beauty of the Nar Phu region. Massive cliffs, colorful prayer flags, and ancient stone settlements create a unique mountain atmosphere. Upon reaching Phu Village, you can explore the traditional lifestyle and impressive Himalayan scenery surrounding the village.
- Accommodation: Overnight at tea house
- Meals: B L D
Today is reserved for acclimatization and exploration around Phu Village. You may visit the Famous Tashi Lhakhang monastery, believed to be one of the oldest monasteries in the region. Short hikes around the village help your body adjust to the altitude while providing beautiful views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. The day also offers an opportunity to experience authentic Tibetan culture and local mountain life.
- Accommodation: Overnight at tea house
- Meals: B L D
Leaving Phu behind, the trail descends through rocky terrain before crossing suspension bridges over glacial rivers. The route then gradually climbs toward Nar Village through wide alpine valleys and yak grazing fields. Along the way, you may encounter yak caravans and local herders travelling through the mountains. Nar Village is known for its traditional stone houses, Buddhist culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
- Accommodation: Overnight at teahouse
- Meals: B L D
This is one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek. Early in the morning, you begin the steep ascent toward Kang La Pass. The climb is Physically demanding, but the spectacular views from the top are unforgettable. From the pass, you can enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna , Tilicho Peak, and surrounding snow-covered mountains. After celebrating the achievement, the trail descends steeply toward Ngawal Village.
- Accommodation: Overnight at tea house
- Meals: B L D
Compared to the previous day, today’s walk is shorter and more relaxing. The trail passes through traditional villages mani walls, and alpine Landscapes with beautiful views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna. After a few hours of trekking, you reach Manang, one of the most popular villages on the Annapurna Circuit. The village offers bakeries, cafes and excellent mountain views.
- Accommodation: Overnight at teahouse
- Meals: B L D
Today is another important acclimatization day before continuing toward higher elevations. You can spend the day hiking to nearby viewpoints, Gangapurna Lake, or Ice Lake for better altitude adjustment. Many trekkers also attend a short briefing at the Himalayan rescue Association about altitude sickness and mountain safety. The day allows you to relax while enjoying spectacular Himalayan surroundings.
- Accommodation: Overnight at teahouse
- Meals: B L D
Today the trail leaves the main Annapurna Circuit and heads toward Tilicho Lake. The path crosses rugged landscapes, landslide-prone sections, and steep mountain slopes requiring careful walking. Throughout the journey, you are rewarded with dramatic views of cliffs, glaciers, and barren Himalayan terrain. By afternoon, you arrive at Tilicho Base camp situated beneath towering snow-covered peaks.
- Accommodation: Overnight at teahouse
- Meals: B L D
Early in the morning, you begin the hike toward the magnificent Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest lakes. The trail steadily climbs through rocky terrain surrounded by snowy mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Upon reaching the lake, you can enjoy the incredible turquoise water reflecting the Himalayan peaks. After spending time exploring and taking photographs, you return to Tilicho Base Camp.
- Accommodation: Overnight at teahouse
- Meals: B L D
Today you retrace part of trail back toward the main Annapurna Circuit route. The walk passes through alpine meadows, rocky hills, and yak grazing fields while offering peaceful mountain scenery. The trail is moderate and allows time to relax and enjoy the surrounding Himalayan environment before continuing toward Thorang La Pass
- Accommodation: Overnight at teahouse
- Meals: B L D
Today’s trek is shorter but very important for altitude adaptation before crossing Thorang La Pass. The trail gradually ascends through dry alpine landscapes and narrow mountain paths with continuous mountain views. Upon reaching Thorong Phedi, you can rest and prepare for the next day’s challenging high-pass crossing.
- Accommodation: Overnight at teahouse
- Meals: B L D
Today is the longest and most demanding day of the trek. You begin the ascent before sunrise, slowly climbing toward Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The challenging climb is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Afterenjoying the incredible scenery at the top, the trail descends toward the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, famous for its temples and spiritual importance.
- Accommodation: Overnight at taeahouse
- Meals: B L D
After breakfast, you travel through the windy Kali Gandaki Valley toward Jomsom. The route passes through dry Mustang landscapes, ancient villages, and dramatic river gorges. Upon reaching Jomsom, you take a scenic flight to Pokhara. After arriving in Pokhara, you can relax near Phewa Lake and enjoy the comfort of the beautiful lakeside city.
- Accommodation: Overnight at star hotel
- Meals: B
Today is the final day of your journey. After breakfast, you drive back to Kathmandu along scenic highways beside rivers, hills, and countryside settlements. The drive offers one last opportunity to enjoy Nepal’s beautiful landscapes before arriving in the capital city. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your unforgettable Nar Phu Trek with Tilicho Lake adventure officially comes to an end.
- Accommodation: Overnight at star hotel
- Meals: B L D
Includes & Excludes
Includes
- Airport transportation pick-up at Arrival and Drop at Departure
- Accommodation 1 night Hotel in Pokhara with Bed and breakfast
- Kathmandu to Besisashar public bus and besusasahar to dharapani sharing jeep
- Muktinath to Pokhara public bus and Pokhara to Kathmandu Tourist bus
- Three meals (B, L, D) and tea, coffee during the trek
- Safe drinking water (treated with chlorine and iodine)
- Permit of the trek (TIMS, Nar Phu special permit. ACAP,)
- All types of necessary government paperwork and government taxes
- Government registered Trekking Guide (meals, wages, Insurance & transpiration)
- Trekking equipment like a (raincoat, sleeping bag, down jacket, walking pole)- returnable after completing the trekking , trekking map company t-shirt.
Excludes
- Personal expenses
- Personal & medical insurance
- Rescue evacuation by Helicopter in Emergency case
- Beverage and Bar bills( soft drinks, hard drinks, and mineral water)
- Boiled water
- Dinner in Pokhara and all part in Kathmandu ( hotel and food)
- Electronic devise recharge
- Wi-Fi during the trek
- Tips for Guide and Porter
- Porter If needed
Trek Video
Packing List
- 4- Season Sleeping Bag
- Duffel Bag ( we will provide one complimentary Snow Bank Adventure duffel bag)
- Day pack
- Down jacket
- Upper Body- Head/ Ears/ Eyes: Sun hat, wool or synthetic hat that cover the ears, Sunglasses with UV protection, Head lamp and Neck warmer.
- Hand: Liner gloves and Heavier shell gloves
- Core Body: T- shirt, Light weight expedition thermal tops, fleece jacket or pullover, water/windproof of shell jacket ( preferably breathable fabric)
- Lower Body- Legs: Light weight expedition thermal bottoms, Nylon hiking shorts, soft shell and hard sell trekking pants, water/ windproof trousers, and casual pants.
- Feet: Liner socks, Heavy weight socks, water proof hiking / trekking boots.
- Gaiter ( for monsoon and winter)
- Medicines and first Aid kits: Including blister treatments ( moleskin), Pain relievers and personal medication.
- Miscellaneous but Important: water bottle/ bladder, water purification iodine tablets, Toiletry kit ( Be sure to include toilet paper, stored in plastic bag, hand wipes, liquid hand sanitizer, and towel)
