Nar Phu Valley Trek

On Day 1, we will drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, which takes about 8-9 hours. After an early breakfast, our journey starts by passing through a scenic landscape, villages, and farms. We'll make our way to Besisahar Village and continue until we reach Jagat, where we will spend the night.

On Day 2, our trek from Jagat to Dharapani begins, lasting about 6-7 hours. We start by descending from Jagat, passing through farmland with crops like corn, barley, rice, and potatoes. Along the way, we go through bamboo and rhododendron forests, reaching a ridge with stunning views of the valley, waterfalls, and the towering Annapurna Mountains. After a challenging trail with rocks, we descend to the river leading to Tal Village and finally reach Dharapani, where we will spend the night.

On Day 3, we trek from Dharapani to Koto, taking about 5-6 hours. Starting in the morning, our trek leads us to Bagarchhap in around 1.5 hours, passing through pine and fir forests to reach a village with a prominent white-painted monastery. Following a steep trail with signs of landslides for another hour, we reach Danaque, offering breathtaking views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Continuing for 1.5 hours, we stop for lunch at Latamarang Village (2400m), then press on, occasionally catching glimpses of the enormous Annapurna II peak (7937m). Finally, we reach Koto Village, where we'll spend the night.

On Day 4, we trek from Koto to Meta, taking about 6-7 hours. In the morning, we register for our restricted area permit and follow the trail along the riverbank until we reach Soti Khola Village by the river. The path goes through pine forests and crosses a suspension bridge before ascending to Meta Village, situated on a wide open plain on the Tibetan Plateau. From Meta, you can enjoy fantastic views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.

On Day 5, we trek from Meta to Phu Gaun, which takes about 6-7 hours. The trail includes crossing several suspension bridges, and after approximately 4 hours, we arrive at Kyang Village with ancient ruins, remnants of forts from the time when the Tibetan Khampa people fought with Nepal and later settled. We continue, passing Phu Khola, and finally, after 3 to 4 hours, we reach the village of Phu Gaon, where we will spend the night.

On Day 6, we trek from Phu Gaon to Nar, taking about 6-7 hours. The trail descends, passing streams and crossing suspension bridges, leading us to Nar Village. Nar Village is known for its Buddhist monasteries and offers breathtaking views of Pisang Peak (6092m) and other snow-covered mountains. We'll spend the night in Nar, surrounded by numerous stupas (dome-shaped Buddhist shrines) and impressive stone buildings.

On Day 7, we take a day for acclimatization in Nar to prepare for higher elevations. Staying active is recommended during acclimatization, so we'll explore the village, admire its distinctive Tibetan cultural symbols, and meet the friendly locals. Optional treks include visiting Tashi Lhakhang (monastery) and heading to Himlung Base Camp (4842m), which is only a 3 to 4 km trek. We'll spend the night in Nar.

On Day 8, we start early with a challenging uphill trek to Kang La Pass, passing through Jhombu Kharka Village at its base, also known as Kang La Phedi. The panoramic view of the Annapurna Massif from this point is stunning. After crossing the pass, we descend rapidly to Nawal Village, where we will spend the night.

On Day 9, we depart from Nawal and head to Manang. Along the trail, we pass through the mountainous village of Paugh, nestled on the mountainside with its typical stone buildings. In the backdrop, you can catch distant views of the expansive Annapurna Mountains. As we reach the small village of Mungi, we join the main Annapurna trail and proceed until we reach Manang, where we'll spend the night.

On Day 10, we embark on a 10.4 km uphill trek for about 3 to 4 hours, making our way to Yak Kharka. The trail takes us through juniper forests, and we'll spot yaks grazing in the pastures. Along the route, we pass the lone teahouse at Thorong Khola. The predominant vegetation at this altitude consists of juniper trees. Depending on conditions, we might choose to trek a bit more and spend the night at Leader.

On Day 11, as we ascend to higher altitudes, we acclimate to the elevation. Following the east bank of the Jarang Khola, we encounter steep bluffs along the trail before reaching Thorong Phedi, meaning foothills. If fortunate, we might catch sight of the renowned blue sheep or even a snow leopard. This area is also home to the Lammergeyer (bearded vulture), and there's a belief that mythical griffons reside here!

On Day 12, expect the most challenging part of the trek, lasting around 7-8 hours due to the higher altitude and occasional strong winds. Along the trail, you might encounter sheep, yaks, and merchants transporting goods. Reaching Thorong La Pass rewards you with stunning views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the captivating peak of Khatungkang (6484m). Descending around 1600 meters, you'll witness the magnificent Dhaulagiri, the highest mountain entirely in Nepal. The trail becomes more gentle and easier before reaching Muktinath, where we'll spend the night.

On Day 13, we trek from Muktinath through green meadows, fruit-filled orchards, and flowing streams, passing through Kagbeni before reaching Jomsom in the Kali Gandaki valley. Kagbeni is well-known for its flourishing horticulture industry. We will spend the night in Jomsom.

On Day 14, we travel from Jomsom to Tatopani using local transportation, passing through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest gorge. The Kali Gandaki River separates the prominent peaks of Dhaulagiri (8167m) on the west and Annapurna (8091m) on the east. As we descend further through the gorge, the landscape transforms from dry, barren rock to lush pastures and farmland. Upon reaching Tatopani, we can unwind in the hot natural springs by the river to soothe tired muscles.

On Day 15, we drive from Tatopani to Pokhara, taking about 5-6 hours. Upon reaching Pokhara, we check into our Lakeside hotel, where we can explore Phewa Tal (lake) and enjoy views of Mt Machapuchare (Fish Tail) in the distance. Optionally, we can take a boat ride on Phewa Tal, Nepal's second-largest lake, or stroll along Lakeside for some shopping. In the evening, we have the option to visit clubs and bars to celebrate our return to civilization.

On Day 16, we embark on a 6 to 7-hour drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, cherishing the lasting memories of Nepal's distinctive culture and geography that will stay with us forever.