Kangla Pass Trek
Annapurna Region Trek , Nepal , Off the Beaten Path Trek
Duration
19 Days
Tour Type
Trekking/ Hiking
Group Size
1+
Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meal
B.L.D.
Max. Altitiude
5,306m/17,408ft
Best Season
Through Out The Year
Departure from
Kathmandu
Hightlight
- Explore the hidden valley in the north of Manang
- Insights about the unique dialect called “Nar Phu” or “Narpo”
- Astounding sights of the snowy peaks of Annapurna (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m) and Manaslu (8,163m) trekking region
- Cross a high Himalayan pass, Kang La Pass (5,306m)
- Some sections of Annapurna Circuit trek and Manaslu Circuit trek
- Authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition unsurpassed
- Off the beaten path track having diverse flora and fauna
- An experience of teahouse trekking in Nepal
Overview
Opened in 2003 AD, Kangla Pass Trek takes you to the hidden valley of the Northern Himalayas. The Trans-Himalayan valley contains two Bhotia Villages: Nar and Phu. This restricted area trekking in Nepal shows you the genuine culture and nature of Manang district. Although these villages are in Nepal, they are culturally influenced by that of Tibetan culture and tradition. Despite their location close to Annapurna Circuit trek, it is less visited place. The lack of the infrastructure development and publicity are the prime reasons for this.
Besides this, they have a distinct language from the rest of the other parts of the nation. In The branch of Sino-Tibetan linguistic family, their native language is called “Nar Phu” or “Narpo”. This is totally different from that of Tamangese and Managese languages. Kangla Pass trek takes you to the Disneyland of the Himalayas. These isolated hamlets are quite distinct in their lifestyle, culture and tradition. The people are from Tibetan origin, so, they follow their socio-cultural aspects.
Kang La Pass (5,306 m) connects Nar Phu Valley with Annapurna Circuit trek as well. Nar Phu trek connects Nar Phu basin with three important Bhotia villages of the Neyshang Valley. You can have the beautiful mountain panorama, ancient villages and pasturelands of the Himalayas. This valley is a station point for Nepal trekking to other peaks such as Ratna Chuli, Kang Guru, Himlung and Gyajing Kang.
The children of this region are taught with the education system through religious texts of Buddhism. Here are the historical Tashi Lhakhang Gompa and receive blessings from the local Lama Karma Sonam Rinpoche. From this unexplored valley of the Himalayas, you can have a close view of Annapurna (8,091 m) Massif, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) Massif, Lamjung Himal, Machhpuchhre Himal and Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m).
Kangla Pass Trek Difficulty
Kangla Pass Trek is an off the beaten path trekking to the hidden valley of Manang. The beginning and the ending of this trek are some sections of Annapurna Circuit trek. Talking about Nar Phu Valley trek difficulty, it is a challenging trek in Nepal as you have to go across a high pass. Kang La Pass (5,306 m) is the highest pass you have to go across. It is one of the high passes in the Himalayas of Nepal. You have to spend more duration of the trek in the altitude above 2,500 m. As soon as you reach the place above the given altitude, there is always a chance for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Nonetheless, you can avoid AMS by following some safety measures. Drinking enough water, having hygienic food and rest including slow pace by taking enough rest is the first and foremost step. In addition, you should always keep some in your backpack. As soon as you feel dehydrated, fatigue and shortness of breath, you should tell it to the guide. He is familiar with trekking in higher altitude, so he can help in this situation.
Next, you have to follow the rugged trails that gradually ascend and descend at the regular intervals. You have to walk for about 6 hours every day along such steep up and down tracks. It may be more challenging for the beginners and those not having a habit of regular walking and exercises. Kangla Pass Trek in winter may not be quite possible because of its altitude. As it snows heavily in winter, the track to and fro this high pass is blocked. It is impossible to find out the right track as well.
Kangla Pass Trek Cost
The cost of Nepal trekking package is determined by various particulars included in it. The major particulars are trekking permits, food and accommodation, guide and porter, transportation and extra expenses. The cost of Nepal trekking permits are different from one Nepal trekking region to another. You can also find the difference of cost in different seasons of the same year. For example, TIMS Card is mandatory for a FIT. It costs USD 10 for an organized trekking while USD 20 for FIT.
Similarly, restricted area permit cost also varies from one region to another. The cost of food and accommodation is different from lower elevation to higher elevation. As it is difficult to fetch the stuffs of food and drinks, the teahouse owners charge you more. As Nar Phu Valley with Kangla Pass trek is not much far from Kathmandu or Annapurna Circuit trek, the cost is really reasonable. Above all, Nepal Trekking Routes is always flexible to fix the cost by consulting with its clients. Let’s consult together and determine the cost of this trek.
Kangla Pass Trekking Permits
Nar Phu Valley Kangla Pass trek is a restricted area trekking in Nepal. The Government of Nepal has restricted the Free Individual Trekking (FIT) in this region. It is to protect the native lifestyle, culture and tradition from foreign invasion. Next, it is close to the border with the Tibetan Plateau. Therefore, the restriction is imposed to prevent any unwanted activities to disturb the diplomatic between Nepal and China. A solo trekking to Naar Phu Valley is not allowed.
You must be in a group of at least two members supported by the registered guide. You need a special trekking permit to do this trek. The cost of this permit is different in different times of the year. Nar Phu Valley restricted area permit costs USD 100 per person for the first 7 days from September to November. You need to pay USD 15 per person for every single additional day. For the same permit, you have to pay USD 75 per person for the first 7 days from December to August. For every additional day, you have to pay USD 10 per person if the given time expires.
To connect Kangla Pass trek with Annapurna Circuit trek, you need Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Entry Permit. You have to pay USD 30 for ACAP Entry Permit per person per entry. For only Nar Phu Valley trek, you don’t need TIMS Card. But, if you want to continue Annapurna Circuit trek, you need this also. It costs USD 10 for an organized trekking in Nepal and USD 20 for FIT.
Nar Phu Valley and kangla Trek Map
Kangla Pass trek starts from Beshisahar, the gateway to Annapurna Circuit trek. You go past Ngadi, Jagat and Dharapani to reach Koto. Koto is the border between Annapurna Circuit trekking region and Nar Phu Valley trek. By getting your special trekking permit, you enter into the hidden valley of Northen Manang. Then, you move along Dharamsala, Kyang, Phu, Junam and Nar Village. These all stopovers lie in Nar Phu Valley.
After exploring Nar Village, you trek to Nawal via Kang La Pass (5,306 m). From Nawal, you enter in Manang Valley which is famous for Thakali food, culture and tradition. Thakali Cuisine (Daal Bhaat gundruk Ko achar (with fermented green vegetables pickle)) is a brand name all over the country. From Manang, you trek to Timang by crossing Pisang and Chame, the district headquarters of Manang district. Walking up to Chamje, you catch a bus or private jeep to drive back to Kathmandu.
In this way within two weeks, you can complete Nar Phu Kangla Pass trek from Kathmandu. You can even cut short the proposed itinerary by removing Kang La Pass. It makes this trek easier and shorter at the same time.
Itinerary
On the arrival day, reception at the Kathmandu Airport by the representative of Nepal Trekking Routes. Then, hotel transfer around Thamel.
After breakfast, sightseeing tour around Kathmandu Valley guided by the tour guide. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in the Capital City.
You will visit Swayambhunath Stupa (the Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square and Bouddhanath Temple.
In the evening, the team leader gives you all the details about Naar Phu Valley trek itineary.
Overland trip along the Prithvi Highway up to Dumre, just below Bandipur, the Queen of the Hills. Then, follow the road leading towards Besisahar along the banks of the Marsyangdi River.
The stunning view of Manaslu (8,0163m) region, Ganesh Himal (7,422m) Range, Annapurna (8,091m) region and amazing terrain.
Through the off-road track that moves past the lush green forests around the track until Ngadi. The views of the Himalayas, river, forest and the villages on top of the mountain are amazing on the way.
You go across Bhulbhule, another important stopover during Annapurna region trekking. Ngadi is a small mountain village situated on the banks of the Marsyangdi River.
Through the beautiful paddy fields accompany you up to Bahundanda. In his world famous book, From Microsoft to Bahundanda, John Wood has described about the amazing features of Bahundanda region.
By going past Ghermuphant, a fertile plain suitable for many food crops, you reach Jagat. While walking along the bank of the Marsyangdi River, you relish the mesmerizing view of the natural waterfalls, river-rivulets and ethnic villages.
You move along the Marsyangdi River valley through Tal, the popular stop between Lamjung and Manang districts. You move ahead through Khotro Village by enjoying the Himalayan view and small villages to reach Dharapani.
On the way, you come across some natural springs to take a short pause. Dharapani is the junction connecting Manaslu region trekking and Annapurna region trekking.
You walk past a Buddhist cultural village of Bagarchhap nearby the dense pine forests giving the glimpses of Mt. Manaslu and Annapurna II from various sections. You might see many species of birds and animals like the White Monkey (Langur in Nepali language).
Slowly ascending further, you find a tentative change in altitude and vegetation types. By walking past Danaque (2,210m) and Timang village (2,600m), you reach Koto for night station.
Get the legal documents check at the police post at Koto and follow the Naar Phu Khola Valley. You walk past many ‘dharmasalas’ (small inns to take a short rest) built in the middle of the route.
Immediately after crossing the narrow canyon and a large waterfall, you follow a wider trail to reach Dharmasala.
Following the banks of a mountain river and a highland pasture above 3,200m elevation, you go past the Metang Kharka. This pasture land has a seasonal settlement for the yaks and the herders.
By crossing some yak herds and enjoying the rocky trail penetrating through the thick bushes, you reach Kyang. Today is one of the loveliest walks through the amazing landscapes full of natural attractions.
You begin the steep downhill journey along the Nar Phu Khola for a while and then cross a cliff. You also come to see some wonderful campsites along the routes. Moving further, you come to see the glimpses of mane walls and chortens decorated by the prayer flags and wheels.
Then, by crossing a bridge over a small glacial stream, you reach the Phu Village gate. From here, you see other three Bhotia villages of the valley. You also come to see an old dzong (fortress) and the remaining of other two fortresses on top of the valley.
You will spend the day by exploring the mystique Phu Valley and its cultural and natural amusements. You can converse with the local people to know more about their culture and tradition intact.
Most of the native people are seen spinning the yak and sheep wool to make their income sources. Take a short walk to Phu Gompa, which is located around three-hour far from this village.
When you get to the ancient dzongs (although only remains) is a great idea to have a mesmerizing view of this astounding valley. Similarly, you can also hiking to Himlung Himal Base Camp for the breathtaking vistas of the entire Nar Phu Valley.
Nar Phu Valley is the home of the blue sheep. So, you might see them hanging around the village occasionally.
Today, you descend through the Phu Gate. Walking along the glacial stream banks, you walk further towards Junam Kharka. You can witness the astounding beauty of Himlung Himal (7,125m) and the landscapes around it.
Today, you follow the trail that goes across an old bridge over a narrow gorge. En route, you come to see the captivating sight of Gyalbu Kumbu gompa built in 1650 AD and Satte Gompa.
Both the gompas are now deserted due to the migration of the permanent settlers to some other parts of the valley. Walking past the Nar Gate and the wonderfully painted bamboo topped chorten, you reach Nar village.
From the anitque village of Nar, you see the view of the colourful gompas, barley and mustard fields including the snowcapped peaks.
This is yet another acclimatization day, so, you will explore the wonderful social and familial activities of Nar Village. The women of the village sit in the square and spin the wool for woollen clothes.
At least a boy or a girl of each family of this village are in gompas for education and quest for the world peace. G around the four colourful monasteries located in the village. The chanting of mantras and beating of drums further enliven this village which seems more advanced than Phu Village.
People of this village are busy in painting the traditional thankas, making souvenirs of wood and weaving woollen clothes. Similarly, they are also involved in agricultural sector to earn their livelihood. Taking a stroll around the village gives you all about the culture, occupation and daily activities of people indigenous people.
This is the longest trekking day as you go across the highest place of the entire trekking itinerary. You begin the walk from Nar Village towards Kang La Phedi, the bottom of Kang La Pass (5,306m).
Following the steep uphill trail is quite challenging. Hence, we recommend you to drink enough water and eat hygienic food to protect from altitude sickness or dehydration. Although the trekking to Kang La Pass is challenging, the rewards are amazingly beautiful. You can have the spectacular vistas of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak and other peaks.
Hogde Airstip of Manang is also visible from the top of the high Himalayan pass. Following the trail downhill, you gradually descend towards Nawal for the night stay.
Today’s trekking track runs along the Marsyangdi River banks to reach Manang. You walk past some dense pine forests to see the ethnic villages such as Braga, which is rich in terraced farming practices.
Braga is about 500 years old village reflecting a truly unique art and architecture. While moving further, you see the stunning view of the Annapurna Himalayan Range, Tilicho Peak and wonderful landscapes.
Manang is one of the busiest touristic centres of Annapurna region. It is full of nationala and international trekkers to make the treks to different location of Annapurna region. You find many standard hotels, restaurants and lodges providing the food items of your choice and appetite.
There are also a few souvenir shops that sell the handcrafted items made by the local people. Although this place has close connection with the outer people and their culture, the Manangis have kept their culture intact.
You follow the trail that goes past Pisang and Chame. You will enjoy the enchanting view of Annapurna II, Chulu Peak, Thilicho Peak, Pisang Peak and so on. Finally, crossing Thanchok, you arrive in Timang. This is a beautiful Manangi Village that serves you Mt. Manaslu (8,163m) and other snowy peaks as well.
This is the last day of trekking through the Nar Phu Valley Annapurna region trekking. You move past Dharapani that connects Annapurna Circuit trek and Manaslu Circuit trek.
From here, you catch a private jeep and drive towards Kathmandu via Besisahar. After you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be shifted to the hotel. In the evening, we invite you to farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant nearby the tourist hub, Thamel
It is the last day of Nar Phu Valley trek itinerary for 19 days. Therefore, our representative guides you up to the Kathmandu Airport according to your flight schedule.
Inclusion/Exclusion
- Airport pick-up and drop off service ,
- Trekking Guide and Trekking porter(Two participant 1 porter, Porter carry 25 Kg )
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, accommodation during the trekking
- Three Star Level or equal level hotel in Kathmandu
- Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags and trekking sticks (if required)
- Trekking permit of National park,
- TIMS(Trekking Information Management System )
- Insurance and equipment for the trekking staffs
- First aid kit
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program in typical Traditional Nepali restaurant
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel Insurance Company .
- Personal expenses
- Heritage entry fee during the sightseeing Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Bar Bill
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide and porter
- Extra Meals & hotel accommodation in Kathmandu other than mentioned in Itinerary
FAQ's
Nar Phu Valley Kangla Pass trek takes you to the northern part of Manang close to the Tibetan Plateau. Nar Phu Valley trek combines two Bhotia villages of the Nar Khola Valley. You have to cross Kang La Pass (5,306m) during this trans-Himalayan region trekking. It lies between Manaslu Circuit trek and Annapurna Circuit trek that gives you a unique experience of natural and cultural difference.
Camping trekking used to be the only trekking option before the development of teahouses in this region. The trekkers had to spend a large amount of money for the management of the crew. The crew used to have a team leader, a cook, kitchen helpers and porters as well.
But nowadays, you can find teahouses in all the stops during this trek. You don’t have to worry about carrying camping gears and other stuffs as well. You can find all the basic facilities of food and accommodation during this trek. Besides, the cost of the trek is also very low.
Nar Phu Valley Kangla Pass trekking is one of the best remote treks in the Northern Himalayas. It rewards you with the typical culture and tradition rather different from that found in other parts of the world. Although you have to cross Kang La Pass (5,306m), the rewards are incredible! Walking along the less crowded trail, you reach to the hidden valley of Manang closer to the Tibetan Plateau.
The ancient monasteries decorated by prayer flags give you peace of mind. You also visit some sections of both Annapurna Circuit trek and Manaslu Circuit trek in this trip. Therefore, it is a must-do trekking in Nepal for a lifelong memory!
- Can I customize Nar Phu Valley Kangla Pass trek?
Yes, you can! You can always customize Nar Phu Valley Kangla Pass trek that you can either cut short or add up more days. You can add Thorung La Muktinath Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Nar Phu Valley Tilicho Lake trek and so on in the itinerary. You can also cut short the given duration limiting only to the access to the Nar Phu Valley.
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