Nar Phu-Kang La Pass Trek (5,320m) US$2,625 USD / Per person

  • Duration: 24 Days
  • Annapurna Region
  • Group size: 2-10 Person
  • Max. Altitude: 5,416m
  • Season: Sep-Nov, Mar-Apr
  •    Difficulty level: Moderate to Demanding

Overview 

The Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek is a quiet and less-traveled adventure located within the protected Annapurna Conservation Area, requiring a special permit to enter. This off-the-beaten-path journey leads you into the hidden valleys of Nar and Phu, where the unique blend of ancient Buddhist and Bon cultures can be experienced in remote stone villages and old monasteries. The trail passes through rugged alpine landscapes, narrow gorges, and high Himalayan plateaus, offering spectacular views throughout. One of the special highlights is the route to Himlung Base Camp, especially fascinating during expedition season when prayer flags and spiritual rituals bring life to this sacred area. The trek’s major challenge and reward is the Kang La Pass (5,320m), offering a breathtaking panorama of Annapurna II and other Himalayan giants. Eventually, the journey connects to the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and descends into the historic Kali Gandaki Valley, completing a remarkable circle of nature, culture, and adventure in the high Himalayas.

Itinerary

01

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, one of our friendly management team members will be there to receive you with a warm welcome. If you are arriving Nepal for the first time, Kathmandu can feel overwhelming at first, the crowds, traffic, and fast-paced hustle might surprise you. But as you begin to explore, you’ll soon discover that beneath the surface lies a city full of rich culture, history, and hidden gems waiting to be appreciated. The blend of ancient temples, colorful markets, and spiritual ambiance makes Kathmandu a unique and unforgettable place. From the airport, we’ll drive you comfortably to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, we will arrange a short briefing to prepare you for your trek. If you arrive in the morning or early afternoon, we’ll organize an orientation meeting in the evening. During this session, our company representative and your guide will give you a final briefing about the trek, answer any questions, and make sure you’re ready for the journey ahead. If your flight arrives later in the day, we’ll hold the briefing the next morning after breakfast or at evening after full-day sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.

    Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)
02

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Day 2: Full-day Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley (1,350m) / Duration: 8-9 hrs

After breakfast, we begin a full day of cultural sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley. Our first stop is the holy Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, located along the banks of the Bagmati River. Here, you’ll witness rituals, cremation ceremonies, and a peaceful blend of spirituality and history. Next, we visit Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world. It’s a beautiful white dome surrounded by prayer wheels, colorful flags, and the scent of incense. Many Tibetan Buddhists circle the stupa while chanting, and you can join in if you like. We’ll enjoy lunch nearby before heading to Patan Durbar Square, also known as the “City of Beauty.” This area is rich with ancient palaces, courtyards, and temples, showing a fine mix of Hindu and Buddhist art. Today also includes final preparations for your trek. We’ll check your permits for the Manaslu Conservation Area and restricted Nar Phu region, inspect your gear, and ensure you’re fully ready. You can spend the evening relaxing or exploring Thamel's restaurants and shops. It’s an exciting and meaningful day that offers a deep insight into Nepal’s culture and spiritual traditions.

    Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)
03

Day 3: Drive to Ngadi Village (930m) / Duration: 7–8 hrs

Today we start our journey to the Annapurna region. After an early breakfast, we leave Kathmandu by private vehicle and drive through beautiful landscapes. The road follows rivers, terraced fields, and small villages. We pass through Besisahar, the district headquarters of Lamjung, and continue driving on a rougher road to reach Ngadi Village. Along the way, we enjoy amazing views of green hills and flowing rivers. The drive can be bumpy, but it’s a great way to see rural Nepal. Ngadi is a peaceful village at the base of the hills, surrounded by nature. This is where our real trekking adventure begins.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
04

Day 4: Trek to Jagat (1,300m) / Duration: 6–7 hrs

After a good breakfast, we begin our first day of trekking. We walk through rice paddies, bamboo forests, and small villages as we follow the trail along the Marshyangdi River. The route slowly climbs through terraced farmlands and traditional Gurung settlements. We cross several suspension bridges and enjoy the peaceful flow of the river below. The landscape changes as we enter deeper into the hills. We may stop for lunch in a quiet village like Bahundanda or Syange, where we can enjoy local food with great views. After lunch, the trail becomes a bit steeper, with stone steps leading through forested paths and past small waterfalls. After about 6–7 hours of walking, we reach Jagat (1,300m), a stone-paved village perched above the river. Jagat has charming traditional houses and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
05

Day 5: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m) / Duration: 6–7 hrs

After breakfast, we leave Jagat and begin walking through terraced fields and forest trails. We follow the Marsyangdi River and pass beautiful waterfalls along the way. The trail leads us to the village of Chamje, where we take a short rest and enjoy the mountain surroundings. We continue across a suspension bridge and begin a steep climb through rhododendron and pine forests. As we go higher, the air feels fresher and cooler. We pass small settlements like Tal, a beautiful village on a flat valley with lovely waterfalls and river views. After Tal, the trail climbs again, and we pass many mani walls and prayer flags, signs that we are entering Buddhist areas. After a few more hours, we reach Dharapani (1,860m), a bigger village on the Annapurna Circuit trail. The village is surrounded by forests and offers wonderful views of the nearby hills.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
06

Day 6: Trek to Koto (2,610m) / Duration: 5–6 hrs

Today’s walk takes us deeper into the Himalayas. After breakfast, we start our trek from Dharapani and walk through tall pine and fir forests. The trail is peaceful and offers views of snowy peaks. We pass through Bagarchhap, a small village with Tibetan-style houses, and continue to Danaque, where we take a short rest. The trail then climbs up and flattens out, giving us amazing views of Mt. Manaslu and Lamjung Himal. As we continue, we reach Timang village, which offers wide Himalayan views and is a great spot to stop for lunch. After lunch, we descend slightly and follow the trail through pine woods and along the riverbank. Finally, we reach Koto (2,610m), a small, quiet village with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Koto is the entry point to the restricted Nar Phu Valley, and your guide will prepare for permit checks here. The village is peaceful and surrounded by tall trees.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
07

Day 7: Trek to Meta (3,560m) / Duration: 7–8 hrs

Today is an exciting day as we leave the popular Annapurna trail and enter the remote and restricted Nar Phu Valley. After getting our permits checked at Koto, we follow a narrow trail along the Soti Khola (river). We walk through dense pine forests, cross several suspension bridges, and pass waterfalls and caves. The trail is less traveled, and we will feel the difference right away—fewer people, untouched nature, and the sound of the river echoing in the valley. We stop for lunch in a small clearing or teahouse, depending on the pace. As we go higher, the forests thin out and open into alpine landscapes. After a long day of walking, we reach Meta (3,560m), a Tibetan-style village on a wide open plain. From here, we can see snowy peaks like Kangaru Himal and Pisang Peak. The air is thinner now, so we walk slowly and rest often. Meta is a quiet and beautiful village, perfect for watching the sunset on the mountains. After a warm dinner, we get some rest to adjust to the higher altitude.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
08

Day 8: Trek to Kyang (3,840m) / Duration: 4–5 hrs

Today’s walk is shorter but just as beautiful. After breakfast, we leave Meta and head towards Kyang, passing through a dry, high-altitude landscape. The path follows the Nar Khola River and winds through rocky hills, ancient mani walls, and open plateaus. There are no big trees here—just small bushes and grass that survive in the cold, windy climate. Along the way, we see chortens and old stone structures left behind by previous Tibetan settlers. The views are wide and peaceful, and if the weather is clear, we can see snow-capped mountains like Pisang Peak and other unnamed peaks rising in the distance. This area is home to blue sheep and Himalayan birds, so keep your eyes open for wildlife. As we walk deeper into the valley, the trail remains mostly flat with a few gentle climbs. After 4 to 5 hours of hiking, we reach Kyang (3,840m), a quiet seasonal settlement used by yak herders. It has a few basic guesthouses and wide views of the wild valley. After lunch and some rest, you can explore the area or relax with tea while watching the changing light on the mountains.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
09

Day 9: Trek to Phu Village (4,080m) / Duration: 5–6 hrs

Today we trek to one of the main highlights of the journey—Phu Village. After breakfast, we follow the trail along the Phu River and walk through a rugged and dramatic landscape. The path climbs gently, and the scenery becomes more spectacular with every step. We cross a few small wooden bridges and pass through narrow gorges before reaching a beautiful line of chortens—this marks the entrance to Phu Valley. As we approach the village, we pass ancient stone mani walls and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Phu (4,080m) is a traditional village sitting on a hill, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and steep cliffs. It feels like stepping back in time. The people here are of Tibetan heritage and live a simple life, raising yaks and sheep. Their homes are made of stone, and the village has a unique charm.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
010

Day 10: Day Hike to Himlung Base Camp (4,920m) / Duration: 5–6 hrs

Today is an acclimatization and exploration day. After breakfast, we take a day hike to Himlung Base Camp, which lies at 4,920 meters. This hike helps your body adjust to the higher altitude and offers stunning mountain views. We follow a rocky trail that climbs gently through open landscapes and yak pastures. As we gain height, we are rewarded with fantastic views of Himlung, one of the major peaks in the region, as well as other snow-covered mountains. We might even spot blue sheep or Himalayan birds on the way. Once we reach the base camp, we take some time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful, wide-open setting surrounded by glaciers and snowy peaks. After spending some time at the base camp, we carefully descend back to Phu village. The return is easier and quicker. Back in Phu, we can spend the evening relaxing or visiting any parts of the village we missed yesterday.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
011

Day 11: Trek to Nar Phedi (3,490m) / Duration: 5–6 hrs

After breakfast, we say goodbye to the beautiful Phu village and begin trekking back down the valley. We retrace our steps along the rocky trails, crossing bridges and chortens, and walking through the dry, high-altitude landscape. On the way back, the trail feels different as we now go downhill for some time, allowing us to enjoy views from a new angle. We pass the same mani walls and enjoy the wide-open valley one last time before the trail splits toward Nar. Our stop for the night is Nar Phedi (3,490m), a small settlement with only one basic monastery guesthouse run by nuns. It’s a peaceful place with a warm and spiritual atmosphere. The nuns offer simple but delicious food, and we may have a chance to join their evening prayers. This stay gives us a true cultural experience.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
012

Day 12: Trek to Nar Village (4,110m) / Duration: 3–4 hrs

Today’s trek is short but involves a steady climb. After a peaceful night at Nar Phedi, we begin our uphill walk toward Nar village. The trail winds gently through hills and offers wide views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We see prayer flags, mani walls, and colorful chortens along the way, which guide us on our spiritual mountain journey. As we get closer to Nar, the landscape opens up with views of Kang Guru and other peaks in the distance. After about 3 to 4 hours of walking, we reach Nar (4,110m), a beautiful and well-preserved village with traditional Tibetan-style stone houses and a strong cultural identity. Nar is larger than Phu and has several small shops and teahouses. The villagers here live a simple life, raising yaks and harvesting barley.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
013

Day 13: Trek to Ngawal (3,660m) via Kang La Pass (5,320m) / Duration: 8–9 hrs

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the entire trek. We begin early in the morning with headlamps and a hot drink to help us wake up. The climb to Kang La Pass (5,320m) is steep and long, with a rocky trail that gradually rises above the valley. We walk slowly and steadily, taking breaks often and enjoying the silence of the high mountains. As we near the top, prayer flags flutter in the cold wind, and snow-capped peaks surround us. Reaching the pass is a big achievement, and from the top, we get stunning panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the valley below. After enjoying the scenery and taking photos, we begin a long descent toward Ngawal. The trail down is steep at times but offers beautiful views all the way. After 8–9 hours of effort, we reach Ngawal (3,660m), a charming village on the Annapurna Circuit with great facilities and warm food.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
014

Day 14: Trek to Manang (3,540m) / Duration: 4–5 hrs

After a restful night in Ngawal, we continue our trek toward Manang. Today’s trail is easier compared to yesterday’s tough climb over Kang La Pass. The route gently descends through pine forests, small villages, and cultivated fields. We pass chortens, prayer wheels, and mani walls that reflect the strong Buddhist culture in the area. As we walk, we are treated to stunning views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna. Along the way, we also pass the picturesque village of Braga, where a beautiful old monastery sits on a hill. We can stop here to take a short break and explore. From Braga, it’s a short walk to Manang (3,540m). Manang is a popular resting place for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. The village is surrounded by incredible mountains and has a peaceful lake nearby.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
015

Day 15: Rest Day at Manang (3,540m)

After the challenging crossing of Kang La Pass, today is a full rest day in the beautiful village of Manang. This break is well-deserved, giving our bodies and minds time to recover from the steep descent and high altitude. Manang is one of the largest settlements in the region and offers many comforts, including bakeries, shops, and internet cafes. We can spend the day resting in the teahouse, enjoying warm food and drinks, or gently exploring the village. For those who feel energetic, optional short walks to nearby viewpoints or cultural sites such as the monastery or local museum are available. This day also helps us adjust to the regular Annapurna trail environment after the remote and rugged trails of Nar and Phu. It’s a peaceful and relaxing day with stunning views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
016

Day 16: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m) / Duration: 5-6 hrs

Today we leave Manang and head to Yak Kharka, a high pasture area where yaks often graze. The trail climbs steadily through alpine landscapes with fewer trees and more open views. We notice that the air is thinner, and we walk more slowly. We pass through the village of Gunsang, where we stop for tea or snacks. Along the way, we see herds of yaks, blue sheep, and many mountain birds. The views of Annapurna III and the Gangapurna Glacier continue to amaze. We will arrive early in Yak Kharka, so we will hike 200-300m higher for acclimatization and return back to Yak Kharka.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
017

Day 17: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450m) or High Camp (4,900m) / Duration: 4–5 hrs

Today we trek to Thorong Phedi, the base camp before the big pass. Depending on how we feel, we may go a bit further to High Camp, which makes the next day’s climb easier. The path goes through landslide-prone areas, so we walk carefully and slowly. The trail is rocky but not too steep. We will feel the altitude today, so we take it easy and drink lots of water. If we stop at Phedi, we rest and enjoy the views of the surrounding peaks. If we push to High Camp (about 2 hrs more), we gain a bit more height but get a head start for tomorrow’s big day.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
018

Day 18: Trek to Muktinath (3,760m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m) / Duration: 8–9 hrs

This is the toughest and most rewarding day of the trek. We start very early, around 4 AM, to cross Thorong La Pass before strong winds begin. The climb is slow and steady, with many switchbacks. We walk in the dark at first, using headlamps. The sun rises over the snowy peaks, giving us beautiful views. After 3 to 4 hours, we reach Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416 meters. There is a signboard and prayer flags at the top – a perfect place for photos and celebration! After enjoying the moment, we begin a long downhill trek to Muktinath, a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
019

Day 19: Trek to Jomsom via Lupra Village (2,720m) / Duration: 5-6 hrs

Today we take a beautiful and quiet trail back to Jomsom, but instead of the busy road, we go through Lupra village. This village is one of the few remaining places that practice the Bon religion, an ancient spiritual tradition even older than Buddhism. It’s a great chance to see another side of Mustang’s culture. We start with a gentle climb, then walk down through canyons and dry riverbeds. The landscape is dramatic—tall cliffs, open skies, and deep gorges. Lupra is a small, hidden village, and we stop here to explore the Bon monastery and learn about its traditions. After our visit, we continue on to Jomsom, where the trail becomes wider and the wind picks up in the afternoon. We walk for around 5–6 hours today. Jomsom feels like a return to modern life after many days in the remote mountains. Tomorrow, we’ll fly back to Pokhara.

    Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
020

Day 20: Fly or Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara – Free Day (822m) / Duration: 20-25 min in Flight, 7-8 hrs Drive

This morning, we plan to take a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes and offers one last beautiful view of the Himalayan peaks. However, flights from Jomsom depend on weather conditions, and sometimes delays or cancellations happen. If the flight is not possible due to bad weather, we will drive back to Pokhara. The drive takes about 7–8 hours, following the scenic Kali Gandaki valley through mountain villages and river gorges. Because of this uncertainty, we keep this day free with no planned activities in Pokhara. After arrival—by flight or road—we transfer to the hotel near Fewa Lake, where we can rest and relax after many days of trekking. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Pokhara at your own pace. Tomorrow, we will explore the city with a gentle sightseeing tour.

    Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)
021

Day 21: Full-day Sightseeing in Pokhara (822m)

Today, we’ll explore some of the most interesting and spiritual sites in Pokhara. Our first stop will be the Worlds Peace Stupa, a stunning pagoda located high above the city that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Fewa. It’s a serene spot to reflect and enjoy the natural beauty. Next, we’ll visit Pumtikot, where we can see the impressive Shiva Statue, one of the largest statues of Lord Shiva in Nepal. It’s a magnificent sight and offers panoramic views of Pokhara and the surrounding area. After that, we’ll drive to the International Mountain Museum, which showcases the rich history of mountaineering and the culture of the Himalayas. It’s a fascinating stop for those interested in the mountain world. Finally, we drive back to Pokhara lake side and enjoy 1 hour boating in Phewa lake. After a day full of exploration, we’ll return to the hotel to relax

    Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)
022

Day 22: Drive back to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus (1,350m) / Duration: 6-7 hrs

After breakfast, we begin our return journey to Kathmandu by sofa seater tourist bus. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, passing through green hills, rivers, and small towns along the Prithvi Highway. It’s a scenic ride with lots of chances to look out the window and enjoy the changing landscapes of Nepal. We stop a few times along the way for tea, snacks, and lunch. You may feel a little tired from the ride, but the peaceful scenery makes the journey pleasant. We arrive in Kathmandu by late afternoon or early evening. Once we reach the hotel, you can rest or take a short walk around Thamel, the city’s lively tourist area. You might enjoy shopping for souvenirs, trying street food, or enjoying a nice dinner in a rooftop restaurant.

    Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)
023

Day 23: Free Day in Kathmandu (1,350m) – Explore or Relax

On your final day, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore nearby historic cities such as Bhaktapur or Patan. You might consider a day trip to Bhaktapur to admire its famous wood carvings, like the intricate Peacock Window, and wander through its beautifully preserved old town. If you prefer a more relaxed day, you can stay in Kathmandu, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a peaceful coffee at one of Thamel's cozy bakeries. We always recommend keeping an extra day after your trek in case of any travel delays. If you’d like a guided city sightseeing tour, we can happily arrange that for you. But of course, it’s entirely up to you—whether you choose to relax or explore on your own, we’re here to offer helpful tips, directions, and local insights to make the most of your time.

    Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)
024

Day 24: Final Departure

At the scheduled time, we will transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you. We hope you had a memorable journey and enjoyed exploring the incredible landscapes, cultures, and mountains of Nepal with us. We look forward to welcoming you again for another adventure in the Himalayas. Safe travels and hope to see you next time, Namaste!

Travel Cost Includes & Excludes

Included
  • 4 Nights hotel in Kathmandu with bed and & breakfast
  • 2 Nights hotel in Pokhara with bed & breakfast
  • All transportatio according to itinerary
  • Pokhara-Kathmandu by Sofa-seater Tourist bus
  • Full day City sightseeing in Kathmandu (8-9hrs) including entrance fees
  • Full day sightseeing in Pokhara (8-9hrs) including entrance fees
  • English speaking City guide in Kathmandu
  • Pokhara sightseeing by your trekking guide
  • Certified & experienced English-speaking trekking leader
  • Experienced porter (1 porter for 2 clients; max 12–13 kg per client)
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner during the trek
  • Domestic airfare Jomsom-Pokhara
  • Airport tax in Jomsom
  • Nar and Phu special Trekking permit
  • Annapurna trekking permits (ACAP)
  • TIMS card
  •  Crew Insurance
Excluded
  • International Airfare
  • Nepal visa
  • Personal Expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Emergency Rescue Evacuation
  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Special filming camera/drone permit
  • All kind of drinks
  • Over luggages
  • Tips for crew members

Additional Information

*  The itinerary is flexible and can be customized, shortened, or extended according to your preferences

 

*  Each of our travel is organized individually according to your wishes

 

*  Your journey can begin on any date that suits you best

 

*  Any extra costs caused by circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, bad weather, changes to the itinerary for safety reasons, emergency evacuations, government policy changes, or strikes

 

 

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