Explore Nepal's hidden Nar Phu Valley and Tilicho Lake is the best trek to avoid the road. This challenging trek reveals ancient Tibetan culture, rugged landscapes, and stunning Himalayan views. Cross high passes like Kang La and Meso Kanto, visit remote villages, and experience untouched wilderness, all within a recently opened, restricted region.
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Tilicho Lake traverese Kangla Pass
Nar Phu Valley with Tilicho Lake Trek Overview
Nar Phu and Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the most excellent off-the-beaten-trail treks in Annapurna through the hidden valley of Nar Phu, the land of Snow Leopard, Himalayan Thar, and Mask deer, opened for foreign visitors just in 2003. This trek offers the visitors an incredible experience of the unique culture in Nar Phu and a mesmerizing view of majestic mountains in the highlands, Bhote communities, beautiful medieval and ancient remote villages, amazing rock formations, glaciers, several passes, narrow canyons, lovely forests, old Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, unique Himalayan and Tibetan culture, and real local lifestyle settlements in high altitude. The Nar Phu Valley and Tilicho Lake trek is the most fascinating destination for those who seek an adventurous trip into some of the less trodden, isolated regions of Nepal, apart from the regular trekking routes. Discover the hidden valley of Nar Phu and Tilicho Lake Trek along the "off-beaten path," crossing through challenging high passes of Kang La, Meso Kanto, and visiting the world's highest lake, Tilicho. Nar Phu Valley is a wild and unexplored Tibetan village located north of Annapurna, which is a controlled area and has been freshly opened for trekkers only since the early 20s.
This rugged and wild trek to Nar Phu and thrilling Mesokanto La Pass via Tilicho Lake is the perfect adventure for trekkers who want to explore the Annapurna area as well as an untouched valley. The Nar Phu and Tilicho Lake trek takes you to the exotic valley that lies in the remote corner of the Annapurna region. The Naar Phu Valley remains untouched by modernity. Trekking in the area is unlike most of Nepal, as the terrain is trans-Himalayan and similar to that of Tibet. This recently opened Nar Phu Valley trek can also be combined with Tilicho Lake and the decades-long famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. The topography of Nar and Phu Valley is similar to that of Tibet.
The trails are still rugged, and the people and culture have remained intact. A restricted area trekking permit is mandatory to visit this place, and the group size must be a minimum of two parties. The trip must be organized with the registered trekking agency in Nepal as per the state law of Nepal. After a couple of days of exploration of the valley, we crossed over Kang La Pass at 5322m on the way to Manang. We leave the main Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail and proceed to Jomsom following the best-kept secret remote trekking route of Mesokanto La Pass (5240 m) and Tilicho Lake (4900 m), the world’s highest situated lake. This remote and rugged trail offers a challenging and exhilarating trekking experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Main highlights of the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Side Trip to Tilicho Lake:
- Rugged and remote mountain trails in high-altitude passes, including Kangla and Mesokanto Pass
- The hidden valley of Nar Phu Village, ancient Buddhist monasteries, manis, and chhortens along the way
- Vegetation diversity of subtropical to alpine zones and barren mountain arid land.
- An all-inclusive package that includes your guide, porters, permits, meals, and accommodation
- A very exciting scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
Your safety is our top priority at Wilderness Excursion. Our expeditions venture into challenging mountain environments, demanding adaptability. While we aim to adhere to the planned itinerary, your leader may make necessary changes for safety due to unforeseen circumstances like weather or natural events. We appreciate your understanding and readiness for an authentic adventure.
After breakfast, we set off on our journey into the hills on a winding road along the Trishuli River. On the way, we admire terraced farm lands and beautiful huts. After reaching a juncture at Mugling, we move straight ahead towards Pokhara. At Dumre, we leave the previous road and head north to Besisahar. There, we will check our conservation permits and take a connecting drive to Taal by local jeep; the total drive today will be around 8 hours. Alternatively, we can just drive to Bulbule or Khudi from Kathmandu to avoid a long ride, but that will add one extra day to your itinerary. Overnight stay at Taal. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
You begin your trek in the morning towards Bagarchhap which takes about 1 hour passing through pine and fir forests. You can visit the white washed monastery in this village. Then you continue your trek till Danaque it takes about 1 hour. The trail is ascending steeply until Timang which takes about 1 and half hour. You have a good view of Mt. Manaslu and Peak 29. Now your trail continues through pine forests again till Latamarang which takes about 1 and half hour. You have lunch break here. After lunch, you walk again through forests and you have a short glimpse of Annapurna II. Finally you arrive in Koto village after 1 and half hours walk. Overnight in Lodge.
In the morning, you register your restricted area permit at the Police check post. Then you start your trek through the River bank of Suti Khola again through wonderful pine forests passing many streams and suspension bridges until reaching Dharmasala which takes about 5 hours. You can see a picturesque Waterfall near the Dharmasala. You have your packed lunch on the way. Then you continue your trek again through forests and ascend steeply till Meta Village, which takes about 1 and half hour. Now you have arrived on the Tibetan Plateau. You have very good view of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in Lodge.
In the morning, after our breakfast, we keep walking passing the Phu Khola on a rocky trail until Phu village, which takes about 3 hours. You can see Blue Sheep during the trail. Now you are in one of the unique Lost/ Hidden Valleys. You can see their cultures, natural diversity, religion of the ethnic groups like Lama, Gurung, and Ghale. The people are depending on subsistence agriculture, animal breeding, and seasonal migrations. The very old Buddhist Monastery known as Tashi Lakhang Monastery is listed among the 108 world’s great Buddhist Monasteries; it is believed to be the last monastery constructed by Karmapa Rinpoche. You have a great view of Himlung Himal and other snow peaks. Overnight in the lodge.
Today, it is the day that is separated as an extra day in Phu Village (4080m). It is ideal for acclimatization or going exploring in the high-altitude Tibetan culture. Key activities include hiking to the Himlung Himal Base Camp (4900 m / 16070 ft) for panoramic views, visiting the ancient Tashi Lakhang Monastery and observing traditional Himalayan life, yak wool spinning and take butter tea with locals.
Today, the trail retraces down, passing many streams and suspension bridges until Mahendra Pul, which will take some 4 to 5 hours. We then pass the high suspension bridge 80m over the Gorge of the Lapche River. We will have a lunch stop at Nar Phedi. After lunch, the trail steeply ascends passing many Buddhist shrines until Naar Village, which will last about 2 hours walk. You find many Buddhist Monasteries to visit, as well as a very good view of Pisang Peak and other small peaks. Overnight in a lodge at the traditional Nar Village.
Today is a long day, so get up before sunrise and head towards the Kang La Pass (5322 m / 17450 ft), which leads back onto the popular Annapurna Circuit. It is not a difficult pass, but it can be a long day as the effects of altitude will be felt. Once on top of the pass, you can enjoy an amazing view over Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The trail starts steep, but if you enjoy scree running, you can have some fun! Stop for lunch on a plateau overlooking the peak, then continue towards Ngawal.
Ngawal, on the upper Pisang route of the Annapurna Circuit, is certainly very different from the ancient villages just visited. The lodges are big, the menus are much more comprehensive, and there will be Wifi and phone signals in most lodges.
On this day, we trek to Manang. Trek continues enjoying panoramic views of the gigantic mountains and peaks walking through slopes. The time you get in the afternoon as we reach the village is enough to explore the village. The views of mountains from the village are astonishing. Experience the hospitality of the Manang people.
Today, this day is separated and planned for an extra day if you need to rest your body, or you can post some photos and stay updated with your loved ones, as there are internet (Wi Fi) services. You have a choice to hike to Ice Lake, which offers a stunning view of the giant Annapurnas.
Today, you ascend gently to Khangsar village, which takes about 2 hours. You have an excellent view of the Annapurna Range, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna Lake, and other snow peaks. Then you continue your trek to Thare Gompa. It takes about 1 hour. You have a lunch break here. After lunch, you continue your trek, slowly passing the big landslide area until reaching Tilicho Base Camp (4150 m), which takes about 3 hours. Overnight in the lodge.
Today, it is a day excursion to hike to Tilicho Lake, once the highest Lake in Nepal at an altitude of 4900 meters above sea level. Enjoy a scenic day trip to Tilicho Lake from Base Camp, trekking through breathtaking landscapes. Witness the stunning turquoise waters of one of the world’s highest lakes, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks.
After exploring Tilicho Lake, we trek to Yak Kharka. This scenic route descends slightly through rugged trails, offering stunning mountain views. The 4–5 hour hike passes grazing pastures, with a gradual ascent toward Yak Kharka, a serene stopover for an overnight stay. The walk from Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka is approximately 12 kilometers and takes 6 hours approximately.
From Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is some 7 Km and the flat trail in the beginning ascends gradually to reach Thorong Phedi. Some people still continue to the high camp from Phedi, that help easy cross over Thorong La Pass the next day. This part is a steep ascent; it takes another 3 to 4 hours to hike to High Camp. Today is undoubtedly challenging as we ascend to 4,450 meters at Thorong Phedi in just four hours, ensuring optimal preparation for the following day. Despite the difficulty, you may be fortunate enough to spot rare wildlife such as blue sheep, snow leopards, or even bearded vultures. Along the way, you might hear mythical tales of legendary creatures like griffons—half-lion, half-bird—believed to roam these majestic landscapes
Today is the toughest and longest day of the journey as we cross the thrilling Thorong La Pass, standing at 5,416 meters (17,650 feet). We set out at dawn, climbing vigorously along a steep trail that soon gives way to a snow-covered path. Upon reaching Thorong La Pass, we are greeted by a panoramic view of magnificent snow-capped mountains stretching toward Tibet in the north—a sight that invites you to soak in the divine atmosphere and feel a deep sense of accomplishment. It is an auspicious moment, a well-deserved reward after a day of hard work. After sharing the joy and capturing photos, we descend toward Muktinath, one of the region’s most revered pilgrimage sites, holding deep religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Driving from Muktinath to Jomsom (approx. 20-25 km, 1.5-2.5 hours) involves a rugged, scenic descent through Kagbeni. We then take a morning flight (approx. 20 min) from Jomsom Airport back to Pokhara, offering spectacular mountain views. Rest and relaxing day in Pokhara
After an early breakfast, you will be escorted by your guide to the tourist bus station. From there, you’ll take a tourist bus to Kathmandu—a scenic 7-hour drive along the Prithvi Highway and the banks of the Trishuli River. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your selected hotel in Kathmandu.
This is our standard itinerary. It can be customized or slightly changed if required considering your pace and trekking habit that cause a change of day-to-day plan.


- An experienced, registered, English-speaking local trekking guide.
- Necessary trekking porters to carry your luggage, camping gear, and meals.
- 1 night deluxe room in the best tourist standard hotel in Pokhara with buffet breakfast.
- Local bus transportation to the trek start point.
- Jomsom-Pokhara by domestic flight and airport taxes.
- Lodge/home stay / tented accommodation during the trek.
- All meals: 14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners during the trek.
- Guide and porter fees with all their expenses.
- All necessary trekking permits
- Office service charge, government tax and VAT, etc.
- Insurance and trekking gear for guides and porters.
- Transfers, accommodation, and meals in Kathmandu.
- Bar and beverages such as coke, beer, mineral water, laundry service, and toiletries.
- Personal nature expenses: hot showers, hot water, internet, and phone calls.
- Personal travel insurance, rescue operation charge in case of emergency.
- Hiring horse, gratitude, or tips for your guide and porters.
Check our published date! If it doesn’t match, we are happy to customize your tour perfectly to suit your interests and needs, creating a unique travel experience for you
This trip can be personalized as per your requirements that meet your time frame and financial status. The trip price we have offered here is for a minimum group size of two travelers. Single supplement cost is USD 250.00, so the cost will be according to Deluxe, Standard, Budget, and group size. Please kindly provide us your details for a tailor-made program. For your information, a Jomsom flight may have a delay problem sometimes by a few hours or be canceled for a day rarely; it may happen even in the peak trekking season, as you know how climate change is effecting our world. So, please allow a couple of spare nights in Kathmandu following your trek if possible.
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