based on 156 reviews
The Nar Phu Valley Trek combined with the Annapurna Circuit is a truly adventurous journey through the remote and captivating landscapes of the Himalayas, offering a blend of stunning panoramas and rich cultural experiences. While Nar Phu Valley remains one of the less-traveled trekking routes, the Annapurna Circuit stands as one of Nepal's most popular trekking trails. This unique combination provides the opportunity to explore both the isolated and bustling sides of the Nepal Himalayas.
Nar Phu Valley encompasses the villages of Nar and Phu, nestled in the far reaches of the Manang district. This trek requires a special restricted area permit from the Nepalese government. The journey commences from Jagat and progresses through restricted regions such as Koto, Meta, Phu, Nar, and Ngawal. Eventually, it merges with the Annapurna Circuit, culminating in the windy city of Jomsom after crossing the formidable Thorong La Pass (5416m), Nepal's highest mountain pass. The route traverses numerous remote villages, each with its distinct cultural identity.
One remarkable highlight of this trek is Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, the last monastery built by Lama Karma Sonam Rimpoche, situated in Phu Valley. The trek rewards trekkers with breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, Gangapurna (7455m), Tilicho Peak (7134m), and Himlung Himal (7126m), among other majestic Himalayan peaks. The trail meanders through lush Himalayan forests adorned with rhododendron, pine, juniper, and fir trees. Along the way, trekkers encounter Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and Chortens, all contributing to the spiritual ambiance of the journey.
The trek's itinerary also includes the revered Muktinath temple, a place of significance for Buddhists, Hindus, and Bons alike. This temple symbolizes the religious harmony deeply embedded in Nepalese culture. Throughout the trek, trekkers are treated to the sight of picturesque waterfalls, babbling streams, verdant meadows, rugged ridges, and challenging ascents. Ultimately, the Nar Phu Valley Trek combined with the Annapurna Circuit provides a unique window into the lives of people residing in some of the world's most remote and inaccessible regions.
What to expect during The Nar Phu Valley Trek?
The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers a mesmerizing journey through diverse landscapes, showcasing both stunning mountain vistas and unique terrain. The trail presents a combination of rocky hills and desert-like scenery, creating a captivating contrast. This trek is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring views of the western Himalayan peaks, including iconic mountains such as Annapurna Range (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri Range (8,167 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), and Tilicho Peak (7,134 m).
Embarking on the Nar Phu Valley Trek in Nepal offers an unparalleled wilderness adventure that remains etched in your memories for a lifetime. If you're interested in joining the Nar Phu Valley Trek in 2023, you can complete our booking form and await a response from our team. Additionally, early booking opportunities for the Nar Phu Valley Trek in 2024 are also available for travelers seeking to experience this remarkable journey.
Best Time to Do Nar Phu with Annapurna Circuit Trek -17 Days
Choose the ideal month for your unforgettable trekking experience! Nepal has five seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. For Nar Phu with Annapurna Circuit Trek -17 Days, the best trekking seasons are autumn and spring.
Spring (Pre-monsoon): February, March, April, and May. The weather is mostly stable and dry with a moderate climate. This time offers crystal clear mountain views and sceneries every day. Daytime temperatures can reach 15-20 degrees Celsius, dropping to -8/12 degrees Celsius at night. Spring is known for its vibrant flora and vegetation.
Autumn (Post-monsoon): September, October, November, and December. Autumn temperatures range from 14-20 degrees Celsius during the day, dropping to -5/10 degrees Celsius at night. It's a fantastic season for trekking due to its pleasant weather.
Food on Nar Phu with Annapurna Circuit Trek -17 Days
During the Nar Phu with Annapurna Circuit Trek, you'll have a variety of food options available at tea houses and trekking lodges. These local meals are prepared by the community and include:
- Common Breakfast options: Tibetan Breads, Chapati with Cheese, Oatmeal, French toast, Corn Flakes, Hashed brown, eggs, pancakes, porridge, and hot drinks.
- Common Lunch options: Thukpa, Dahl and Bhat, Momos, Tibetan bread, Macaroni, Spaghetti, Sherpa Stew, sandwiches, Pizza, rice with curry, spring rolls, burgers, and desserts.
- Common Dinner options: Similar to lunch, including hot and cold drinks.
- Dessert and Snacks: Rice Pudding, Apple pie, fruit Snickers, popcorn, cake, pastries, etc.
- Hot Drink options: A variety of hot drinks like coffee, tea, hot chocolate, hot juice, etc. It's recommended to avoid meat, alcohol, and smoking at high altitudes.
Accommodation Facts on Nar Phu with Annapurna Circuit Trek -17 Days
Is Nar Phu Valley Via Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficult?
Trekking through the Nar Phu Valley via the Annapurna Circuit is a popular choice among travelers heading to the Himalayas of Nepal. To successfully undertake this trek, it's crucial to be in good health and possess reasonable physical fitness, as you'll be ascending to elevations exceeding 5,000 meters. If you're in good shape, there's a high likelihood (around 99%) that you'll be able to complete this itinerary. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and allowing your body to acclimatize naturally to the higher altitudes through sufficient rest are essential aspects of this journey. Your local trekking guide will take care of your well-being and ensure a safe and fulfilling experience as you explore the Nar Phu Valley via the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas of Nepal.
Additionally, if you're seeking a more significant challenge or wish to extend your time in the Nepal Himalayas, Himalayan Local Guide Pvt. Ltd offers various alternative routes to consider. For those with extra time to spare, we provide trip packages for treks such as Nar Phu Valley Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Thorong La Pass Trek, and Tilicho Lake Via Annapurna Thorong La Pass Trek.
Altitude Sickness
Indeed, altitude-related risks are a concern during the Nar Phu Valley Trek. The trek's pinnacle, Kang La Pass, attains a high altitude of 5,320 meters (17,450 feet). To mitigate these risks, proper acclimatization is essential. This involves ascending gradually and incorporating rest days at higher elevations. Staying hydrated by consuming ample fluids, refraining from alcohol and intense physical activity, and remaining vigilant for altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and breathlessness are crucial.
In the event of severe symptoms, it is imperative to swiftly descend to a lower altitude and seek medical assistance. Proactive measures and responsible trekking practices play a pivotal role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable Nar Phu Valley Trek experience.
Packing list for Nar Phu with Annapurna Circuit Trek -17 Days
Here's a list of essential trekking gear recommended for your Nar Phu with Annapurna Circuit Trek. These items are easily available in Kathmandu, where numerous shops cater to trekkers' needs:
- A few pairs of Thermal tops
- Fleece jacket/pullover
- Windcheater (waterproof shell jacket) - one pair
- Down jacket (provided by the company if you don't have your own)
- Comfortable Fleece/wool trousers
- Trekking pants - at least 2 pairs
- Mittens/woolen gloves
- Warm Hiking socks
- Trekking shoes with spare laces
- Pair of flip flops
- Underwear & Swimming costume
- Hiking Cotton trousers/t-shirts
- Sun hat/scarf
- Sunglasses
- Sleeping bag (provided by the company if you don't have your own)
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Day bag above 40 L
- 1 set - Headlamp
- Small lock for the day backpack
- Reusable water bottles - 2 liters
- Water purification tablets/ electric light
- Wash towel
- Toiletries (wet tissue, quick-drying towel, toilet paper, moisturizers, lip balms, sunscreens, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clipper, small mirror, toothpaste & brush, etc.)
- Rain poncho
- Basic personal first aid kit
