Nar Phu Valley,Tilicho With Annapurna Circuit
Trip Overview
The Nar Phu Valley, Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek is an extraordinary journey that takes you through some of the most remote, culturally rich and visually stunning landscapes in Nepal. This trek is a fusion of three iconic routes offering a diverse experience that captures the essence of the Himalayas. Starting in the secluded Nar Phu Valley you will be immersed in an ancient world where Tibetan culture thrives amidst the harsh yet beautiful Himalayan environment. The villages of Nar and Phu are like living museums where time seems to have stood still. Here, you will encounter centuries-old monasteries, prayer flags fluttering in the wind and a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations. The rugged terrain, dotted with stone houses and terraced fields, is surrounded by towering peaks such as Kang Guru and Himlung Himal creating a dramatic backdrop for your journey.
As you leave the Nar Phu Valley, the trek continues with the challenging crossing of Kang La Pass, a high-altitude gateway that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail then leads to the pristine Tilicho Lake one of the highest lakes in the world. Nestled amidst towering snow-covered peaks, the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake are a sight to behold, reflecting the raw beauty and serenity of the high Himalayas. The trek to Tilicho Lake is an adventure in itself with diverse landscapes ranging from arid deserts to alpine meadows offering a constantly changing and awe-inspiring environment.The journey continues with the crossing of Thorong La Pass, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit at 5,416 meters. From here, the trek descends into the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, where the landscapes shift dramatically from arid highlands to lush green valleys.
Along the way, you will visit cultural hubs like Manang and Marpha where you can explore ancient monasteries, interact with local communities and experience the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The trek also includes a visit to the sacred Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, adding a spiritual dimension to the adventure. The trek concludes with a visit to the hot springs at Tatopani, where you can relax and rejuvenate after days of trekking and a sunrise hike to Poon Hill, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This combined trek is a journey of a lifetime, blending remote wilderness, cultural exploration and breathtaking natural beauty into one unforgettable adventure.
- Remote and Untouched Nar Phu Valley
- Challenging Kang La Pass
- Tilicho Lake
- Thorong La Pass
- Diverse Annapurna Circuit
- Manang and Marpha Villages
- Muktinath Temple
- Scenic Kali Gandaki Gorge
- Hot Springs at Tatopani
- Panoramic Views
Cost Includes:
- Trekking Permits
- Transportation
- Accommodation during trek *
- Guide and Porter
- Meals during trek *
- First Aid Kit
- Taxes and Fees
- Insurance for Guide And Porter
- Airport pick up and drop off
Cost Excludes:
- International Flights
- Visa fees
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Expenses
- Additional Services
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Extra Accommodation
- Cost Due To Unforeseen Events
* The cost for each trip may vary based on the selected itinerary, the duration of the trip, and any personal preferences you may have. During treks, your package includes accommodation with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, for your stay in major cities, accommodation is provided at a hotel where only breakfast is included, served by the hotel itself.
Permits
Obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) a special restricted area permit and (Trekkers Information Management System) card for Nar Phu Valley.
Physical Fitness
Prepare with regular cardio and strength training. The trek is challenging with steep ascents and high-altitude passes.
Acclimatization
Include acclimatization days in your itinerary to prevent altitude sickness. Gradual ascent is a key to acclimatization.
Best Time to Trek
The ideal seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when weather conditions are stable and views are clear.
Packing Essentials
Pack warm clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy trekking boots and essential trekking equipment. Include a good sleeping bag and a personal first aid kit.
Accommodation
Expect basic teahouses and lodges along the route with simple amenities. Carry a sleeping bag for colder nights.
Food and Water
Meals are basic, usually dal bhat, noodles and soups. Drink only boiled or purified water to avoid illness.
Altitude Awareness
Be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, dizziness and nausea. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.
Respect Local Culture
Respect the local customs and traditions, especially in monasteries and villages. Always seek permission before photographing locals.
Environmental Responsibility
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash and minimize your environmental impact.
Insurance
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Communication
Mobile networks are unreliable in remote areas. Consider carrying a satellite phone for emergency communication.
Cash
Carry sufficient cash in Nepali Rupees for the entire trek, as ATMs are not available in remote areas.
How difficult is this trek?
The trek is challenging involving high-altitude passes, steep ascents and rugged terrain. It requires good physical fitness and previous trekking experience.
What is the best time to undertake this trek?
The best times are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable and the views are clear.
Do I need special permits for this trek?
Yes, you need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), a restricted area permit and (Trekkers Information Management System)card for Nar Phu Valley.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
Accommodation is typically basic, with teahouses and lodges offering simple amenities. Carry a sleeping bag for colder nights.
How should I prepare for high altitude?
Include acclimatization days in your itinerary, ascend gradually and stay hydrated. Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms and descend if necessary
What should I pack for the trek?
Pack warm clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy trekking boots and essential trekking equipment. A good sleeping bag, personal first aid kit and water purification methods are also important.
What are the food options like?
Food options are basic, generally including Nepali and Tibetan dishes like dal bhat, noodles and soups. Carry snacks for extra energy.
Are there ATMs on the trek?
No, there are no ATMs in the remote areas. Carry sufficient cash in Nepali Rupees for the entire trek.
How do I handle altitude sickness?
Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated and monitor for symptoms of altitude sickness. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
What is the communication situation on the trek?
Mobile network coverage is limited in remote areas. Consider carrying a satellite phone for emergency communication.
Can I access internet during the trek?
Internet access is limited and often unreliable in remote areas. Prepare for minimal connectivity.
What is the cultural significance of the trek?
The trek takes you through regions with rich Tibetan culture, including ancient monasteries, traditional villages and unique customs.
Trip Start & End | Kathmandu – Kathmandu | Meals | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
Maximum Altitude | 5416m, Thorong La Pass | Difficulty Level | Challenging |
Transportation | Flight, Car, Jeep or Bus | Best season | Sept-Nov, Mar-May |
Accommodation | Hotels, Tea Houses & Lodges | Trip Area | Annapurna Conservation Area |
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
→ Activity: Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel or to relax after your journey. In the evening, there will be a briefing about the trek.
→ Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Koto via Besisahar
→ Activities: Drive from Kathmandu to Koto (2,600m), passing through scenic landscapes and the town of Besisahar.
→ Duration: 8-9 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Koto.
Day 3: Trek from Koto to Meta
→ Activities: Begin trekking from Koto to Meta (3,560m). The trail winds through dense forests, crossing several suspension bridges over the Nar Khola.
→ Duration: 7-8 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Meta.
Day 4: Trek from Meta to Phu Village
→ Activities: Continue trekking to Phu Village (4,080m). The trail passes through the small villages of Chyakhu and Kyang, with increasingly barren landscapes as you ascend towards Phu.
→ Duration: 6-7 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Phu Village.
Day 5: Acclimatization and Exploration in Phu Village
→ Activities: Spend the day acclimatizing and exploring Phu Village. Visit Tashi Lhakhang Monastery.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Phu Village.
Day 6: Trek from Phu Village to Nar Phedi
→ Activities: Retrace your steps and trek back from Phu Village to Nar Phedi (3,490m).
→ Duration: 6-7 hours.
→ Overnight: Monastery Lodge in Nar Phedi.
Day 7: Trek from Nar Phedi to Nar Village
→ Activities: A short, steep ascent from Nar Phedi to Nar Village (4,110m). Nar is a vibrant village with many chortens, prayer wheels and an active local community.
→ Duration: 3-4 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Nar Village.
Day 8: Acclimatization and Exploration in Nar Village
→ Activities: Spend the day acclimatizing in Nar Village. Explore the village.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Nar Village.
Day 9: Trek from Nar Village to Ngawal via Kang La Pass
→ Activities: Begin an early ascent to cross the Kang La Pass (5,320m). The climb is challenging but the views from the top are incredible with a panorama of Annapurna II, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak. Descend to the village of Ngawal (3,660m).
→ Duration: 7-8 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Ngawal.
Day 10: Trek from Ngawal to Manang
→ Activities: A relatively easy trek to Manang (3,540m), passing through pine forests and small villages. Manang is a major stop on the Annapurna Circuit offering good facilities and opportunities for acclimatization.
→ Duration: 4-5 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Manang.
Day 11: Acclimatization Day in Manang
→ Activities: Spend a day acclimatizing in Manang. Explore the village, visit the Gangapurna Lake and hike up to viewpoints like the Praken Gompa for stunning views of the Annapurna range.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Manang.
Day 12: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka
→ Activities: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m), a small settlement on the way to Tilicho Lake. The trail offers fantastic views of Annapurna III and the Tilicho Peak.
→ Duration: 4-5 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Siri Kharka.
Day 13: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp
→ Activities: Continue trekking to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m). The trail is challenging with steep sections and exposed ridges but the scenery is spectacular with views of the high Himalayas all around.
→ Duration: 5-6 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Tilicho Base Camp.
Day 14: Visit Tilicho Lake and Return to Siri Kharka
→ Activities: Early morning hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world. Spend time at the lake, taking in the breathtaking views, before returning to Siri Kharka.
→ Duration: 6-7 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Siri Kharka.
Day 15: Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka
→ Activities: Trek back down to the main trail of the Annapurna Circuit, continuing on to Yak Kharka (4,020m). The trail ascends gradually passing through alpine meadows and yak pastures.
→ Duration: 5-6 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Yak Kharka.
Day 16: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
→ Activities: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,540m), the last stop before the Thorong La Pass. The trail is steep and challenging with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
→ Duration: 3-4 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Thorong Phedi.
Day 17: Cross Thorong La Pass and Trek to Muktinath
→ Activities: Start early to cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point on the trek. The ascent is tough but the views are rewarding. Descend to the holy town of Muktinath (3,800m).
→ Duration: 7-8 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Muktinath.
Day 18: Trek from Muktinath to Marpha via Kagbeni
→ Activities: Trek down to the village of Kagbeni, known for its medieval architecture and Tibetan culture. Continue to Marpha (2,670m), famous for its apple orchards.
→ Duration: 6-7 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Marpha.
Day 19: Trek from Marpha to Tatopani
→ Activities: Continue descending through the Kali Gandaki Valley to the village of Tatopani (1,200m), known for its natural hot springs. After days of trekking, enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs.
→ Duration: 6-7 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Tatopani.
Day 20: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani
→ Activities: A steep ascent through lush forests of rhododendron and oak, leading to Ghorepani (2,850m). The village is famous for its proximity to Poon Hill, a popular viewpoint.
→ Duration: 7-8 hours.
→ Overnight: Lodge in Ghorepani.
Day 21: Hike to Poon Hill and Trek to Nayapul; Drive to Pokhara
→ Activities: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Afterward, descend to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara.
→ Duration: 1-hour hike, 5-6 hours trek, 1.5-hour drive.
→ Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara.
Day 22:Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
→ Duration: 6-7 hours
→ Activity: Scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
→ Overnight: Stay in Kathmandu
Day 23: Departure from Kathmandu
→ Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to the airport for your departure from Kathmandu.

