Nar Phu Valley Trek

Name: Nar Phu Valley Trek
Brand: Highland Expeditions
SKU: HL23347
Price: 1550 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (10 reviews)

Real Himalayan wilderness experience journey

Group Size

Min 2 Max 12

Duration

16 Days

Grade

Challenging

Max. Altitude

5,322m/17,460ft

Activity

Trekking in Nepal

Accomodation

Teahouse/Lodge

All inclusive cost

From USD 1,550

Durations
16 Days

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Nar Phu Valley Trek Highlights

Experience a true Himalayan wilderness, exploring untouched beauty and ancient sites.
Immerse yourself in the unique Tibetan-influenced cultures and lifestyles of the local inhabitants.
Witness amazing and diverse rock structures and land formations along the trek.
Be mesmerized by stunning 360-degree views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges.
Cross the challenging Khangla Pass at 5,322m for breathtaking vistas.
Enjoy the spiritual atmosphere while passing by chortens, gompas, monasteries, and prayer flags.
Trek in the heart of the Annapurna region, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks.
Embark on an all-inclusive guided holiday through this remarkable Himalayan landscape.

Nar Phu Valley Trek Overview

The Nar Phu Valley trek opened in 2003 and still has few visitors. To enter this hidden valley, you need a special permit. Near the Annapurna Circuit route, the Nar Phu trail takes you through remote villages, Tibetan-like peoples, forests, narrow canyons, Buddhist Gompa, and stunning mountains. A bridge over the Marshyangdi River leads you to the steep entrance of Nar Phu Valley, which can be hard to spot. A different world awaits once you go through the narrow, forested entrance.

From Jomsom in the Mustang area, a few hours' walk from Muktinath, you can either fly to Pokhara or keep trekking down the Kali Gandaki River. On the way, you will pass the unique village of Marpha and enjoy the view of the Annapurnas from Poon Hill. While in the Nar Phu Valley, you can experience the local culture. Farmers in this remote area live traditionally, growing potatoes, barley, buckwheat, and vegetables, and raising yaks and sheep. If you are still unsure about the Nar Phu Valley trek, this itinerary package will provide you with all the details so you can make your decisions.

Nar Phu Valley Itinerary Brief

The trek takes you on a beautiful journey towards the north of the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. You walk past traditional village settlements, alpine grasslands, narrow canyons, and dense forests. Our trek starts off with a full-day drive to Jagat, from where we will begin our 11-day trek. We follow the Annapurna circuit trail till Dharapani and branch off right from here towards Nar Phu Valley.

We will spend a week trekking in the valley, exploring ancient sites and Tibetan cultures. After a day at Phu Gaon, we’ll return to Nar Phedi and trek to Nar, passing Buddhist Chortens and prayer flags. We then ascend Khang La Pass at 5322 meters, the highest point of our trek, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. In the final days, we follow the Marshyangdi River, descending past Lower Pisang and Chame to Dharapani. Finally, we drive back to Kathmandu to conclude our trek.

As soon as you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will find a representative from Highland Expeditions waiting to welcome you, potentially with a sign with your name or the company logo. After the warm greeting, the representative will assist you with any formalities, including your luggage, immigration, and customs. Once this is complete, they will escort you to a private vehicle to take you to your pre-arranged hotel in Kathmandu, allowing you to relax and settle in after your long journey and prepare for your Nar Phu Valley adventure.

Meals:

Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

After an early breakfast, we will begin our drive to Jagat. On our way to Jagat, we can see the mighty Trishuli River, beautiful landscapes, terraced farms, rough terrains, and small village settlements. We will make a stop at Besisahar for lunch and refreshments. Continuing on the journey, the roads might get a bit bumpy and narrow. We will reach Jagat in the evening. Check-in the hotel and rest. Overnight stay at Jagat.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

8-9 hrs

Max Elevation:

1,300m/4,265ft

After breakfast, we begin our first day of the trek to Dharapani. This is an uphill climb as we make our way past lush meadows and thick forests before we reach Chamje, where we get a majestic view of the massive Annapurna range. After crossing a suspension bridge and walking over grassy riverbanks, we will reach the village of Taal, where we stop for lunch and some rest. We again make our way through small waterfalls and rocky trails before reaching Dharapani. Overnight stay at Dharapani.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

1,860m/6,103ft

After breakfast, we begin our trek to Koto. We do an uphill climb through the thick pine and fir forests before reaching a small village Timang, where we can enjoy a beautiful view of Mt. Manaslu (8156m) and Peak 29 (7871m). We again make our way through pine forests before reaching Latamarang, where we stop for lunch and rest. After trekking for a couple of hours from here, we reach the village of Koto. Overnight stay at Koto.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,600m/8,531ft

Today, we begin our trek to the restricted area of the Nar Phu Valley. On the way, we will see a Police Check Post where we will show our restricted area permit to proceed further. This trail takes us through narrow canyons, forests, riverbanks, and suspension bridges before we reach Meta. From Meta, we can see a magnificent view of Annapurna II (7937m) and Lamjung Himal (6983m). Overnight stay at Meta.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,625m/11,895ft

After breakfast, we make our way to the famous Phu Gaon (village). We make our way through small Buddhist Chortens, prayer flags, small streams, and rivers along the trail. We also pass through small village settlements of Kyang, Jhunam, and Chyakhu. The people living here are mostly Sherpas and Gurung. After walking along the banks of Phu Khola for a couple of hours, we reach Phu Gaon. Overnight stay at Phu Gaon.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,100m/13,450ft

Today, we will spend the day exploring the village of Phu as we acclimatize ourselves with the environment and take a day’s rest. You will want to visit the famous Tashi Lakhang Gompa built by Karma Sonam Rinpoche, who came to Nepal with the Dalai Lama in 1959. If you want a challenge, you can also hike up to the Himlung Base Camp. The trail will take you through narrow canyons and glacier valleys, and you can also spend your day learning about the culture and tradition of the Gurung community living here and try their local cuisine.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

3-4 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,100m/13,450ft

After breakfast, we make our way to Nar Phedi. We start the trek as we retrace our steps back to Meta and make our way past thick forests of fir and pine to Nar Phedi. Nar Phedi homes the Nar Phedi Monastery, where travellers can spend the night. You can learn more about the lifestyle of the monks living in the monastery as they are very friendly. Interact with the monks and learn about their daily chores in the monastery. Overnight stay at Nar Phedi.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,490m/11,450ft

After breakfast, we begin our trek to the village of Nar. This is a very gentle uphill climb as we pass through small Buddhist Chortens and prayer flags along the way. You will reach Nar by lunchtime and explore the village in your leisure time. The view from the village of Nar is very picturesque as it is not that far from the Annapurna trail and is remotely visited by trekkers. Overnight stay at Nar.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

4-5 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,110m/13,485ft

Today’s trek is going to be the toughest as we trek across Khang La Pass (5322m) and then make our descent back down to Ngawal. Once we reach Kang La Pass, we get a fantastic view of Annapurna II (7937m), Gangapurna (7455m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m). We then make our way downhill to Ngawal for overnight.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

8-9 hrs

Max Elevation:

5,322m/17,460ft

After breakfast, we begin our descend to Lower Pisang. We make our way past lush meadows and beautiful streams before reaching a magnificent lake just on the outskirts of Lower Pisang. From the lake, we get a glorious view of Mt. Pisang (6091m). The climate gets considerably warmer as you reach Pisang. In the evening, you can head out for a short walk and explore the surrounding areas. Overnight stay at Pisang.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,200m/10,450ft

After breakfast, we begin our trek to Chame. We again make our way past thick forests of pine and firs, rocky trails, and many suspension bridges as we reach Chame. As you make your way downhill, you will start noticing the paths getting wider. You will also see more village settlements as the altitude decreases. Overnight stay at Chame.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,670m/8,760ft

Today, we begin our final day of the trek back to Dharapani. This is a very easy trek as we retrace our steps back to Dharapani. You can walk at your own pace and take a last glimpse of the beautiful Manang region. After reaching Dharapani, we will take a drive to Besisahar for overnight. The road is a bit bumpy. We will reach Besisahar by the early evening. Overnight stay at Besishahar.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse/Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

1,860m/6,103ft

After breakfast, we make our way back to Kathmandu. Along the way, you can view the beautiful landscapes, eye-catching terrains, and rivers such as Trishuli and Marshyangdi. We will stop for lunch along the way at one of the restaurants on the highway. We will reach Kathmandu by late afternoon. After resting for a while at the hotel, you can head out for a short walk around Thamel. Overnight stay at Kathmandu.

Meals:

Breaakfast,Lunch

Accommodation:

Hotel

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

Day fifteen of your Nar Phu Valley trek marks a transition as you enjoy a well-deserved free day in the bustling capital city of Kathmandu. After the remote and challenging trails of the Nar Phu Valley, this day offers a chance to relax, recover, and explore the cultural richness of Kathmandu at your own pace. You might choose to revisit some of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites like Swayambhunath or Boudhanath, wander through the vibrant Thamel district for souvenir shopping, or simply enjoy the comforts of your hotel and prepare for the onward journey or further exploration of Nepal.

Meals:

Breakfast

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

The last day of your Nar Phu Valley trek marks your international departure from Nepal. After a final breakfast in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport, typically about three hours before your scheduled flight. Your trekking agency will likely arrange this transfer and ensure a smooth and timely arrival at the airport for your check-in and immigration procedures. As you head home, your memorable adventure in the remote and culturally rich Nar Phu Valley will come to a close.

Meals:

Breakfast

Availability

Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.

If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.

If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.

Have a big group? We’re here to assist! Contact us to discuss availability and group pricing options.

Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.

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All meals (B,L,D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on the trek with tea & coffee.
Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 3 nights with breakfast
Accommodation at clean and cosy teahouses/lodges on the trek
All ground transportation as per mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicle
All required permits for the trek (ACAP & Special Permit)
Experienced local trek leader with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
Full support crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts
Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicines
Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of the trek)
Staff equipment, insurance and allowances
Trek completion certificate (Upon request)

International airfare, Visa and travel insurance
Meals at Kathmandu
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
Personal expenses
Gratuities for staff

1. In which place do you acclimatize in Nar Phu Valley Trek?

During the Nar Phu Valley trek, the trekkers will experience an acclimatization day in Phu Gaon. During this day, the trekkers can reach different places such as Tashi Lakhang or even hike towards the Himlung Base Camp if they want the real challenge from where you will see Annapurna mountains and entire Annapurna region.

2. What are the major attractions of Nar Phu Valley Trek?

Some of the major attractions of the Nar Phu Valley Trek are Nar and Phu villages, Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, and colorful prayer flags. narrow canyons, rhododendron forests, diverse flora and fauna within the Annapurna Conservation Area, and breathtaking panoramic views of towering peaks like Annapurna II, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri.

3. Where is Nar Phu Valley located?

The Nar Phu Valley is in a remote and relatively isolated area of the country. Nar Phu Valley is located in the Manang District in the Gandaki Province of Nepal, north of the Annapurna mountain range and with the Annapurna Conservation Area. The Nar Phu Valley has a distinct Tibetan culture and beautiful Himalayan landscapes.

4. How long does the Nar Phu Valley Trek typically take?

The duration of the Nar Phu Valley Trek typically ranges from 12 to 16 days, depending on the specific itinerary chosen and the inclusion of acclimatization days. This timeframe usually includes travel to and from the trailhead, the actual trekking days within the Nar Phu and Manang regions, and necessary rest days to adjust to the increasing altitude.

5. Can you combine Nar Phu with Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to combine the Nar Phu Valley Trek with the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek. Typically, such an extended itinerary involves venturing into the remote and less-traveled Nar Phu Valley, often crossing the challenging Kang La Pass (around 5,320m), then joining the trail connecting with the classic Annapurna Circuit route around Manang.

6. How does the Nar Phu Valley's proximity to Tibet influence the local culture?

Nar Phu Valley is geographically adjacent to Tibet. Therefore, it is influenced by Tibetan Culture. The area is heavily Tibetan, both in the shape of its local culture and in the context of the local people’s Tibetan ancestry. The Nar and Phu villages host Khampa warriors who migrated from the Tibetan region to this valley.

7. What geological features will trekkers find in Nar Phu Valley?

The Nar Phu Valley is full of dramatic geology, featuring deep gorges, huge cliffs, and oddly colored rock layers. You will see incredibly beautiful formations, especially while crossing the Kang La Pass. The deep gorge and cliffs contribute to the valley’s isolation, as do specific microclimatic conditions and biodiversity.

8. What kind of gear and equipment should I pack for the trek?

Essential gear for the Nar Phu Valley Trek includes sturdy trekking boots, warm layers of clothing suitable for varying temperatures, a waterproof and windproof jacket, trekking poles, a comfortable backpack, a sleeping bag suitable for cold conditions, a water bottle or hydration pack, a headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, a first-aid kit, and personal toiletries.

9. Is hiring a guide and porter for the Nar Phu Valley Trek necessary?

Yes, due to the restricted area permit regulations, trekking in the Nar Phu Valley with a licensed guide is mandatory. Hiring porters is highly recommended, especially given the challenging terrain and altitude, as it allows you to carry less weight and fully enjoy the trek.

10. How should I prepare for the high altitude during the trek?

Proper acclimatization is crucial for the Nar Phu Valley Trek. This involves ascending gradually, allowing your body time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes. It’s essential to include rest days in your itinerary, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol and smoking, and ascend slowly.

Every trekking destination in Nepal, is a protected, and conserved area, which is why, trekkers have to issue permits. To trek in Nar Phu, you must pay a restricted area fee, which changes with the season. You also need at least two trekkers, plus a guide, to enter these restricted areas.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is one of the important permits that trekkers need to issue when they visit the Annapurna region. As Nar Phu trek route passes through the Anapurna Conservation Area, the trekkers have to be in possession of the Annapurna Conservation area permit. This permit contributes to the conservation and management of the area’s natural and cultural heritage. You can obtain the ACAP permit from the Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara, as well as at the entry points to the Annapurna Conservation Area itself, although it’s advisable to secure it beforehand. The cost for the ACAP is currently NRs 3,000 per person for foreign nationals, NRS 1,000 for SAARC Nationals, NRS 100 for Nepali trekkers.

Restricted Area Permit

There are many restricted area in Nepal like Nar Phu Valley Trek, where trekkers need to issue the restricted area permit. This permit is necessary for trekking in specific, more remote or culturally sensitive areas of Nepal that have special regulations to protect their unique environment and traditions. For the particular trek mentioned, a two-week Restricted Area Permit is required, with costs varying depending on the trekking season: USD 100 per person per week from September to November (peak season) and USD 75 per person per week from December to August (off-season).

These permits are typically issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and sometimes through registered trekking agencies who facilitate the application process on your behalf; they are generally not available at the entry points of the restricted areas themselves, making pre-arrangement essential.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek is the trek through two of the less travelled destinations which are Nar Village, and Phu Village. As this place is located in the restricted region of Nepal, not many trekkers know about the basic information of the trek. So let’s get into them.

Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of the high altitude trek as trekkers have to reach the height of 5,322m, via Kang La Pass, which is one of the highest peak in Nepal.
The Nar Phu Valley is one of the toughest trek in Nepal, due to high altitude, long duration, long day, tough terrains, and restricted region.
Expect challenging trails with steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and potential snow, particularly at higher elevations and during certain seasons.
The valley is home to the distinct cultures and languages of the Nar and Phu communities, offering opportunities to witness ancient Buddhist practices, traditional architecture, and local customs.
Compared to the popular Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp treks, the Nar Phu Valley sees significantly fewer trekkers, providing a more secluded and authentic experience.
Teahouses in the Nar and Phu valleys are generally more basic than those on more established trekking routes. Expect more Spartan rooms and limited amenities.
Due to the high altitude and potential for varying weather conditions, it is essential to pack appropriate layers, warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, and sun protection.
The optimal times for trekking in the Nar Phu Valley are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons, offering clearer skies and more favorable weather.
This trek is considered moderately to strenuously tricky and requires good physical fitness. Prior trekking experience and preparation are highly recommended.
Due to the restricted area status and the region’s remoteness, trekking with a licensed guide is mandatory. Hiring porters can significantly ease the physical demands of the trek.

Season	Months	Daytime Temperature (°C)	Nighttime Temperature (°C)	Weather Conditions	Trekking Conditions
Spring	March – May	10°C – 20°C	-5°C – 5°C	Pleasant, mild, clear skies, blooming flowers, occasional light rain	Dry trails, comfortable trekking, good visibility
Summer/Monsoon	June – August	15°C – 25°C	0°C – 5°C	Warm, humid, frequent heavy rainfall, cloudy skies	Slippery and muddy trails, higher risk of landslides, leeches
Autumn	September – November	10°C – 15°C (lower valley), around 5°C (higher altitudes)	-5°C – -10°C (higher altitudes)	Stable, clear blue skies, low chance of rainfall, crisp mornings	Dry trails, excellent visibility, comfortable trekking
Winter	December – February	5°C – 10°C (lower valley), -5°C or lower (higher altitudes)	-15°C – -20°C or lower (higher altitudes)	Freezing cold, heavy snowfall, strong winds, dry air	Trails covered in snow, slippery, many high passes may be closed, limited daylight

The best times to trek Nar Phu Valley are spring (from March to early June) and autumn (from September to the end of November). Trekkers will see crisp weather, clear views, and fantastic mountain views. During these seasonshis trek is also possible during the monsoon season (from late June to early September) because it is in a rain shadow area. You should expect rain in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the lower villages. However, the valley itself will be dry and beautiful. This makes it a good choice for those who only have time to trek during the summer or monsoon months.

The Nar Phu Valley trek is one of the challenging trek in Nepal, mainly because of its isolation, and secluded destination. Over the year Nar Phu Valley has remained as a hidden gem, which is why why spending the day in Phu and Nar Village has become quite popular. This hidden gem remains relatively untouched by mass tourism due to its remote location, rugged terrain, and the requirement for a special restricted area permit.

Branching off the popular Annapurna Circuit trail, the journey into Nar Phu involves traversing challenging landscapes, including deep gorges, high-altitude passes like Kang La, and barren, windswept terrain. This geographical isolation has naturally limited external influence, allowing the unique culture and traditions of the local Nar and Phu communities to thrive undisturbed for centuries. The secluded nature of Nar Phu Valley has preserved both its cultural identity and natural beauty. With such a small volume of trekkers visiting Nar Phu, the trails are not crowded with trekkers, and the area itself is not over-run, allowing its extraordinary beauty to remain.

Towering above are the snow-capped peaks, including the Annapurna and Damodar Himal mountain ranges. The valleys are carved by glacial rivers that slowly flow down. The flora and fauna that live in the high-altitude environment deal with the minimal impact of humanity. Nar and Phu Valley’s isolation puts you in a deep silence and allows you to experience this beauty, unblemished by the more heavily traveled trekking routes to the west. The trek itself is part of the experience, illustrating the might of nature while highlighting the grit of humanity in the face of mountains.

The Nar Phu Valley is also equally secluded in terms of culture, as it is physically. In the villages of Nar and Phu, the locals are following their culture, and tradition of long time. They are still speaking their own traditional languages. This includes a mix of Tibetan Buddhism and the pre-Buddhist Bon tradition. The villages traditional stone buildings, and ancient monasteries like Tashi Lhakhang, and colorful prayer flags create a serene and culturally rich atmosphere, reflecting the deep-rooted spirituality and heritage of the region. The life in Nar and Phu shows, it has not changed despite the modernization of various places of Nepal. Because they have little contact with the outside world, the people have built a strong community and a deep connection to their heritage. Visiting Nar Phu offers a unique experience.a unique opportunity to experience an authentic Himalayan culture in its purest form.

The culture of Nar Phu Valley is quite traditional where people follow the chain of command. The decision making responsiblities goes to elder people, and leaders of the village. Worth noting is the significance of Buddhist and Bon ceremonies and festivals in these communities; in addition to religious aspects, ceremonies involve masked dances, chants and celebrations. They also serve social purposes while reinforcing a sense of community identity. Even though the community may be geographically and culturally isolated, their regional customs and the close-knit group of families will ensure that the community’s cultural practices remain strongly embedded in their cultural practices.

Accommodation option for the Nar Phu Valley trek is quite unique but equally normal. During the stay in city areas like Kathmandu, they will stay at hotels or lodges. The accommodation of Kathmandu Valley is based on the luxury you are going to choose, which means you can either choose the budget-friendly trek, or the five star hotels stay with luxurious services. However, in the remote region of Nar Phu Valley, the accommodation is somewhat limited. The trekkers can either stay in the lodges, teahouses, or even monasteries, which can be a unique experience for those who haven’t stayed before.

Food options in the Nar Phu Valley are primarily focused on providing trekkers with the energy needed for the day’s trek. The staple meal is typically “Dal Bhat” (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), a nutritious and filling dish. Other common options include noodle soups, fried rice, and Tibetan bread. As you trek to lower altitudes like Koto and Meta, you might find simple Western-style dishes such as pasta, pancakes, and omelets. However, the variety is limited in the more remote, higher-altitude villages due to transportation.

The hardest section of the Nar Phu Valley Trek is widely considered to be the crossing of the Kang La Pass, which typically sits at an altitude of around 5,320 meters (17,454 feet). This pass connects the remote Nar Phu Valley with the more well-trodden Annapurna region near Ngawal. The ascent to the pass is steep and can be physically demanding, especially given the high altitude, which increases the risk of altitude sickness.

Furthermore, the terrain leading up to and down from Kang La Pass is often challenging. It can involve navigating narrow and rocky trails, potentially with loose scree or even snow and ice depending on the time of year. The long hours of trekking required on this day, coupled with the thinner air and unpredictable weather conditions at such a high elevation, make it the most strenuous and potentially hazardous part of the entire trek, demanding both physical and mental resilience.