Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit Trek

Hotel

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Trip Pokhara will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After some rest, we will host a trek briefing where you’ll meet your guide and receive a rundown of the journey ahead. You can spend the evening exploring Thamel, a bustling hub filled with trekking shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Lodge

Today, we embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Koto, passing through the lush countryside and terraced hillsides of Nepal. We follow the Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli River before heading towards Besisahar, the traditional starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. From Besisahar, we continue on a rough jeep track to Koto, witnessing the Marsyangdi River and cascading waterfalls. Overnight stay at a cozy lodge in Koto.

Lodge

The trek officially begins as we enter the restricted Nar Phu Valley region. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River, we walk through pine forests and narrow gorges. The trail winds along beautiful waterfalls and small caves before a steady ascent leads us to Meta, a Tibetan-style settlement. The landscape shifts to dry, barren slopes reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau. Overnight at a tea house in Meta.

Lodge

Today’s journey is both challenging and rewarding. We cross several suspension bridges over glacial streams and walk along rugged canyons and high cliffs. As we approach Phu Village, ancient stone structures and chortens (Buddhist shrines) come into view, revealing the area’s rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage. On arrival, we explore the medieval-like village of Phu, built of stacked stone houses, and observe traditional yak herding and carpet weaving. Overnight at a lodge in Phu.

Lodge

To adjust to the high altitude, we take an acclimatization day in Phu. We visit the iconic Tashi Lhakhang Monastery, a revered site said to be blessed by the Dalai Lama. You can also hike to the upper parts of the village for stunning views of Himlung Himal (7,126m). This day allows your body to adapt, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

Lodge

Leaving Phu, we retrace our steps and descend through rugged trails before taking a different path towards Nar Phedi, where a simple monastery offers basic lodging. The landscape is serene, with towering cliffs and glimpses of snow-capped peaks. We stay at the monastery, enjoying a quiet evening with the resident monks.

Lodge

Today, a short but steep climb leads us to Nar Village, a charming settlement known for its ancient culture and Tibetan-influenced lifestyle. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind as we walk through narrow stone-paved alleys. In the afternoon, we explore the village, visit the local chortens, and interact with villagers, who are known for their warm hospitality.

Lodge

This is a challenging yet rewarding day. We start early, ascending through rugged terrain to reach the summit of Kang La Pass (5,322m). From the top, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. A steep descent brings us to the picturesque village of Ngawal, where we rejoin the Annapurna Circuit. Overnight at a comfortable tea house in Ngawal.

Lodge

We enjoy a relatively easy walk through pine forests and along the Marsyangdi River to reach the bustling village of Manang, the heart of the Annapurna Circuit. Manang offers modern amenities, including bakeries, coffee shops, and trekking gear stores. In the afternoon, you can visit Gangapurna Lake or explore Praken Gompa, where a local lama offers blessings to trekkers.

Lodge

To prevent altitude sickness, we take another rest day in Manang. You can take a short hike to either the Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) or Chongkor Viewpoint, both offering stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Acclimatization is crucial as we prepare for the high-altitude challenges ahead.

Lodge

We leave Manang and ascend gradually through alpine meadows and juniper forests. The air becomes thinner, and we start to feel the high altitude. Along the way, we pass yak pastures and small stone huts before reaching Yak Kharka, a serene stopover offering stunning sunset views over the surrounding peaks.

Lodge

Today is a short but steep trek as we approach Thorong Phedi, the base of Thorong La Pass, one of the world’s highest trekking passes. The path crosses a suspension bridge and follows a narrow trail prone to landslides, so we trek cautiously. In the afternoon, we rest early to prepare for the long pass crossing tomorrow.

Lodge

We start before sunrise to tackle the long climb to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek. The ascent is tough due to the altitude and cold, but the panoramic views from the top are unforgettable. After celebrating our achievement, we begin a long descent to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. Here, we visit the revered Muktinath Temple, known for its eternal flame and 108 water spouts.

Lodge

The trail descends through the arid landscape of Lower Mustang, following the Kali Gandaki River, known for its Shaligram fossils. We pass through Kagbeni, an ancient trading village with a medieval charm. Finally, we reach Jomsom, a windy town famous for its apple orchards and apple brandy. Overnight stay at a lodge in Jomsom.

Lodge

We take a short, scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, flying between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax by Phewa Lake, visit Devi’s Falls, or explore the Peace Pagoda. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Hotel

Today, we either drive (6–7 hours) or take a short flight (25 minutes) back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you can explore more of the capital city or rest at your hotel. In the evening, Trip Pokhara will host a farewell dinner with cultural performances.

Hotel

This day is reserved for relaxation or optional sightseeing. You can visit world heritage sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). It’s also a great time to shop for souvenirs in Thamel.

After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. As your Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit trek concludes, you’ll leave with incredible memories and stories to cherish forever.