Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake
11-Day Private Guided Trek | Kathmandu to Pokhara
The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake is an exceptional high-altitude adventure combining the remote and culturally rich Nar Phu Valley with the spectacular landscapes of the Annapurna region. This fully guided 11-day trek begins in Kathmandu and officially concludes in Pokhara, taking you through remote Himalayan villages, ancient Buddhist culture, dramatic mountain valleys, and the challenging Kang La Pass at approximately 5,322 meters.
The trek is designed as a private journey for 3–5 trekkers, accompanied by one experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide. With no porter required, the group can enjoy a more independent and flexible trekking experience while the guide provides professional support throughout the journey.
The adventure begins with an overland journey from Kathmandu to Koto, the gateway to the restricted Nar Phu Valley. From Koto, the trail enters a remote Himalayan landscape of forests, narrow canyons, suspension bridges, towering cliffs, and traditional mountain settlements.
One of the major highlights is Phu Village, located at approximately 4,080 meters. The village is known for its traditional stone houses, Buddhist culture, monasteries, and distinctive Himalayan way of life. An acclimatization day in Phu allows trekkers to explore the village and surrounding area before continuing toward Nar Phedi and Nar Village.
From Nar Village, the trek reaches its most challenging and rewarding section: the crossing of Kang La Pass at approximately 5,322 meters. The pass offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range, Tilicho Peak, and surrounding Himalayan peaks before the trail descends toward Ngawal.
The trek then continues through the upper Manang Valley to Manang, where another major highlight awaits. From Manang, the group makes a day hike to Ice Lake, reaching approximately 4,600 meters. The hike provides a rewarding high-altitude experience and impressive views of the surrounding Annapurna landscape.
After returning to Manang, the trek continues on foot to Lower Pisang before taking a reserved private jeep to Besisahar. The following day, the group travels by private jeep from Besisahar to Pokhara, where the fully guided 11-day trek officially concludes upon arrival at the hotel in Pokhara.
Highlights of the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake
Explore the remote and culturally rich Nar Phu Valley.
Trek through the restricted Nar Phu region with the required special permit.
Experience the traditional Himalayan villages of Phu and Nar.
Visit the peaceful Nar Phedi Monastery.
Enjoy an acclimatization and cultural exploration day in Phu.
Cross the challenging Kang La Pass at approximately 5,322 m.
Enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurna range and Tilicho Peak.
Explore the historic settlements of Ngawal, Braga, and Manang.
Hike to Ice Lake at approximately 4,600 m.
Experience the dramatic landscapes of the upper Marsyangdi Valley.
Enjoy a private, fully guided trekking experience for 3–5 trekkers.
Trek with an experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking guide.
Complete the journey with private transportation to Pokhara.
Route Overview
Kathmandu → Besisahar → Koto → Meta → Phu Village → Nar Phedi → Nar Village → Kang La Pass → Ngawal → Manang → Ice Lake → Manang → Lower Pisang → Besisahar → Pokhara
Trek Duration
11 Days
The trek is scheduled for October 11–21, 2027.
Highest Elevation
Kang La Pass – approximately 5,322 meters
The Ice Lake day hike reaches approximately 4,600 meters.
Trek Type
Private Guided Trek
The trek is designed for 3–5 trekkers with one professional trekking guide and no porter.
Trek Difficulty
The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake is a challenging high-altitude trek. The route includes long trekking days, significant elevation changes, remote mountain terrain, and the crossing of Kang La Pass at approximately 5,322 meters.
Good physical fitness, previous trekking experience, and proper acclimatization are recommended. Weather and trail conditions can affect walking times and the overall pace of the trek.
Permits Required
The trek requires the necessary permits for the Nar Phu restricted region and the Annapurna Conservation Area. These include the Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (MRAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A TIMS Card is also included if required under the prevailing Nepal Government regulations.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation is provided in comfortable local teahouses throughout the trekking period, including an overnight stay at Nar Phedi Monastery.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the trek, along with three cups of tea or coffee per person per day.
Transportation
The journey begins with transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by a reserved private jeep to Koto.
At the end of the trekking section, the group walks from Manang to Lower Pisang and then travels by reserved private jeep to Besisahar and onward to Pokhara.
Upon arrival at the hotel in Pokhara, the fully guided 11-day trek officially concludes.
Best Time for the Trek
October is one of the preferred months for trekking in the Nar Phu and Annapurna regions, offering generally favorable conditions for mountain views and high-altitude trekking. However, weather conditions in the high mountains can change quickly, particularly around Kang La Pass, so the itinerary remains subject to actual trail and weather conditions.
Why Trek with Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking?
Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. provides a personalized and professionally guided trekking experience in Nepal. Our focus is on responsible trekking, safety, clear communication, and personalized service for small private groups.
For the Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake, we provide the required permits, professional trekking guide, accommodation, meals, transportation, trekking equipment, administrative assistance, and emergency rescue coordination as specified in the package.
The trek can also be adjusted when necessary according to weather, trail conditions, and the group's preferences, while maintaining safety as the highest priority.
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake – A Journey Beyond the Main Trails
The Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake offers a remarkable combination of remote Himalayan landscapes, traditional Tibetan-influenced culture, high mountain passes, ancient villages, and the natural beauty of the Annapurna region.
From the restricted valleys of Nar Phu to the dramatic crossing of Kang La Pass and the rewarding hike to Ice Lake, this trek provides an opportunity to experience some of the less-traveled landscapes of the Nepal Himalayas while traveling with a private professional guide.
Starting in Kathmandu and finishing in Pokhara, this 11-day journey is ideal for trekkers looking for a challenging, culturally rich, and less-traveled Himalayan adventure.
DETAILED ITINERARY – DAY BY DAY
The following day-by-day itinerary provides a detailed overview of the 11-day Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake, including the daily route, walking and driving distances, estimated travel times, elevations, accommodation, and major highlights. The itinerary is designed to provide a comfortable pace with appropriate acclimatization while allowing the group to experience the remote Nar Phu Valley, cross Kang La Pass, explore Manang, and hike to Ice Lake.
Day 1
Kathmandu → Besisahar → Koto
Road Distance: Approximately 200 km
Driving Time: Approximately 8–10 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions
Koto Elevation: Approximately 2,600 m
Early in the morning, travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar by tourist bus. From Besisahar, continue by reserved private jeep toward Koto.
The road journey follows the Marsyangdi Valley and passes through rural settlements and changing landscapes. Beyond Besisahar, the road becomes mountainous and may be rough in some sections.
Koto is an important gateway to the remote Nar Phu Valley and marks the starting point of the trekking portion of the journey.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Koto.
Day 2
Koto → Meta
Walking Distance: Approximately 15 km
Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Starting Elevation: Approximately 2,600 m
Meta Elevation: Approximately 3,560 m
After breakfast, begin trekking from Koto into the restricted Nar Phu Valley. The required restricted-area permit is checked at the checkpoint before entering the restricted section.
The trail follows the Nar Khola and passes through forests, narrow canyons, suspension bridges, and impressive rock formations. The route gradually enters a more remote and dramatic Himalayan landscape.
After several hours of trekking, reach Meta, a small settlement situated on a hillside with wide views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Meta.
Day 3
Meta → Phu Village
Walking Distance: Approximately 18–20 km
Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Starting Elevation: Approximately 3,560 m
Phu Village Elevation: Approximately 4,080 m
Today, continue deeper into the remote Nar Phu Valley. The trail passes through Kyang and Chyakhu and follows the rugged landscape of the upper valley.
The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with dry Himalayan terrain, towering cliffs, narrow valleys, and impressive mountain views.
After a full day of trekking, arrive at Phu Village. Phu is one of the major cultural highlights of the Nar Phu region and is known for its traditional stone houses, Buddhist culture, and distinctive Himalayan way of life.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Phu.
Day 4
Acclimatization and Exploration in Phu
Phu Village Elevation: Approximately 4,080 m
Today is an important acclimatization and exploration day in Phu. Taking a slower day at this elevation allows the body to adjust before continuing toward higher sections of the trek.
Explore the traditional village, local monasteries, and surrounding viewpoints. Depending on weather, time, and the group's condition, a short acclimatization walk can also be taken in the surrounding area.
Phu offers a valuable opportunity to experience the distinctive culture, traditional architecture, and remote Himalayan lifestyle of the Nar Phu region.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Phu.
Day 5
Phu → Nar Phedi Monastery
Walking Distance: Approximately 14 km
Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Nar Phedi Elevation: Approximately 3,490 m
After breakfast, leave Phu Village and follow the trail through the remote valley toward Nar Phedi.
The route passes through spectacular mountain scenery and isolated Himalayan landscapes. The trail gradually descends and continues toward the peaceful Nar Phedi area.
Nar Phedi is known for its monastery, providing a memorable and unique overnight experience in this remote region.
Overnight: Nar Phedi Monastery.
Day 6
Nar Phedi → Nar Village
Walking Distance: Approximately 6 km
Walking Time: Approximately 3–4 hours
Starting Elevation: Approximately 3,490 m
Nar Village Elevation: Approximately 4,100 m
Today is a shorter trekking day, allowing time to gradually ascend toward Nar Village.
The trail climbs steadily through the high Himalayan landscape before reaching Nar. Nar is one of the most fascinating traditional settlements in the region and is known for its stone-built houses, Buddhist culture, and distinctive mountain lifestyle.
After arriving in Nar, there will be time to rest and explore the village and its surroundings.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Nar.
Day 7
Nar → Kang La Pass → Ngawal
Walking Distance: Approximately 18–20 km
Walking Time: Approximately 8–10 hours
Starting Elevation: Approximately 4,100 m
Kang La Pass Elevation: Approximately 5,322 m
Ngawal Elevation: Approximately 3,660 m
Today is the major highlight and one of the most demanding days of the entire trek.
Start early in the morning and gradually ascend toward Kang La Pass. At approximately 5,322 m, the pass offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range, Tilicho Peak, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
After spending some time enjoying the mountain scenery, begin the long descent toward Ngawal.
This is a challenging high-altitude day. Actual walking time may vary depending on weather, trail and snow conditions, and the group's pace and physical condition.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Ngawal.
Day 8
Ngawal → Manang
Walking Distance: Approximately 12 km
Walking Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Starting Elevation: Approximately 3,660 m
Manang Elevation: Approximately 3,540 m
After the demanding Kang La Pass crossing, today's trek is comparatively easier.
The trail continues through the beautiful upper Manang Valley, with impressive views of the surrounding mountains. Continue toward Braga before reaching Manang.
Manang is one of the major settlements on the Annapurna Circuit and offers a range of facilities and comfortable teahouse accommodation.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Manang.
Day 9
Manang → Ice Lake → Manang
Acclimatization and Day Hike
Walking Distance: Approximately 10–12 km round trip
Walking Time: Approximately 9–10 hours round trip
Starting and Ending Elevation: Approximately 3,540 m
Highest Elevation: Approximately 4,600 m
After breakfast, begin an early morning hike from Manang toward Ice Lake.
The trail climbs steadily through alpine terrain and offers increasingly impressive views of the Annapurna range and surrounding Himalayan landscape.
After reaching Ice Lake and enjoying the scenery, descend back to Manang by the same route.
This is a long and physically demanding day hike, but it provides an excellent high-altitude experience and rewarding mountain views.
Overnight: Local teahouse in Manang.
Day 10
Manang → Lower Pisang → Besisahar
Walking Distance: Approximately 15 km
Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Driving Time: Approximately 7–8 hours
Lower Pisang Elevation: Approximately 3,200 m
Besisahar Elevation: Approximately 760 m
After breakfast, walk from Manang to Lower Pisang, gradually descending through the Marsyangdi Valley.
The route passes through traditional villages and changing mountain landscapes before reaching Lower Pisang.
From Lower Pisang, continue by reserved private jeep toward Besisahar. The road is mountainous and rough in some sections, and driving time may vary depending on road, weather, and traffic conditions.
Because of the combination of trekking and a long jeep journey, this will be a full and demanding travel day.
Overnight: Hotel in Besisahar.
Day 11
Besisahar → Pokhara by Private Jeep
Road Distance: Approximately 110 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Besisahar Elevation: Approximately 760 m
Pokhara Elevation: Approximately 800 m
After breakfast, depart from Besisahar and travel by reserved private jeep to Pokhara.
The journey passes through the lower hills and rural landscapes of central Nepal before reaching Pokhara. Upon arrival at your hotel in Pokhara, the fully guided 11-day trek officially concludes.
Overnight: Your hotel in Pokhara.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The walking distances, trekking times, driving durations, and elevations provided in this itinerary are approximate. Actual distances and travel times may vary depending on weather conditions, road and trail conditions, individual walking pace, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. places the highest priority on the safety, comfort, and well-being of every guest. If conditions require, the trekking guide may adjust the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience while maintaining the overall objectives of the journey.
TOTAL PACKAGE COST
Price: USD 1100 per person
Based on a minimum group size of 3 trekkers
This package price covers a fully supported 11-Day Nar Phu Valley Trek with Ice Lake, from Kathmandu to Pokhara, including the required permits, professional trekking services, accommodation, transportation, meals, and other services specified in the itinerary.
PACKAGE INCLUDES
1. Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (MRAP).
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
3. TIMS Card, if required under the prevailing Nepal Government regulations.
4. Taxi transfer from your hotel in Kathmandu to the Tourist Bus Park at Balaju, Kathmandu.
5. Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by a reserved private jeep from Besisahar to Koto, the starting point of the trek.
6. Accommodation for 10 nights in comfortable local teahouses during the trek.
7. All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the trek.
8. Three cups of tea or coffee per person per day during the trek.
9. Reserved private jeep transportation from Lower Pisang to Besisahar and onward to your hotel in Pokhara.
10. One experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide.
11. All guide wages, meals, accommodation, transportation, insurance, and required permits.
12. One trekking duffel bag bearing the Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. company name and logo, provided for use during the trek..
13. Sleeping bag provided for use during the trek, to be returned to Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. after the trek.
14. Trekking poles provided for use during the trek, to be returned to Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. after the trek.
15. Crampons provided if required, subject to trail and weather conditions, to be returned to Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. after the trek.
16. Detailed Nar Phu Valley Trek map.
17. Emergency rescue coordination and assistance. Any helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, or related expenses must be covered by the trekker's personal travel insurance.
18. Farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant in Pokhara.
19. Official Trek Completion Certificate issued by Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd.
20. All applicable Nepal Government taxes.
21. Complete administrative support and assistance before and throughout your trekking holiday.
PACKAGE EXCLUDES
Bottled drinking water and boiled drinking water.
Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and specialty coffee (espresso, cappuccino, latte, etc.).
Hot showers, Wi-Fi internet, and battery charging at mountain teahouses.
Personal expenses not specifically mentioned in the "Package Includes" section.
Personal travel insurance.
Tips (gratuities) for your trekking guide
Tipping to Guide
Tipping is a valued tradition and part of the trekking culture in the Nepal Himalayas. While entirely voluntary, it is customary for guests to offer a gratuity to their trekking guide and porter at the end of the trek in recognition of their hard work, dedication, and professional service.
For more information about tipping practices in Nepal, please visit:
https://www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/tipping-trekking-guides-in-nepal
Additional Information
Trekking Gear List:
www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/trekking-equipment-list-in-details
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We are dedicated to ensuring your safe, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Have a wonderful day!
Contact Information
Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd.
(Your Hiking Guide in the Himalaya)
Nepal Government Registration No.: 215808/75/076
Kumarigal-7, Bouddha, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel/WhatsApp: +977 9808717598
Email: nepalhimalayanhiking@gmail.com
Website: www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com
