ATH Expeditions
Join our fixed departure groups.

Naar Phu and Kang La Pass Trekking

  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Book Now, Pay Later
from 0 reviews
Naar Phu and Kang La Pass Trekking
Days
20
  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Book Now, Pay Later
Share
Print
Max. Elevation
5306 m / 17408 ft
Level
Difficult
Transportation
All ground transportation as per itinerary
Best Season
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accomodation
Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals during the trek
Meals
Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trek

Highlights

  • Discover the hidden Naar & Phu valleys, tucked away in the remote region north of Annapurna
  • Cross the spectacular Kang La Pass (5,320m) with stunning views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
  • Immerse yourself in preserved Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and traditional stone villages
  • Untouched landscapes featuring deep gorges, high cliffs, yak pastures, and alpine scenery
  • Connect with the classic Annapurna Circuit route after crossing the pass
  • Ideal for trekkers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure and cultural richness
  • Professional logistics and support by Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks for a seamless experience in this restricted area

Overview

An exotic trek to the remote Nar Phu Valley complete with high mountain passes, stunning Himalayan vista and heritage sites. A fantastic journey to the wild and unexplored vicinity located north of Annapurna, this rugged and wild trek takes us to the exotic and enthralling valley of Nar Phu. Nar Phu Valley trek starts from Jagat the Classic trekking route of Annapurna circuit and then branch off from Koto to follow the off beaten track to Nar Phu valley in the north of Manang and pass the Kang La pass with magnificent panorama of Annapurna massifs. The Kang La pass links Nar with Manang and three other Bhotia villages in the Neyshang valley. The valley system above opens up to a huge expanse of high snow-peaks, ancient villages and high altitude grazing settlements. Trekking to this hidden mountain valley offers medieval Tibetan culture in undisturbed form, dramatic mountains view and great alpine sceneries. 

  • Trek to the unexplored surroundings of the Annapurna region
  • Trek through the rugged and wild trails to the enthralling valley of Naar Phu
  • Enjoy the dramatic mountain views of the high snow peaks and ancient villages, and its possible to explore one of the worlds highest lake of Tilicho and Mesokantu La Pass which link Manang and Jomso lower Mustang.

MEALS

Breakfast will be served in Kathmandu and Pokhara whereas all meals will be served during the trek. While on the trek, breakfast will be taken in the same place we stay for the night. Similar arrangements can also be made for dinner. Lunch will be taken en route to the next destination(s). There will also be welcome and farewell dinners hosted by Adveture Trans Himalayan

ACCOMMODATION

We will be staying *** or ****star Hotel s in Kathmandu and ** or ***Star Hotels in Pokhara. we are on Camping trek, but while we are on Lodge trek we will be accommodated in the best available lodges.  All accommodations are on twin-sharing basis. However, single supplement are also available which will cost an additional 360 Euros


DATES & PRICES

All our published dates are guaranteed departures. If the dates don’t match with your travel plans, we are more than happy to create your desired date. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for and our travel experts will help plan your tailor –made trips in your dream destination

Arrival - Departure

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

Upon our arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expeditions who will take us to our hotel. After checking in, we may take a rest, in the evening there will be a welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali Restaurant where we will be able to enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Altitude: 1,350m

Accommodation: Hotel 

Meals: Dinner

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu which are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. We visit the historical old Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), which is also one of the largest stupas in the world. At after noon, we get our equipment checked by our Trek leader, get introduced to fellow participants, Dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

 Altitude: 1,350m

Accommodation: Hotel 

Meals: Breakfast

We begin our journey at early dawn as we have a long drive ahead of us. We start right after the breakfast and leave Kathmandu early in the morning around 7 am, We see picturesque views of Nepali countryside, lush greeneries, rivers, villages, farms and mountain vistas en route throughout the drive. After 8-10 hours of drive we reach Jagat via Besishahar. Drive up to Besishahar will most likely be smooth owing to black-topped roads whereas after Besishahar, the roads get dusty and coarse but the scenic view from our windowpane is more than compensating for the bumpy ride. Overnight in Jagat.

Driving: 8-9 hrs

Altitude: 1,410m

Accommodation:  Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Upon breakfast, we slowly begin our trek today. The trail from Jagat descends until it reaches the river and then continues through a lush forest. Further ascent leads to sharp-edged cliff facing the riverbank. En route, Chyamje comes into picture amidst the glorious backdrop of towering Annapurna mountain ranges. After crossing a suspension bridge, we climb steeply towards the slippery and physically challenging path to Sattale. On treading along a succession of rock-strewn trails, we descend to a grassy riverbank that leads to Tal. As we walk away from Tal, the path becomes rugged and winding. Then we approach steep forested village of Karte. Meandering along the waterfalls and cliffs, we finally reach Dharapani after crossing a suspension bridge. Overnight in Dharapani.

Trekking: 7-8 hrs

Altitude: 1,960m

Accommodation:  Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We begin our trek in the morning towards Bagarchhap which takes about one hour passing through pine and fir forests. We can visit the white washed monastery in this village. Then we continue our trek till Danaque which takes about an hour. The trail is steeply ascending up to Timang. We have a good view of Mt. Manaslu and Peak 29 from here. Now the trail continues through pine forests again till Thanchok Village which takes about one and half hour. We break for lunch here and again resume through forests whereby we have a short glimpse of Annapurna II. Finally we arrive in Koto village. Overnight in Koto.

Trekking: 5-6h

Altitude: 2,610m

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

In the morning, we register our restricted area permit at the Police Check Post. Then we trek through the River bank of Soti Khola again through wonderful pine forests, streams and suspension and reach Dharmasala. We have our packed lunch on the way. We then continue the trek through forests and ascend steeply towards Meta village. Finally we arrive on the Tibetan Plateau where we have a very good view of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in Meta.

Trkiking: 7-8h 

Altitude: 3,560m

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We start our day traversing up and down and crossing suspension bridges over different streams. After almost 4 hours of trek we reach Kyang where we can see the remnants, particularly the ruined forts of the Khampa settlement (the place which Khampa refugees from Tibet once captured and lived). We further keep walking past the Phu Khola on a rocky trail and finally reach the Phu village in another 3 to 4 hours. Overnight in Phu Gaon.

Trekking: 7-8h 

Altitude: 4,250m

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today is the scheduled acclimatization day whereby we are suggested to rest and get acclimatized with the altitude. As we are in the Lost/Hidden Valley, we can explore the culture, natural diversity, and religious practices of the ethnic groups like Lama, Gurung and Ghale in here. Besides this, we can trace out how people make their survival depending on agriculture, animal breeding and seasonal migrations in such remote location or in the hidden valley. It is also the day for us to explore the Tashi Lakhang Monastery – the old Buddhist Monastery listed out of the 108 world’s great Buddhist Monasteries; it is supposed to be the last monastery constructed by Karmapa Rinpoche. Apart from exploring the cultural avenues of the lost valley, the valley also offers us a great view of Himlung Himal and other snow peaks in the region. Overnight at Phu Gaon.

Trekkking: Exploring  Village and Monastery 

Altitude: 4,250m

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The trail descends passing many streams and suspension bridges until Mahendra Pul which takes about 4 hours. We pass the high suspension bridge 80m over the Gorge of Lapche River. We have lunch in Mahendra Pul. After lunch, the trail steeply ascends passing many Buddhist stupas until Naar Village which takes about 2 hours. We find several Buddhist Monasteries here to visit coupled with the glorious vistas of Pisang Peak and other small peaks. Overnight in Naar.

Trekking: 6-7h 

 Altitude: 4,110m

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This is the second scheduled acclimatization/rest day for this trek. We spend the day taking a day hike nearby and explore Naar village and have a close look over the local culture and lifestyle. We also prepare for the trek next day. Overnight in Naar.

Altitude: 4,110m

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today is adventurous day with long day hike so we get up early in the morning and head to Kangla pass. From pass we can see the Annapurna massif. We further trek down to Ngawal  Village from there. Overnight in Ngawal.

Trekking: 7-8h  

Altitude: 3,660m

Accommodation: Camping/lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

From Ngawal, we head for Manang today. We pass through the isolated village of Paugh overlooking the amazing views of Annapurna range. We then move gently uphill to Mungli and then to the main trail of Annapurna Trail at Mungli. We eventually reach Manang, where we set up our camps for overnight stay. Overnight in Manang.

Trekking: 4-5h 

Altitude: 3,519m

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Walking out of the Manang village after breakfast, we hike on gradually ascending trail which elevates all the way up to Khangsar village. At the beginning of the trek, we follow the down to the river. Crossing the suspension bridge over Khangsar Khola, we ascend the easy slope to the village of Khangsar. The houses in this village are built in the old Tibetan Style. Because of the ancient building, this village is also known as the last village of in this valley. Once reaching an ancient and culturally rich village, you can go explore around the village.

Trekking: 5h  

Altitude: 3700m

Accommodation:Camping/lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

A most adventurous and thrilling await us today. Walking from the village of Khangsar, we trek towards the direction of mysterious Tilicho Lake. Passing The Tare Gompa (monastery), our trail goes uphill through the recently constructed path. Traversing through an interesting or occasionally even surrealistic landscape of weathered slopes and rocks, we come across the long ridge. From this location, you can have the splendid view of the magnificent mountains. From here the path is narrow and slippery. So watch your steps. After a short and challenging walk on a steep screed, leads us the right to the Tilicho Base Camp.

Trekking: 5h

Altitude: 4200m

Accomadation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today we will finally see the magical lake Tilicho. We will start our hike to the magnificent lake Tilicho before the dawn in order to avoid the wind blow. From base camp, about 3 – 4 hours of a steep climb through the icy trail of the mountains leads us to the Tilicho Lake. Elevated at the elevation of 5200 meters, this pristine lake system is considered to be the highest lake in the world. The lake seems to lay on the boundary of two worlds. On one hand side there is bare and weathered landscape and on the other impossibly steep sides of Tilicho peaks towering two kilometers above the lake and directly from it. After spending some time in the tranquility of Tilicho lake, we will descend downhill for an hour to reach the camping site of Tilicho High Camp. We will set up camp here for overnight stay.

Trekking: 5-6h

Altitude: 5200m

Accomadation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today we will be trekking towards Churi Kharka. After having our refreshing breakfast, we will head out for the hike. After hiking for some time, we need to check our gear for a difficult trail onwards. We need to cross Mesokanto La Pass, which is the difficult climb for today. After checking our gears and resting for a bit we will continue our climb for crossing Mesokanto La Pass. After some small climb, we need to hike for about 3 – 4 hours for completely crossing the pass. We will enter into Mustang district after crossing the pass. From here the trail is easy until we reach Churi Kharka. This place lacks Lodges and tea houses. So, we will set our tented camps for the overnight stay.

Trekking: 7-8h

Altitude: 4500m

Accomadation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

It’s the final day of our walking journey. The walk today is going to be a little windy as we move along the river valley towards Jomsom. After an early breakfast, we will follow the trail that descends all the way to Jomsom through the Lower Mustang Region and Kali Gandaki River valley. Jomsom is the center of the beautiful Mustang that boasts varieties of beautiful features in the region. It is also an important hub for Mustang and Upper Mustang Treks with the airstrip, abundance of tea houses and services. 

Trekking: 6h

Altitude: 2720m

Accomadation: Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast short but overwhelming scenic flight takes us through the gorge of the two huge mountains, Mt. Annapurna and Dhaulagiri they both are 8000m above, once we landed at Pokhara airport, we will be transferred to hotel near by the Lakeside and check-in get some rest and afternoon explore the beauty of Pokhara. While we leisurely walk along the bank of Fewa Lake, the second biggest lake of Nepal, admiring the mountain view of Machhapuchhare and Annapurna Massif. We can also go for a boat-ride in Fewa Lake or take a short hike to the World Peace Pagoda. We can end the day with a leisurely stroll around the mesmerizing lakeside area. Overnight in Pokhara.

 Flight: 25 Minutes 

Altitude: 850m

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

Today, after breakfast, we will transfer to Pokhara Airport to catch a flight to Kathmandu one of the best scenic Mountain flight. After reaching Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our hotel from Airport. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize our photos. We can spend the evening leisurely or perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping. Either way, we celebrate the successful completion of our journey with a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Vol: 30 Minutes 

Altitude: 1,350m

Accommodation:  Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks & Expeditions  representative, will escort us to the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast

Not satisfied with this itinerary? Make your own.
Plan My Trip

Includes

  • Accommodation in KTM *** or ****Star Hotels on Twin Sharing Basis
  • Domestic Flights: Jomsom/Pokhara/Kathmandu
  • Local Guide & Support Staffs
  • All Private Ground Transportation Including Airport Transfers
  • All Meals in the Trekking
  • Guaranteed Departures
  •  Booking Fee 30%
  • For Your Information, International flights aren’t included.  Rooms are usually shared by two people unless you request a private room. Also, you can upgrade single Camping tent on trek and hotels even in the cities. For your customized services, please specify during the booking process or contact our Destination & Products Specialist

Doesn't Include

  • International flights
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude treks)
  • Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, battery charging, laundry, etc.)
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (before and after the trek)
  • Tips for guides, porters, and support staff

Trip Info

Why Book with Us?
  • Excellent customer service. Our travel experts are ready to help you 24/7.
  • Best price guaranteed.
  • No credit card or booking fees.
  • 100% financial protection.
  • Environmentally-friendly tours.

Equipment List

Clothing
  • Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (long-sleeved)
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Insulated down or synthetic jacket
  • Waterproof, windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof, windproof pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Warm beanie or hat
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Neck gaiter or scarf
  • Trekking pants (convertible preferred)
  • Waterproof trousers
Handwear
  • Lightweight gloves (inner)
  • Insulated gloves or mittens (outer)
Footwear
  • Hiking boots (broken in and waterproof)
  • Comfortable camp shoes (e.g., sneakers or sandals)
Gear
  • Trekking backpack (30-40 liters) with waterproof cover
  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
  • Sleeping pad or mattress (insulated)
  • Adjustable trekking poles
  • Insulated water bottles or hydration bladder (2 liters capacity)
  • Travel-sized toiletries
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Medications for altitude sickness, pain relief, and common ailments
  • Sun protection cream, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer
Miscellaneous
  • Camera and batteries
  • Notebook and pen
  • Earplugs (for sleeping in lodges)
  • Portable solar charger
  • Headlamp, power bank, and extra batteries

Frequently Asked Questions

The Naar Phu and Kang La Pass Trek is a remote and culturally rich adventure that takes you into the hidden valleys of Naar and Phu, located north of the Annapurna region. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers a rare glimpse into the preserved Tibetan-influenced cultures, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and medieval stone villages surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters, which offers jaw-dropping views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and other snow-capped giants. The trail eventually connects with the Annapurna Circuit near Manang, combining rugged high-altitude wilderness with rich cultural encounters. This trek is perfect for adventurers seeking something beyond the mainstream trekking routes.

The Naar Phu and Kang La Pass Trek is rated as moderately to highly challenging. It involves trekking in a remote area with limited infrastructure, long hiking days, and crossing a high mountain pass over 5,000 meters. The trails are often rough, steep, and sometimes exposed, requiring good fitness and trekking experience, especially in high altitudes. The remoteness of the region means that facilities are basic and support is less readily available than on more popular treks. However, with proper acclimatization, experienced guides, and a well-structured itinerary provided by Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks, it is an achievable and deeply rewarding journey for experienced trekkers.

The Naar Phu and Kang La Pass Trek typically takes around 14 to 18 days, depending on your pace and whether you include side trips or cultural exploration days in the villages. The trek begins from Koto, near Chame, and ventures into the isolated Naar and Phu Valleys. After exploring these remote settlements, the route climbs up to Kang La Pass and descends into the Annapurna Circuit near Ngawal or Manang. Time is allocated for acclimatization and rest, ensuring a safe and immersive trekking experience.

Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks can customize your itinerary to include cultural interactions, additional acclimatization, or link the trek with other Annapurna routes like Tilicho Lake or Thorong La Pass.

The best time to trek in the Naar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their best. In spring, trekkers are treated to blooming rhododendrons and alpine flowers, while autumn offers crisp air and superb visibility after the monsoon.

Winter trekking (December–February) is possible but comes with challenges, including heavy snow at the pass and very cold temperatures, especially in the high-altitude villages. The monsoon season (June–August) brings rain, landslides, and leeches, making the trails more dangerous and less pleasant.

The Naar Phu Valley is a restricted area, so several permits are required:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Naar and Phu – This is mandatory and can only be issued through a licensed agency like Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks. A minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain this permit.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Required for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – Required for all foreign trekkers in Nepal.

We take care of all the permit arrangements and ensure compliance with local regulations, making the process hassle-free for you.

Accommodation during the Naar Phu and Kang La Pass Trek consists mostly of basic teahouses in villages like Meta, Kyang, Phu, and Naar. These lodges are simple but comfortable, offering twin rooms, shared bathrooms, and dining halls heated by wood stoves. Facilities are more limited than on the main Annapurna Circuit, but the hospitality of the locals is genuine and warm.

Meals include a mix of local Tibetan-style dishes such as tsampa, noodle soup, Tibetan bread, and dal bhat, along with simpler Western options like pancakes, eggs, and rice dishes. At higher altitudes, food variety decreases, but you'll always have filling, energizing meals to sustain you through the long trekking days. Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks ensures hygienic food and proper nutrition throughout the journey.

Altitude sickness is a potential risk on this trek, especially as the trail climbs beyond 5,000 meters at Kang La Pass. Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks includes acclimatization days in key locations such as Phu and Naar to allow your body to adjust. Our itineraries follow a gradual ascent, and our experienced guides monitor each trekker’s health carefully.

Our guides are trained in first aid and AMS recognition. We carry basic medical kits, and if symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) appear, they will act promptly—either by resting, descending, or arranging emergency evacuation if necessary. Your safety and well-being are our highest priority.

Since this is a remote and high-altitude trek, proper gear is essential. Here are the basics:

Sturdy trekking boots

Warm clothing (down jacket, thermal layers, fleece)

Waterproof jacket and pants

Sleeping bag (rated to -15°C or lower)

Trekking poles

Headlamp with spare batteries

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm

Personal first aid kit

Water purification tablets or filter

Snacks and energy bars

We provide a comprehensive packing list before your departure and can help you rent or purchase gear in Kathmandu.

The Naar Phu and Kang La Pass Trek is suitable for female travelers and small groups, but solo trekkers cannot obtain the Restricted Area Permit alone—they must trek with at least one other person. At Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks, we can match solo travelers with other like-minded trekkers to help meet this requirement.

We take special care of female trekkers, ensuring safe accommodations, respectful and professional guides, and a comfortable, culturally enriching journey. Our team is dedicated to making sure you feel secure, confident, and supported throughout your adventure.

Adventure Trans Himalayan Treks offers a unique blend of expertise, cultural immersion, and safety. We specialize in off-the-beaten-path destinations like Naar and Phu, and our licensed guides are locals who understand the terrain, language, and traditions of the region. We provide custom itineraries, manage all permits and logistics, and prioritize eco-friendly trekking practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.

When you trek with us, you're not just seeing Nepal—you’re experiencing it authentically and responsibly.

Read more FAQs

Join our Newsletter

Sign up to stay updated with latest offers, recent events and more news.
Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal