Nar Phu Cultural Trek Difficulty
The Nar Phu Valley Trekking is a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness. It is not the hardest trek in Nepal, but it can be tough for those who are not used to high-altitude trekking.
The trail involves long walking days, steep climbs, and high-altitude passes, with the highest point at Kang La Pass (5,320 meters). As you go higher, the thin air can make breathing more difficult, and trekkers should be aware of the risks of altitude sickness.
Proper acclimatization is important. The trek includes rest days to help your body adjust to the altitude. The terrain ranges from forest paths to rocky trails and snowy sections, requiring careful walking and sometimes the use of trekking poles.
Nar Phu valley trek is best suited for trekkers who are in good physical shape and have experience with long, tough treks. With the right preparation, the trek offers a rewarding experience for those looking for a challenging adventure.
Best Time to Trek in Nar And Phu Area
The best time to trek the Nar Phu Valley is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring and Autumn are the most favorable conditions for Nar Phu valley trekking.
Spring
The weather is moderate, and the lower regions are filled with greenery and blooming flowers. The temperature is comfortable, and the skies are mostly clear, offering excellent views of the mountains.
Autumn
The weather is stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures. The trails are dry, and the views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks are spectacular.
It is best to avoid trekking during the monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February). During the monsoon, the trails can be slippery and at risk of landslides, while in winter, heavy snowfall makes the trails difficult and dangerous.
Tips For a Successful Nar and Phu Trek:
You are going to undertake the adventure journey to the third-tallest mountain, Kanchenjunga Base Camp, along with the rewarding Selele Pass. So, good preparation plays a huge role in an enjoyable and successful trip. Nepal Trekking Experts advise the following tips below:
- Train regularly, such as in cardio, gym, trail run, trekking, or hiking with a backpack, before trekking in the Kanchenjunga region.
- Choose a professional organizer along with a local guide who has deep knowledge, good English-speaking, experience, good decision-maker, and has a nice sense of humor.
- Trek slowly and steadily.
- Be hydrated all the time (drink 3 to 4 liters of water every day).
- Hike higher, sleep lower.
- Well-acclimatize (do not rush your itinerary).
- Eat balanced meals.
- Pack high-quality gear (use it beforehand).
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol during the ascent.
- Hire a porter to carry your backpacks.
- Trek the best season, such as March to May and mid-September to November.
- Carry a first-aid box.
Permit Requirements for Nar Phu Valley Trek
To trek in the Nar Phu Valley, you must obtain two essential permits due to the region's restricted status:
1. Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- September to November: USD 100 for the first 7 days; USD 15 per additional day
- December to August: USD 75 for the first 7 days; USD 15 per additional day
- Note: Solo trekking is prohibited; at least two trekkers are required to obtain this permit.
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
- Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person
- Note: This permit is mandatory for all trekkers in the Annapurna region.
3. Required Documents:
- A passport copy
- Passport-sized photographs
- Valid Nepal tourist visa
Accommodation During the Nar and Phu Valley Trek:
Accommodation in the Nar Phu Valley is limited, with only a few tea houses and homestays available. However, trekkers do not need to carry camping gear as tea houses along the route provide a comfortable place to stay. The beginning and ending parts of the trek, located along the well-traveled Annapurna Circuit, have a wider range of tea houses, some offering more modern amenities such as electricity, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and western toilets. At higher elevations, especially in more remote areas, tea houses are more basic with shared bathrooms and squat toilets. For warmth, we provide you with a -20°C sleeping bag.
Meals During the Nar and Phu Valley Trek:
The tea houses along the Nar Phu Valley Trek offer a variety of food, though options are limited compared to other regions of Nepal. You will find a range of local dishes like Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup with unlimited refills), fried rice, noodles, Mo-Mo (local dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and spring rolls. For breakfast, you can enjoy Tibetan bread, chapati, or more familiar options like eggs, porridge, muesli, or pancakes. The trek is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, and if you have dietary restrictions, your guide will inform the kitchen staff. Your package with Nepal Trekking Experts includes three meals a day and a dinner in Kathmandu before your trek.
Transportation During Nar Phu Valley Trek:
When you book your trek with Nepal Trekking Experts, all transportation is included. The typical journey begins with a bus or microvan ride from Kathmandu (Gongabu Bus Park) to Besisahar (6-7 hours). From Besisahar, you will take a local jeep to your trek starting point, such as Bhulbhule, Jagat, Dharapani, or Koto. You can shorten the trek length by traveling further by jeep, which is an ideal option if you are short on time. Although buses in Nepal may be overcrowded and not always clean, they provide an immersive experience. Alternatively, we can arrange a private jeep for a more comfortable and faster journey.
Telephone, Internet, and Battery Charging in Nar Phu Region:
- Telephone Service: Mobile reception is available in most villages, but it can be unpredictable. Nepal Telecom is recommended for better coverage in the Nar Phu Valley. You can buy a SIM card in Kathmandu upon arrival.
- Internet Service: Some tea houses offer Wi-Fi for a small fee (around 2-3 USD), but it may not always be reliable due to weather conditions.
- Battery Charging: Tea houses typically provide electricity or solar power, and you can charge your devices for a fee. Carrying a power bank is recommended to ensure you have extra power during your trek.
Packing List For Nar Phu Circuit Adventure:
Packing the right gear is essential for a comfortable and successful trek. Based on our 25 years of trekking experience, Nepal Trekking Experts recommends the following:
Clothing:
- Thermal tops and bottoms (2-3 pairs)
- Fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
- Lightweight, quick-dry trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts (3-4 pairs)
- Insulated beanie or hat
- Insulated gloves
- Comfortable and quick-drying (4-5 pairs)
Footwear:
- Wool or synthetic trekking socks (4-5 pairs)
- Lightweight sandals or sneakers
- Waterproof and sturdy boots with good ankle support
Other Equipment:
- 40-50L backpack with a rain cover
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sleeping bag rated for -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F)
- Adjustable and shock-absorbing trekking poles
- Reusable water bottles with water purification tablets or filter
- Toiletries (wet wipes, toilet paper, female hygiene products, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, hand sanitizer)
- First aid kit with any prescribed personal medications
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm (with high SPF)
- Adapters and chargers
- Power bank
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is crucial for the Nar Phu Adventure Trek. It should cover high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation. Ensure your policy includes coverage for trekking above 5,000 meters and personal belongings.
Porter:
While our packages do not include a porter, you can hire one to carry your gear. This service is particularly helpful in the rugged terrain of the Nar Phu Valley, where a porter can carry up to 20kg, allowing you to carry only a small daypack.
Nepalese Currency and the Payment:
The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. You can exchange USD, EUR, or other major currencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Credit cards are accepted in some places, but it is advisable to carry cash for your trek. ATMs are available in major tourist areas like Thamel in Kathmandu.
Booking And Payment With Nepal Trekking Experts
NTE requires a minimum of 10% payment of the total cost, which you can pay through online payment gateway at our website, or bank transfer. The rest of the payment, you can pau us on arrival.
Also, we need your valid passport copy, a photograph, and airline details (if an dwhen available) that can be sent through email.
Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?
On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.
While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.
As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:
- Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
- Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
- Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
- You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
- Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.
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