The Hidden World Of the Himalaya

The hidden world of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Nepal, Nar and Phu Village is located in the North-West within Annapurna Area Conservation Area Project. The area is bosted with unspoiled, raw Himalayan nature unique culture of its people. When the number of tourists increased in the famous trekking trail within Nepal, Nar Phu Valley becomes one of the great alternatives to avoid the crude. The hike takes about ten days from the capital. The area is under the restricted and protected part of the Himalayas. Due to the reason, Nar and Phu village share an open border with Tibet, the border security is strick in the region. In this article, I am keen to breakdown everything foreign trekkers should know about this hidden valley to explore.

Permit and Regulation

Accompanied by a registered guide, in a minimum of two hikers could get the permit to allow to visit this region of Nepal. The hikers should join the local company would then issue the license and all necessary paperwork. ACAP and Nar Phu Valley special permit is required, which would cost USD 30 for ACAP and USD 90 for the special permit. Remember you also have to bring the photo ID, the copy of the passport and insurance.

Transportation

There is regular transportation available between Kathmandu and Besishar. For the comfort option, you can hire a private car or a private jeep. Once you reach to Bishishar, you have travel Koto Manang in a local vehicle, which would take roughly 10 hours to reach the trailhead. If you choose the budget options, it will approximately cost USD 45 per person, or in private transportation, it will cost about US$125

Food and Accommodation

Next, to the food, that is where you will sleep. Each homestay has basic food and accommodation facilities. You can buy local food or some continental food from their restaurant. It is recommended bringing your sleeping bag, a sleeping mattress and personal belongings. Some days you are also required to sleep in the monasteries sharing same space with Buddhist monks.

Itinerary

It usually takes 9-10 days. If you only explore Nar Phu Valley Trek. However, If you would like to combine Itinerary with Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna CircuitNar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek you may need at least two weeks. You may want to experience the Tilicho Lake "Which is located in the elevation of 4,900m" The highest lake in the world. Joining Annapurna circuit Trek will also give you the oppernitty of the Manang valley and Mustang in the other side of the trail.

Best Time

If you are travelling in the Himalayas, you should always check for the best time of the year. In general Nar Phu Valley is best between September to December in the Autumn and March to May in the Spring. The great things of this trek are also perfect during the monsoon season of June to August, As it lies in the rain shadow part of the Himalayas.

Difficulties If I had to compear this trek with other treks in Nepal, It is not had. It is rated moderate trek in Nepal. 5 out of 4 ratings. However, you are required to hike at least 6-7 hour a day and 400 to 500m of elevation each day. Nar Phu Valley Trek also involves a high pass of 5100m of Kangla pass. so the temperature is below zero degrees in the morning, and during the day it is up to 15"C.

This blog post about Nar Phu Valley Trek may help you find more information.