Narphu Valley and Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek - 20 Day

Annapurna Region
World Highest Lake Tilicho
Throng-la Top Annapurna Circuit
Nar Phu Valley Trek
Duration20 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeStrenuous
i
Maximum Altitude4,800 m
Group Size1 - 12
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking Activities
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

Embark on a spectacular trip through the hidden valleys of Narphu, snow-fed the sapphire waters of Tilicho Lake, and the legendary Annapurna Circuit. This off-the-beaten-path adventure combines raw Himalayan wilderness, ancient Tibetan Bonpo culture, and dramatic mountain scenery. From isolated stone villages to high alpine passes, Nar Phu and Tilicho Lake with the Annapurna Circuit Trek is perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path, cultural depth, and awe-inspiring landscapes all in one epic trail.

Nar Phu Valley & Tilicho Lake Trek combined with Annapurna Circuit is one of the most scenic adventurous treks in the remotest parts of the Annapurna Himalayas. While Nar Phu Valley is one of the least visited trekking trails, Tilicho Lake is considered the highest freshwater sapphire lake in the world, and Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular trails in Nepal. So the combined Nar Phu Valley Trek, Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek allows you to experience isolated landscapes, the highest lake, high passes, and the crowded part of the trekking of Nepal Himalayas at once.

Nar and Phu are two different villages nestled in the most remote part of the Manang district, Nepal. A special restricted permit from the government of Nepal is required for trekking in Nar and Phu. A journey begins from Kathmandu by bus/jeep to Dharapani and continues with the entry to the restricted areas of Koto, Meta, Phu, Nar, Kang-la Pass (5,320 m/17,450 ft), Ngawal, and meets the world-famous Annapurna Circuit Trails. Dharapani is the starting/ending point of Manaslu Base Camp Trek. The Nar Phu trek also visits the last monastery constructed by Lama Karma Sonam Rimpoche, in Phu valley. The magnificent vista of the Annapurna range, the Dhaulagiri range, Gangapurna (7455m), Tilicho Peak (7134m), Himlung Himal (7126m), and the other Himalayas is another highlight of this trek. The trek goes through lush Himalayan forests of rhododendrons, pine, juniper, and fir, and encounters many Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and Chortens en route.

Explore the active Manang village and follow the trails to Siri Kharka and to Tilicho Lake. Narphu to Tilicho Lake Trek is surely a wild Annapurna loop. Around the corner of the Lake, the Tilicho Peak Base Camp is nestled. Enjoy the sapphire Tilicho lake and breathtaking Himalayas, with a diverse landscape, then trek to Ledar to reconnect the Annapurna Circuit, which leads to Throng-la (5,416 m/17,465 ft) to Muktinath.

Nar Phu Valley & Tilicho Lake Trek combined with Annapurna Circuit trek features the sacred temple of Muktinath, which is equally important to Buddhists, Hindus, and Bons. The temple is the perfect example of religious tolerance seen in the country. The adventure includes beautiful waterfalls, lush meadows, and ups and downs throughout the trek. These combined trips enable you to experience the life of people living in an inaccessible part of the country.

Global Eco Trails is one of the best trekking and travel companies based in Kathmandu, Nepal. We are dedicated to fostering a deep connection between nature and explorers, promoting sustainable tourism, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Offering all kinds of trekking packages, permits, logistics, safety, and security at a fair price is a prime concern.

Highlights of Narphu & Tilicho with Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Explore the off-the-beaten-path of Nar and Phu Valley
  • Visit ancient Buddhist Monasteries, Chorten, and Mani wall along the trek.
  • Experience the Khampa culture and traditions closely, as they were lived illegally.
  • Enjoy the highest passes of Kongma-la, Throng-la pass, and visit the highest lake Tilicho.
  • Explore the Ice Lake, Milarepa Cave, and Praken Gompa from Manang on contingency day
  • As per Hindu and Buddhist myth, taking a holy bath in the 108 water spouts near Mukti Kunda can wash away sin and bring liberation.

Is the Narphu & Tilicho with Annapurna Circuit Trek Safe

Yes, of course, Nar Phu Valley and Tilicho Lake in offbeat Annapurna is safe for trekking with a licensed, experienced guide to navigate the high-altitude challenging routes. While Nar Phu valley, Tilicho Lake and Throng-la involve challenging terrain and potential weather changes. A guide and proper preparation can mitigate risk.

Is the Narphu & Tilicho with Annapurna Circuit Trek worth it?

The Nar Phu valley and Tilicho Lake trek is worth it, offering an off-the-beaten-path trek experience, access to remote villages, breathtaking landscapes, unique Tibetan Buddhism, and an opportunity to experience the different side of world-famous Annapurna Circuit.

How difficult is Narphu & Tilicho Lake with the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Yes, Narphu Valley, Kang-la Pass, Tilicho Lake, and Throng-la Pass are demanding but rewarding treks in the Annapurna region. The rugged terrain and challenging passes require good personal fitness and trek preparation, which involves 5 to 7 hours of daily walking. We are a well-known company among the locals due to our frequent departures and have built strong relationships with local entrepreneurs.

Narphu & Tilicho with Annapurna Circuit Trek beginners

The Narphu Valley, Tilicho Lake, and Throng-la Pass trek is generally not convenient for beginners due to its rugged terrain, steep ups and downs, and high passes. A good physical fitness and prior trek experience are required for a safe and sound journey, although the trek offers stunning views and a unique cultural experience. Our private trips run daily and are perfect for solo travelers, family trips, couples and friends. If you are a beginners please choose a private trip for safe and enjoyable trek.

Narphu & Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Guided Trek

Trekking is not always an easy task. These three spectacular trek areas are challenging and remote trekking destinations in Nepal. Nar Phu Valley is an off-the-beaten-path trek influenced by traditional Tibetan culture with ancient monasteries. The tantric Buddhism is deeply rooted in the area. Tilicho Lake is the highest lake in the world (4,919 m/16,135 ft) surrounded high Himalaya. Kang-la (5320 m/ 17,450 fit) and Throng-la (5,416 m/17,765 fit) are challenging passes. Both passes are challenging but rewarding. A restricted area permit is required for the Nar and Phu Valley Trek which is available only through a government-registered and TAAN-recognized local Trekking Company. The navigation is tricky in Narphu and Tilicho due to several sub-paths, and locals may not speak English. Global Eco Trails provides an experienced, knowledgeable local guide who can help you navigate, provide cultural insight and ensure your safety. Our guide is not only to navigate the way, he is a storyteller, a companion, a Leader, and a cultural interpreter with deep knowledge about altitude sickness.

Best time for Narphu, Tilicho and Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best trekking seasons in Nepal are generally Spring (March to mid-June) and Autumn (September to mid-December). Spring is the second busiest season for trekking in Nepal, featuring warmer temperatures, blooming rhododendrons and alpine flowers, and good visibility. Autumn is an excellent season for trekking and touring in Nepal, with pleasant temperatures, clear skies, chilly nights filled with twinkling stars, stable weather, and breathtaking mountain views. It is a perfect season for treks like Kang-la, Tilicho Lake, and Throng-la, among many other passes.

In contrast, the Winter season (December to February) brings heavy snow and freezing temperatures, causing most high-altitude teahouses and passes to close. Summer (mid-June to August) sees trails becoming wet, flooded, muddy, and prone to landslides, resulting in slippery conditions and poor visibility in areas like Nar and Phu Valley, Kang-la Pass, Tilicho Lake, and Throng-la Pass. However, the mountain weather is unpredictable, and sometimes the visibility and temperatures can be just as perfect as the Autumn season.

The highest Elevation of Narphu & Tilicho with the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Nar Phu Valley trek ranges from 3,000m to 3,500m, traversing valleys, rivers, canyons, and rugged terrain to reach Kang-la Pass at 5,320m. Tilicho Lake is situated at 4,919m, and the Annapurna Circuit is a world-famous trekking trail, with its Throng-la Pass at 5,416m being the highest pass in the trek.

The Booking procedure Narphu & Tilicho with Annapurna Circuit Trek

Global Eco Trails is a government-registered local trekking company based in Kathmandu Nepal, recognized by the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Mountaineering Association of Nepal (NMA), and VITTOF as an active member. So you can book the trip with us confidently. We need a passport copy, a digital photograph, cell phone number, and 10 % deposit of the total trip cost. As for the payment, make a 10 % bank transfer, and the rest of the amount should be paid upon arrival in Kathmandu. We accept credit card, master card, bank transfer and Cash in USD/Euros/Pound/Nepal Rupees.

Finally, Narphu, Tilicho Lake, and Throngla pass trek is a moderate to challenging adventure through one of Nepal’s most remote and stunning regions. Success on this trek requires good Physical fitness, proper gear, and a reliable local guide. It is crucial to work with the licensed trekking company to arrange restricted area permits, logistics

At Global Eco Trails, we provide experienced, culturally knowledgeable guides who specialize in high-altitude and off-the-beaten-path treks. Whether you have a question or are ready to book, our experts are available 24/7 via WhatsApp, Messenger, and email. Let us make this unforgettable journey smooth, safe, and rewarding.

Itinerary

Thinking about Narphu, Tilicho Lake, and the Annapurna Circuit?
While this off-the-beaten-path route is known for its challenging terrain, high passes, and remote landscapes, Global Eco Trails encourages enthusiastic beginners to take on this unforgettable journey as a private trip. With the right preparation, support, and guidance from our experienced team, even first-time trekkers can safely explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the offbeat Annapurna and beyond. This is our outline itinerary, Please feel free to share with us if you have any alternative plans in your notes.

Trip PlanExpand All
01Day

Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, Our staff will be waiting with your name ply card. Meet and greet then transfer to designated hotel in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,350 mAccommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
02Day

After breakfast at your hotel, the Journey begins through the Prithivi Highway until Dumre. Then, follow the Marshyangdi River valley to Beshisahar. Take another shared jeep to Dharapani and spend the night. Dharapani is the meeting point of the Manaslu Circuit and the Annapurna Circuit.

Max Altitude: 1,960 m/6,430 fitMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 205 km
03Day

Begins your trek through pine and fir forest to Bagarchhap. Visit the whitewashed Monastery, then keep continue to Timang. Timang offer the scenic view of Manaslu, peak 29, and Annapurna II. Feels like you are playing “hide N seek” with Himalaya. Arrival and check in Guest House.

Max Altitude: 2600/ 8,530 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 13 km
04Day

After registering your Trek Permit at the police check post, follow the Nar Khola through a narrow canyon, pine and fir forest, stream and suspension bridge to Dharmashala. It is nice to stop here for your lunch and continue to Meta. It is a long day walking, but beautiful. It is recommended to have a pack lunch at Koto because there is not tea house in between.

Max Altitude: 3,560 m/ 11,670 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hopursDistance: 15 km
05Day

Traverse up and down through the small forest, crossing a few suspension bridges over a stream. Along the way, stop at Kyang, where you can visit the fort of the Khampas settlement. Further, walk and cross Phu Khola and rocky trails to reach Pho Gaon.

Max Altitude: 4080m / 13,385 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 17 km
06Day

Today is an acclimatization day to avoid altitude sickness. Visit the local village of Gurung and Tamang. You are in the hidden valley, where you can immerse yourself in the culture and customs. Visit Tshi Lakhang Monastery and enjoy the views of the Himlung Himalayan range along with several snow-capped mountains.

Max Altitude: 4,080 m /13,385 fitMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest House
07Day

Today’s trek is easier than previous day, it is about 6 hours walking, the trek back toward to Meta before turning to the Monastery. Nar Phedi is not a village; it is a single monastery where you will be spending a night. The room is a clean and comfortable one.

Max Altitude: 4,110 m / 13,480 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 HoursDistance: 16 km
08Day

Another easy and beautiful day of the trek. Follow the windy path towards Nar passing Chortens, into the ancient village. You will have a lunch and dinner at the same place.

Max Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,778 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 10 km
09Day

Today’s hikes begins very early morning because you have to go over the Kang La pass to Ngawal. Kang La Pass is not a challenging trek, but nothing can be easier due to the altitude. When you reach the top of the pass, you will be treated with amazing views of Annapurna II, Tilicho Peak, and Gangapurna Mountain are just in front. After filling your mind and heart descend to Ngawal.

Max Altitude: 3,620 m / 11,875 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 24 km
10Day

Follow the northern trails to Manang. This is the most scenic path offering magnificent views of valley, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Pisang Peak, and Tilicho Peak, and endangered animals. Passing the ancient monastery, Mani wall, and Chorten makes it more cultural.

Max Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,285 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4 hrsDistance: 9 km
11Day

Cross the Marsyangdi River and ascend to Khangsar village. Following an hour hike into the coniferous forest and another few hour through scree slope to Siri Kharka. Enjoy the Great Barrier view on Khangsar pass through a small monastery, Mani wall, Chorten, and Tibetan prayer flags.

Max Altitude: 4,060 m / 13,320 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 12 km
12Day

Trek through the Gompa and Chorten with sea buckthorn bushes alongside
Find the famous sea buckthorn juice. Cross streams that originate from the Annapurna Himalayas

Max Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,615 ftMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 8 km
13Day

Hike to Tilicho lake through scree slopes, steep climbs takes about 3 hour. Reach the highest lake of the world “ Tilicho” (4,919m). Watch the awe-struck beauty and pride of mountains rippled in a mirrored gaze. Altitude gain- 650 m  and altitude loss in total within a day 800m down.

Max Altitude: 4,060 m / 13,320 fit.Meals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 10 km
14Day

Descend to Throng Khola and ascend 500m to Yak Kharka, May encounter a mountain goat, snow leopard if luck favors, musk deer. Follow the tranquil path to Yak Kharka/Ledar and spend a night. Chulu West peak climbing begin from Ledar as this is the nearest settlement for the supplying expedition logistic. Chulu West is the highest peak climbing in Annapurna region. If you are interested, give a try!

 

Max Altitude: 4060 m /13,320 fitMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 10 km
15Day

Walk through the scree slopes to Throng phedi, listen to the noise from the silence while walking
Get picturesque Himalayan views along the way to Throng-la Phedi and High Camp. Spend a few hours at Phedi and walk about 2 hours to High camp.

Max Altitude: 4,800 m / 15,745 fit.Meals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 8 km
16Day

Throng la intersects the Marsyangdi and Kaligandaki valleys, Cross one of the most famous high passes in the world – Throng La. Experience the spiritual and cultural sites of Hindus and Buddhists. Infront of the Temple a holi lake is designated for bath to wash away sings for liberation. Start from 4800m, ascend Throng La pass 5416m, and descend to 3710 m.

Max Altitude: 3,710 m / 12,170 fit.Meals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 15 km
17Day

Leave the pilgrimage sites behind and trek down to Kagbeni. This is a spiritual site for Hindus and Buddhists. It’s believed that taking a 108 water spouts bath in Muktinath will wash away sins for purity and liberation. Follow the arid Kaligandaki valley to Jomsom for a night. Kagbeni is a gateway to Upper Mustang, a forbidden kingdom, Lo Manthang.

Max Altitude: 2,740 m /8,990 fit.Meals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 19 km.
18Day

Explore the Jomsom and Marpha village. Marpha is a beautiful cultural Thakali Village where Apple fams and Apple brewery is. After the breakfast Enroll in an adventurous drive to Tatopani through Kaligandaki by bus. Jomsom to Tatopani section is busy and dusy, so it is wise to escape that part. 
Stop at Tatopani for the overnight, which offers a natural hot spring bath. Tatopani is a perfect place to rejuvenate your body

 

Max Altitude: 1,100 m / 3,280 fit.Meals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 3 hours bus journeyDistance: 50 km
19Day

The trails to Ghorepani are moderate, well-maintained, and suitable for travelers of all fitness levels. The trails offer breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri, as well as the beautiful Rhododendron forests and traditional Magar villages. The trails gain significant elevation. But worth it!

Max Altitude: 2,875 m / 9,430 fitMeals: Full Board PlanAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 15 km
20Day

Ghorepani is a tidy Magar village surrounded by Rhododendron forests at an altitude of 2,875m. Poon Hill is the most highlighted hill for sunrise and sunset view. You can see a 180-degree panorama including two of the eight thousand mountains, Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri I. Descend to Hille for about 4 hours and take a bus to Pokhara 3 hours.

Max Altitude: 810 mMeals: Breakfast and LunchAccommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
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Cost Details
Included
  • Kathmandu International Airport pick up on upon arrival.
  • One-night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast
  • One night hotel accommodation in Pokhara including breakfast.
  • Government-certified and licensed trekking guide. The guides are equipped to handle emergencies.
  • Food, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, and clothing for the guide are provided.
  • 17 nights in local tea houses, also called guesthouses/lodges, twin sharing during your journey.
  • Your daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included. You can choose your meals from the menu, which offers a variety of food options.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Trekking Permit is included.
  • TIMS Trekking Permit (Trekking Information Management System) Card for the Annapurna Trek.
  • Group medical supplies (first aid kit) will be available.
  • A duffel bag will be provided. (If you also need it, please let us know before you book the trip and remind us during our pre-meeting at our office.)
  • Transport from Kathmandu to Dharapani by local bus/sharing jeep (private car/van available for an additional cost).
  • Transport from Jomsom to Pokhara by local bus/sharing jeep (private car/van available for an additional cost).
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information and trip dossiers will be provided.
  • A Token of Love and a trekking certificate will be awarded after completing your trek.
  • All necessary paperwork, office service charges, and all government taxes are included.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu after the trip.
Excluded
  • Services in Kathmandu and Pokhara (If needed, let us know)
  • International flight fare and customs clearance
  • Nepal entry visa fee. You can get a Nepal visa upon arrival at the Airport. Visa cost: 30 USD, 50 USD and 125 USD for 15 days, 30 days and 90 days respectively
  • Alcohol, hot and cold drinks, hot water, hot and cold showers.
  • Personal expenses include laundry, telephone calls, sweets, snacks, beverages, bar bills, and camera battery charging.
  • Travel Insurance should include both rescue and medical assistance.
  • Personal trekking equipment. You can buy or rent in Kathmandu trekking stores.
  • Gratitude to the trekking staff
  • Personal expenses that are not mentioned in the cost included section.
Route Map
annapurna-trek-map-2.webp
Dates & Availability
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Starts:
May 17, 2025
Ends:
June 05, 2025
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Price:
US$1199
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May 20, 2025
Ends:
June 08, 2025
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May 24, 2025
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June 12, 2025
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Starts:
May 31, 2025
Ends:
June 19, 2025
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Price:
US$1199
Availability:

We offer private trips daily for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families with children. If you're interested in joining a group trip, feel free to contact us for schedule departure information.

Add-ons & Options
  • Porter Services 375 USD: We do offer a porter services to carry your trekking luggage and ensuring safety and sound trek. Our porter is honest, strong and dedicated on the profession. The wait limitation for a porter is 20 kg.
  • Kathmandu Guided Sightseeing Tour 95 USD: Global Eco Trek Offer the guided sightseeing day tour exploring Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhu Nath, Pashupatinath Temple and Buddha Nath, including A professional Tour Guide, A private Driver, Car with fuel and parking fees.
  • Flights Tickets: Flight options are available from Jomsom to Pokhara and Kathmandu. We do offer a local flight tickets from destination to destination in additional cost.
    Jomsom to Pokhara----------170 USD per person.
    Pokhara to Kathmandu------100 USD per person.
  • Extra activities: Beside trekking, we do offer Rafting, Bungy Jumping, Paragliding, Mountain flights or out bound trip to Tibet and Bhutan. If needed please kindly let us know.
  • Kathmandu to Dharapani by Jeep 185USD: Our package includes a bus and a sharing jeep to Dharapani. If you would like a private jeep services, we can arrange a private jeep for an additional cost. A jeep has 6 seater inside.
FAQs

Nar and Phu are two distinct villages nestled in the remote area beyond Annapurna, located in the Manang District of Nepal.

The Narphu Valley Trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its high pass, rugged terrain, and long walking distance.

Narphu Valley Trek is considered a challenging trek in the Annapurna region. However, if you are physically and mentally fit, with cardiovascular and strength endurance, it can be manageable for determined beginners with the help of a professional and experienced guide

Yes, Narphy Valley is a restricted area within the Annapurna region, and solo or independent trekking is not allowed. You should trek with a registered guide through a legal local trek company. A Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Entry permit (ACAP) are required, which must be arranged through a local company.

The Narphu Valley Trek is remote and isolated within the Annapurna region. The food and accommodation along the Narphu Valley is basic but generally clean and comfortable.

As mentioned above, this is a challenging trek within the Annapurna region. You should be physically and mentally fit. At least 2 months before the journey begins, you should join running, cycling, and swimming.

If you get sick while on trek, first you need to inform your Guide/Leader. The response will depend on the nature of the sickness and the severity of the illness. If it is altitude sickness, the guide will coordinate with your travel company for the immediate evacuation if necessary. If minor illness, you may rest, take proper medication, and continue once you are better, or if not, descend slowly to a lower altitude.

Global Eco Trails offers a lifetime deposit policy. If you need to cancel your trip, you are encouraged to postpone it for a future date. Your deposit will be securely held and can be used for any upcoming trip. You also have the option to transfer the deposit as a voucher to a friend or family member. If none of these options work for you, a cancellation fee may apply, and the remaining portion of your deposit will be refunded according to the company’s cancellation policy.

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