Nar Phu Valley Trek – Into the Wild Side of the Annapurna Region
The Nar Phu Valley Trek takes you into one of the most remote and untouched corners of the Annapurna region. Hidden between the more popular Annapurna Circuit and Manang, this trek leads to ancient Tibetan-style villages, high mountain passes, narrow canyons, and peaceful trails that few trekkers ever walk.
It’s a quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventure—perfect for trekkers who want both natural beauty and deep cultural experience.
Why Choose the Nar Phu Trek?
The Nar Phu Valley was opened to foreign trekkers only in 2003. Because of this, the area has stayed quiet and traditional. You’ll walk through medieval-looking villages, pass ancient Buddhist monasteries, and meet people who live simple, high-altitude lives.
The region is influenced by Tibetan culture, with stone houses, yak herding, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The views are stunning too, with peaks like Kang Guru and Pisang Peak in the background.
This trek gives you a sense of isolation and wonder that’s hard to find on more crowded trails.
Route Overview
The trek usually starts from Koto, a village near Chame on the Annapurna Circuit. From there, you leave the main trail and head into the hidden Nar and Phu valleys.
Key highlights include:
Phu Village: A remote, windswept village surrounded by cliffs
Tashi Lhakhang Monastery: A sacred site said to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche
Nar Village: A beautiful and less visited settlement further south
Kang La Pass (5,320m): A high mountain pass with wide Himalayan views
After crossing the pass, you rejoin the Annapurna Circuit, often heading toward Manang or Thorong La Pass if time allows.
Difficulty Level
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is considered moderate to difficult. The terrain can be rough and remote, and the villages are at high altitudes. The Kang La Pass is challenging, especially if snow or wind picks up. There are also fewer teahouses compared to other treks, so you’ll need to be well-prepared.
This trek is best for people who are physically fit and looking for a more wild and authentic experience.
Best Time to Trek
Spring (March to May): Clear skies and wildflowers
Autumn (September to November): Best visibility and stable weather
Winter can be very cold and harsh, and summer brings rain, which can cause landslides on the approach roads.
Permit Requirements
Nar and Phu are in a restricted area, so you’ll need:
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Nar and Phu ($90 for 7 days, then $15/day)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)
You also must trek with a licensed guide and go through a registered trekking agency. Solo trekking is not allowed.
Why Hire a Guide and Porter?
The trails in Nar Phu are remote and less marked. A guide helps with route finding, safety, permits, and sharing knowledge about local culture. They also help in emergencies, especially at high altitude.
A porter carries your heavy backpack, which makes the trek more manageable—especially on steep climbs and during the high pass crossing.
Together, they make the experience more enjoyable, informed, and safe.
Final Thoughts
The Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of the most underrated trekking routes in Nepal. It’s not just about the mountains—it’s about stepping into a way of life that’s barely touched by modern times.
If you're looking for something quieter, wilder, and culturally rich, this trek might be exactly what you're after.