Annapurna Nar Phu Trekking
Annapurna Nar Phu Trekking“Exciting, scenic walks above high Manang valley to hidden areas of Nar-Phu isolated areas Adventure around North of Annapurna Himalaya and crossing high Kang-la and Thorang-La Pass Within high green hills covered with tall rhododendron-magnolia and pines tree lines Walk from low warm paddy fields to cooler alpine hills to the vast arctic zone of ice and glaciers Explore traditional Manang-Gurung, Thakali villages of colorful Buddhist culture and custom Sweeping flight from Jomsom to picturesque Pokhara valley blessed with natural beauty”
Well Plan Trekking Path offers a cultural and scenic adventure Annapurna Nar-Phu Trekking which leads you into complete isolation away from the mainstream route of Annapurna circuit trail into the remote and hidden country beyond and high scenic Manang Valley. Annapurna Nar Phu Trekking a unique destination in total harmony of pristine natural surrounding high mountains of Annapurna-Damodar Himal with Chulus peaks with close views of Himlung and Manaslu Himal towards east directions.
An adventure that leads you on time forgotten areas and old sleepy villages least touched and ventured by other flow of visitors in this undisturbed area of Nar and Phu villages where culture similar to Tibetans across the border of old Buddhist religion and age-old custom. At Nar-Phu enjoy the ambiance of nature with the tremendous scenery of mountains where often rare and elusive Snow Leopard and the herd of Blue Sheep are seen on walks within this remote high country. Annapurna Nar Phu Trekking starts with the overland drive from the capital Kathmandu to reach Nepal Mid West region into warm lower mid-hills and valley of Lamjung district at Besisar town and then heading beyond to begin our adventurous walks towards higher Manang valley. Walk proceeds past nice farm villages of Tal-Dharapani and Koto close to the large town of Chame the district headquarter of Manang areas, from here our route splits leaving the main Annapurna circuit trail heading into hidden areas of Nar and Phu. Our route leads into deep river gorge covered within the alpine forest of pines, rhododendron, oaks and fir tree lines and soon fades to smaller high vegetation bushes of juniper and alpine shrubs facing incredible scenery of peaks that surround the higher area of Manang.
Finally after a scenic and hard walks reaching first at Phu Gaon village to explore the old culture of the villages and visiting its interesting monasteries along with views of snow-capped peaks and then the adventure continues to Nar village and towards Kang-la pass to cross over to reach back at main Annapurna circuit route at Manang main village.
After a pleasant stop at Manang village with fantastic views heading towards the highest spot of the adventure on top 5,545 m high at Thorang-La Pass with the mind-blowing panorama of landscapes and peaks to reach at Mustang areas at Muktinath and Jomsom for the scenic flight to land at picturesque Pokhara on completing a remarkable adventure Annapurna Nar-Phu Trekking.
outlook itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu 1,345 m and then transfer to respective Hotels
Day 02: Drive to Syange village 960 m – 06 hrs journey journeys.
Day 03: Trek to Dharapani 1,920 m – 06 hrs.
Day 04: Trek to Koto 2, 580 m near Chame 2,670 m – 05 hrs.
Day 05: Trek to Dharmashala 3,230 m – 05 hours.
Day 06: Trek to Kyang 3,020 m – 05 hours.
Day 07: Trek to Phu village 4,080 m – 06hours.
Day 08: Rest day at Phu village and explore Phu Valley.
Day 09: Trek to Nar Phedi 3, 545 m – 06 hrs.
Day 10: Trek to Nar Gaon 4,206 m – 06 hrs.
Day 11: Trek to Kang La Base Camp 4,530 m – 05 hrs.
Day 12: Cross Kangla Pass 5, 322 m trek to Ngawal 3,650 m – 07 hrs.
Day 13: Trek to Manang Village 3,450 m – 05 hrs.
Day 14: Trek to Yak Kharka 4,110 m – 04 hrs.
Day 15: Trek to Thorang High Camp 4,600 m – 04 hrs.
Day 16: Crossover Thorang-La 5,416 m and descend to Muktinath 3,800 m – 07 hrs.
Day 17: Drive to Pokhara 860 m – 9 hrs and transfer to the hotel by Phewa Lake.
Day 18: Drive to Kathmandu and then transfer to your hotels.
Day 19: International departure for homeward bound or to respective countries.
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu 1,345 m and transfer to respective Hotels
On reaching Kathmandu via respective airlines well received by company guides and staff for short drive in the hub of Kathmandu city where your hotels located. After checking into your lovely rooms getting refreshed join in at the Hotel lobby for a group briefing regarding treks and other useful information to make your stay in Nepal enjoyable and pleasant.
Day 02: Drive to Syange village 960 m - 06 hrs journey journeys.
Annapurna Nar-Phu trekking begins with the overland drive to Nepal Mid West taking a comfortable coach or in Tourist Bus to reach scenic Pokhara, a beautiful and leading tourist place in all Himalaya range, with warm sub-tropical temperatures and close views of Annapurna Himalaya with Mt. Manaslu.On reaching Besisar a large town and headquarters of Lamjung district where drive continues on the rt road following Marysangdi River to reach Syange for the overnight stop in this nice farm village.
Day 03: Trek to Dharapani 1,920 m - 06 hours.
First-day walk begins uphill after leaving Marysangdi River behind to reach Jagat village, a farm village with many lodges for trekkers. from Jagat, the village walk continues on the winding path to Chamje, and back at Marysangdi River to cross the eastern bank into the forested area, with views of Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, as our walk advances on a wide path to Tal Besi. Here for the refreshing break, and then a few hours, the walk continues to Dharapani village for the overnight stop, Dharapani is a nice village situated on the junction of the Annapurna circuit and Manaslu trekking trail. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Trek to Koto 2, 580 m near Chame 2,670 m - 05 hrs.
After Dharapani walks on the wide winding trail with rhododendron and pine forests past Bagachap and Danque village, and then uphill to Timang village, from here onwards entering more Buddhist cultural villages offering views of Mt. Manaslu. From Timang a few hours' trek to Koto and then to reach Koto village where the ute to Nar and Phu separates the village close to Chame a large headquarters town of Manang district. At Koto it is time for the short walk to Chame, a city of great interest, and its bazaar with stores and shops including many lodges and restaurants. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek to Dharmashala 3,230m - 05 hours.
After Koto our route heads north away from the Annapurna circuit trail for a week heading towards Nar & Phu villages, in the hidden areas of Upper Manang valley near South West Tibet border in the country of blue sheep and snow leopards. Trek leads into the narrow valley with a forest of pines and rhododendron trees, then reaching nice pasture fields with huts and sheds of Yak herders and in the gorge formed by Pisang Peak and Kang-guru Himal lower basin, where alk continues following Nar-Phu River upstream to reach at Dharmashala for another overnight stop. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 06: Trek to Kyang 4,100 m - 6 hrs.
Morning walk leads far north towards Phu village isolated area of dry, arid landscapes, on the lookout for some wildlife’s Blue Sheep, Snow Leopard, Musk deer and mountain goats. The walk continues to Kyang for another overnight stop after an interesting day, Kyang with dozen houses of Tibetan culture. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Trek to Phu village 4,080 m - 06 hours.
Today's destination to Phu village morning walk towards Phu River following upstream for some time and then descending back to the river again, then climbing to reach a gorge valley, walking around the gorge for some time and up into a wide glacial valley with pasture lands ending at Phu village of strong Tibetan influence culture, traditions, and religion. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Rest Day at Phu Village visit around Phu Village and the valley
A necessary rest day at Phu for acclimatization, explore this impressive village visit Tashilkhang and Samdu Choling Monastery and Kyauchyu waterfalls, Phu Village with about 30 houses for 100 to 150 inhabitants. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Trek to Nar Phedi 3,545 m - 06 hrs.
From Phu village walk leads back on the same trail for a few hours descending to a narrow gorge at Phu Khola, from here a slow climb to reach Yughat small village with mani, shortens and Buddhist shrines, then finally reaching a flat field at Nar Phedi for the overnight stop. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Nar-Gaon 4,206 m - 06 hrs.
The morning walk leads back to Phu Khola for a few hours to reach a suspension bridge over Phu Khola, crossing the bridge with a steep climb for a few hours reaching a flat area then walking to Nar village overnight. Naragon in comparison with Phu looks similar but smaller due to its remoteness with high altitude and dry land. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Trek to Kang-La Base Camp 4,530 m - 05 hrs.
After the Nar-Gaon walk heads to the remote wilderness, away from the human settlement for a few days, an interesting walk for a few hours then with short ups and downs in some rocky and arid paths, passing cattle herders' shelters and grazing fields heading further west following Temdenzon Khola (stream) around this wild areas with views of peaks and finally reaching at Kang la pass Phedi or a base for overnight stop with camping at 4,530 meters altitude. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Cross Kangla Pass 5,322m and trek to Ngawal 3,650 m - 07 hrs.
Starting early morning to cross Kang-la at an altitude of 5,322 meters, the walk climbs higher on a steep slope for a few hours with stunning views of Pisang Peak with Chulu Far East Peak, and then reaching the top of the pass with wonderful views of Annapurna massif mountain range, Chulu Peaks, Lamjung Himal and adjoining peaks of Annapurna range, and then walk downhill to Ngawal via Julu village close to Manang village to reach main route on Annapurna circuit trail. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Trek to Manang Village 3,450 m - 05 hrs.
Ngawalk village offers great views of mountains and surrounding landscapes, from here the walk is easier with the low walk with short uphill offering views of staggering Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna Chulu’s, and Pisang Peak. From a high ridge entering a flat valley near Hongdae village, and then onward where tree lines disappear for barren, arid landscapes with cold, dry arctic climate. Before Manang, visit the old Braga monastery with old Buddhist relics, ancient wall paintings, frescos, and stunning views of Annapurna Himalaya, from here an hour's walk reaches Manang village. The houses are built in traditional Tibetan style, Manang people are known for their rich culture and traditions. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Trek to Yak Kharka 4,110 m - 04 hours.
After a pleasant time overnight at Manang village, a morning walk leads towards Ghunsang village on uphill walks with a gradual winding path to Yak Kharka, an interesting high altitude trekking with super views of snowcapped mountains, then crossing a small stream river to reach Yak Kharka, a small settlement with tremendous views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Chulu Peaks. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Trek to Thorang High Camp 4,600 m - 04 hrs.
As the walk advances towards the higher area, heading closer to the base of Thorang-la and then crossing a bridge with a climb along the riverbank of Jarjung, as the walk leads to Thorang Phedi, here depends upon the physical conditions of the clients, if all goes well an hour steep climb to Thorang High Camp for the overnight stop. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: Crossover Thorang-La 5,416 m and descend to Muktinath 3,800 m - 07 hrs.
Our hardest and main adventure of the trek having an early breakfast walk leads to a long steep climb to reach on top of Thorang-la at 5,416 m. The top of the pass is marked with Buddhist color prayer flags and a signboard with the name and altitude of Thorang-La Pass, with views of dramatic landscapes and high snowcapped peaks, from here a long descent takes you to Muktinath at 3,800 m. At holy Muktinath areas for the overnight stop, regarded as a Mother sacred spot for both Hindus and Buddhists, the name Muktinath means ‘place for Nirvana or Liberation’. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 17: Drive to Pokhara 860 m 09 hrs
From Muktinath, the rest of the journey is much easier on downhill hills where our walk stops for the great adventure of short motorable drive, taking a drive with a big drop of 1,200m to Kaligandaki river valley, within the vast Kaligandaki river valley to reach Jomsom, headquarter town of Mustang region with a small airstrip above Kaligandaki River. Our adventure finally ends with the ort drive to Pokhara by the Phewa Lakeside after completing a grand adventure on Annapurna Nar-Phu trekking.
Day 18: From Pokhara drive to Kathmandu 1,345 m - 06hrs.
After a wonderful time in the high mountains and hills, take a morning driving journey back to Kathmandu, on reaching Kathmandu after 5-6 hours of nice interesting drive, transfer to respective hotels with the afternoon free at leisure or last day shopping souvenirs and handicrafts.
(Options by air 30 minutes flight back to Kathmandu with great views)
Day 19: International Departure for Homeward Bound.
Last day in Nepal in the country of high Himalayan mountains with fascinating culture, after a memorable adventure on Annapurna Nar-Phu Trekking with marvelous time and experience, as per your international flight time our staff will transfer you to the airport for the flight homeward bound or to your next port of call and respective countries.
What is included?
- Airport picks up and drops off, upon arrival and departure.
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Pre trek meeting.
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Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast as per the program.
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Hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast as per the program.
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All Ground transportation tourist bus .
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Guesthouse accommodation during the trekking period.
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Food during the trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner with tea/coffee and seasonal fresh fruits).
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Special Permit for Nar Phu region.
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Annapurna Conservation Area permits fee.
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1 professional, licensed and English speaking mountain trekking guide.
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Well experienced English speaking assistant guide if the group size exceeds 3+ persons.
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Well experienced well-equipped trekking porter.
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First aid medical kit, Oximeter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.
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All applicable taxes as per the government rules and regulations.
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All organizational requirements.
What is not included?
- Nepal visa
- Your international flight to and from Nepal.
- Travel insurance (for helicopter evacuation if needed whilst on trekking).
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, internet/e-mail, etc.
- Bar and beverage bills.
- Tip for guide, porter and drivers.
Physically condition & experience requirements
For physically fit person of all ages with sound health who have done moderate to strenuous walk and activity before or at present. This type of treks involves long ups and downs and the length of walking will be from 5 - 7 hours every day with rest and break in between. The whole trip goes from a week to two weeks or more in the high altitude. This trip is for well experience people who have done previous long high hills or mountainous trekking in and around Himalaya or other mountainous areas on rough terrains, this trip involves walking in snow and ice conditions sometimes and encountering high of over 4,000 meters passes, as for moderate people can join on this type of trips as long they are super physically fit and a mind with positive and determinations. Past hiking experience is a must but no technical skill is required for this trip .participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung and blood diseases should inform well plan trekking before booking the trek .we also recommend that you consult your doctors before the trip.
Accommodations on the trek
In Kathmandu, we use the deluxe hotel to ensure a comfortable stay and relaxed environment before and after your adventure. All breakfasts are included at the hotel in Kathmandu. Rooms are generally twin share - depending on group size and room availability, the triple share may be offered to your request. A single supplement room is available at an additional cost. And on request single supplement will be charged US$200.well plan trekking will arrange clean and comfortable rooms with attached washrooms; however, teahouse in some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities .also note that single rooms are available the trekking regions at the lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.
Meals during the trek
In the city, only breakfast is included on the trip itinerary. While on the trek, we provide good quality food in sufficient quantities from Tea Houses/Mt. lodges. We provide all meals on full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and tea & coffee) from the teahouse menu during the trekking period. Various meals including noodles item, soups, bread, rice item, curries, spaghetti, pizza, egg items, potatoes item, pasta, the fresh vegetable so overall you have a different choice of food on the trek.
Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at the altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 liters per person per day. We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on the trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal’s trekking areas.
All tea houses will provide cold water free of charge if requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you bring a reusable bottle with a wide opening (Nalgene or similar) with you and use a SteriPEN to treat it with. A SteriPEN is a handheld UV water purifier – small, lightweight and battery powered so easy to pack for a trek. In Nepal’s trekking regions most of the bottled water isn’t strictly ‘mineral water’ anyway but is UV treated, so it’s exactly the same technology. It’s quick to use, far more effective than purification tablets, and the water is ready immediately. It’s fine to use a SteriPEN on non-boiled water so long as it isn’t cloudy or full of sediment (which is uncommon in these regions).
TRAVEL & MEDICAL & TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before you book any of our trips we strongly suggest that you buy medical and travel insurance to make you stay and while traveling in Nepal Himalaya or neighboring countries, which will help and support you, in case medical and travel problem arise and situation beyond companies control. If such situation arises with emergency evacuation, where your medical bills on using transportations services by Helicopter or other means of which you can directly claim from your insurance, which is to be paid by you or by your insurance company on the spot.
Where Well Plan Treks will obtain a strong letter of the incidents occurred so that you can claim from your insurance agents. In case of mishaps and accidents or severe illness, we will contact your insurance company if it is okay to use Heli or other immediate life-saving process and transportation to nearest medical post and hospitals, where your insurance company will directly pay related expenses accordingly as per situations and conditions of the victims. For all trips with us, we need your contact address as well of you next to kin, family members, close relatives or friends in case of emergency purpose.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is late September to May, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good, the days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.
EQUIPMENT
Recommended equipment list
This list is a guide to help you pack for your trip. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list; rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel necessary for your comfort and convenience .we also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.
Head
• The warm hat that covers your ears
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Headlamp with extra batteries
Upper body
• T-shirts
• Fleece jacket or sweater
• Fleece wind –stopper jacket
• Waterproof shell jacket
• Down vest and /or jacket (optional)Hands
• Lightweight gloves (water /windproof)
• Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower body
• Underwear
• Hiking trousers
• Fleece or woolen trousers
• Lightweight thermal bottoms
• Lightweight cotton pants
• Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric )shell pants Feet
• Thin lightweight inner socks
• Heavy poly or wool socks
• Hiking boots with spare laces
• Camp shoes (sneakers and sandals)
Sleeping
• Sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C de 14 degrees F)
• Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
Toiletries
• Toothbrush /paste
• Multi-purpose soap
• Nail clippers
• Deodorants
• Medium-sized quick-drying towel
• Face and body moisturizer
• Small mirror
• Female hygiene products
Personal hygiene
• Wet wipes (baby wipes)
• Tissue/toilet roll
• Antibacterial hand wash
Medical
• Small, personal first-aid kit (simple and light)
• A cough and /or cold medicine
• Anti –altitude sickness pills; Diamox or acetazolamide
• Stomach antibiotic
Extras /luxuries
• Reading book
• Trail map /guidebook
• Journal and pen
• Travel game(chess, backgammon, playing cards etc)
• Modest swimsuit
• Binoculars
• Camera