Nar Phu Valley Trekking

Nar Phu Valley Trekking

Hidden by swirls of mountain mist ahead of us, from Kangla pass at 5200m the magnificent panorama view of Annapurna massif appears remote and forbidding.

Our sturdy mountain ponies every few steps, their steaming sweat-soaked bodies heaving. Behind us Hongde airport, which we left behind early in the morning, is a tiny speck. Our destination is the Nar-Phu valley, above the tree line on the upper limits of cultivation, in the very north of Manang district. It takes five hours reaching the pass that links Nar with Manang and three other Bhotia village in the Nyershang down valley.

Nowadays, Nar Phu the population about 300 inhabitants who depend on livestock, unlike most Bhotia people, whose trading patterns changed drastically after the Nepali Government closed borders with Tibet, the people of Nar and Phu valley were least affected by this change. The tortuous path leading from the valley into Tibet had never made them dependent on the salt trade, and till today yak herding is the basis of their livelihood.

Besides the Kangla linking Nar to the Nyeshang valley, the most direct route from Kathmandu to Nar and Phu is along the Marshyangdi River. Travelers trek through the Himalayan foothills and round the eastern end of the Annapurna before they arrive at Qupar, a police check post half and hour before Chame, Manang's district headquarters. From here a long and steep trail winds up to Nar and Phu whose villagers, laden with goods purchased in Chame and even lower down in Besi Shahar, the end of the road head leading to Manang, often camp at Dharmashala, a rudimentary wooden hut built by the people from the two villages.

The Government of Nepal recent decision to open up Nar and Phu to tourists has evoked little enthusiasm among the villagers, whose pastoral lifestyle continues. Apart from the odd researcher and climbing expeditions permitted to climb Mt. Kang Guru, Mt. Himlung, Mt. Ratna Chuli and Mt. Gyajing Kang, few foreigners has visited the area and tourism infrastructure is almost non-existent. Since Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) recently extended its network to include Nar and Phu Valley, it is preparing a suitable tourism development plan at the request of the government for undiscovered valley.

Trip Facts

Trek Duration : 24 days
Starting from : Besishahar
Ending at : Pokhara
Trek Departure : Every day throughout the week
Maximum Elevation : 5416 meters
Mode of Trip : Lodge + Camp Trek
Activities : Trekking + Tour
Group Size : 02 (minimum)
Per Day Hiking : 5-7 hours
Best Time : Jan, Feb, March, April, May, Oct, Nov, Dec
Trip Price: USD 2375.00 per person

Day to day itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu airport, meet our staff and transfer to Hotel.
Day 02: Sight seeing: Swayambhunath, Bouddhanath temple, Pashupatinath and Patan Durbar square.
Day 03: Kathmandu - Khuldi 792m.by Bus then overnight at Tented Camp.
Day 04: Khuldi - Ngadi. Tented Camp.
Day 05: Ngadi - Jagat 1314m, Tented Camp.
Day 06: Jagat - Dharapani 1943m. Tented Camp.
Day 07: Dharapani - Koto 2713m., Tented Camp.
Day 08: Koto - Chhacha 3300m. Tented Camp.
Day 09: Chhacha - Meta 3500m., Tented Camp.
Day 10: Meta - Junum, Tented Camp.
Day 11: Junum - Phu Gaun 3714m., Camp
Day 12: Rest day at Phu Gaun, Tented Camp.
Day 13: Hike around Phu valley, Tented Camp.
Day 14: Phu Gaun - Yak Kharka, Tented Camp.
Day 15: Yak Kharka - Panggi Pass, Tented Camp.
Day 16: Panggi - Above Nar, Tented Camp.
Day 17: Nar - Youingar, Tented Camp.
Day 18: Youingar - Kang La Pass (5200 m). Tented Camp.
Day 19: Kang La Pass - Manang Village 3351m., Tented Camp.
Day 20: Manang Village - Thorung Phedi. Tented Camp.
Day 21: Thorung Phedi - Thorung La Pass 5416m. - Muktinath 3802m. Tented Camp.
Day 22: Muktinath - Jomsom 2713m. and preparation.
Day 23: Jomsom - Pokhara then transfer to Hotel and free.
Day 24: Pokhara sight seeing: Davi's fall, Gupteshwor temple, Tibetan Refugee Camp, Tal Barahi temple, Bindabashini and Seti Gorge. with professional English speaking guide. 3/ 4 Hrs.
Day 25: Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist Bus then transfer to Hotel.
Day 26: Kathmandu free.
Day 27: Transfer to airport for onward journey.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu airport, meet our staff and transfer to Hotel.
Day 02: Sight seeing: Swayambhunath, Bouddhanath temple, Pashupatinath and Patan Durbar square.
Day 03: Kathmandu - Khuldi 792m.by Bus then overnight at Tented Camp.
Day 04: Khuldi - Ngadi. Tented Camp.
Day 05: Ngadi - Jagat 1314m, Tented Camp.
Day 06: Jagat - Dharapani 1943m. Tented Camp.
Day 07: Dharapani - Koto 2713m., Tented Camp.
Day 08: Koto - Chhacha 3300m. Tented Camp.
Day 09: Chhacha - Meta 3500m., Tented Camp.
Day 10: Meta - Junum, Tented Camp.
Day 11: Junum - Phu Gaun 3714m., Camp
Day 12: Rest day at Phu Gaun, Tented Camp.
Day 13: Hike around Phu valley, Tented Camp.
Day 14: Phu Gaun - Yak Kharka, Tented Camp.
Day 15: Yak Kharka - Panggi Pass, Tented Camp.
Day 16: Panggi - Above Nar, Tented Camp.
Day 17: Nar - Youingar, Tented Camp.
Day 18: Youingar - Kang La Pass (5200 m). Tented Camp.
Day 19: Kang La Pass - Manang Village 3351m., Tented Camp.
Day 20: Manang Village - Thorung Phedi. Tented Camp.
Day 21: Thorung Phedi - Thorung La Pass 5416m. - Muktinath 3802m. Tented Camp.
Day 22: Muktinath - Jomsom 2713m. and preparation.
Day 23: Jomsom - Pokhara then transfer to Hotel and free.
Day 24: Pokhara sight seeing: Davi's fall, Gupteshwor temple, Tibetan Refugee Camp, Tal Barahi temple, Bindabashini and Seti Gorge. with professional English speaking guide. 3/ 4 Hrs.
Day 25: Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist Bus then transfer to Hotel.
Day 26: Kathmandu free.
Day 27: Transfer to airport for onward journey.

Altitute Sickness

Altitude sickness often known as acute mountain sickness (A.M.S.) in general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. We ensure minimal risk by building in rest days into our trekking itineraries. Most people will feel some affect of altitude, shortness of breath and possibly a light headed, which is fairly common. Acute mountain sickness is very different and normally involves a severe headache, sickness and loss of awareness. In almost every potential case there are enough warning signs to take appropriate action.

Our expert and trained guides will advise you about any health requirements and also altitude sickness while you are trekking, so you should not worry about it, we do however recommend you get advice from your travel doctor or health advisor before you leave. The following information gives you an idea about high altitude sickness and how to minimize the affects

There are three stages of altitude sickness and symptoms.

1. Normal AMS Symptoms - Should expect but not worry.

Following are the normal altitude symptoms that you should expect but not be worried about. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

  • Periods of sleeplessness.
  • Need more sleep than normal (often 10 hours or more)
  • Occasional loss of appetite.
  • Vivid, wild dreams especially at around 2500-3800 meters in altitude.
  • Periodic breathing.
  • The need to rest/catch your breath frequently while trekking, especially above 3500 meters.
  • Runny nose.
  • Increasing urination while moving to/at higher altitudes (a good sign) 
  • Dizziness.

2. Mild AMS Symptoms - NEVER GO HIGHER

Many trekkers in the high valleys of the Himalaya get mild AMS, admit or acknowledge that you are having symptoms. You need have only one of the following symptoms to be getting altitude sickness.

  • Mild headache.
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness.
  • Weakness.
  • Sleeplessness.
  • Dry Raspy cough.
  • Fatigue/Tired.
  • Loss of apatite.
  • Runny nose.
  • Hard to breath.

What to do if a mild symptom doesn't go way?

  • If you find mild symptoms developing while walking, stop and relax (with your head out of sun) and drink some fluids. Drink frequently.
  • If mild symptoms developing while walking, stop have rest, drink some fluids and take 125-250mg Diamox. Diamox generally takes one to four hours to begin alleviating symptoms. Drink more water and consider staying close by. 
  • If symptoms develop in the evening, take 125-250mg Diamox and drink plenty of fluids again.
  • If symptoms partially go away but are still annoying it is safe to take another 250mg Diamox 6-8 hours later.
  • If mild symptoms continue getting worse try descending for a few hours which may be more beneficial than staying at the same altitude. Going higher will definitely make it worse. You're here to enjoy trekking not to feel sick.

3. Serious AMS Symptoms - IMMEDIATE DESCENT

  • Persistent, severe headache.
  • Persistent vomiting.
  • Ataxia (loss of co-ordination, an inability to walk in a straight line, making the sufferer look drunk)
  • Losing consciousness (inability to stay awake or understand instructions) 
  • Mental confusion or hallucinations.
  • Liquid sounds in the lungs.
  • Very persistent, sometimes watery, cough.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Rapid breathing or feeling breathless at rest.
  • Coughing clear fluid, pink phlegm or blood (a very bad sign).
  • Severe lethargy/fatigue.
  • Marked blueness of face and lips.
  • High resting heartbeat (over 130 beats per minute)
  • Mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.

Dangerous cases of AMS

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)

This is a build-up of fluid around the brain. It In most cases the first five symptoms on the mild and severe lists previously. Coma from HACE can lead to unconsciousness are death within 12 hours from the onset of symptoms, but normally takes 1-2 days to develop. At the first sign of ataxia begin treatment with medication, oxygen and descent. Usually 4 to 8mg of dexamethasone is given as a first does, then 4mg every six hours, Diamox every 12 hours and 2-4 liters /minute oxygen. Descent is necessary but a PAC (portable altitude chamber) bag will often be used first if available.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

This is an accumulation of fluid in the lungs and is very serious. It is responsible for all the other mild and serious symptoms and it is often accompanied by a mild fever. By far the treatment is oxygen at 4 liters a minute but using PAC (portable altitude chamber) bag treatment is a good substitute. If there is no PAC bag or oxygen then descent will be life saving. HAPE can lead to unconsciousness are death very quick.

Prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

  • Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  • Don't make rapid Ascent. Don't go too far too fast.
  • No Alcohol, Sleeping pills and Smoking.
  • Drink more fluid 3-4 Liters a day, clean water-boiled or treated / tea / coffee / soup / juice etc.
  • Climb high and sleep low.
  • Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  • Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  • Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  • Never leave or descent sick person along.
  • Avoid getting cold.
  • Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer.

First Aid Kit

This is the basic list to cover the more common ailments that affect trekkers. Climbing groups, expeditions and trekkers going to isolated areas will need a more comprehensive kit.

  • Bandage for sprains
  • Plasters/Band-aids
  • Iodine or water filter (optional)
  • Moleskin/Second skin - for blisters
  • Antiseptic ointment for cuts
  • Anti-bacterial throat lozenges (with antiseptic)
  • Aspirin/Paracetamol - general painkiller
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxin)
  • Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic)
  • Diarrhea stopper (Imodium - optional)
  • Antibiotic for Guardia or similar microbe or bacteria
  • Diamox 250/500mg (for altitude sickness)
  • Sterile Syringe set (anti-AIDS precaution)
  • Gel hand cleaner.

What to Pack

Essential Equipment List

Luggage should be restricted to a frameless backpack which must not weigh more than 20kgs (ideal – 15kg). We recommend a backpack over a suitcase for ease of transportation.

  • Passport/Tickets/Vaccination Certificates/Spare Passport Photos/Travel Insurance Policy
  • Money Belt

Recommended general packing list

  • Travel towel (i.e microfibre material)
  • Toiletries
  • Biodegradable Laundry Soap
  • Torch/Spare Batteries
  • Sun Hat
  • Anti-bacterial hand wipes/santitizer
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera – film/batteries/memory card/charger
  • Travel alarm clock
  • Sewing kit
  • Reading material/Guide Books
  • Padlocks
  • Travel pillow
  • Swiss army knife
  • Travel clothesline
  • Universal sink plug/Laundry Soap
  • Student ID (if applicable)
  • I-pod/MP3/Discman
  • Pens and Notebook

Clothes and Footwear

  • Light versatile clothes – cotton and quick drying (dark colours recommended)
  • Underwear/socks
  • Swimwear
  • 2 x long trousers, these should be lightweight and comfortable, preferably cotton.
  • 2 x shorts
  • Skirt/dress
  • Sarong/headscarf (particularly useful if you need to cover up quickly)
  • 4 T-Shirts/2 Long-sleeve t-shirts
  • Fleece (for cooler evenings)/Thermal underwear for high altitude areas
  • 1 smart/casual outfit for evenings out
  • 1 Waterproof/windproof jacket
  • Comfortable walking shoes – trainers/sandals
  • Hiking boots if any trekking involved
  • Flip Flops/Thongs/Jandals – also for the showers

Recommended First Aid Supplies

  • Sunscreen
  • Plasters/Bandage/Steri-Strips
  • Antiseptic
  • Blister pads
  • Pain killers
  • Diarrhorea remedies
  • Moisturiser/after sun cream/lip balm
  • Malaria Tablets (if required)
  • Any prescription medication required (please inform the tour leader at your pre-departure meeting about these)
  • Contact lenses and solution
  • Cold/flu decongestants
  • Antihistamines
  • Travel motion-sickness tablets (i.e. natural ginger tablets)
  • Contraceptives
  • Mosquito Repellent
  • Insect bite cream
  • Tampons
  • Tweezers
  • Rehydration salts (Gastrolyte)

Cost Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

  • Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & transfer by car / Van.
  • 3 nights accommodation with breakfast at 4star hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Kathmandu city tour as per the above itinerary.
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with Tea & coffee during the trek.
  • Lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek.
  • 1 highly experienced, helpful and friendly Guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people), their food, accommodation, salary, equipments, insurance.
  • Surface Transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Annapurna conservation permit, and all necessary permits.
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit.
  • 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara inclusive of Government taxes & Breakfast.
  • 2 nights / 3 days Chitwan Package trip.
  • Tourist service charge, Vat.
  • Office Service charge.

Cost Excludes

  • Any meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara other than breakfast.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Nepal Tourist Visa fee US$ 25 or equivalent foreign currency with multiple entry for 15 days, US$ 40 or equivalent foreign currency with multiple entry for 30 days.
  • You may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport - Kathmandu.
  • Disembarkation Airport Tax in Nepal - approx.
  • US$ 24.
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Any kind of alcoholic drinks, hot water, hot shower, cold drinks, laundry, phone call, internet.
  • Trekking Equipments (down sleeping bag and down jackets are available to hire or buy in Kathmandu, which would cost approximately US$ 1 per day per item to hire and US$ 60 to US$ 100 per item to buy).
  • Tips for guide, porters, driver.