Nar Phu Trekking
Remote Nar Phu Valley Trekking
The Nar Phu valleys, regions of ethnically-Tibetan inhabitants, grace us with similarly towering snow-peaks and unique culture. The trek up to Nar and Phu combines high peaks and passes, glaciers, remote villages, narrow canyons, lovely forests, amazing rock formations, yaks, gompas and unique Himalayan cultures. Two long days of walking from the border of Tibet, this region was first explored by Tilman in the 1950s. Closed to trekkers until late 2002, very few westerners have explored these virtually untouched villages or climbed the many 7000m peaks surrounding it. Along with spending plenty of time at these colorful and timeless villages, we explore the high alpine valleys above Phu (including Himlung Base Camp for those who want to), and then from Nar cross the Kang La to Ngawal on the upper Pisang route leading back into the Annapurna circuit.
After such a wonderful trek, and now that we are fully acclimatized, why not continue around the Annapurna Circuit via the Thorung La pass to Lower Mustang? We fly out of Jomsom to Pokhara, and then continue on to Kathmandu, truly an unforgettable journey through Nepal
Highlight sights of Nar Phu Trekking:
Ganesh Himal I – 7406m, Ganesh Himal II - 7150m, Ganesh III- 7130m, Ganesh IV – 6950m, Lampu 6480m, Pama Himal 6300m, Chhajung Himal 5525m, Pang Phuchin 6335m, Budda Himal 6672m, Himal Chuli 7893m, Ngadi Chuli 7871m, Manaslu 8163m, Phungi 6398m, Simnag Himal 5557m, Kang Guru 7010m, Lamjung
Facts of Nar Phu Trekking
| Country | Nepal |
| Trekking Destinatin: | Nar Phu Trekking |
| Trekking Starts in: | Besi Shar |
| Trekking Ends in: | Jomsom |
| Trip Duration: | 26 Days |
| Activities: | Trekking & Walking, Cultural Tours & Sightseeing |
| Culture: | Different Community with majority of Gurungs, Magars, Chhetri, Brahamn & Thakali |
| Transportation: | Private vehicle as per itinerary | Kathmandu - Besisahar by bus. Jomsom - Pokhara by plane, Pokhara - Kathmandu by bus |
| Accommodation: | 4 Nights in Kathmandu, 2 Nights in Pokhara, 19 Nights in trekking lodge. |
| Trekking grade: | Challenge & Hard |
| Max. Altitude: | 5,416m.(Thorong La) |
| Best season in Nepal: | Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct & Nov |
| Mode of Trekking: | Camping |
| Group Size: | Min 02 PAX, Max 12 PAX |
Nar Phu Trekking
Detail Itinerary for Nar Phu Trekking
| Days | Day to Day Activities |
|---|---|
| 01 |
Arrival in kathmandu:
Flying to Kathmandu along the northern border of Nepal on a clear day is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. As you fly, the panoramic view of snow-capped Annapurna mountain range greets your sight. After the completion of Visa formalities, you have to come downstairs to collect Luggage and proceed to outside from terminal Building. Please look at your Printed Name and Our Company Signboard Annapurna Foothills Treks & Exp and follow them. Meet our representative and then you will be transferred to hotel. You will be served free welcome drinks, tea or coffee or juice at the time of check in. The Managing Director or The Manager of company will meet you in hotel and will brief about the trip. You should clear your dues before we proceed for the trip. You are free to relax or explore around the city in the very first day. |
| 02 |
Sight seeing Kathmandu
After the breakfast in the morning, our city guide will come to the hotel with vehicles and then we leave hotel to visit Kathmandu Darbar Square, the house of living Goddess Kumari, the ferocious Kal Bhairab, The Red Monkey God and hundreds of erotic carvings. Swayambhunath is the worlds most glorious Buddhist Chaityas.It is said to be 2000 years old. Boudhanath is a huge Buddhist stupa located about 7 km east of Thamel. It stands on a massive mandala style platform and has features similar to the Swayambhunath, though it is bigger than Swayambhunath in size. It is said that this stupa was built during the 5th Century. Every year, Thousands of pilgrims from Nepal and neighboring countries visit Boudhanath, particularly in winter and Pashupatinath temple. Pashupatinath temple is one of the biggest Hindu temples. |
| 03 |
Drive Kathmandu to Besi Shar
With high level of physical fitness, adequate acclimatization and good logistic support, we begin our Annapurna trekking. Driving along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway to Dumre and then following the rough route by the Marsyangdi River, we pass through the low-lying villages and rice fields. After 6 hours long drive, we finally reach Besi Sahar. Besi Sahar is the capital of Lamjung District. We stay overnight at guesthouse |
| 04 |
Besi Sahar to Ngadi. (1011m)
We walk for about 5 hours towards Nadi through narrow tracks, suspension bridges a deep river gorge and Himalayas Mt. Lamjung (22,291Ft.), Manaslu (26,760 Ft) Overnight stay at Camp |
| 05 |
Ngadi to Jagat (1314m)
Ngadi, here we will have to cross the Ngadi Khola by a long suspension bridge. From here on the trail moves gently upwards to Bahundanda, an attractive village in the saddle of a long ridge at Bahundanda 1300m A steep trail descends from Bahundanda, through rice fields, before crossing a stream at the bottom of a small waterfall. It then climbs again and traverses the hillside high above the river before reaching the village of Hani Gaon. Ahead, the Marshyangdi valley forms a steep V-shape. We follow the winding mountain path down through Syange and along the river for some distance. The trail then climbs steeply and the path is cut into the sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed. Eventually we descend to the stone village of Jagat, situated on a shelf, which juts out into the precipitous Marshyangdi valley. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 06 |
Jagat to Dharapani [1920m]
The trail from Jagat descends until it reaches the river and then continues through a lush forest. Further ascent leads to sharp-edged cliff facing the riverbank. En route, Chyamje comes into picture amidst the glorious backdrop of towering Annapurna mountain ranges. After crossing a suspension bridge, we climb steeply towards the slippery and physically challenging path to Sattale. On treading along a succession of rock-strewn trails, we descend to a grassy riverbank that leads to Tal. As we walk away from Tal, the path becomes rugged and winding. Then we approach steep forested village of Karte. Meandering along the waterfalls and cliffs, we finally reach Dharapani after crossing a suspension bridge Overnight stay at Camp. |
| 07 |
Dharapani To Koto (2675m)
which takes about five hours. As you cut through a narrow field from the village, the Dudh Khola, which originates from the south face of Manaslu, enters on the opposite bank. The Marsyangdi then veers to the left, and as Annapurna II becomes visible ahead, you arrive at Bagarchhap, a Bhote village with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze around Buddhist monastery. Continuing to climb through forests of pine and oak, you pass through Danaque (2210m.). There comes a small wooden bridge which takes you to follow steep ascent path upto Timang. It lies at the bottom of Lamajung Himal. Heading back down to the village of Koto Qupar, our base for the trek up to Nar Phu, we can look straight up at nearby Annapurna II - a stunning sight convincing us that we are deep in the Himalayan mountains! Koto Qupar. The villagers are mostly from Nar and Phu and this is the gateway to their region. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 08 |
Koto to Dharamsala 3230m
This morning we head out early, as we have a long and somewhat difficult day before us. Just past the checkpost, we cross the river leading to the Nar Phu valleys, and hike up through beautiful woods above the Phu Khola (river). The route takes us through some beautiful woods and past several small shelters (caves) and a pilgrims' 'dharmasala'. As we emerge out of a narrow canyon, the trail actually passes under a wide waterfall just before the dharmasala, from which point the woods become thinner and the vistas wider. A stunning start for the Nar Phu trek! We camp at the dharamsala, a lovely campsite. |
| 09 |
Dharamsala to Kayang 3740m
A steep climb up the valley along a small, scenic river brings us finally to high pastures on a 3,200m plateau. We pass by the scenic kharka of Meta, 3560m, a non-permanent winter settlement of Nar, where we will probably share the trail with a few yaks! This morning is one of the loveliest walks in the Himalayas. The landscape is similar to the Sierra Nevada; white rocks, low shrub and juniper, scattered evergreens, delicate brick-red and orange leafed bushes, crumbling shelves of flat slate, white, sandy trails and knarled trees. The mountains around us are utterly spectacular, and the Phu Kosi shadows the trail far below. An hour past Meta, Junam is the second semi-permanent settlement, one where "khampas" from Tibet sometimes sheltered. Above the kharka to the right looms a massive glacier, which falls jaggedly down to the high pastures above us. It's all truly amazing scenery. Across the river, the cliffs contort in swirls and waves, similar to Ladakhi landscapes. The next semi-permanent settlement is Chako, formerly a Khampa settlement, where grass lies tied in bunches to dry on all the rooftops and prayer flags flutter in the breeze. Last year we saw a massive yak caravan from Phu pass by at Chako on their way down to Manang to re-supply. A scene from old Tibet! Many more ups and downs take us to tonight's campsite at Kyang, the extensive winter settlement of Phu, on a plateau high above the river. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 10 |
Kayang to Phu 4050m
Dropping steeply down to the river, we trek for a while along the river bank and past the "submarine" rock, passing some small possible campsites along the way. Today, we really start to see some of the unique, colorful chortens for which Nar and Phu are justly famous. We have to rock-hop carefully across a small glacial stream before reaching a larger one with a bridge only half covered with large slabs of slate. Some large steps do the trick! Another hour and a half of trekking through scenic canyonlands and gorges, and the "leaning tower of Pisa" monolith guards the steep trail up to the Phu gate, called Pupigyal Kwe. This ancient gate provides us with our first view of the three villages of Phu, as well as an old "dzong" and the remains of two forts, all now in ruins, but impressively situated atop the flatlands before Phu. Just before the bridge to Phu, a line of wonderful chortens color the landscape and lead the way to the main village of Phu, perched high up on a hill, amphitheater style. We will set up camp on the lower reaches of Phu, formerly called Gomdzong, and head up to the famous Tashi Lhakhang Gompa on a neighboring hillside to pay our respects to Lama Karma Sonam Rimpoche, a "trulku" who came to Nepal with HH the Dalai Lama back in '59. He is also a renowned "amchi" or Tibetan doctor, as well as a thanka painter and father of several children (some "trukus" as well as certain lamas are permitted to marry). Later, we might head up to the village to hunt down some chang. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 11 |
Excursion Phu village 4050m
Having spent quite a few days getting to Phu, we will spend an extra day in the area to enjoy it, meet the local Phu residents and do some exploring up the wide valley systems above us. Tibet is two long days away, so a bit far for a visit, but we might walk up the valley to the summer grazing settlement, or "kharka" at Ngoru, a three hour's walk past the gompa. Phu itself is an incredibly interesting village, and a day is well spent sitting with the villagers as they spin their yak and sheep wool and chat, pound mustard seeds into a paste for oil, or involve themselves in the countless activities that take up a day in Tibetan villages. For photographers, the light is spectacular, and the skies a deep blue, and we may even see some blue sheep on the surrounding hillsides. An alternative daytrip for those with lots of energy: a hike towards the east through a glacial valley leads to Himlung Himal base camp, a 7125m peak recently opened for climbing. There are usually a few expeditions climbing this peak, as well as nearby Gyanji Kang. The mountain views are tremendous! For others, a walk west up past Phu towards the chortens on the hillside provides some incredible vistas and views down over Phu and the surrounding fields, forts, valleys and peaks. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 12 |
Phu to Junam 3550m
Back through Phu gate, we descend to the river, and retrace our steps back to Junam karka, a lovely spot as any for our campsite for the evening. In 2003 we camped with some Phu residents (all but one women) on their way back up to Phu with huge loads of planks from the nearby forests, and the evening was filled with Tibetan, or Manangi songs, smoky shelters and that unique Tibetan laughter. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 13 |
Junam to Nar 4150m
Another classic Himalayan trekking day, as we trek down to the old bridge spanning a deep, contoured and narrow gorge (cameras out for this crossing!), and then all the way back up again. It's a good thing the scenery is so stunning ... Below us sit Gyalbu Kumbu, built in 1650, and Satte gompa, both empty. We finally reach the Nar gates at the top of the hill, and pass by yet another line of wonderfully painted, bamboo-topped chortens and a large tiered chorten before turning the corner and being rewarded with sublime views of Nar, the undulating patterns of the surrounding barley and mustard fields, four old, colorful and traditional gompas and the snow-peaks looming overhead. We arrive early, so will have some lunch in the sun before doing some exploring. And what exploring there is to do... Overnight stay at Camp |
| 14 |
Explore in Nar village
Physically, Nar is not far from the main Annapurna trail, but it feels centuries away, is rarely visited by trekkers and is about as picturesque as they come. Nar is bit more social and lively than Phu, and the village 'square' is full of chatting women with their back-strap looms weaving wool fabric for rugs and blankets, pounding mustard seeds for oil, or spinning the ubiquitous wool while catching up on the news. The children in Nar seem to be always out in the streets, presumably preferring this life to the classroom! Each family in Nar seems to have at least one son or daughter in a gompa, and many live at home or visit frequently, so there is the resonating sound of cymbals, chanting and drums echoing throughout the village. Other Nar villagers may be printing prayer flags, doing some carpentry, collecting wood from the forest and carrying large loads with a head-strap back up to the house, harvesting the crops, tending the yaks, sheep and goats or spinning the prayer wheels in the center of town. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 15 |
Nar to Kang La phedi 4530m
From our campsite it is a steep couple of hours climb to Naar Village (4110m), we have lunch here near the village, so we can take a look at it before we walk on. We continue on a long but gentle ascent through the lateral moraine of Temdenzon Khola, on a nice path. At the bottom of Kang La, we camp on a nice grassy spot. Overnight stay at Camp |
| 16 |
Kang La phedi to Ngawal 3330m
The Kang La is not a difficult pass in GOOD conditions, but it can be a long and difficult day if there is snow on the pass or the altitude is taking it's toll. The Kang La, at 5240m, is an absolutely spectacular pass looking over Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho peak, the peaks surrounding Tilicho and the airport at Thongde. The trail down initially is steep; scree jumping seems to be the easiest option for the descent. After resting sore knees and shaky legs, we lunch on a plateau overlooking the peaks, and then continue to contour to the left towards Ngawal. Ngawal is a wonderful, old village of cobbled streets, prayer wheels and beautiful architecture, obviously a hub of religious activity in previous times. We're finished the camping section of the trek here, and head for a guest house for the night! Hydrate before grabbing a bottle of beer, please! Overnight stay at Camp |
| 17 |
Ngwal to Manang [3540m]
Cultivated fields appear on both sides of the path and off to the right, below a craggy mountain, we can see the village of Braga with its splendid monastery. Large chortens and mani walls abound and the tall peaks of the Himalaya spread out before us - Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna [7455m] and, to the rear, Tilicho Peak [7134m]. After a short steep climb we reach Manang, which is a surprisingly large village for this remote mountain region. We camp here for the night, amidst the fluttering prayer flags. . Overnight stay at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included with Tea and Coffee. |
| 18 |
Manang to Yak Kharka [ 4050m]
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4050m.) and it takes about three and half hours. Now the trail ascends gently all the way to Yak Kharka passing through the Gunsang (3960m.) village. En route, you can see panoramic views all the day.n peaks or by simply take in the panoramic beauty of the Annapurna mountain range and the Manang Valley . Overnight stay at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included with Tea and Coffee. |
| 19 |
Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4550m.) which takes about 3 and half hours. Leaving Yak Kharka, you climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of the Marsyangdi and crossing via a covered wooden bridge. After a short ascent up the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi. Overnight stay at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included with Tea and Coffee. |
| 20 |
Thorung Phedi –Muktinath
This is one of the most challenging trek days as we will leave very early in the morning (before sunrise) to cross the Thorong La pass (5,416m/17,819ft) by noon, and then trek down to Muktinath. Muktinath, a symbol of religious acceptance, is sacred to Hindus and Buddhists alike, for they worship their God by a different name in the same temple. We stay overnight at lodge in Muktinath. Overnight stay at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included with Tea and Coffee. |
| 21 |
Muktinath –Jomsom
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2670 m.) and it takes about five hours. You now begin the trek descent down the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, initially through arid country in the same geographical and climatic zone as Tibet. After passing through Jharkot and Khingar villages with typical Tibetan architecture, you follow path steeply down to Kagbeni, a primitive village famous for Tibetan architectures. People living there follow the Tibetan life style and culture. There is situated a monastery said to belong to 15th Century. Kagbeni is the border for Upper Mustang. Your trail passes through the bank of Kali Gandaki passing through the Eklebhatti. The trail is windy after late morning. The river flows through broader course. Jomsom is the headquarter of Mustang and it is split into two towns and between these two towns passes through Kali Gandaki river. There is access of internet and banking facilities. From Jomsom, you can enjoy the magnificent views of Nilgiri and Tilicho peak. Overnight stay at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included with Tea and Coffee. |
| 22 |
Fly from Jomsom –Pokhara
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara which takes about 30 minutes. The flights are available during the morning time. The strong breeze blows during the after and frequent change of the weather prevent the flight being landed and taken off in the afternoon. During the flights in morning, the sky looks very clear which makes you able to enjoy the splendid views of different mountain peaks. . Overnight stay at guesthouse with breakfast, Tea and Coffee. |
| 23 |
Pokhara: city tours. Your sightseeing trip will start at 9AM in the morning after breakfast. Places we visit are Fewa Lake , Devis water fall, Museum, Tibetan refugee settlement and Gupteshower cave. You will have relaxing afternoon. Overnight stay at hotel with breakfast included. . |
| 24 |
Drive back to Kathmandu: (1345 meters)
Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu . If you are interested in continuing on to Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting Adventure or any other tours you can start today. |
| 25 |
City Tours in Kathmandu
After breakfast, our city guide reaches in Hotel with Vehicles, then we drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square . Bhaktapur is one of the oldest cities in Kathmandu valley. It is well known as Living Museum . Old brick paved enclave of old Royal palace, Nyathapola Temple , Datatriya temple, exquisite artwork offers a picture of the grandeur of medieval Nepal . And Patan is located 7 km away from Kathmandu , this city has many 15th to 17th century, Hindu and Buddhist, monuments built during the Malla dynasty. The most important area with many monuments is the Patan Durbar Square . (Culture program) Over night stay at Hotel. |
| 26 |
Depart Kathmandu:
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight back to home. (Or stay longer for short tours such as game drive at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking etc). |
Note:
The monsoon starts in July to August in Nepal. Nevertheless, there are few rain shadow areas such as Upper Mustang, Upper Manang, Rara Lake, Langtang valley, Everest Gokyo valley and Dolpo Region where we can go for trek even in monsoon. Due to the presence of huge mountains in this area, the rain cloud can’t go there and it remains unaffected by the monsoon. However, we suggest you to carry raincoat and insect repellents.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The safety and security of clients is a matter of great importance for us. All of our trips are led by qualified professional government license holder guides and they have received adequate training from the government of Nepal. We always carry first aid kits in our trip. Out duty is to work hard for you safety and comfort, no matter where we go. Therefore, we work very honestly to provide you the Himalayan experience that suits your needs. Please feel free to put forward your queries for making your trip more significant and memorable.
Nar Phu Trekking Service Includes
- Transportation from airport-hotel-airport
- 4 nights stay in hotel on B/B plan.( hotel category are of four stars) or according the program (Click for Hotel)
- Meals prepared by our cook
- Foam mattresses
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping tents, dining tent & toilet tent
- Wages Sherpa's, porters, cook and sirdar
- Insurance's Sherpa's, porters, cook and sirdar
- All transportation mention above the program, costs of staff, equipment and food
- All trek permits, park fees and local taxes. Trek Permit & Any required permits or Official Documentation
- Table and chair
- Round trip land Transporation ( Hotel – Domestic Airport – Hotel ) by Car / Van / Hiace and tourist bus
- Transportations Kathmandu – Besi Shar
Nar Phu Trekking Service Excludes
- International roundtrip Airfare
- Nepal visa fee: US$ 30
- Travel & Health Insurance- Emergency Helicopter Rescue Insurance (Most recommended).
- Any meals ( Lunch & Dinner) in kathmandu – keep $ 8 to 12 per meal in Tourist Restaurant.
- Any Alcoholic Drinks, Cold Drinks, Mineral Water, Beverages,
- Tips for guide, Cook, Sherpa and Porters Yak men and Donkey men ( mandatory)
- Any Other Cost, which is not mentioned in Cost Includes Items as above
- Unforeseen Cost such as Flight Cancellation or Delayed, Sick in Trek, and Helicopter rescue in Trek,Cost due to bad weather etc which is out of our control
- Guided sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley with all applicable entrance fees as per our itinerary. (Click for tour in Kathamndu).
Client Testimonials
Namadste!
While doing trek in the khumbu region, we will witness the different views of mountains such as Kwangde, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, the "horse saddle" of Kanteiga and of course the summit of Everest itself. We take a short rest for a while and it allows us little time for acclimatization. Here, you prepare yourself to explore the ascent of kalapatthar which is an altitude of 5545m. While climbing down from Lobuche, you will see some glacial moraine until the peak comes into view. Finally, you will be witnessing the north face of Mt. Everest . We return through a different route through Panboche to Lukla. We catch a flight for Kathmandu from Lukla.
micke, USA
