Nar Phu Valley Trek

Who the Nar Phu Valley trek suits

Nar Phu is a hidden side valley off the Annapurna Circuit. From Koto, near Chame, a narrow canyon trail leads up to the stone villages of Phu and Nar, with Tibetan-style houses, prayer flags and old monasteries like Tashi Lhakhang. Most routes then cross the Kang La (5,320 m) and come down at Ngawal on the upper Circuit.

It's challenging, with real altitude, simple lodges and a big pass. It suits trekkers who want something wilder than the main Circuit and are happy to combine it with Manang or Thorong La.

Do you need a guide or permit?

Yes, Nar Phu is a restricted area. You need a restricted-area permit through a registered agency, a licensed guide, and the ACAP permit. TIMS is not required.

Since 2026, a single trekker can apply through an agency. Read Restricted Area Treks in Nepal.

Best months, and when it's easiest to find a partner

Late September–November and March–May are best. The Kang La can be snowbound in winter and early spring. In the monsoon the lower canyon can be affected by rockfall.

Because of the agency and guide rules, partners need to team up before the permit is issued. Post your dates two to four weeks ahead.

Doing Nar Phu with a partner

• Why it matters here: sharing one guide and one permit application is the biggest saving on any restricted trek.
• Where to meet: Kathmandu or Pokhara, where your agency issues the permit, then travel together towards Besisahar and Koto.
• Where you can split up: once you come down from the Kang La at Ngawal, you're back on the open Annapurna Circuit. One partner can continue over Thorong La while the other heads down. Agree on this with your agency in advance, since it affects the guide's days.
• Cross Kang La together with your guide, and agree a turnaround time.