Closed to tourism until 2002, Nar Phu valleys are far removed in both time and space from the neighboring Annapurna circuit. Hidden by swirls of mountain mist ahead of us, from Kang La pass the magnificent panorama view of Annapurna massif appears remote and forbidding during Narphu valley trek. The Narphu valley trekking takes you up narrow gorges to medieval villages, past impressive chortens, herds of blue sheep and spectacular Cliffside trail and over one of the region's highest trekking passes. Visited by very few trekkers this exotic land offers medieval Tibetan culture in undisturbed form, dramatic mountain views and great alpine scenery in a Tibet-like flavors. The Narphu valley trek in Manang is an excellent adventurous add onto a visit to the Manang region or the Manaslu trek.
We start our trek from Syange following the Popular Annapurna circuit trail and branch off at Koto to follow the off the beaten track to the Nar Phu valley in the very north of Manang. The vegetation gradually changes from alpine to sub-alpine scrub: the habitat of blue sheep and the illusive snow leopard. Nar Phu valleys have the population about 300 inhabitants who depend on livestock. The tortuous path leading from the valley into Tibet had never made them dependent on the salt trade, and till today yak herding is the basis of their livelihood. Narphu valley trek combines high peaks and passes, glaciers, remote villages, narrow canyons, lovely forests, amazing rock formations, yaks, Gompa and unique Himalayan cultures. The Phu is the most beautiful medieval village to understand the real life styles of Bhote communities. Along with spending plenty of time at these colorful and timeless villages, we explore the high alpine valleys above Phu including Himlung base camp and crossing Kang La pass from Nar to Ngwal on the Pisang route leading back into the Annapurna circuit.
The next part of the Nar Phu valley trekking is situated in the dry, desert- like Tibetan Plateau allowing access to Muktinath and Jomsom trail. Muktinath has become the center of pilgrimage for thousands of Indians and Nepalese Hindus. The picturesque Manang and Mustang valley, magnificent Kali Gandaki and Marsyangdi Rivers, close up views of the Himalayas, varied ecosystems, green paddy fields and oak forests, arid deserts and the deepest gorge in the world make this one of the most popular treks in the world. Heading to the headquarter Jomsom, we move to the north to Kagbeni along the river side way of Kali Gandaki.
The Nepal government's recent decision to open up Nar and Phu to tourists has evoked little enthusiasm among the villagers, whose rustic lifestyle continues. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has recently extended its network to include Nar and Phu Valley and preparing a suitable tourism development plan at the request of the government for undiscovered valley. The Nepal Nar Phu trek offers your enjoyment and a pleasure of the fabulous and typical landscape of the valley. Nar Phu valley trekking trail is probably the best non tourist area of Annapurna trekking routes and those who want to explore hidden valley off the beaten path it can be amazing.
