A remote restricted-area trek through Nar Phu Valley, Kang La Pass and the high Annapurna Circuit trail.
This 13-day trek combines the remote Nar Phu Valley with the classic Annapurna Circuit route via Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass. It is designed for trekkers who want a wild, high-altitude Himalayan journey through restricted valleys, Tibetan-style villages, ancient chortens, dramatic canyon trails, and two major mountain crossings.
The itinerary starts in Kathmandu and travels by road to Koto, the gateway to the Nar Phu restricted area. It then explores Meta, Phu and Nar before crossing Kang La Pass to Ngawal and joining the Annapurna Circuit trail through Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi or High Camp, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath and Pokhara.
Because the route includes several consecutive days above 4,000 m, two acclimatization days are included in Phu and Nar. Adding one spare buffer day is strongly recommended where possible for altitude, snow, weather or transport delays.
Trail gallery
Drive: 10-12 hrs total | Overnight: Koto (2,600 m)
Drive from Kathmandu through Besisahar and the Chame area to Koto. Koto is the entry point for the restricted Nar Phu region and the starting point for the remote valley section.
Trek: 7-8 hrs | Overnight: Meta (3,560 m)
Follow narrow canyon trails through forests and suspension bridges. The route begins to feel remote as the valley opens toward Tibetan-style settlements.
Trek: 7-8 hrs | Overnight: Phu (4,080 m)
Pass Junam Goth, ancient chortens and high desert landscapes before reaching Phu, one of the most isolated villages in Nepal.
Altitude: 4,080 m | Rest and exploration day
Use the day for acclimatization walks, monastery visits, old fort ruins, or a hike toward the Himlung Base Camp viewpoint.
Trek: 6-7 hrs | Overnight: Nar (4,110 m) preferred if available
Descend and traverse toward Nar Phedi monastery lodge, or continue to Nar if conditions and availability allow.
Altitude: 4,110 m | Short hikes around Nar
Take short acclimatization hikes toward the Kang La viewpoint, ridges above the village and nearby monastery areas.
Trek: 8-9 hrs | Kang La Pass: 5,320 m | Overnight: Ngawal (3,660 m)
A long and spectacular day over Kang La Pass with wide Himalayan views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna and the Tilicho region before descending to Ngawal.
Trek: 3-4 hrs | Overnight: Manang (3,540 m)
An easy recovery day to Manang. Enjoy bakeries, gear shops and optional side walks while rejoining the classic Annapurna Circuit route.
Trek: 4-5 hrs | Overnight: Yak Kharka (4,050 m)
Climb gradually into higher alpine terrain with steady altitude gain. Keep the pace controlled and hydrate well.
Trek: 4-6 hrs | Overnight: Thorong Phedi (4,540 m) or High Camp (4,880 m)
A careful approach day before Thorong La. Thorong Phedi is generally safer for sleep, while High Camp makes the pass day shorter but colder and higher.
Trek: 8-10 hrs | Thorong La Pass: 5,416 m | Overnight: Muktinath
Start early for the classic Annapurna Circuit high pass crossing. Descend into the Mustang side to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site.
Long rough mountain-road drive | Overnight: Pokhara
Travel by jeep or bus along the mountain road through Jomsom toward Pokhara.
Trip ends in Kathmandu
Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus, private vehicle or flight. This day completes the 13-day Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit journey.
| Permit / Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Required for the Annapurna Conservation Area |
| Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit | Required for the Nar Phu restricted valley section |
| TIMS Card | Sometimes required depending on current rules and agency registration |
| Trek Duration | 13 Days / 12 Nights |
| Trek Grade | Strenuous / High Altitude |
| Maximum Altitude | 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass) |
| Major Passes | Kang La Pass (5,320 m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) |
| Trek Start | Kathmandu to Koto via Besisahar |
| Trek End | Pokhara or Kathmandu |
| Best Season | Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (late Sep-Nov) |
| Accommodation | Teahouses / Lodges / Monastery lodge where required |
| Meals on Trek | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
| Required Permits | ACAP + Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit + TIMS if required |
Read before you go
Key route details for timing, cash, safety and comfort on this trek.
Nar Phu is a restricted area. A registered guide is required and the official rule normally requires a minimum of two trekkers.
Do not underestimate altitude on this route. Acclimatization days in Phu and Nar are important.
Kang La and Thorong La conditions can change quickly with snow, wind and cold temperatures.
Accommodation and food choices are basic in the Nar Phu section compared with busier Annapurna villages.
Travel insurance with emergency helicopter evacuation cover is strongly recommended.
