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Secret Himalayas - Nar Phu

The hidden valleys of Nar and Phu- Remote trekking - Crossing the Kang La - Snow Leopard Country

All meals on trek included

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Duration

13 Days
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Grade

Challenging
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Max Altitude

5320m
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Walking Days

9 Days
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Accommodation

2 Nts Hotels - 9 Nts Lodges, 1Nt Fixed Camp
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Trip Overview

Trekking to Nar and Phu is like travelling back in time.

The hidden valleys of Nar and Phu are a restricted area, and to enter this 'lost' Himalayan Kingdom requires special permits (we take care of these for you). That this deters most trekkers is a blessing, and thankfully, very few people undertake this true Himalayan connoisseur trek into the remote, isolated mountain area where a distinctly Tibetan way of life is preserved. That some hard trekking is also required helps maintain a sense of discovery and exclusivity on this very, very special journey on foot to a very 'off the beaten track' part of Nepal. Here, the local way of life is by and large unchanged, with many families still migrating to temporary winter settlements to graze their yaks and trade across the border with Tibet. Reaching Nar is possibly the romantic idyll of Himalayan life and culture, seemingly a 'shangri-la' of snow-covered mountains, colourful fields, and picturesque traditional homes. The challenge of crossing the Kang La adds to the nature of the adventure. For the experienced, strong walker, this is a very, very special trek. In fact, it is far, far more than just a trek. Don't forget that our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and you can always have more rest, acclimatisation, and even contingency days added. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely  'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.

Most nights on trek, with the exception of one night at a fixed camp are spent in trekking lodges. The advert of a very limited number of lodges in this remote and rarely trekked area is a recent development and as such the lodges themselves are quite simple and basic, particularly when compared to busy, more developed areas like the main Annapurna treks. In most lodges you will be obliged to occupy a multi-bed room and should not anticipate that you will be able to have a private room. In many instances meals at lodges will be from a limited choice or set menu.


Trekking to Nar and Phu is like travelling back in time.

  • The hidden valleys of Nar and Phu are a restricted area, and to enter this 'lost' Himalayan Kingdom requires special permits (we take care of these for you). That this deters most trekkers is a blessing, and thankfully, very few people undertake this true Himalayan connoisseur trek into the remote, isolated mountain area where a distinctly Tibetan way of life is preserved. That some hard trekking is also required helps maintain a sense of discovery and exclusivity on this very, very special journey on foot to a very 'off the beaten track' part of Nepal. Here, the local way of life is by and large unchanged, with many families still migrating to temporary winter settlements to graze their yaks and trade across the border with Tibet. Reaching Nar is possibly the romantic idyll of Himalayan life and culture, seemingly a 'shangri-la' of snow-covered mountains, colourful fields, and picturesque traditional homes. The challenge of crossing the Kang La adds to the nature of the adventure. For the experienced, strong walker, this is a very, very special trek. In fact, it is far, far more than just a trek. Don't forget that our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and you can always have more rest, acclimatisation, and even contingency days added. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely  'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.

    Most nights on trek, with the exception of one night at a fixed camp are spent in trekking lodges. The advert of a very limited number of lodges in this remote and rarely trekked area is a recent development and as such the lodges themselves are quite simple and basic, particularly when compared to busy, more developed areas like the main Annapurna treks. In most lodges you will be obliged to occupy a multi-bed room and should not anticipate that you will be able to have a private room. In many instances meals at lodges will be from a limited choice or set menu.


Example Itinerary

    • Day 1
      Arrive Kathmandu
    • Day 2
      Overland to Koto
    • Day 3
      Trek to "Forest Camp"
    • Day 4
      Ascend to Meta
    • Day 5
      Walk to Khyang
    • Day 6
      Trek to Phu
    • Day 7
      Hike to Nar Phedi
    • Day 8
      Trek to Nar village
    • Day 9
      Walk to Kang La Phedi
    • Day 10
      Cross the Kang La
    • Day 11
      Return to Koto
    • Day 12
      Drive to Kathmandu
    • Day 13
      Depart Nepal
  • DAY
    1

    Arrive Kathmandu

    Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere.

    Please note that A special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on Nepali Public holidays. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.

    Accommodation: KGH HotelKathmandu
    Included Meals: None

    DAY 1

    Arrive Kathmandu

    Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere.

    Please note that A special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on Nepali Public holidays. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.

    Accommodation: KGH HotelKathmandu
    Included Meals: None

    DAY
    2

    Overland to Koto

    A full and very long day of driving ahead. Initially travelling via the main highway in a private vehicle to Besisahar, where you’ll then switch to a 4WD vehicle up the rather bumpy jeep road that was built over the Annapurna Circuit trail to reach Koto. Journey time is an exhausting 10+hrs. But, as this is a custom trek you can break the journey up with an additional night along the way e.g. Bandipur

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Koto
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Find out more about Trekking Lodges 

    DAY 2

    Overland to Koto

    A full and very long day of driving ahead. Initially travelling via the main highway in a private vehicle to Besisahar, where you’ll then switch to a 4WD vehicle up the rather bumpy jeep road that was built over the Annapurna Circuit trail to reach Koto. Journey time is an exhausting 10+hrs. But, as this is a custom trek you can break the journey up with an additional night along the way e.g. Bandipur

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Koto
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Find out more about Trekking Lodges 

    DAY
    3

    Trek to "Forest Camp"

    The Nar Phu Khola Valley is a narrow, steep-sided gorge-like valley, and leaving the Annapurna Circuit behind, a narrow trail climbs steeply up through woodland above the Nar Phu stream. At around 2985 m, there is a basic lodge in area which doesn’t really have a recognised name as such, but which we call “Forest Camp”. From here on the lodges themselves are quite simple and basic, particularly when compared to busy, more developed areas like the main Annapurna treks. In most lodges you will be obliged to occupy a multi-bed room and should not anticipate that you will be able to have a private room. Walking time is approx. 5-6 hours, virtually all ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, "Forest Camp"
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 3

    Trek to "Forest Camp"

    The Nar Phu Khola Valley is a narrow, steep-sided gorge-like valley, and leaving the Annapurna Circuit behind, a narrow trail climbs steeply up through woodland above the Nar Phu stream. At around 2985 m, there is a basic lodge in area which doesn’t really have a recognised name as such, but which we call “Forest Camp”. From here on the lodges themselves are quite simple and basic, particularly when compared to busy, more developed areas like the main Annapurna treks. In most lodges you will be obliged to occupy a multi-bed room and should not anticipate that you will be able to have a private room. Walking time is approx. 5-6 hours, virtually all ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, "Forest Camp"
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    4

    Ascend to Meta

    The deeper you go into this restricted area, the less likely it is that you'll encounter many other trekkers. At times, the trail is gouged out of the cliffside and is quite narrow and exposed in places, with the river far below. There's both ascent and descent during today's walk, but more in the way of uphill to reach Meta (3560 m), taking around 4-5 hours of walking.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Meta
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 4

    Ascend to Meta

    The deeper you go into this restricted area, the less likely it is that you'll encounter many other trekkers. At times, the trail is gouged out of the cliffside and is quite narrow and exposed in places, with the river far below. There's both ascent and descent during today's walk, but more in the way of uphill to reach Meta (3560 m), taking around 4-5 hours of walking.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Meta
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    5

    Walk to Khyang

    Today is a relatively shorter hike and more gradual as you continue your ascent following the Phu Khola. The approach to Upper Chako sees the incline increase, and it remains a steeper climb to reach the plateau where the winter settlement of Kyang is located. If you needed any reminder that this is now the land of Tibetan Buddhism, your arrival at Khyang (3800m) is heralded by the presence of the mani wall at the edge of the village. Walking time is around 4 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Khyang
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 5

    Walk to Khyang

    Today is a relatively shorter hike and more gradual as you continue your ascent following the Phu Khola. The approach to Upper Chako sees the incline increase, and it remains a steeper climb to reach the plateau where the winter settlement of Kyang is located. If you needed any reminder that this is now the land of Tibetan Buddhism, your arrival at Khyang (3800m) is heralded by the presence of the mani wall at the edge of the village. Walking time is around 4 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Khyang
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    6

    Trek to Phu

    Since leaving Koto, many settlements you've been passing through are temporary ones used by families from Phu during the winter months. They migrate to these places to graze their yaks and other livestock, and many still follow this time-honoured practise reminiscent of a bygone Tibet. Today you begin by dropping back down to the river and then up to Phu. You'll know you're close when you reach an old stone gateway, and beyond that, you'll be able to see Phu, which is more of a collection of three smaller villages than one large one. An hour's walk from the gateway, and you should be at Phu (4200m). Phu is such a fascinating place to explore that on your private, custom trek you may wish to consider adding an extra night up here. The villagers of Phu still trade across the border with Tibet. This remote and isolated community is by default one that remains unspoilt and about as authentic as you can get in the Nepal Himalaya. The Tibetan influence is evident in the style of houses and the fascinating ruins of the forts here. An extra day here affords you a unique opportunity to observe a traditional way of life, and as you may be one of only a small number of foreigners here at this moment, don't be surprised if the locals take some friendly interest in you too. There are around 145+/- people who call Phu home, so you could meet a fair few of them.Today takes around 4-5 hours of walking in total.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Phu
    Meals:
     Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 6

    Trek to Phu

    Since leaving Koto, many settlements you've been passing through are temporary ones used by families from Phu during the winter months. They migrate to these places to graze their yaks and other livestock, and many still follow this time-honoured practise reminiscent of a bygone Tibet. Today you begin by dropping back down to the river and then up to Phu. You'll know you're close when you reach an old stone gateway, and beyond that, you'll be able to see Phu, which is more of a collection of three smaller villages than one large one. An hour's walk from the gateway, and you should be at Phu (4200m). Phu is such a fascinating place to explore that on your private, custom trek you may wish to consider adding an extra night up here. The villagers of Phu still trade across the border with Tibet. This remote and isolated community is by default one that remains unspoilt and about as authentic as you can get in the Nepal Himalaya. The Tibetan influence is evident in the style of houses and the fascinating ruins of the forts here. An extra day here affords you a unique opportunity to observe a traditional way of life, and as you may be one of only a small number of foreigners here at this moment, don't be surprised if the locals take some friendly interest in you too. There are around 145+/- people who call Phu home, so you could meet a fair few of them.Today takes around 4-5 hours of walking in total.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Phu
    Meals:
     Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    7

    Hike to Nar Phedi

    Today you have to retrace your footsteps for some of the way. Beyond Khyang you’ll divert towards Nar Phedi. Actually Nar Phedi (3490m) is really just one monastery and it is the monastery itself that provides simple lodge accommodation and a limited food menu. Walking time approx.5-6hrs.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Nar Phedi
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 7

    Hike to Nar Phedi

    Today you have to retrace your footsteps for some of the way. Beyond Khyang you’ll divert towards Nar Phedi. Actually Nar Phedi (3490m) is really just one monastery and it is the monastery itself that provides simple lodge accommodation and a limited food menu. Walking time approx.5-6hrs.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Nar Phedi
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    8

    Trek to Nar village

    There’s a lengthy ascent up to Nar (4110m). Nar may well be the romantic idyll of a remote Himalayan mountain village. Some might say it's got a touch of Shangri-La' about it. Whatever, it is quite the setting. A backdrop of snow-covered Himalayan mountains, colourful fields of carefully tended crops, Tibetan gompa’s, and the locals going about their spinning and weaving, for which they are renowned. It has of course taken some effort to reach this idyll, but for those in search of 'off the beaten track' Himalayan life, here it is. Walking time approx.4hrs.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Nar
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 8

    Trek to Nar village

    There’s a lengthy ascent up to Nar (4110m). Nar may well be the romantic idyll of a remote Himalayan mountain village. Some might say it's got a touch of Shangri-La' about it. Whatever, it is quite the setting. A backdrop of snow-covered Himalayan mountains, colourful fields of carefully tended crops, Tibetan gompa’s, and the locals going about their spinning and weaving, for which they are renowned. It has of course taken some effort to reach this idyll, but for those in search of 'off the beaten track' Himalayan life, here it is. Walking time approx.4hrs.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Nar
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    9

    Walk to Kang La Phedi

    The locals can most likely do the next two days walking in just one longer day. Respect to them, as it would be a very, very tough day. Today you'll walk for just over 3 hours, heading gradually up to the foot of the Kang La and a nice meadow camp site at Kang La Phedi (4530m). Tonight you stay in a seasonal fixed camp. Walking time approx. 3.5 hrs.

    Accommodation: Fixed Camp, Kang La Phedi
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 9

    Walk to Kang La Phedi

    The locals can most likely do the next two days walking in just one longer day. Respect to them, as it would be a very, very tough day. Today you'll walk for just over 3 hours, heading gradually up to the foot of the Kang La and a nice meadow camp site at Kang La Phedi (4530m). Tonight you stay in a seasonal fixed camp. Walking time approx. 3.5 hrs.

    Accommodation: Fixed Camp, Kang La Phedi
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    10

    Cross the Kang La

    The “Thorung La” of this trek, the crux of the trek, is probably the hardest day, certainly the highest. But unlike the crossing of the Thorung La, there won't be hundreds of other trekkers all vying for space on the narrow trail to the Kang La (5320m). There's a stiff 700m or so of uphill slog to reach the pass. But after around 4 hours of huffing and puffing, you're greeted with stupendous panoramic views of the Tilicho Peaks, Annapurna 2, and Gangapurna. The descent requires your full attention and concentration. It's very steep at first, with loose scree underfoot. Snow is also a distinct possibility. It does ease off, and after a welcome break at a small, high plateau, the trail then skirts the mountain side as it gradually takes you down to Ngawal (3670m). The Tibetan influence remains with you. Walking time is tough at 7-8 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Ngawal
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 10

    Cross the Kang La

    The “Thorung La” of this trek, the crux of the trek, is probably the hardest day, certainly the highest. But unlike the crossing of the Thorung La, there won't be hundreds of other trekkers all vying for space on the narrow trail to the Kang La (5320m). There's a stiff 700m or so of uphill slog to reach the pass. But after around 4 hours of huffing and puffing, you're greeted with stupendous panoramic views of the Tilicho Peaks, Annapurna 2, and Gangapurna. The descent requires your full attention and concentration. It's very steep at first, with loose scree underfoot. Snow is also a distinct possibility. It does ease off, and after a welcome break at a small, high plateau, the trail then skirts the mountain side as it gradually takes you down to Ngawal (3670m). The Tibetan influence remains with you. Walking time is tough at 7-8 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Ngawal
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    11

    Return to Koto

    With accompanying views of the Annapurna range after skirting the hillside, the trail now descends sharply to Pisang. You're back on the Annapurna Circuit. Should you wish to impress those following that particular trek with your exploits into a land not many have ever heard of, feel free. Oh, that 1500-metre rock wall that rises abruptly and almost vertically is Paungda Danda. It won't escape your notice. Down through woodland and beyond Chame, it's not too far to Koto (2600m). Total walking time is a good 7 hours..

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Koto
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY 11

    Return to Koto

    With accompanying views of the Annapurna range after skirting the hillside, the trail now descends sharply to Pisang. You're back on the Annapurna Circuit. Should you wish to impress those following that particular trek with your exploits into a land not many have ever heard of, feel free. Oh, that 1500-metre rock wall that rises abruptly and almost vertically is Paungda Danda. It won't escape your notice. Down through woodland and beyond Chame, it's not too far to Koto (2600m). Total walking time is a good 7 hours..

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Koto
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    DAY
    12

    Drive to Kathmandu

    Down the bumpy jeep road to Besisahar where you’ll change from a jeep to a car and then return to Kathmandu on the main highway. Again, as this is a very long drive of 10+hrs you can also break up this arduous drive with an additional night along the way.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch

    DAY 12

    Drive to Kathmandu

    Down the bumpy jeep road to Besisahar where you’ll change from a jeep to a car and then return to Kathmandu on the main highway. Again, as this is a very long drive of 10+hrs you can also break up this arduous drive with an additional night along the way.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    Meals: 
    Breakfast, Lunch

    DAY
    13

    Depart Nepal

    A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Of course, there's no reason to depart today; your Nepal holiday can be readily tailor-made.

    DAY 13

    Depart Nepal

    A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Of course, there's no reason to depart today; your Nepal holiday can be readily tailor-made.

    IMPORTANT

    This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY and can be customised for you accordingly.

    Please consider whether you want your customisable, private trip itinerary to also include CONTINGENCY.

    See our ABOUT CONTINGENCY Information

    Please CONTACT US to discuss CONTINGENCY and ADDITIONAL ACCLIMATISATION, as well as other CUSTOMISATION POSSIBILITES for your PRIVATE CUSTOM TREK

Price Guide

Price based on a private party of 4 persons, twin share rooms (hotel nights only), low season.
  • $ US 1855 per person

IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT OUR PRICE GUIDES

Restricted Area Permit: A special permit is required for this trek. The current cost of $US 115 per person is NOT INCLUDED in the above price guide. Extra days on trek may increase the cost of the permit and we will advise you of the permit cost applicable to your customised itinerary and indicate this to you separately. The permit cost will be charged in addition to the custom trip cost on your final balance invoice.

What's included

The price shown is for guideline purposes only. The price is inclusive of all accommodation described in the detailed itinerary, all airport and land transfers, private overland travel as indicated in the itinerary, meals as indicated in the itinerary (all meals on trek), porterage on trek, Annapurna permits & fees, National Park fees, and a  Snow Cat Travel Trekking Guide. All guides are English-speaking professionals and fully licenced.

Restricted Area Permit:  In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted, so we are unable to arrange Restricted Area Permits in advance) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office in Kathmandu. Restricted area permits are issued for a minimum of two people only. However, a permit for a solo traveller can be obtained, provided the minimum two-person total cost is paid

Don't Forget

We can customise
all our trips.

extend. shorten. upgrade

Don't Forget

We can customise
all our trips to Nepal.

extend. shorten. upgrade

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