The Nar Phu region lies north of the Annapurna range, hidden behind dramatic gorges. It has ancient Tibetan-style villages and high Himalayan passes. Because of its remote location and restricted status, good route planning is essential.
This guide explains the Nar Phu trek map, route flow, and Nar Phu valley trek itinerary options. So trekkers can clearly visualize the journey before stepping onto the trail.
The Nar Phu trek map shows a remote side route that branches off the Annapurna Circuit at Koto, just beyond Chame. From this point, the trail enters a deep, narrow gorge formed by the Nar Khola. Gradually gaining altitude as it passes through the isolated settlements of Meta and Kyang. Higher up, the route divides toward the traditional villages of Phu and Nar. Both are known for their strong Tibetan culture and dramatic mountain scenery.
A key highlight marked on the map is the crossing of Kang La Pass (5,306 m), which connects the valley to Ngwal and Manang. The map also indicates optional extensions toward Tilicho Lake. Helping trekkers plan acclimatization, daily distances, and safe exit routes in changing mountain conditions.
The trek begins at Koto, where the trail leaves the main Annapurna route and enters a restricted valley through quiet pine forests and dramatic river gorges. From Meta, the path climbs steadily toward Phu, a beautiful medieval village set beneath the towering Himlung Himal.
The journey then continues to Nar, the cultural center of the region. It is known for ancient monasteries, stone houses, and yak-grazing pastures. Here, you will experience traditional accommodation and food.
The most challenging section is the crossing of Kang La Pass, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. After the pass, the trail descends to Ngwal and Manang. Here, trekkers rejoin established Annapurna routes or extend toward Tilicho Lake.
The Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary is planned through a remote yet strategically located area in the heart of the Annapurna Region. As the valley connects directly with the Annapurna Circuit, trekkers have the option to extend their journey into the full circuit or shorten the route if time is limited.
This flexibility allows you to choose an itinerary based on your fitness level, available days, and travel goals. Please choose the best itinerary from the options given below. Or feel free to write to us for more details and personalized guidance on any of the listed itineraries for your Nepal holiday. The right itinerary and season minimize the Nar Phu Valley trek difficulty.
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani
Day 02: Trek to Koto
Day 03: Trek to Meta
Day 04: Trek to Kyang
Day 05: Trek to Phu Village
Day 06: Explore Nar Village or hike to Himlung Base Camp
Day 07: Trek to Nar Phedi
Day 08: Trek to Nar Village
Day 09: Cross Kang La Pass and trek down to Ngwal Village
Day 10: Drive to Besishar and Kathmandu
Best for: Trekkers wanting proper acclimatization and cultural exploration.
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Koto
Day 02: Trek to Meta
Day 03: Trek to Phu Village
Day 04: Explore Phu Village or hike to Himlung Base Camp
Day 05: Trek to Nar Phedi
Day 06: Trek to Nar Village
Day 07: Cross Kang La Pass and trek down to Ngwal Village
Day 08: Drive from Ngwal to Besishar and Kathmandu
Best for: Fit trekkers with limited time and prior high-altitude experience.
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Koto
Day 02: Trek to Meta
Day 03: Trek to Kyang
Day 04: Trek to Phu Village
Day 05: Explore Nar Village or hike to Himlung Base Camp
Day 06: Trek to Nar Phedi
Day 07: Trek to Nar Village and explore
Day 08: Cross Kang La Pass and trek down to Ngwal Village
Day 09: Trek to Manang Village
Day 10: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp
Day 11: Hike to Tilicho Lake and trek back to Khangsar
Day 12: Drive to Besishar and Kathmandu
Best for: Adventurers combining remote valleys with iconic alpine lakes.
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Koto
Day 02: Trek to Meta
Day 03: Trek to Kyang
Day 04: Trek to Phu Village
Day 05: Explore Nar Village or hike Himlung Base Camp
Day 06: Trek to Nar Phedi
Day 07: Trek to Nar Village and explore
Day 08: Cross Kang La Pass and trek down to Ngwal Village
Day 09: Trek to Manang Village
Day 10: Explore Manang Village
Day 11: Trek to Yak Kharka
Day 12: Trek to Thorong La Phedi
Day 13: Cross Thorong La Pass and trek to Muktinath
Day 14: Drive to Pokhara and fly to Kathmandu or stay to explore
Best for: Trekkers seeking a complete high-Himalayan circuit with varied landscapes.
Choosing the right Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary depends on your available time, fitness level, and trekking goals. If you are short on time, the 8-day itinerary offers a fast yet rewarding journey. The 10-day classic route provides a balanced experience with proper acclimatization and cultural exploration.
For extra adventure, the 12-day itinerary adds the stunning Tilicho Lake. For seasoned trekkers, combining Nar Phu with the Annapurna Circuit offers the ultimate Himalayan challenge. All follow the same core Nar Phu trek map. But the Nar Phu Valley trek vs the Annapurna Circuit trek might trigger you in this combined journey. Combining these two adventure treks or doing a separate trek both offer immense memories in the Himalaya.
A well-understood Nar Phu trek map and carefully planned Nar Phu valley trek itinerary are the keys to a safe and rewarding journey. This hidden valley rewards trekkers with untouched Nar Phu valley culture, dramatic landscapes, and a sense of true Himalayan exploration- far from the crowded trails.
Q1: Where does the Nar Phu trek start and end?
The trek starts at Koto, branching off the Annapurna route, and usually ends at Ngwal or Manang after crossing Kang La Pass.
Q2: Can I combine Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, Nar Phu Valley is directly connected to the Annapurna Circuit, making it easy to extend your trek.
Q3: What is the shortest Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary?
The shortest option is the 8-day itinerary, suitable for experienced trekkers with limited time.
Q4: Which itinerary is best for acclimatization?
The 10-day classic itinerary offers the best balance of altitude gain, rest days, and cultural exploration.
Q5: Is Tilicho Lake included in the Nar Phu trek?
Tilicho Lake can be added as an extension in the 12-day itinerary for trekkers seeking extra highlights.
