The Naar Phu, Tilicho Lake, and Thorang La Pass Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek combines some of the less-traveled trails with some of the most popular trails in the region, making for a unique and varied trekking experience.
The trek starts from Besishahar and follows the Marsyangdi River valley, passing through beautiful villages, terraced fields, and lush forests. After crossing the Marsyangdi River, you will reach the Naar Phu Valley, which is a remote and less-traveled area with unique Tibetan culture and stunning landscapes.
From Naar Phu, the trail heads towards the Tilicho Lake, which is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 4,919 meters. The turquoise blue waters of the lake surrounded by the snow-capped peaks make for a breathtaking sight.
After visiting Tilicho Lake, the trail heads towards the Thorang La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 5,416 meters. Crossing the pass is a challenging task, but the stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, make it all worth it.
The trek then descends towards the holy town of Muktinath, passing through arid landscapes, before heading down to Jomsom and eventually back to Pokhara.
The Naar Phu, Tilicho Lake, and Thorang La Pass Trek is a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and previous trekking experience. However, the unique landscapes, cultural experiences, and stunning views make it a trek of a lifetime.
The Naar Phu, Tilicho Lake, and Thorang La Pass Trek is a spectacular trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, and here are some of the highlights of the trek:
Unique Cultural Experience: The trek takes you through the remote and less-traveled Naar Phu Valley, where you can experience the unique Tibetan culture and lifestyle of the local people. You will get to see traditional Tibetan-style houses, ancient monasteries, and prayer flags.
Stunning Landscapes: The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, arid landscapes, and snow-capped mountains. The turquoise blue waters of Tilicho Lake surrounded by the snow-capped peaks make for a breathtaking sight.
Thorang La Pass: The Thorang La Pass is the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 5,416 meters, and crossing the pass is a challenging and rewarding experience. The views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, are stunning.
Muktinath: The trek ends at the holy town of Muktinath, which is a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. You can visit the Muktinath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and take a dip in the holy water spouts.
Wildlife: The Annapurna region is home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, and Blue Sheep. You may also see a variety of birds, including the Himalayan Monal and the Lammergeier.
Overall, the Naar Phu, Tilicho Lake, and Thorang La Pass Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that offers a unique cultural experience, stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to push yourself physically and mentally.
The Naar Phu, Tilicho Lake, and Thorang La Pass Trek is a challenging and strenuous trek, and it is important to assess your fitness level and trekking experience before attempting this trek. Here are some factors to consider:
Fitness Level: This trek involves long days of trekking with steep ascents and descents, and you will be walking at high altitudes. It is important to have good cardiovascular fitness and endurance to be able to complete this trek.
Altitude: The trek reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters, which can cause altitude sickness. It is important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude-related illnesses.
Trekking Experience: This trek involves trekking on remote and less-traveled trails, and you may encounter challenging weather conditions. It is important to have prior trekking experience and know basic trekking skills.
Weather Conditions: The weather in the Annapurna region can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions. You should be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, and potentially heavy snowfall.
If you have previous trekking experience, good physical fitness, and are able to acclimatize properly, the Naar Phu, Tilicho Lake, and Thorang La Pass Trek can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience. However, if you have any doubts about your fitness level or trekking experience, it is best to consult a doctor or a trekking agency before attempting this trek.
, Drive: 20minutes drive from Airport
Upon arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, a representative will meet you from your trekking agency, who will transfer you to your hotel. You will have the rest of the day to explore the city and prepare for your trek. Overnight at kathmandu.
Duration: 6-8 hours in city
You will spend the day sightseeing in Kathmandu, visiting some of the city’s famous cultural and historical sites, including Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. You will also meet your guide and fellow trekkers and have a briefing about the trek. Overnight at kathmandu.
Duration: 8-9 hours , Drive: 9 hours drive
After breakfast, you will drive to Besishahar, which takes about 6-7 hours. From Besishahar, you will take a jeep ride to Chamje, which takes about 2 hours. Along the way, you will see the beautiful Marsyangdi River and the Himalayan peaks in the distance. Overnight at Chamje.
Duration: 6-7 hours
The trek begins with a climb up to Tal village and then continues through a narrow gorge to Dharapani. You will pass through several traditional villages along the way, and you will have views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himalayan ranges. Overnight at Dharapani.
Duration: 6-7 hours
You will trek through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, passing through the village of Bagarchhap and crossing several streams. You will reach Koto, a small village that is the gateway to the Naar Phu Valley. Overnight at Koto.
Duration: 7-8 hours
Today, Nar Phu Valley is reached. This is a restricted entry area and requires a special permit. It is reached following Nar Khola and Greenland forest. The day starts early as there is a lot of distance to cover. The trails take you past cave shelters and pilgrims’ resting places, followed by the wide waterfall. After climbing a steep hill towards the end, you reach Meta.
Duration: 7-8 hours
Unique colorful Tibetan Buddhist chortens decorate the path from Meta. The trail provides excellent views of the magnificent Nar Phedi Monastery. Further trek through scenic canyon and gorges takes you to a monolith guarding the trails to Phu. Just before reaching the village, remains of ruined forts atop flatlands can be observed.
Duration: 7-8 hours
Today, you will trek to the Himlung Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 4,920 meters. From here, you can see the Himlung Himal and other peaks in the region. You will then return to Phu Gaon for the night. Overnight at Phu.
Duration: 7-8 hours
With a well-rested day, you hike along Nar Phedi until reaching Nar Village. Nar Phedi consists of a monastery, and that is it. From Nar Phedi, a winding path up a hill passing through wonderfully painted, bamboo-topped chortens, you reach Nar Village. During the day, especially women are found with back-strap looms. This is for weaving wool fabric used for making rugs and blankets.
Duration: 8-9 hours
Today begins before sunrise as you make your way towards Kang La Pass. More than 1,000 m/3,280 ft is ascended, but this is not a difficult pass. On top of the pass, views of the Annapurna II (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Gangapurna (7,455m /24,458 ft), and Tilicho Peak (7,134m /23,406ft) welcomes you. Then you descend towards Ngawal. Kang La Pass trek only began in 2003 AD; hence, it is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Duration: 6-7 hours
From Ngawal, you trek along Humde, Braka and finally reach Manang. The trail to Humde is a steep descent, and then the trails get gentler. You get a view of rocks sculpted by wind and stunted pines along this trail. The views of several snow-capped peaks, especially of Annapurna ridge, keep you company as you trek along.
Duration: Rest or hiking 5-6 hours
A good rest day is warranted at this point. Manang is a livelier destination of the Annapurna Circuit with attractions such as the Gangapurna Lake, Lama Monastery, Ice Lake, etc. It also offers views of Annapurna III (7,555m /24,787ft) and the Gangapurna glacier. If there is any need for antibiotics and painkillers, this is the last stop.
Duration: 5-6hours
From Manang, you take the trails towards the western gate and follow the trail down the river. After crossing the river, you will continue towards the southern side and reach Khangsar village. Finally, passing through a beautiful monastery, you will reach Sri Kharka. The entire trek will have the beautiful backdrop of the Annapurna Range.
Duration: 5-6 hours
Today starts early, with the trek to Tilicho Base Camp; otherwise, it gets windy. Though rough and a bit tiring as the trek is along narrow paths, the initial climb is well worth it for the beautiful view of Tilicho Lake (4,920m /16,141ft). The trail goes through the middle of the landslide area, providing a view of impressive rock formations.
Duration: 6-7 hours
Today, you finally get to the great Himalayan Lake – the Tilicho Lake (4,920m /16,141ft) nestled at the foot of Tilicho Peak (7,134m /23,406ft). The trail is a bit steep initially and then ascents. Yaks and deer can be spotted grazing along the trail. A lake is also an important place for Hindus. After admiring its beauty, you head back to Sri Kharka. This is a gentle walk.
Duration: 5-6 hours
Trek from Sri Kharka to Yak Kharka is a scenic retreat. It offers amazing viewpoints of Annapurna III (7,555m /24,787ft) and the Gangapurna (7,455m /24,458ft). The trail follows along the beautiful Marsyangdi River. Herds of mountain goats can be found grazing along the trail.
Duration: 5-6 hours
This day you hike on the lower part of Thorong La Pass, Thorong Phedi. It is a small, beautiful, and busy village. The trail passes through plateau shaped barren desert, and high peaks keep you company as you trek along. The trail is flat with a gradual ascend. Overnight at Phedi.
Duration: 8-9 hours
Today, you ascend to the final pass of the trek. Over 1,000m /3,280ft of altitude is gained, making for a cold and challenging hike. However, the view at the top will make it worth your while as you get to gaze at the high peaks of the Himalayas. Enjoying this view, you descend to Muktinath.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Having come this far along, you will need to visit Muktinath temple. It is one of the most important temples of Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is known to provide salvation from the sins of life. After this pilgrimage visit, you pace down to Jomsom. First, there is a climb to Lubra Danda and a walk down to a scenic Thakali village – Lubra village. Then you pace your way down to Jomsom.
From Jomsom, you will fly to Pokhara. After such a long trek, you might need a long hot shower and rest. You can have it all at Pokhara. The city has a great selection of food and fun nightlife. It also boasts high-quality spas, yoga, and other relaxation treatment. This luxury has been rightly earned after such an adventurous trek.
Today is dedicated to the scenic city of Pokhara. Pokhara has many facilities for entertainment apart from the scenic beauty of the landscape. The city boasts beautiful lakes, with the most famous being Phewa Lake. As you paddle along this lake, enjoy the reflection of Macchapuchhre (7,000m /23,000ft). Apart from this visit to Davis fall, Gupteswar Gupha, International Mountain Museum, Peace Stupa, etc., can be planned.
Finally, with the trek over, you head back to Kathmandu. Driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes around 7 hours and covers a distance of 200 km/125 mi. The road passes through hilly and winding terrain. Scenic views of hills, mountains, villages are offered while driving. After the drive, a final night at Kathmandu awaits, perfect for a cultural event or trying out some local Newari cuisine.
