Nepal · Hiking

17-Day Nar Phu Valley Trek in Nepal with Kang La and Thorong La

17 Days Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore one of Annapurna's most remote and least-explored trekking regions
  • 02 Discover authentic Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries, and traditional lifestyles in Nar Phu Valley
  • 03 Cross two iconic high passes in one trek: Kang La (5,200m) and Thorong La (5,416m)
  • 04 Marvel at panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, and Lamjung Himal
  • 05 Visit sacred pilgrimage sites including Muktinath Temple and Tashi Lhakhang Monastery
  • 06 Trek through alpine forests, deep gorges, rugged terrain, and untouched Himalayan valleys

The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Pass is a remarkable journey into one of Nepal's most isolated and culturally rich restricted regions. Open to foreign trekkers only since 2003, this off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure leads through ancient Tibetan-influenced villages, dramatic canyons, remote settlements, and high alpine landscapes before rejoining the Annapurna Circuit at Manang. Along the way, you'll cross Kang La Pass and the legendary Thorong La Pass, visit sacred sites such as Muktinath, and enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, and Lamjung Himal. With teahouse stays, traditional Nepali meals, and all required permits and logistics arranged, the trek offers an authentic and memorable Himalayan experience.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Pass is a remarkable journey into one of Nepal's most isolated and culturally rich restricted regions.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 17 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Besisahar, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong La, Jomsom, Bagarchhap, Muktinath, Dharapani
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

17-Day Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La and Thorong La Pass

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Marvel Treks will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. After check-in, you may relax or explore nearby areas. In the evening, you are welcome to visit our office for a briefing about the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel (Thamel)
Meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Today you will enjoy guided sightseeing of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. In the evening, meet your trekking guide, finalize preparations, and arrange any remaining gear.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel (Thamel)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar - Shared Jeep to Dharapani (1,860m)

Travel by public bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar, enjoying scenic hills and rivers along the way. From Besisahar, continue by shared jeep via Bhulbhule, Jagat, Tal, and Chyamche to reach Dharapani.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 8-9 hours

Day 4: Trek from Dharapani to Koto (2,600m)

Begin trekking through pine, fir, and oak forests. Pass villages like Bagarchhap and Timang, with spectacular views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu before reaching Koto.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 5: Trek from Koto to Meta (3,560m)

Leave the Annapurna Circuit trail and enter the restricted Nar Phu region. Trek alongside Soti Khola, crossing suspension bridges and waterfalls before arriving at the Tibetan-influenced village of Meta.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 8-9 hours

Day 6: Trek from Meta to Phu Village (4,080m)

Pass ancient monasteries, chortens, and dramatic gorges. Cross suspension bridges and enjoy stunning views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II before reaching the historic Phu Village.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 7-8 hours

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Phu Village

Rest and acclimatize. Explore Phu Village, visit Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, and learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture. There is also an optional hike toward Himlung Base Camp.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Trek from Phu Village to Nar Phedi (3,490m)

Descend through narrow gorges and suspension bridges to Nar Phedi. Visit ancient monasteries, including Nar Phedi Monastery and Satte Gompa.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: ~7 hours

Day 9: Trek from Nar Phedi to Nar Village (4,150m)

Climb steadily past mani walls and chortens to reach Nar Village, known for its barley fields and magnificent views of Kang Garu and Pisang Peak.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: ~3 hours

Day 10: Trek from Nar Village to Ngawal via Kang La Pass (5,320m)

This is a challenging and rewarding day crossing Kang La Pass, offering breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the Marsyangdi Valley. Descend to Ngawal.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 9-10 hours

Day 11: Trek from Ngawal to Manang (3,540m)

Descend gradually to Manang Valley, visiting Braga Monastery en route and enjoying close-up views of the Annapurna range.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 4-5 hours

Day 12: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m)

A gradual ascent through alpine meadows, juniper forests, and traditional settlements as you gain altitude.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 4-5 hours

Day 13: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp (4,925m)

Ascend via Ledar and Thorong Phedi before reaching Thorong High Camp in preparation for crossing Thorong La Pass.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 3-4 hours

Day 14: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) - Trek to Muktinath - Drive to Jomsom

Cross the iconic Thorong La Pass, then descend steeply to Muktinath Temple, a sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site. Continue by shared jeep to Jomsom.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 8-9 hours

Day 15: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

Take a scenic mountain flight to Pokhara. Spend the evening relaxing at Lakeside and enjoying views of Machhapuchhre and Phewa Lake.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel (Pokhara)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your successful trek.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel (Thamel)
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 17: Final Departure

Marvel Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your departure schedule.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
10 cities · 17 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle
  • Kathmandu Valley sightseeing with a professional guide
  • 3 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-sharing, before and after the trek)
  • 1 night accommodation in Pokhara
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • 13 nights of tea house accommodation during trekking
  • Government-licensed trekking guide with insurance, salary, food, lodging, and equipment
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
  • Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit
  • Public transport from Kathmandu to Dharapani
  • Shared jeep from Muktinath to Jomsom
  • Jomsom-Pokhara domestic flight
  • Tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Government taxes, service charges, and office support

What's Not Included

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Travel insurance (must include high-altitude rescue and evacuation)
  • Entrance fees during Kathmandu sightseeing
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast and farewell dinner)
  • Personal expenses (drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, laundry, etc.)
  • Porter service (available at extra cost; one porter for two trekkers)
  • Extra accommodation due to early arrival, late departure, or itinerary changes
  • Tips for guides and porters

What to bring

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Thermal base layers
  • Trekking pants and shirts
  • Fleece or insulating mid-layer
  • Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves
  • Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
  • Daypack (30-40L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle / purification tablets
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Personal toiletries and quick-dry towel
  • Personal medications and basic first-aid kit
  • Passport, permits, and some cash

Know before you go

  • Waterproof duffel bag and sleeping bag are provided if required.
  • Achievement certificate is available on request.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Ring Rd, Kathmandu, Nepal
End of the journey

Your 17 days finish where they began.

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