Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Trek

Embark on a journey through the hidden gem of the Nar Phu Valley and the iconic Annapurna Circuit Trek. The Nar Phu Valley, known for its remote and off-the-beaten-path trails, offers a unique cultural experience with ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan villages like Nar and Phu.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 18 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 5416 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotels
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

Begin your journey through the hidden gem of Nar Phu Valley and the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. Not only does the Nar Phu Valley offer remote, off-the-beaten-path trails, but it also provides a unique cultural experience. Here, you will encounter ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan villages like Nar and Phu. As you trek through yak pastures and cross the challenging Kang La Pass, you will witness stunning Himalayan scenery. Along the way, you will also immerse yourself in the rich heritage of local ethnic groups. Furthermore, due to its restricted area status, trekkers need special permits, adding to the allure of exploring this secluded region.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular and diverse trek, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range. As you traverse high-altitude landscapes, including the famous Thorang La Pass, you’ll witness stunning scenery. Additionally, trekkers can experience traditional villages, lush forests, and arid terrains along the way. Highlights of the trek include visiting Manang, Muktinath, and the serene Tilicho Lake. Moreover, the trails follow the Marshyangdi River and pass through the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Along the route, trekkers stay in welcoming tea houses while interacting with warm-hearted locals. Furthermore, this classic trek requires permits like ACAP and TIMS, ensuring a safe and well-regulated adventure. Overall, the combination of diverse landscapes and rich culture provides an unforgettable experience.

Discover the unparalleled beauty and cultural richness of the trek with our agency. Whether you’re drawn to the remote trails of Nar and Phu or the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna Circuit, our expert guides will ensure an unforgettable adventure. Explore more about available trekking packages and start planning your journey with Kalpa Holidays.

Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Treks Highlights

  • Discover Annapurna’s remotest region for an untamed adventure
  •  Immerse in Tibetan culture while observing local lifestyles
  • Conquer Phu, Naar, and Thorong La passes for breathtaking vistas
  • Witness yaks grazing in the serene Himalayan landscapes
  • Relax at Tatopani’s hot springs amid stunning surroundings
  • Visit Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest, for a tranquil experience
  • Explore Tashi Lhakhang Gompa for its spiritual and cultural significance

Annapurna

Best time for Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Treks 

The best time to trek the Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Annapurna Region, including the Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuichhre.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, the Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit trekking trail remains more crowded than other treks in the Annapurna Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Treks. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal. The Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Trek trails are more crowded than others.

Off-Season Considerations

Spring and autumn are ideal for the Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit Treks. Some trekkers prefer off-season for a unique experience. However, these times present certain challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Spring and autumn offer the best mix of weather, views, and culture for trekking Nar Phu and Annapurna. Off-season trips come with more challenges. Always check weather forecasts and trail conditions beforehand.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Greetings and welcome to Nepal! This is a land of towering Himalayan peaks, lush greenery, rich cultural diversity, and stunning valleys. Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from the Kalpa Holidays will meet you, aligning with your flight schedule, and they will assist in transferring you to your hotel. After you’ve checked in, a brief overview of your upcoming trip will be provided. If you wish to explore the city on foot, feel free to inquire with your guide, who will do their best to organize a suitable walking excursion based on your arrival time.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast

Today, after breakfast, we will explore Kathmandu. It is going to be guided sightseeing. Our first stop will be the Durbar Squares, where we will see ancient kings and historical architecture. Next, we will head to Swambhuna Stupa, which offers a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley and showcases a mixture of Buddhism and Hinduism. After exploring these two places, we will return to the hotel to prepare for the trek. We will stay overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1300 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will drive from Kathmandu to Jagat beside the Trishuli River first, then we will drive along the Marsyandi River. After 8 to 9 hours of driving in our private vehicle, we will reach Jagat. Throughout the journey, we will be treated to panoramic views of the Lamjung, Peak, Manaslu, etc. Overnight, we will stay at a tea house in Jagat.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1860 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After spending a night at Jagat, we will embark on a trek to Dharapani today. During the trek, we will pass through lush rhododendron and juniper forests to reach Chamje. We will cross a suspension bridge and walk through the rocky trekking trail to reach Tal from Chame. As we continue our trek, we will cross the breathtaking waterfall in Tal. After walking for a few hours, we will reach Dharapani, where we will spend the night.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2600 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We will start the day with breakfast. Today’s trekking passes through dense pine forests towards Bagarchhap. During the trek to Timang through Danakyu, we can see the beautiful views of the Himalayas, such as Manaslu. After a few hours, we will pass various villages and reach Koto, where we will spend a night at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2900 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will enter the restricted area and continue our journey towards Naar Khola. As we continue our trek, we will pass through dense pine and juniper forests. After a few minutes of walking, we will cross the suspension bridge and reach Dharmasala. From Dharmasala, we will ascend and cross the waterfall. On the way, we will reach Meta. Overnight, we will spend a night at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4080 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After crossing a few suspension bridges, we will pass the small villages of Jhunam, Kyang, and Chyakhu. As we continue our trekking, we will trek beside the Phu Khola through the rocky path. After a few minutes, we will reach Phu. From here, we will head toward Tashi Lakhang Monastery. Overnight,  we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Teahouse
  • Max Altitude 4080 m
  • Meal Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Today, we will stay in Phu village to explore. After a long walk, we need to rest and get used to the thinner air at this high altitude. Phu is a beautiful village with people from different ethnic groups like Gurung, Ghale, and Tibetans. We’ll have a chance to learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. We’ll also visit the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, the last monastery built by Karmapa Rinpoche. We’ll spend the night at a lodge in Phu.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4100 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will descend and cross various small waterfalls and suspension bridges. As we continue our trek, we will pass through lush pine and rhododendron forests. A few hours of trekking will take us to Mahendra Pul. During the trek, we will pass through many monasteries and stupas on the way. Upon arrival in Nar, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5306 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We begin our day by ascending to Jhombu Kharka, also known as Kang-La, from where we can see panoramic views of the Himalayas such as the Dhaulagiri range, Annapurna, and many more. Along the trekking journey to Kang-La, we might encounter yak herders. After taking some pictures and videos of Himalayan peaks, we will descend to Ngawal. Overnight, we will stay at a cozy tea house in Kang-La.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3519 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving Nagwal behind, we will head towards Mangag. Today we will ascend toward Mangang. The journey takes roughly 3 to 4 hours, walking through the Mangng Valley along the Marsyangdu River. As we ascend, the landscape changes, from hillside to juniper shrubs. After a few hours, we will reach Nagwal, and overnight we will stay at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4018 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, after breakfast, we will ascend toward Yak Kharka from Manang. We will start a day in the village of Manang as we hike alongside the Maesyangdi River. As we continue our trek, we will have to climb snow-capped peaks. After 4 to 5 hours of walking, we will reach Yak Kharka, a charming yak herder settlement with stone huts and a breathtaking view of the Annapurna Valley. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5416 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Ascending challenging pathways, we arrive at Thorong High Camp, the entrance to Nepal’s highest mountain pass, Thorong-La Pass. Navigating steep rocky ridges, we eventually reach the summit of Thorong-La Pass, where we indulge in the captivating panorama of the Himalayas. Descending from the pass, our trek leads us to Chabarbu. After a few hours of trekking from Chabarbu, we will reach Muktinath. The night is spent at a lodge in Muktinath.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2743
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will trek from Muktinath to Jomsom, which is moderately challenging. As we continue our trek, we will descend for 4 to 5 hours to complete today’s journey. We will follow the well-known trail along the Kali Gandaki River, passing through panoramic views of the Himalayas, several villages, and Yak pastures. After a few hours of trekking, we will reach Jomsom. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable lodge.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 822 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

This is day 16, and we are almost at the end of our trekking journey. Today we will take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara or take the scenic drive from Jomsom to Pokhara, which takes around 6 Hours, passing through the stunning views of the Himalayas and lush forest. Upon arrival, we will check in at the hotel. If you want, you can take a short trip on your own.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast

After enjoying breakfast in the morning, we’ll start our journey back to Kathmandu. Our return trip offers the same two options as your journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will be transported to your hotel for an overnight stay.

With the remaining time, you can explore the exquisite Kathmandu Durbar Square or other culturally significant sites within the city, which boast a wealth of heritage. Your night will be spent in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

As our wonderful Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours before your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your enriching cultural and natural journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Nayapool.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Hot Springs: Entry to the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

You have the option to hike independently, but having a guide can be beneficial. Guides are there to help you navigate, adapt to unforeseen circumstances, and make alternative plans when faced with challenges. Our hiking leaders are experienced and qualified professionals. Guests often highlight the enjoyment of their trips and emphasize the essential role the guide played in ensuring a successful experience when sharing their stories.

No prior trekking background is necessary as long as you are in good physical condition and possess sufficient enthusiasm for the trek.

There are no age limits for our treks as long as participants are in good health and willing to join. We've had families with children as young as 5 years old take part in treks in this area, and our oldest explorers have been in their late 70s.

Trekking in the Annapurna region presents a certain level of difficulty, primarily attributable to the high altitude and the extended duration of the trek. The expedition involves a demanding itinerary, involving daily walks spanning from 5 to 7 hours.

You can locate the essential items for your trek in the Equipment section. Gear and supplies are available for purchase or rental upon your arrival in Kathmandu. If you intend to buy or rent equipment in Kathmandu, it's advisable to allocate extra time.

Our guides possess proficiency in the English language. Every guide we provide is capable of speaking and comprehending English. They will impart captivating tales, traditions, and mountain folklore to you. Additionally, these guides will assist you in communicating with the locals, as numerous shopkeepers and teahouse hosts may not be fluent in English.

Usually, a daily budget of USD 15 to 20 per individual should cover your expenses. This amount is intended for acquiring water, tea/coffee, snacks, and hot showers while in the mountains, as well as meals in Kathmandu for either lunch or dinner. If you plan on purchasing souvenirs or local Nepali products, it's advisable to have some extra cash on hand.

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, there is a certain degree of acceptance of cards. However, once you venture outside the urban areas, cash is the primary requirement. It's advisable to convert your currency into local Nepali Rupees before heading to the mountains.

In Thamel, the area where you'll be residing in Kathmandu, there are ATM and currency exchange services available every few meters. This allows you convenient access to withdraw a limited amount of cash using your cards, with the ATM deducting a minimal charge. Additionally, you can effortlessly exchange your foreign currencies at currency exchange centers for a precise conversion rate.

The mountain weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, and being prepared is crucial. In the Annapurna region, temperatures vary significantly within a day. Spring (March to June) and autumn (late September to November) are ideal for trekking, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Monsoon season (July to mid-September) is not recommended due to rain. Winter (December to February) sees fewer crowds but requires warm clothing. Guesthouses provide sleeping bags and blankets for added warmth.

Trekkers need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Nar and Phu villages. These permits are obtainable through registered trekking agencies in Nepal.

The best time for Nar Phu Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and the views are clear.