Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass Overview
The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass is an adventurous 15-day journey into the sacred and secluded valleys of Naar and Phu, which were restricted to outsiders until 2002. Hidden between the Annapurna and Manaslu massifs, this trek offers a unique blend of raw Himalayan wilderness, ancient Tibetan culture, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes.
This trek is often referred to as the "Hidden Valley of Nepal", and for good reason. The trail, of course, remains very peaceful and authentic since few tourists have arrived here, and it is quite free from the trail of mass tourism. The journey starts from Dharapani and follows a route carved through canyons and alpine terrain, eventually crossing the impressive Kang La Pass (5,320m)—a breathtaking high pass that connects Naar with the more developed Annapurna trails.
Along the way, you’ll pass through rugged gorges, ancient Buddhist monasteries, traditional stone villages, and remote yak pastures. The people here are agro-pastoralists of Tibetan origin, preserving centuries-old customs, language, and spiritual practices.
With its stunning scenery, spiritual ambiance, and cultural richness, the Nar Phu Valley Trek is ideal for trekkers seeking a more authentic and less commercial Himalayan experience, especially those looking to escape the crowded trails of the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp.
Trek Route to Nar Phu Valley
The Nar Phu Valley Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani, the gateway to the restricted region of Manang. From there, the path diverges from the busy Annapurna Circuit and enters a hidden world of dramatic gorges, barren landscapes, and ancient Tibetan-influenced settlements.
You'll follow the narrow gorge of the Phu Khola, gradually climbing through forests of pine trees, cascading waterfalls, and small isolated stone villages. The route passes through Koto, Meta, and Chyakhu, before ending at the magical Phu Village—one of the most secluded Himalayan settlements in Nepal.
After enough days of acclimatization and exploration around the Phu region, the trail continues to Naar village by crossing high suspension bridges and yak pastures. The real challenge in this trek is Kang La Pass, at 5,320 meters: it is a steep, high-altitude crossing that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the Annapurna, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Chulu peaks.
Once you cross over the pass, the trail briefly joins the Annapurna Circuit and then descends gradually by passing through Ngawal, Upper Pisang, and Besishahar, the end of the trek.
Unlike the more commercial and popular routes, this trek follows an ancient salt-trading path once used by Tibetan merchants, making it both a cultural and geographical journey stitched through the heart of Nepal's Hidden Valley.
Benefits of Booking Nar Phu Valley with Kang La Pass Trek with Us
Booking your Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass through Yatri Trekking ensures not only a guarantee of safety and a well-organized journey but also a deeper, more meaningful experience in Nepal's Hidden Valley.
Here's why trekkers choose us:
- 🧭 Expert Local Guides – Since our guides are from the Himalayan areas, they have in-depth knowledge of the Nar and Phu villages, Tibetan customs, and even the rugged path itself.
- 🏕️ Fully Customizable Itinerary – We offer flexible trip plans, rest days, and cultural add-ons in line with your pace and interests.
- 🧳 All-Inclusive Service – From Permits to jeep transport, meals to accommodations—we look after it all for you, so that you get to focus on the experience.
- 🛡️ Safety First – High-altitude trekking is serious. We take daily health checks, acclimatization plans, and carry oxygen and first aid with us.
- 🙏 Cultural Respect & Local Partnerships – We support local teahouses, guides, and porters, ensuring your journey helps sustain the communities of Nar and Phu.
- 💬 24/7 Support – Our team is on standby from the time of booking until departure, ensuring that your mind is at ease while trekking.
Choosing Yatri Trekking means choosing professionalism, cultural integrity, and authentic Himalayan adventure.
Preparation for Nar Phu Valley Kang La Pass Trek
The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass is a physically demanding journey through remote and rugged Himalayan terrain.
Proper preparation is key to enjoying this adventure safely and comfortably.
Here’s how to prepare:
🧘 Physical Fitness:
On this trek, there will be long walks of about 5–8 hours covering steep ascents, rocky paths, and high altitudes daily. We recommend:
- Cardiovascular training (hiking, jogging, cycling) at least 3–4 times a week.
- Strength training for legs, back, and core.
- Practice hikes with a loaded backpack.
🧠 Mental Readiness:
The region is remote with basic amenities. Expect limited connectivity, simple meals, cold nights, and basic lodges. Mental flexibility helps a lot.
🗓️ Pre-Trek Planning:
- Make a booking at least 1–2 months in advance for permit arrangements.
- Check with your doctor for altitude medicine like Diamox.
- Bring a well-fitted backpack, tested hiking boots, and layers suited for cold temperatures at high elevations.
- Reach Kathmandu a minimum of 1–2 days beforehand so that you can acclimate, counter jet lag, and have a briefing with your trekking team.
📝 Documents and gear:
- A current, valid passport and a Nepal visa.
- Two passport-sized photos for permits.
- Travel insurance with high-altitude coverage.
- See our full packing list below for gear.
With the right preparation, not only is this trek manageable, but it is also one of the most rewarding. This route will have you walking in the sacred valleys of Naar and Phu, following ancient salt trade routes, and crossing the majestic Kang La Pass.
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass: Distance, Duration & Altitude Overview
Embarking upon the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass is a pathway to remote Himalayan landscapes, ancient Tibetan-influenced villages, and challenging high-altitude passes. The following is a comprehensive breakdown of the daily trek that describes the distance, duration, and altitude gained.
| Day | Route | Distance (km) | Duration (hrs) | Altitude (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu | – | – | 1,350 |
| Day 02 | Permit Preparation in Kathmandu | – | – | 1,350 |
| Day 03 | Kathmandu to Dharapani via Besisahar (Drive) | 221 (Drive) | 8–10 | 1,900 |
| Day 04 | Dharapani to Koto | 14 | 5–6 | 2,600 |
| Day 05 | Koto to Meta | 20 | 7–8 | 3,500 |
| Day 06 | Meta to Phu Gaon | 19 | 7–8 | 4,078 |
| Day 07 | Acclimatization in Phu Village | – | – | 4,078 |
| Day 08 | Phu – Tashi Lhakhang Monastery – Chyakhu | 18.5 | 7 | 3,490 |
| Day 09 | Chyakhu to Naar Village | 7 | 3 | 4,110 |
| Day 10 | Naar – Kang La Pass – Ngawal | 18 | 9–10 | 5,306 & 3,600 |
| Day 11 | Ngawal to Upper Pisang | 8 | 4–5 | 3,300 |
| Day 12 | Drive from Upper Pisang to Besisahar | 90 (Drive) | 6–7 | 760 |
| Day 13 | Besisahar to Kathmandu (Drive) | 205 (Drive) | 7–8 | 1,350 |
| Day 14 | Kathmandu Free Day | – | – | 1,350 |
| Day 15 | Departure from Kathmandu | – | – | – |
Nar Phu Valley Kang La Pass Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026
The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Kang La Pass is a remote and culturally rich journey through Nepal's hidden valleys. Since it falls under the restricted area category, one does need a special permit to trek here. However, it is a totally different experience from the rest of the more crowded trails. The cost depends on various factors, such as group size, services included.
Estimated Cost Breakdown:
| Group Size | Estimated Cost per Person (USD) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Trekker | $1,499 – $2,500 | Book now |
| 2–3 Trekkers | $1,299 – $1,630 | Book now |
| 4–6 Trekkers | $1,099 – $1,525 | Book now |
| 7–10 Trekkers | $999 – $1,370 | Book now |
