Overview

Trip introduction

Our Nar Phu Kang La Pass Trek with Thorong La offers a great chance to discover off the beaten path, around the largely unexplored valleys of Nar Phu, and then to connect with the more popular trails of the Annapurna Region. This trek involves crossing through the high passes of Kang La. And Thorong La as well as revealing attractive cultural and religious insights at the pilgrimage site of Muktinath.

Overview of Nar Phu Kang La Pass Trek with Thorong La

The Nar Phu Kang La Pass Trek with Thorong La begins as we drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. We will follow the popular trail of Annapurna Round Trek until we reach Koto, from where we make our way towards the less visited villages of Meta, Phu, and Nar. After properly acclimatizing in these villages, we head towards the crossing at Kang La Pass. And then to Ngwal and Manag with stunning views of the great Annapurna Himalayan Ranges on the way.

The Nar Phu trekking trail then connects back to Annapurna Round. And we leave behind high-altitude Yak grazing fields and picturesque villages. We will also discover Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions with spectacular views of snow-capped mountains during this trek. Then, we cross Thorong La Pass, which leads us to pilgrimage Muktinath, Jomsom, then fly back to Pokhara, and finally terminate our trek adventure with a scenic drive towards Kathmandu.

Who can join this trek? When and how?

Our Nar Phu Kang La Pass Trek is best undertaken from April to June and from September to November. You need to be strong and fit with the ability to rise to the physical challenge. Previous trekking experience is not mandatory but if you have already been to high altitudes before then it will be beneficial.

Join the Trek with Nepal Mountain Trekkers and we assure you that you will have a great Nepal trekking experience.

Overview

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft)::

Greetings trekkers! After you land in Kathmandu and complete your formalities of immigration, our representative shall welcome you outside the terminal and transfer you to your hotel of stay. Get proper rest in the hotel and later on you may stroll around the streets of Thamel. Enjoy authentic cuisines and hospitality in the hotel. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation::

Before beginning the adventure in the hidden valley of Nar and Phu, we shall explore the ancient heritages of this medieval aged city and get acquainted with the culturally rich Nepal. From the nearby Kathmandu Durbar Square with the historic royal palace and other heritages to the religious heritages of Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa, and the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, you shall get a good insight of what awaits ahead in the trek. We shall also have an interaction with the trekking guide and clarify our doubts about various issues about which we might have doubts. Get ready for the adventure to begin the following day. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Kathmandu to Dharapani[1,860 m/6,102ft] via Besisahar [760 m/2,493ft]: 9 - 10 hrs drive::

Today we shall have a long day as we head for Dharapani to begin our adventure in the Manang region and its valleys. After breakfast, we shall begin our drive along the twisting and turning roads running along the foothills and parallel to the fast-flowing rivers. Exploring the picturesque sceneries, roadside settlements, and villages perched on the hilltop, glimpses of mountains and terraced fields to reach Besisahar. Ahead in the trail, we shall encounter a rough and dusty road whose discomfort is reduced by the marvelous scenery as seen from the windowpane of the vehicles. Stay overnight in Dharapani.

Day 4 : Dharapani to Koto (2,610m/8,563ft): 5-6 hours::

Each day the landscape seems to change in this trek. Today we shall traverse through the pine forest to reach Bagarchhap and further trek to Danaque past the old monastery en route. Now we shall ascent to Timang village on a steep trail with the view of the Himalayas including Manaslu and other peaks. Through the pine forest, our walk continues ahead till the Lata Marang village in about an hour and a half. Our adventure progresses ahead through forests to the settlement of Thanchow and the walk ahead to the destination for today, the village of Koto. Little ahead of us is Chame, the district headquarters of Manang district. Stay overnight in Koto.

Day 5 : Koto to Meta (3,560m/11,680ft): 7-8 hours::

From the settlement of Koto, today on we shall head for the restricted valleys of Nar and Phu. To begin with the journey, we trek past Chame and follow the Nar River upstream. As you continue ahead in the trail through the dense and lush Greenland forests, you shall gradually encounter the rocky trails ahead. Pass through several campsites set on the bank of Nar River and several old-aged caves en route before reaching Naar Phu River Campsite. Ahead you shall have a couple of bridges over Nar River, beautiful woods, a beautiful and cool waterfall before you reach Dharmashala. In this resting place of pilgrims and travelers, you are surrounded by a beautiful view. Trek ahead in a steep trail and then reach the destination of Meta. Stay overnight in Meta.

Day 6 : Meta to Phu Gaon (4,250m/13,944ft): 7-8 hours::

Our trek starts from the scenic grassland, meadows, and view of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal Peak in Meta and progresses past several Chortens to reach the Nar Phedi. We move past the trail leading to Naar village and traverse through the undulating trails exploring several temporary settlements and shelters used by locals. Following the Phu River upstream, we then navigate through the landscape that reminds trekkers of Tibetan terrain and past Chyako village to reach Kyang, a village with remains of ancient Khampa settlement (Khampa were refugees from Tibet who once captured and lived here). Ahead we have a rocky trail, a couple of viewpoints of Naur, Chortens, and several bridges to reach Phu Gaon. Overnight stay in Phu Gaon.

Day 7 : Acclimatization at Phu Gaon::

This day is set aside for getting adjusted to the higher altitude before progressing ahead in the trek. Getting acclimatized in this hidden valley we shall explore the rich cultural heritage, religious practices, and natural diversity in the surrounding areas. The most famous day hike option we have is the Tashi Lakhang Monastery which is the oldest monastery included in some of the world’s greatest Buddhist monasteries around the world and full of ancient reminiscence of Buddhist culture. This is also believed to be the last monastery constructed by Karmapa Rimpoche. Other heritages of prominence are Thashi and Samdu Choling Gompa where we might be exploring. After exploring the cultural avenues, observing the daily lifestyle of locals, and viewing the beautiful sights of the Himalayas, we return to our teahouse. Stay overnight in Phu Gaon.

Day 8 : Phu Gaon to Nar (4,110m/13,484ft): 6-7 hours::

The destination today shall be another famous settlement of Nar. The adventure continues through a route other than the route taken to reach Phu village. Walk past Ghomein village and gradually ascend to the challenging Phu Pass (5,050m) with marvelous views of Himalayas and then descend to Loang before another steep ascend to challenging Naar Pass (5,400m) which inch closer to the formidable Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Descend steeply from this challenging pass and pass through the trail leading to Teri La Pass to reach the seasonal graze land of Chaungseng Kharka. The downhill trek then continues till the Naar village past a small hydropower plant. The view of the Himalayas from the challenging passes decorated with prayer flags and cairns is breathtakingly beautiful. Cherish the precious moments which shall help us acclimatize before we cross other challenging passes ahead in the trail. Stay overnight in Nar village.

Day 9 : Acclimatization and preparation at Nar::

Today we have another acclimatization day in the mystic Nar village which is livelier and connected to the outer world than the more rugged and isolated Phu village. Today we shall be preparing for the ascent over challenging passes ahead in the coming days and thus, we shall be climbing to the hills above the village. The Gompas and monasteries in the village have at least a child from each family for studying Buddhism. We shall also explore the village, get insight into the lifestyle of people in one of the harshest conditions in the world and observe the unique culture, traditions, and rituals followed by the locals closer to the Tibetan communities over centuries. Check the gears and equipment and prepare for treks tomorrow. Stay overnight in Nar.

Day 10 : Nar to Kang La Pass (5,322m/17,460ft) to Ngwal (3,660m/12,008ft): 7-8 hours::

Another challenging day is in store for you today. In a long adventurous trek over the high pass, our trek shall begin early in the morning. We exit the Nar village from its western gate and then head on for Kang La Pass via Kang La Phedi. En route, you shall pass through grazing fields, small streams, and view of enormous mountains including the Kang Ru peak standing tall. As always, the barren hills constitute a major part of our trekking expedition until we reach the foothill of Kang La Pass. In an uphill steep climb through the rocky terrain, we reach the top of another challenging pass, Kang La Pass (5,322m) which provides a wonderful view of the Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak, vast landscape and streams flowing through the valley. Descend from the summit past the steep moraine path followed by grassy terrain and then encounter a steep descent past waterfalls and Chortens before you reach the destination of Ngwal village. Stay overnight in Ngwal, an old and wonderful village of beautiful architecture, beautiful scenery, and cobbled streets.

Day 11 : Ngwal to Manang (3,540m/11,614ft): 4-5 hours::

After some very challenging trek across high passes over 5,000 meters, the trek of today is rather less challenging than that. We continue on the trail past some ancient gompas including the Sher Gompa via the small hamlet of Julu before reaching another settlement of Muchhi where the trail from Hongde meets the trail from Nawal. Then we shall ascend to the ancient village of Braga which boasts of a monastery that is more than 900 years old, before heading on to the mystic and famous Manang village. En route, we shall have the view of big and small mountains including Gandraba Chuli, Pisang Peak, Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak, and Annapurna massifs, and traverse through cool shades of pine forest. Stay overnight in Manang.

Day 12 : Manang to Yak Kharka/ Leder (4,110m/13,484ft): 3-4 hours::

After staying in the beautiful Manang village overnight, trekkers now have the destination of another mighty Thorong La Pass in their minds which is yet a couple of days away. Exiting the beautiful village through its western gate, we now trek to the northern direction in our adventure. Follow the gradual uphill and slightly straight trail to traverse through small settlements of Tengi and Gunsang. Climbing gradually on the path past some teahouses and Mani walls, we reach Yak Kharka which is the seasonal grazing place for Yaks and thereby the name. Continue ahead in the trail through a rather steep section of the trail through a landslide-prone area to reach Leder past the trail leading to Chulu West Peak. Stay overnight in Yak Kharka/Leder.

Day 13 : Yak Kharka/Leder to Thorong Phedi (4,600m/15,092ft) or High Camp: 3-4 hours::

We shall cross the challenging pass of Thorong La after enough acclimatization so our destination for today shall be either the base of the pass, Thorong Phedi, or the High Camp depending on the fitness of the group. In a gradual walk from Leder after breakfast, we shall first trek down to the glacial river past some tea shops and then have uphill climbed past the landslide-prone areas to the Thorong Phedi on a rocky path. The uphill trek along the rocky gravel path continues as we shall reach the destination of High Camp. This strenuous walk shall be eased out by breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Stay overnight in Thorong Phedi or High Camp.

Day 14 : Thorong Phedi or High Camp to Thorong La (5,416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft): 7-8 hours::

The ultimate adventure in this entire trekking is today as we shall be crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m). To avoid the strong winds that develop in the later mornings, we shall trek towards the summit of the pass before the day breaks. Climbing steeply through the highland gravel and rocky path enjoying the scene of beautiful peaks, we shall reach to the top of the pass to marvel at the truly outstanding view of the Himalayas including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Thorong Peak, Dhapus peak, deep valleys, and cascading hills far and wide. Take some pictures of the beautiful moments and then descent from the summit towards Muktinath on a steep trail which becomes gradual later on. Traverse past the temporary settlements and barren hillside to reach holy Muktinath. Stay overnight in Muktinath.

Day 15 : Muktinath to Jomsom (2,715m/8,910ft): 5-6 hours::

Our trekking shall begin after exploring the Temple of Muktinath, the Gompa, Jwala Mai Temple, and eternal flame and holy water taps in the premise of Muktinath Temple. The trek continues ahead of Muktinath after you shall descent to Ekle Bhatti village through the arid landscape and the villages of Jharkot and Khingar with typical Tibetan architecture and traditional lifestyle. Ahead of Ekle Bhatti, we join the trail accompanied by the Kali Gandaki River to reach Jomsom via riverbed which sees strong afternoon winds every day. Walk along the pleasant trail and cross some bridge before reaching Jomsom. Stay overnight in Jomsom.

Day 16 : Jomsom to Pokhara Flight (823m/2,700ft): 30 min flight::

The flight from Jomsom to Pokhara marks the end of our thrilling adventure in the Annapurna region via the hidden valleys of Nar and Phu valleys. This flight of around half an hour takes us through some of the world’s highest mountains and over contrasting landscapes. After landing in Pokhara and having some refreshments, you may explore the various scenic destinations in this city. From boating in Phewa Lake to visiting caves and waterfalls, you have several options for sightseeing if you desire. Stay overnight in Pokhara.

Day 17 : Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft): 5-6 hours drive::

We leave for Kathmandu today after completing the adventure in a drive of around 6 hours. The drive takes us along the twisting and turning roads accompanied by pristine rivers, waterfalls, rural countryside and settlements, and glimpses of mountains overlooking the entire journey. Get refreshed in the hotel and stroll around the streets of Thamel later in the afternoon and have souvenir shopping if are interested. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 18 : Departure Day::

Today the Nar Phu Trek comes to an official end. You may indulge in any other personal activities until your departure and may also extend your stay by joining any other packages. In other cases, our representative shall assist you with your departure to the onward destination as per your flight schedule. We hope to have you again for other adventures in this beautiful nation.

Price Includes

• Airport Pick-up and drop service
• 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu(Hotel Green Horizon or similar standard)
• 1-night Hotel in Pokhara
• All accommodation during the trek in the best hotels/tea-houses in the area (differing according to the price you wish to spend)
  • Sanitation: The accommodation we provide will be neat and clean with warm-hospitality and quality services.
  • Single Accommodation: You won’t have to share your accommodation with anyone else so that your privacy is protected.
• All foods during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner; any items on the menu as much as you wish to consume.
  • We provide hygienic and safe meals to re-energize you.
  • We request you not to waste your meals for it is difficult to transport food in the rural area.
  • You are not allowed to share your meals with anyone else from another group.
• Transportation costs: Comfortable drive from Kathmandu To Dharpani and Pokhara to Kathmandu
• Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
• Professional and Highly experienced English-speaking Trekking Guide licensed by the Government. Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staffs: Our guides are locals of the region which ensures that you will surely get to explore a bit more during the trek than with any other guides.
  • Experienced: With the experience of more than a decade of working in this field, our trekking guides possess excellent knowledge of briefing during the trek as well as they are experts in handling all kinds of critical situations which might occur during the trek.
  • Insurance: Nepal Mountain Trekkers have an insurance policy for all our trekking staff.
• Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers with a max load of 25 KG). Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staffs: The porters we hire belong to the same region where we trek in order to provide employment opportunities to the locals as well as to make you explore every prospect of the region.
• Trekking permits: TIMS card, Annapurna Conservation Area(ACAP), and Narphu Special Permit
• First aid medical box
• All required trekking gear like sleeping bags and down jackets made available on rent
• T-shirt, Duffel Bag, and Trekking Map with Company Logo
• Rescue Arrangement Service
• 13% VAT and 10% company service charge
• Farewell Dinner

Price Excludes

• Visa fee to enter Nepal (Visa Information)
• International flight tickets and extra baggage charges
• Extra night accommodation and meal costs in Kathmandu due to any change in the scheduled itinerary
• Travel insurance/ Rescue operation costs
• All personal expenses
• Tip for guides and porters

Trip Gallery

Trip Map:

Equipments