This is a restricted area trek, meaning it’s less crowded and feels like stepping back in time. You’ll explore ancient Tibetan-style villages (Nar and Phu) and cross the challenging Kang La Pass (5,320m).
Highlight: The unique “lost valley” feel and seeing ancient Buddhist monasteries that few tourists ever visit.
Transfer to your hotel and spend the day preparing for the trek. You will meet your guide to finalize permits and check your high-altitude gear.
A long 8–10 hour drive from Kathmandu. You’ll travel via Besisahar and then take a 4WD jeep along the rugged Marsyangdi River valley to reach Dharapani, where the trek officially begins.
A relatively easy 5-hour walk through pine forests and past small waterfalls. Koto is the gateway to the Nar Phu Valley; you will show your restricted permits at the police check-post here.
Today you leave the main Annapurna Circuit. The trail climbs steeply through narrow river canyons and dense forests. After emerging from the forest, the valley opens up at Meta, offering views of Lamjung Himal.
The landscape turns arid and “Tibetan.” You’ll pass through Kyang—a temporary settlement for the Khampa people—before entering the ancient, stone-walled village of Phu.
A day to rest and adjust. You can hike up to the Tashi Lhakhang Monastery (one of the oldest in the region) or take a side trip toward the Himlung Himal Base Camp to see the glaciers.
Retrace your steps back toward Meta but then divert toward the Nar River. You’ll stay overnight at the Nar Phedi Monastery, where the nuns often prepare simple, traditional meals for trekkers.
A short but steep climb up to Nar Village. Nar is more lively and colorful than Phu, surrounded by terraced fields and dozens of small chortens and prayer wheels.
Spend the day exploring the local culture or hiking to nearby viewpoints. This is your final preparation before crossing the high pass tomorrow.
The toughest and most rewarding day. You’ll start at 4:00 AM to reach the top of the Kang La Pass. From the summit, you get a staggering 360-degree view of the Annapurna massif. A long, steep descent brings you back to the main trail at Ngawal.
You walk down to the village of Pisang and then continue to Chame. Depending on your preference and energy, you can catch a jeep from here to Besisahar to begin the return journey.
A 6–7 hour drive from Besisahar back to the capital for your final farewell dinner.
