Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek
- Activities
- Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek
- Max Elevation
- Kang La Pass (5,322m) and Meso Kanta Pass (5,099m), Tilicho (4,919m)
- Trip Duration
- 21 Days
- Trip Grade
- Moderate
- Lodging
- Eco Lodges + Tented Camp
- Meals
- Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
- Transportation
- Private Vehicle + Flight
- Communication
- Yes
- Group Size
- Minimum 2
- Best Season
- Spring and Autumn
- Per Day Walk
- Approx 6 - 7 Hours
Trip Highlights of Nar Phu Valley Trek with Tilicho Lake
- Exploration of one of the world’s highest altitude lakes: Tilicho (4,919m)
- Cross over two of the highest mountain Passes: Kang La Pass (5,322m) and Mesokanta La Pass (5,099m)
- Observe the best mountains of the Annapurna Range
- Trek off the beaten track in the remote area
- Experience the Tibetan culture and people
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Tilicho Lake is one of the newly discovered as well as the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. This appealing trekking destination is located in the northern part of the Manang district. Manang is known as the desert of Nepal. The landscapes of Manang and its surrounding territory have a unique and picturesque combination of rock formations. This trekking adventure is all about stepping on the bank of serene Tilicho Lake (4,919m) through Kangla Pass (5,322m).
Nar Phu Valley Trek with Tilicho Lake is a remote and isolated trek. It is a combination of adventures along with delightful experiences of nature, culture, and civilizations. There are still many places to be discovered. This trekking destination is similar to Tibet in terms of its landscapes, people, and culture. This trekking route was opened for trekking and hiking in 2003.
The quaint Tibetan influenced Villages, astonishing rock formations, alpine pastureland, narrow canyons, deep forest, and majestic peaks are the major attractions of Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek. The Mesokanto La Pass (5,099m) links Manang and the Kali Gandaki Valley. The Nar Phu Valley is less explored. It has a vast store of cultural riches. This valley is untouched by modern civilization. The people and the hospitality of the Nar Phu Valley are remarkable.
Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trekking is one of the restricted area treks in the Annapurna Region. It is physically demanding. The altitude itself is a challenge. It is recommended to have proper trekking experiences and physical and mental stamina to cope with every kind of situation.
Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek with Nepal Guide Treks and Expeditions begins from Koto. From there, we shall begin our journey towards Dharmashala and Kayang Village. Then we will move towards Phu, Nar and other villages respectively. We will spend a spare day at Phu Valley. We will be crossing Kang La Pass and moving towards Manang, Kangsar village and the Base Camp of Tilicho Lake. Tilicho Lake refreshes both your mind and mood. We shall explore the region and the next day we will cross another beautiful high pass: Mesokanta La Pass and move towards Jomsom. Finally, we will take a flight to Pokhara from Jomsom and spend the most pleasant time there.
If you have been planning for one such adventurous trip for a long time, this trek is for you. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding this trek.
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu International Airport
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our office representatives and transferred to the hotel in the heart of Kathmandu City. They will assist you in the check-in and then you can have some refreshments at the hotel or visit Nepal Guide Trek and Expedition’s office to get detailed information about the overall trek.
In the evening, we shall have a welcome dinner together where you can get to know your fellow participants.
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan + Welcome Dinner. - Day 02: City sightseeing in and around Kathmandu valley
Kathmandu offers you so many cultural and historical landmarks. Popularly known as the City of Temples, Kathmandu has a marvelous amalgamation of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Western Cultures.
Similarly, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur also have rich historical, cultural, and religious gems. All the monuments, art, and artifacts in these cities, in the Kathmandu valley, will give you a close insight into the then-contemporary Nepalese society.
Therefore, you will be taken on a guided tour of these cities. Basically, we will be visiting the major heritages that are listed in the World Heritage Sites of UNESCO. It is not possible to visit all these places in a single day but we will try our level best to take to many places as possible.
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Meals: BB Plan. - Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Koto by Jeep
We will start our journey early from Kathmandu. We will be traveling along the Prithivi Highway towards Besisahar. Besisahar is the headquarters of Lamjung District. From here will take a ride on a jeep towards Koto.
Koto is the starting point of the rugged Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek, at around 140 miles (230 kilometers) from Kathmandu. It is a scenic journey from the capital. We will arrive at Koto by early evening. We will spend the night there.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 04: Trek from Koto to Dharmasala (6 hours)
We will start our trek today from Koto. There is a checkpoint at Koto where we will show our restricted area permit and other documents to the officials. We will move along a narrow and steep trail through beautiful woods and beautiful summer settlements along with Phu Khola.
We will move on a path high above the river. We also cross and recross the river several times. The trail offers a unique view of waterfalls, rivers, forests, and high-altitude settlements.
Keep on ascending until you reach a tiny settlement called Dharmashala (3,230m). We will spend the night at Dharamsala before going further up.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 05: Trek from Dharmasala to Kyang (6 and ½ Hours)
After breakfast, we will trek to Kyang. We will move along the steep trails from the valley to the high pasture. We will pass through the scenic Kharka of Meta (3,560m), a temporary winter settlement of Nar.
The trail passes through lush forests on the route and small rivers. We will reach Kayang after six hours of a good walk. We will stay overnight at Kayang in a camp or lodge.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 06: Trek from Kayang to Phu village.
We will move towards the Phu Village today. The trail descends steeply to the river at first. We will then walk along the riverbank and cross a bridge over the stream.
Then we will climb on a relatively narrow, steep, and rugged terrain to reach the Phu valley. The walk through the gorge often refreshes your mind and mood.
The route between these two places offers the most unique and colorful Chortens. We will also be crossing through canyons and the gorge towards Phu Gate. From here, we will be able to observe three villages of Phu as well as the old dzong and the remains of two forts.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 07: Rest day Phu valley
After having breakfast we will visit Tashi Lhakhang Gomba. We will also view the unique lifestyle of the people of Phu village after which we will be given time to rest and recover for the remaining part of the journey.
Phu itself is an incredibly interesting village and we can observe the villagers spinning their yak and sheep wool and chatting. We will hike to the nearby places including Kharka at Ngoru and acclimatize properly.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 08: Trek from Phu valley to Junam
On the eighth day of our trek, we will move towards Junam (3,550m). We will retrace our way back through Phu gate, descend to the river and retrace our steps back to Junam Kharka. It is a lovely spot for camping. The landscapes are rewarding. We shall put up our camp here for the overnight stay.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges + Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 09: Trek from Junam to Nar
Our trail ascends gradually to the Tibetan Plateau-like landscape that provides an absolute vantage point of a valley towards Tibet. The village of Nar is the biggest village in the region where the main occupation of the people is trading and farming. Here people still follow one of the oldest forms of religion called Bon Po where the Buddhist priest will offer the dead bodies to the scavengers.
Nar is a culturally rewarding village. It has many Gompas and Chortens. The undulating patterns of barley and mustard field may put you in awe.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 10: Explore Nar village. Nar is livelier than Phu
We will trek north from our campsite enjoying the impressive Himalayan views. We may have an opportunity to witness a very rare blue sheep and who knows, we may encounter the elusive snow leopard as well. Note that Nar is a bit more social and livelier than Phu.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 11: Trek from Nar village to Ngawal after crossing Kang La pass (5,322m)
Today is an adventurous day with a long hike. So, we will get up early in the morning and head to Kangla Pass. From the pass, we can see the Annapurna massif. We will further trek down to Ngawal from there.
The trail down is steep. However, you will forget about the difficulties just because of the scene in the backdrop.
Ngawal is a wonderful, old village of cobbled streets, prayer wheels, and beautiful architecture. Obviously, it was a hub of religious activity until a few years back. We shall have our overnight stay in Ngawal.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 12: Trek from Ngawal to Manang takes about three hours
From Ngawal, we will head for Manang today. We will pass through the isolated village of Paugh overlooking the amazing views of the Annapurna range. We will then move gently uphill to Mungli and then to the main trail of the Annapurna Trail at Mungle.
We will eventually reach Manang, where we set up our camps for overnight stay.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 13: This is a day for rest in Manang
We will spend this day adjusting our bodies to the high-altitude environment. The success of the trip highly depends on how well you are acclimatized. Though it is a rest day, we will hike to the surrounding places and keep ourselves busy throughout the day.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 14: Trek from Manang to Khangsar takes approximately five hours
From Manang, the trail descends to a Chorten and turns to the northwest, and goes down to the River. After crossing the Jharsang Khola on a suspension bridge the trail goes through the blue pine forest and the wheat fields before arriving at Khangsar.
Khangsar is a Gurung village. We will chat with people and learn about their civilization. We shall stay overnight in Khangsar.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 15: Trek from Khangsar to Tilicho Lake takes about six hours
In between Tore Gompa and Tilicho Lake, we will trek towards the big, grassy field where blue sheep are often seen. A steep descent will bring us to Tilicho Base Camp, where we stay for the night. We will start the trek early this morning to Tilicho Lake.
Moving to the lake, we can have an outstanding view of Gangapurna, Tarkekang, Khangsar Kang, and the view of Manang valley and Upper Pisang. After spending a memorable time at Tilicho Lake, we will descend to Tilicho base camp in the same way for the overnight stay.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 16: Trek from Tilicho Lake to Mesokanto Pass (5,099 m) takes about seven hours
We will be heading towards one of the high Himalayan passes today. We will begin to move towards Mesokanto La Pass. It is very necessary to cross the pass very early to avoid the strong wind in the afternoon.
The trail towards the pass is a little challenging with several rock sections. From the top of the pass, we can enjoy superb mountain views of the Annapurna Massif. We shall spend the night in the pass at a tent.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges + Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 17: Trek from Mesokanto Pass to Jomsom (2741 m.) via Thimi (2760m.) takes about six hours
We shall observe the sunrise view from the pass before we descend down towards Kaisang. From there, we will move towards Jomsom. Our trail passes through rhododendron and pine forest.
We can also enjoy the panoramic view of the lush hillsides and slopes. Jomsom is a small and beautiful town in the Mustang district. From Jomsom, we can have a fantastic view of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. We shall spend the night at Jomsom.
Accommodation: Eco Lodges
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 18: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (25 minutes). Stay overnight at a Hotel in Pokhara
We shall take an early morning flight to Pokhara from Jomsom. If the weather is fine, we shall enjoy the incomparable mountain view of the Himalayas. We shall have a relaxing day at the hotel. Moreover, we can visit the lakeside in the evening and collect some of the most pleasant views.
Accommodation: Hotel / Resort
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 19: Free day in Pokhara. A day to relax or go for boating in the Phewa Lake
Early in the morning, we leave for Sarangkot, a hill that overlooks the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in the north and Pokhara city in the south. We visit several destinations like Bindabasini Temple, Devi’s fall, Gupteshwar Mahadev cave, and a boat in Phewa Lake. Overnight stay in the Hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel / Resort
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 20: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
We will take an early morning flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. After landing in a domestic terminal at the TIA, we shall head towards our hotel. We will have refreshments throughout the day at the hotel.
In the evening, we shall stroll around the busy streets of Thamel and observe the evening life. At the same time, you can buy some souvenirs for your beloved people. We shall have supper together.
Accommodation: Hotel / Resort
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner - Day 21: Departure Day
Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! Our representative will drop you off at the airport a few hours before our scheduled flight.
Meals: BB Plan
- Airport Arrival and departure transfer
- 4 nights stay in Kathmandu with BB Plan
- Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with City Guide, Private Vehicle
- All land transportation by private vehicle as per mentioned in the itinerary
- All meals [B/F, Lunch & Dinner] During Trekking period
- Tea House and Eco Lodges accommodation during Trekking
- Special Permit for Manaslu region and Annapurna Conservation Area permits
- MCAP and ACAP permit.
- TIMS permit
- Highly experienced Trekking guide for the entire trek
- Required Number of Porters – Between two clients one porter ratio.
- Staffs food, clothing salary & Insurance.
- General First aid Kids
- All tax, vats and necessary paper works
- Personal nature expenses
- Bar bill and all kind of drinks
- Rescue & Evacuation
- Gratitude (tip) for staff
The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.
Check our assured departure schedules given below:
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Availability | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Sep, 2026 | 23 Sep, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 10 Sep, 2026 | 30 Sep, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 17 Sep, 2026 | 7 Oct, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 24 Sep, 2026 | 14 Oct, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 2 Oct, 2026 | 22 Oct, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 9 Oct, 2026 | 29 Oct, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 16 Oct, 2026 | 5 Nov, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 23 Oct, 2026 | 12 Nov, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 3 Nov, 2026 | 23 Nov, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 6 Nov, 2026 | 26 Nov, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 10 Nov, 2026 | 30 Nov, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 15 Nov, 2026 | 5 Dec, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 22 Nov, 2026 | 12 Dec, 2026 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 4 Mar, 2027 | 24 Mar, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 11 Mar, 2027 | 31 Mar, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 18 Mar, 2027 | 7 Apr, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 25 Mar, 2027 | 13 Oct, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 7 Apr, 2027 | 27 Apr, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 14 Apr, 2027 | 4 May, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 21 Apr, 2027 | 11 May, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
| 28 Apr, 2027 | 18 May, 2027 | USD 2155 | GUARANTEED | Book Now! |
Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek Difficulty
Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek is Trans Himalayan Journey. It is one of the strenuous journeys that involves off the beaten trails, high passes, rugged terrain, gorges, canyons, and narrow and steep trails.
Nar Phu Valley Trek takes place in a remote trekking destination in Nepal. In this trek, you will encounter many uphill and downhill trails. You will trek for an average of 6 hours a day in this trek.
You should make sure that you train properly for this trek. You should prepare for close to 3-4 months before coming to this trek. You can get involved in physical preparations like running, cycling, jogging, and swimming before coming to this trek.
Though the Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek is demanding, it is a doable trek if you are physically fit and mentally prepared. Also, engage in a regular walk for a few months and take some smaller hikes.
Best Season for Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek
Hiking in Nepal can be done throughout the year. Autumn and spring are the best seasons to go trekking in Nepal. Every season has something distinct. Autumn season lasts from September to November and Spring Season lasts from March to May.
During the spring season, Nepal experiences a moderate climate. The hills will be adorned with the blossoms of Rhododendron, orchid, etc. Autumn Season is the loveliest season in Nepal. The temperature is warm even in the Mountains. The days will be clear which affords the best mountain views.
The winter season (December to February) is colder in the Himalayas. The precipitation will be in the form of snowfall. However, the days are still warmer with plenty of sunshine. The rainfall is occasional. If you like to travel on peaceful trails and can cope with extreme cold weather, you can choose the winter season.
We don’t recommend the summer season (June to August) to you. However, this season can be the best time to visit the rain shadow areas like Mustang and Manang.
Preparation for Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek
Trekking requires a lot of preparation and a good level of physical fitness. Mental strength is also vital. If you have undertaken some smaller hikes earlier, trekking will be much easier for you. You need to be familiar with trekking gear.
Cardio, yoga, jogging, running, swimming, etc. helps you to build up your physical health. Similarly, have plenty of hygienic foods including protein, carbohydrates and minerals. Here are some tips for preparing yourself for this trek:
- Go for a run or hike to the hills where you have to do ascents and descents.
- Once a week, do a long walk.
- Swim and cycle.
- You can also go up and down the stairs of a tall building.
- Eat healthy food.
- Keep on doing yoga. If you can, do more yoga related to breathing.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness. It is a medical condition when our body cannot adjust to the environment due to the low level of oxygen in the air. At high altitude, the level of oxygen in the air is low, due to which your body struggles to function normally. This is more common above 2500 meters in height.
Common Symptoms: Headache, Nausea, Dizziness, Vomiting, Fatigue, Loss of Appetite, Trouble Sleeping etc.
Types of Altitude Sickness:
- Acute Mountain Sickness: It is very common at high altitude and can cause vomiting, dizziness, nausea etc. Overall, it is the mildest form of altitude sickness.
- High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): It is a very dangerous and life threatening conditions because fluid is built up in the lungs.
- High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): It is the most severe stage of Altitude Sickness because fluid is built up in the brain. It is life threatening one. The victim will be unable to walk, breathe and ultimately be in Coma.
Treatment:
If the symptoms are severe, you need immediate medical attention. You need to consult with a physician. The best treatment for altitude sickness is to descend as low as possible. If you have High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), you might need a steroid called Dexamethasone. If you have High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), you will need supplemental oxygen and other medications.
Prevention:
The best way to prevent Altitude Sickness is to acclimate. Here are some of the basic guidelines for preventing Altitude Sickness.
- Do not climb hurriedly. Keep your pace steady.
- Acclimatize properly.
- Avoid alcohol and cigarettes.
- Drink plenty of fresh water.
- Eat hygienic foods.
- Use Diamox pills
Trekking Gears for Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek
Backpacks: Duffle Bag (It is useful if you hire a porter; it must be waterproof, durable, and lockable), Rucksack Bag with Waterproof Cover (It is useful if you travel independently), Daypack
Clothing: Hiking Boots, Socks, Gloves, Hat, Scarf, Shell Pants, Light Weight Walking Pants, Fleece Jacket, Waterproof Jacket, Thermal Vest, T-shirts, Hiking Shorts etc.
Sleeping: Sleeping Bag, Pillow Case, and other Sleeping Accessories
Other Accessories
- Trekking Poles
- Water filters
- Mosquito Repellent
- Towel
- Navigation (Map/ Compass)
- Sun Protection (Sunglasses/Sunscreen)
- Insulation( Extra Clothing)
- Illumination (Headlamp/ Flashlight)
- First Aid Supplies
- Fire (Waterproof Matches/lighter/ Candle)
- Repair Kits and tools
- Nutrition (Extra Food)
- Emergency Shelter (Tent/ Plastic Tube Tent/ Garbage supplies)
- Extra Clothes
Is Nepal Safe for Trekking?
No doubt, Nepal is safe for trekking. Nepali people are hospitable, kind, and cultured. They are also religious and spiritual by nature.
Tourism is the mainstay of the Nepalese economy. Trekking is one of the best things to do in Nepal. Nepal has so many trekking destinations that offer you the best memories of your life. But the trails in many different parts of Nepal are yet to be discovered. High altitude, unpredictable weather conditions, and strenuous trails are not easy to handle. Otherwise, trekking in Nepal is full of surprises.
Meals and Accommodation
In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will find a variety of dishes including Indian, Continental, Chinese and others. Whereas, in remote areas, traditional tea houses provide local and some Western meals for you. There won’t be a wide variety since transporting goods is very difficult in mountainous zones.
But we strive hard to provide healthy and delicious food. Our trekking packages include: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
We offer you a three star accommodation while in Kathmandu. We will be staying at the available lodge or teahouse on the trek. We shall provide you with a comfortable stay at hotels with en suite bathrooms and hot showers. The rooms will be single or twin sharing as per availability.
Tips for Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek
- Hire a professional local trekking Guide
- Learn safety rules
- Choose the right trail for your fitness
- Carry local currency
- Maintain a slow nd steady pace
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Select a government licensed trekking agency
- Be familiar with the trails
- Check the weather conditions before you begin
- Tell someone where you will be
- Buy an insurance policy with the appropriate coverage
Final Say
Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the incredible Annapurna Region adventures. This trekking destination is untouched by modern civilization and is still very fresh and rewarding. Nar Phu Valley is one of the hidden gems of the Himalayas. Likewise, Tilicho Lake is one of the world’s highest located water bodies.
Most people regard the Nar Phu Valley Tilucho Lake trek as one of the most spectacular treks in the Annapurna Region of Nepal; less explored, with amazing mountain views, ancient villages and unique cultures, narrow canyons and more.
If you are planning a trek in Nepal and have not yet decided which way to go, we recommend you choose this trek.
The essential permits for this trek are:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
- Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Solo foreign trekkers are allowed to apply for the RAP through authorized agencies, and a licensed guide can accompany a group of up to seven trekkers. The permit application process allows tourists to apply online from overseas using their Visa Application Submission ID.








