Skip to content

Overview & Highlights of Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and restricted trekking routes, located close to the Tibetan border. Crossing the spectacular Kang La Pass (5,320 m), it offers a true off-the-beaten-path adventure through ancient Tibetan-style villages, dramatic landscapes, and untouched Himalayan wilderness. Unlike the busier Annapurna Circuit, the Nar Phu Valley remains a sanctuary of raw nature and deeply rooted Bon and Buddhist traditions.

The journey begins in the lush Marshyangdi Valley before branching into narrow canyons and rugged gorges that lead to the isolated villages of Phu and Nar. These traditional settlements remained closed to outsiders until 2003, preserving their unique culture and way of life. After exploring the valleys, trekkers cross the challenging Kang La Pass (5,320 m), which rewards them with breathtaking mountain views and a dramatic descent into the barren, wind-swept landscapes of Manang, where the route reconnects with the Annapurna Circuit.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is an extraordinary journey into one of Nepal’s last hidden Himalayan regions. It combines ancient Buddhist culture, centuries-old monasteries, and remote mountain scenery, offering a memorable adventure through landscapes and traditions that remain largely untouched by modern development. The final trek ends with the jeep ride to Besisahar a popular gateway for trekkers in Nepal.

Trip Highlights

  • No highlights have been added yet.

Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek Infos

Duration

13 Days

Trip Grade

Moderate

Best Season

April -Jun and September-November

Accomodation

3 Star Hotel, Teahouse and Camping

Transportation

Bus and Jeeps

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Max. Altitude

5320m

Group Size

2-10



Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek Itinerary

When you arrive in the Kathmandu airport, our staff will be waiting for you to welcome you with a auspicious garland or a typical Buddhist khada. After you are welcomed you will be assisted to your respective hotel in Thamel or Bouddha. In the evening, if time permit, you can visit around the Thamel or Bouddhanath Stupa to see the Nepalese authentic culture and also enjoy typical Nepalese cusine.

Today is reserved for trek preparation and permits. Your all trekking gears and backpacks will be checked, buy necessary gadgets and gears required for the entire trekking period.  You can also do sightseeing in Kathmandu like visiting  Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, or Pashupatinath Temple. 

Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 m) by private vehicle or tourist bus (6–7 hours). From Besisahar, shift to jeep and continue along the Marsyangdi River valley to Dharapani (1,836 m). Dharapani is an important checkpoint and the gateway to the Annapua trekking region.

Trekking begins today. The trail passes through dense pine forests, waterfalls, and traditional Gurung villages. Walking along the Marsyangdi River, you will reach Koto, a quiet village near the entrance of the Nar Phu Valley.

Walking time: 5–6 hours

The route enters a wild and remote valley. You will pass through narrow canyon trails, suspension bridges, rocky cliffs, dense forests, waterfall and small tea houses. Meta village sits on a high plateau with spectacular Himalayan views.

Walking time: 6–7 hours

A shorter trekking day across arid landscapes and yak pastures. You walk through isolated Tibetan-style villages, rocky landscapes, experiencing the unique culture of the Nar Phu region. You can see beautiful mountain views in the surroundings.

 

Walking time: 4–5 hours

 

The trail gradually climbs toward Phu Gaon, one of the most remote settlements in the Annapua region. You will walk along Phu river, ancient monasteries and chortens, stone houses, strong Tibetan culture and enter through a traditional tibetain entrance gate to reach Phu gaun.

Walking time: 4–5 hours

Acclimatization and exploration day. On this day, you can visit Tashi Lakhang Monastery, experience traditional old Tibetan buddhist influenced houses and culture, hike to Gurusangbo viewpoints which takes 4-5 hours. You can see stunning panoramic mountain views from the viewpoint including Himlung Himal and many other peaks. This rest day helps your body adjust to high altitude. Some interested tourists also hike to Himlung Himal Base Camp which takes 5 to 7 hours to complete the hike.

Descend through the valley to Naar Phedi Monastery.This monastery provides a peaceful environment and beautiful mountain scenery. This day is considered an easy trek. Mostly descending style along the wide spread pine forests and arid land. The accommodation is limited here, cooked and served by the monks.

Walking time: 5–6 hours

Climb gradually to Naar Village, a beautiful settlement surrounded by barren Himalayan mountains. This village reflects strong Tibetan culture, yak herding, and traditional lifestyle. Spending time here is peaceful seeing  the stunning panoramic mountain views in the surrounding and the Naar river.

Walking time: 3–4 hours

One of the most challenging days. Cross the Kang La Pass (5,320 m) with breathtaking views of Annapua II, Gangapua, and Tilicho Peak. Then descend to Ngawal village (3,660 m). Trek gentle ascend style till the pass and steep descend to Ngwal village.

Walking time: 8–9 hours

After breakfast, drive by jeep to Besisahar and enjoy lunch there. Then transfer to a private vehicle or microbus and continue your jouey to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the time relaxing after your memorable Himalayan adventure.

According to your flight schedule, you will be assisted to the Tribhuvan Inteational Airport in Kathmandu for your onward jouey. 


Want to Customize Your Trip?

We can tailor this trek to your schedule, comfort level, and interests.


Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek Cost, Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

  • Airport transfers–pick up and drop at Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • All kinds of transportation by bus and Jeep.
  • Your accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu  BB plan,(Twin bedroom sharing).
  •  Accommodation in the lodges during the Trek. breakfast, lunch and dinner plan.
  • Restricted Area Nar, Phu special trekking Permit and ACAP Permit.
  • A licensed, professional guide along with a porter (1 for two clients)
  • All the costs of guide and porter Foods, transportation, salaries and insurance.
  • All paper works in the destinations and applicable government taxes and office charges.

What's Excluded

  • International airfare and Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Insurance (compulsory on all trips – ensure you are adequately covered for emergency evacuation).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Spending of a personal expenses, e.g. laundry, snacks and bottle drinks, souvenirs, toiletries, personal trekking gears, tips, etc.

Essential Information of Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek

Health and Safety Information

The Naar Phu Valley Trek involves significant time above 4,000 meters. Altitude sickness (AMS) is the primary concern. We ensure safety by including dedicated acclimatization days in Nar-Phu Village. Trekkers should stay hydrated, avoid rapid ascents, and inform the guide of any symptoms immediately.

Accomodation

Accommodation in the Nar Phu valley is mostly basic teahouses/homestays and lodges during the trek which is traditional and run by the family. Usually most of the rooms are clean comfortable but simple typically equipped with twin beds, mattresses, pillows, and warm blankets. You can experience the simplicity of the authentic himalayan local culture and mountain life.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Cost (2026 Estimates)

The Nar phu valley trek cost typically ranges from $1,097 to $1,600 per person. This depends on group size, the inclusion of all transportation, and permit fees (approx. $100/week in peak season). Solo trekking is prohibited; you must be at least two trekkers with a licensed guide.


Upcoming Fixed Departures

Trip Name Departure Date Status Price Action
Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek May 22, 2026 Filling Fast €0 Join Trip

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The total walking distance is approximately 90km to 110 km, depending on side trips to Himlung Base Camp or local monasteries.

The best time are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). Autumn offers the clearest views, while Spring features blooming rhododendrons.

Kang La Pass is considered difficult technical for beginners and when weather challenges. It is less crowded and involves steeper descents on loose rock, requiring higher endurance and better balance.

Starting from

€1,097

Per Person (Group Join)