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.