Mustang to Narphu Valley Trek

4.0

Escape the crowds and discover the magic of Mustang and Nar Phu. This off-the-beaten-path trek takes you through a landscape sculpted by time, with colorful rock formations and snow-capped peaks. Get to explore Upper Mustang, visit ancient monasteries, and connect with the local people.

At a Glance
Location

Narphu Valley

Duration

24 days

Trip Difficulty

Extreme

Activities

Trekking

Accommodation

Tent /Camping

Meals

By a private cook

Group size

Min 4 Pax.

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Max. Altitude

5700m

The Mustang to Nar Phu Valley trek offers an unforgettable journey through some of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions. This trek combines the beauty of Mustang with the hidden valleys of Nar and Phu, where ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions exist. Mustang, which was long inaccessible to foreigners, remains a dream for Himalayan trekkers. It is located north of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna, on the Tibetan Plateau.

The region is shielded from the monsoon. It features landscapes of ocher and brown rocks contrasted with green barley fields, a unique sight in Nepal. Many villages here are protected by defensive walls, with houses of white stone forming labyrinthine streets. Tibetan Buddhism is deeply ingrained here, with rituals that have disappeared elsewhere in the Himalayas. You can see monks and nuns, dressed in their maroon robes performing age-old ceremonies, chanting prayers, and spinning prayer wheels.

Major highlights

  • Landscape of Mustang’s ochre and blue rock formations, unlike anything else found in Nepal.
  • Immerse yourself in the culture of the region by interacting with the friendly local inhabitants.
  • Discover lush green oases surrounding villages
  • Witness the snow-capped peaks of the Nilgiri range and other high mountain passes.
  • Well-restored mural paintings housed within the ancient monasteries.
  • Luri Gompa, a hidden cave monastery.
  • Challenge yourself with the high mountain pass that connects Mustang and Nar Phu.
  • Spend the night camping in tents alongside your Nepali team, away from the usual tourist crowds.
  • Engage with the shepherds watching their flocks along the trails, the monks residing in the Lo Gompa monastery, the Amchi (Tibetan doctors) practicing traditional medicine, the hardworking Mustang farmers, and the villagers of the Naar Phu valley.

Your Journey from Mustang to Narphu Valley

We start our 24-day trekking journey from Kathmandu, traveling to Pokhara. From Pokhara, we continue until we reach Kagbeni, the gateway to the restricted Upper Mustang region. Before entering Mustang, we take an acclimatization day at Phalyak to adjust to the altitude and prepare for the adventure ahead. The newly constructed road allows us to travel further by jeep, starting our trek from the village of Samar.

As we ascend, we cross high mountain passes at around 4000 meters, discovering charming villages like Ghiling and Ghami along the way. We then come upon the troglodyte dwellings of Drakmar. Continuing north, we reach the isolated monastery of Lo Gekar, one of the oldest gompas in Nepal, before arriving at the mythical walled city of Lo Mantang. Spend a day in Lo Mantang, exploring nearby villages and monasteries that extend towards the border with Tibet.

We then descend on the left bank of the Mustang Khola, taking an excursion to the astonishing Luri Gompa cave. This cave is adorned with ancient frescoes reminiscent of distant Kashmiri art. Departing from Mustang’s trails and villages, we enter a high mountain region, crossing passes above 5000m. Spend overnight at Damodar Lakes before reaching the perched village of Phu.

Our passage through Naar and the Kangla Pass, at over 5000 meters, leads us into the Manang Valley at Gyaru. The return journey involves a jeep ride from Chame, followed by a flight back to Pokhara. From there, we continue onward to Kathmandu. The road journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara by local bus takes between 5 to 7 hours, with accommodations near Phewa Lake offering stunning reflections of the Machhapuchhre peak.

 

Itinerary

Our adventure starts in Kathmandu. We will travel by local bus to Pokhara, a charming lakeside town nestled beneath the mountains. The bus ride takes 5 to 7 hours to reach Pokhara. . Pokhara offers a serene opening to the wonders ahead, with Phewa Lake reflecting the majestic Machhapuchhre peak. Stay overnight in the hotel in Pokhara.

Today marks the beginning of our trek to Narphu. We will take a flight to Jomsom (2713m), located at the foot of the Annapurna range. Ascending alongside the Kali Gandaki River and making a detour to reach the picturesque village of Lupra. Lupra is situated high up and off the beaten path. We stayed overnight in Kagbeni. The trek will involve 3 hours of trekking with an ascent of 142m and a descent of 70m.

 

Today is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing our bodies to adjust to the increasing altitude. We explored the surrounding villages of Phalyak and Dangarjung on the right banks of the Kali Gandaki River. We stayed overnight in Phalyak. Our trekking time was 5-6 hours, with an elevation gain of 342m and an elevation loss of 300m.

In the early morning, we descended to Kagbeni to catch a jeep. The jeep track is now open and frequently used, so we took a jeep to Samar. Following the Kali Gandaki River, we passed through the village of Tsuksang.

After crossing a bridge on foot, we changed vehicles to reach Chele and then crossed two passes at 3600m and 3765m. Take time to enjoy beautiful views of the snow-capped Nilgiri and distant Annapurna mountains. After that, descend to Samar alongside a river bordered with poplar trees. The total duration of the journey was 4 hours by road, with an ascent of 955m and a descent of 150m.

Leaving Samar behind, our journey continues through the mystical Chungsi Cave. It is an ancient sanctuary where the great Buddhist saint Padmasambhava meditated for three years, three months, and three days. This natural cave is guarded by a stalagmite. Continuing onward, we stop for lunch at Syangboche and then descend to Ghiling, a beautiful village protected by a monastery. The descent took approximately 6 hours and covered a distance of 1000 meters.

The day begins with a gentle ascent, followed by a challenging climb to Nyila Pass at 3975m. Following that, descend to Ghami at 3545m, there are clusters of white houses situated on the edge of a deep gorge. The village of old Ghami was abandoned due to water scarcity and features ruins that slowly merge with the ochre cliffs. Feel free to explore this beautiful village, with windows decorated in red, blue, green, and black.

You can also visit the Gompa and enjoy lunch in Ghami. Leaving the classic trail behind, we’ll ascend the ridges that provide us with magnificent views of the first grey and blue cliffs, followed by ochre cliffs as we approach Dhakmar. Our trek ends in Dhakmar village, which is adorned with troglodyte dwellings. The trekking took approximately 8 hours with an ascent of 900m and a descent of 800m.

The trail winds through cliffs on a very steep slope. Begin your trek by ascending to Mui Pass at 4170m. Then descend to the ancient Ghar Gompa monastery, one of Nepal’s oldest dating back to the 11th century. After lunch, the journey continues over a pass and along a balcony trail with beautiful views of the Mustang plateau. Continuing our trek over high passes and along balcony trails, we catch our first glimpse of Lo Manthang, a fortified city. Stay overnight in Lo Manthang. The trek involves 7 hours of trekking, with an ascent of 900m and a descent of 850m.

Get ready for an exciting exploration! Today, we have two options. The first excursion takes you on a round trip to the Choser Valley to Nyphu Gompa and Jhong Caves. For the more adventurous, there’s the option to reach a plateau south of Garphu above Nyphu and then descend back to Lo Manthang. This exhilarating adventure takes around 7 hours.

The second excursion allows you to visit Kacho Dzong and return via Namgyel, a monastery with incredible views overlooking Lo. It is a slightly shorter excursion taking about 5 hours.

Today, you will trek from Lo Manthang to Dhi, situated at 3410m. It involves crossing Dhi Pass at 4100m and descending to the village of Dhi. Here, you can set up camp and enjoy the serene surroundings. This part of the journey will take approximately 6 hours.

Today, we walk for 2 hours along a riverbed to reach Luri Gompa monastery, where an old Lama resides. Then, climb the cliffs to the hermitage of Luri. The hermitage clings to cliffs inside caves and is accessed by a ladder made from a huge trunk. You get to see the first cave house statues of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The second cave features a magnificent stupa with a ceiling painted in original motifs. Finally, we will camp at Luri Gompa.

Today’s adventure takes us on a descent into a gorge before reaching a plateau with views of Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest mountain. Crossing a pass at 4940m, we descend to Ghuma Tanti, a resting place for pilgrims en route to the sacred Damodar Lakes. The trek will take 6 to 7 hours, with an ascent of 1055m and a descent of 195m.

During this acclimatization stage, you can go on a short trek that involves crossing a pass situated at an elevation of 5300m. On the way, you can witness the view of Dhaulagiri I and II, Tukuche Peak, and Annapurna I as you descend from the pass. The trekking duration for this stage is approximately 4 hours, with an ascent of 575m and a descent of 350m.

On this day, you will trek up for about 4 hours to reach a pass at 5490m, where you can enjoy stunning mountain views. After that, cross a river and walk through a small valley to get to the sacred Damodar Lakes at 4970m. These lakes are considered sacred by Buddhists and Hindus. In this part of the trek, the ascend was 570m, and the descent was 570m.

Take a well-deserved rest day at the Damodar Lakes. Within the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Himalayas, you’ll get the chance to relax, take photos, and reflect on your journey.

You will trek through lush meadows and sheepfolds, following a river to reach Japanese Camp at 5240m. A chorten built by Japanese climbers marks the base camp and offers a unique perspective on the region’s mountaineering history and cultural exchanges. The trekking duration is approximately 3 hours ascending 270 meters.

We started the day by climbing over a moraine and rocky slope and across a glacier surrounded by ice penitents. The trek took us 5 hours, ascending 530m and descending 50m.

The next two days involve a descent through moraines and scree slopes. Finally, we’ll reach the perched village of Phu, the first inhabited settlement in the Nar Phu valley.

Take a well-deserved rest day in Phu. Use this time to explore the village and its surroundings. Visit ancient monasteries surrounded by colorful prayer flags, interact with local villages, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural traditions.

Today, you will trek through abandoned villages and camps after crossing the gorges. The trek is expected to take 5 hours.

Today, you ascend to the beautiful village of Nar. This village is protected by an imposing chorten, a Buddhist shrine monument, and a mani wall inscribed with Buddhist mantras. From Nar, continue your climb to the base camp of Kang La Pass. This stage involves an elevation gain of 1250 meters with a minor descent of 150 meters.

Today, we’ll conquer the Kang La Pass at 5310m. It takes approximately 4 hours to reach the pass, providing an entire view of the Annapurna range. The descent starts with a moderately steep section that requires attention. Finally, we’ll reach Gyaru and stay overnight there.

After leaving the balcony trail, join the Annapurna Circuit trail. Pass through villages such as Pisang, known for its ancient monasteries, before reaching the Chame village. This trekking day provides an opportunity to interact with local villagers and explore the beauty of the Annapurna region.

Our 24-day adventure concludes today. We will take a jeep ride from Chame to Besisahar, clinging to the cliffside. Then, a private vehicle will take us back to Kathmandu. Our team will transfer you to the hotel where you can rest well.

Customize your trek with GST

The Manaslu to Narphu Trek itinerary offers variations for those wanting to explore the Upper Mustang after the main trek.

Option 1: Mustang in 13 days follows the main route until Lo Manthang, the ancient walled city. Then, it diverges to Luri Gompa before crossing the Kali Gandaki River to Tsarang on the left bank. From Tsarang, a jeep will take you back to Jomsom.

Option 2: Mustang The Big Loop is a 16-day adventure that lets you experience the entirety of Upper Mustang. It includes returning via the left bank and witnessing the rock formations called “Demoiselles Coiffées” in Tangye.

To fully immerse yourself in the rich culture of Lo Manthang, consider adding an extra day to your itinerary. For those short on time or looking for a more comfortable way to reach Pokhara, we offer the possibility to add private transportation or a flight from Kathmandu. Contact us for rates and to discuss the best option for your travel style and budget.

Cost Includes
  • English-speaking guide
  • Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers, max carrying capacity 26 kg)
  • Meals and accommodation in tents (cooks and assistants, tents, personal tent, mess tent, and toilet tent), mattresses, cooking and dining utensils.
  • Entrance fees to National Parks and TIMS registration
  • Mustang Permit
  • Nar Permit
  • Private transfer Kathmandu/Pokhara round trip
  • Reserved local jeep from Dharapani/Beshisahar
  • Private bus from Beshisahar/KTM
  • Special insurance for Nepali staff
  • Flight Jomsom/Pokhara
  • Round trip hotel to international airport
Cost Excludes
  • Personal insurance covering mountain rescue expenses
  • Domestic flights except Pokhara/Jomsom
  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara
  • Nights and meals in Kathmandu
  • Nepal visa
  • Personal expenses and drinks
  • Entrance fees to cultural sites
  • Tips for guides, staff, and driver

 

Book your spot

Starting from

€2941

€826.55 permit and flight A/R Jomsom

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Recent Traveler Reviews

star rating  Excellent voyage et découverte du Népal - Que du bonheur ce tour du Manaslu en 15 Jours. Apres un tour du Solou fait l'année dernière, c'était notre 2eme voyage avec GST au Népal. Circuit adapté à nos... read more

avatar thumb Arnaud B
November 14, 2023
Richmonda
Richmonda

Jul 01, 2024

Fantastic Trek- Annapurna Circuit Trek

My Annapurna Circuit trek with GST was amazing. Our guide knew a lot about the local culture and terrain. We trekked through beautiful rhododendron forests, and under clear blue skies.

Arnaud B
Arnaud B

Jun 06, 2024

Manaslu Trek - Incredible Journey

Wonderful Manaslu trek experience. The local people were welcoming, and our guide made the trek safe and enjoyable. Thank you, GST, for this incredible journey.

Harry Kc
Harry Kc

Jun 06, 2024

Excellent trek

I have used GST services multiple times over the past five years, in Kathmandu and Tibet. They are a highly reputable agency, and I highly recommend their services.

Christina Perri

Jun 06, 2024

Langtang Valley trek- Unforgettable experience

GST made our Langtang Valley trek unforgettable. Beautiful scenery, great guides, and perfect organization.

Alexander White

Jan 05, 2024

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking

The 15-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek was well-organized with a friendly guide. It offers challenges, breathtaking views, and diverse scenery. We highly suggest GST for anyone looking to discover Nepal’s beauty.

FAQs

Due to the restricted area permits required for Upper Mustang and Nar Phu Valley, it is mandatory to trek with a registered guide and obtain permits through a trekking agency. Independent trekking is not allowed in these regions.

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for the Mustang to Nar Phu Valley trek. You must have a complete travel insurance package that covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue), itinerary charges, and trip cancellation.

The trek is very challenging due to its high altitudes and rugged terrain. It includes several steep ascents and descents, narrow trails, and rocky paths, with passes reaching over 5000 meters. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.

The best time for the Mustang to Nar Phu Valley trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, ideal for trekking.

The Nar Village in the Nar Phu Valley of Nepal is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,183 meters (13,724 feet), while its sister village, Phu, lies at around 4,150 meters (13,615 feet) above sea level.