Compare Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Comfort by World Expeditions vs Nar Phu Valley Trek by Himalayan Glacier Adventure
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 16 days | 19 days |
| Price From | $ 2,390 | $ 3,590 |
| Price Per Day | $ 149 | $ 189 |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Basic | Standard |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
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| Meals Included | N/A |
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| Description | A classic trek into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary for sublime panoramic views |
A fantastic journey to the wild and unexplored vicinity located north of Annapurna, this rugged and wild trek takes us to the exotic and enthralling valley of Nar Phu. Nar Phu Valley trek starts from Jagat following the popular trekking routes of Annapurna Circuit trail and then branch off from Koto to follow the off the beaten track to Nar Phu valley in the north of Manang and pass the Kang La pass with magnificent panorama of Annapurna massifs. The Kang La pass links Nar with Manang and three other Bhotia villages in the Neyshang valley. The valley system above opens up to a huge expanse of high snow-peaks, ancient villages and high altitude grazing settlements. Trekking to this hidden mountain valley offers medieval Tibetan culture in undisturbed form, dramatic mountains view and great alpine sceneries. We then head west over the Thorong La Pass and down through lower Mustang before heading on to Jomsom. We finally fly back to Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu next day. |
Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu (1330m).
You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the Radisson hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members. Overnight: Radisson Hotel
meals : Array
Day 2 Free day in Kathmandu
Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu’s bustling streets and significant landmarks. You may wish to start by exploring the city’s two most important World Heritage Listed spiritual sites: Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and an important cremation site; and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist shrine outside of Tibet. Alternatively you could wander through the markets and shops of the busy Thamel precinct or explore some more of the city’s significant sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or the World Heritage Listed plazas of Patan, Bhaktapur or Durbar Square. Overnight: Radisson Hotel
meals : B
Day 3 Fly to Pokhara, commence trek to Ghandruk (1940m) - walk approx 2 hours
This morning we take a flight west to Pokhara, Nepal’s second largest town (820m). In good weather we are greeted with sights of the entire Annapurna Range. From here we drive for three hours alongside the Kali Gandaki river and through foothills and valleys to Kimche. On arrival we will begin our walk to Ghandruk, our first overnight stop. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp
meals : B,L,D
Day 4 To Tadapani (2650m) - walk approx. 4 hours
Our trail meanders uphill through fields and into forest of rhododendron, magnolia and lichen covered fig. We pass by waterfalls that cascade down narrow gullies that provide the perfect home for many small ferns and delicate plants such as exotic orchids bursting with colour. We reach Tadapani which is a small village home to our eco lodge, where we will spend the night. Overnight: Eco-lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 5 Trek to Chhomrong (2170m) - walk approx. 6-7 hours
The trail today today seesus descend steeply into the valley below beforecrossing another of the famous Nepalese suspension bridges. The route undulates as he we head to Taglung village and then we have a steady ascent to Chhomrong. Chhomrong is a village which offers spectacular views of Annapurna South & Machapuchare. Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 6 Trek to Bamboo (2310m), walk approx. 4 hours
Here, the trail descends via a stone staircase, eventually crossing the Chhomrong Khola. We climb high above the Modi Khola, traveling its west bank, and pass through forests of bamboo, rhododendron and oak. This portion of the day’s trek is followed by yet another ascent to Kuldighar before finally descending a long, steep, stone staircase to the village of Bamboo. Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 7 Trek to Deurali (3200m),walk approx. 5-6 hours
Today's destination is Deurali via the impressive limestone Hinku Caves. The path is undulating with well defined paths, including a significant amount of stone steps. We climb steeply on zig- zagging stone paths to eventually reach Deurali and our accommodation for the night. Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 8 Machapuchare Base Camp (3900M), walk approx. 3-4 hours
After walking for 2 to 3 hours, we enter the Annapurna Sanctuary. Finally, we reach Machapuchare Base Camp, a grassy moraine platform within a huge amphitheater enclosed by a solid wall of snow-capped peaks which include Annapurna I, Annapurna III and the impressive fish tail spire of Machapuchare. Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 9 Annapurna South Base Camp (4131m), walk approx. 2-3 hours
As you reach Annapurna South Base Camp, witness awesome picturesque landscapes, majestic panoramic view of snow-capped mountainous peaks and varied Himalayan cultural settings tucked beneath the southern slopes of the Annapurna South. Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 10 Return to Derauli (3200m), walk approx. 3-4 hours
The return journey is no less spectacular and generally a bit more downhill. The descent offers a different perspective of the mountain scenery we enjoyed on the ascent. Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 11 Return to Bamboo (2310m) walk approx 5 hours
Today's trek sees us return to the village of Bamboo Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 12 To Chhomrong (2170m), walk approx. 5-6 hours
We descend a long, stone staircase through bamboo and rhododendrons forests through Kuldighar continuing through beautiful rhododendron forests and down to Sinuwa. From Sinuwa, the trail leads downhill to the Modi Khola, closing the day with a steep climb to Chhomrong. Overnight: Eco lodge
meals : B,L,D
Day 13 To Landruk (1640m), walk approx. 6 hours
From Chhomrong, the trek heads to Landruk – descending gently through forests. We camp overnight with views offering, yet another, picturesque, panoramic view of Annapurna South. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp
meals : B,L,D
Day 14 Trek to Syauli Bhatti and drive Pokhara, walk approx. 3 hours, drive 3 hours
Trek downhill through villages and terraced fields to Syauli Bazaar, then onto Nayapul before being transported back to Pokhara for an overnight stay at a hotel. *It is important to us that this trek follows few of the commercial tea-house trails. Accordingly the route may be varied at the discretion of the group leader. Note that the approximate walking hours include rest stops and can vary due to trail or weather conditions.
meals : B,L,D
Day 15 Fly Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our fight to Kathmandu, a spectacular mountain flight along the face of the Himalaya. On arrival we transfer to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight: Radisson Hotel
meals : B
Day 16 Trip concludes Kathmandu.
After breakfast arrangements cease unless further arrangements have been made. Those people travelling by aircraft to further destinations will be transferred to the airport.
meals : B
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel (Yatri Suites and Spa)
Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
Upon our arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Himalayan Glacier who will take us to our hotel. After checking in, we may take a rest or visit Himalayan Glacier’s office. In the evening there will be a welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali Restaurant where we will be able to enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel (Yatri Suites and Spa)
Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu which are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. We visit the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), which is also one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, we get our equipment checked by our climbing leader, get introduced to fellow participants, and discuss our trip at Himalayan Glacier’s office. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Jagat Drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 1,410m/4,626ft
We begin our journey at early dawn as we have a long drive ahead of us. We head-start right after breakfast and leave Kathmandu around 7 am in the morning. We see picturesque views of Nepali countryside, lush greeneries, rivers, villages, farms and mountain vistas en route throughout the drive. After 8-10 hours of drive we reach Jagat via Besishahar. Drive up to Besishahar will most likely be smooth owing to black-topped roads whereas after Besishahar, the roads get dusty and coarse but the scenic view from our windowpane is more than compensating for the bumpy ride. Overnight in Jagat.
Day 4: Jagat to Dharapani
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 1,410m/4,626ft
Hiking: 7-8 hrs
Upon breakfast, we slowly begin our trek today. The trail from Jagat descends until it reaches the river and then continues through a lush forest. Further ascent leads to sharp-edged cliff facing the riverbank. En route, Chyamje comes into picture amidst the glorious backdrop of towering Annapurna mountain ranges. After crossing a suspension bridge, we climb steeply towards the slippery and physically challenging path to Sattale. On treading along a succession of rock-strewn trails, we descend to a grassy riverbank that leads to Tal. As we walk away from Tal, the path becomes rugged and winding. Then we approach steep forested village of Karte. Meandering along the waterfalls and cliffs, we finally reach Dharapani after crossing a suspension bridge. Overnight in Dharapani.
Day 5: Dharapani to Koto
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 2,610m/8,563ft
Hiking: 5-6 hrs
We begin our trek in the morning towards Bagarchhap which takes about one hour passing through pine and fir forests. We can visit the white washed monastery in this village. Then we continue our trek till Danaque which takes about an hour. The trail is steeply ascending up to Timang. We have a good view of Mt. Manaslu and Peak 29 from here. Now the trail continues through pine forests again till Latamarang which takes about one and half hour. We break for lunch here and again resume through forests whereby we have a short glimpse of Annapurna II. Finally we arrive in Koto village. Overnight in Koto.
Day 6: Koto to Meta
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft
Hiking: 7-8 hrs
In the morning, we register our restricted area permit at the Police Check Post. Then we trek through the River bank of Soti Khola again through wonderful pine forests, streams and suspension and reach Dharmasala. We have our packed lunch on the way. We then continue the trek through forests and ascend steeply towards Meta village. Finally we arrive on the Tibetan Plateau where we have a very good view of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in Meta.
Day 7: Meta to Phu Gaon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 4,250m/13,944ft
Hiking: 7-8 hrs
We start our day traversing up and down and crossing suspension bridges over different streams. After almost 4 hours of trek we reach Kyang where we can see the remnants, particularly the ruined forts of the Khampa settlement (the place which Khampa refugees from Tibet once captured and lived). We further keep walking past the Phu Khola on a rocky trail and finally reach the Phu village in another 3 to 4 hours. Overnight in Phu Gaon.
Day 8: Acclimatization at Phu Gaon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 4,250m/13,944ft
Today is the scheduled acclimatization day whereby we are suggested to rest and get acclimatized with the altitude. As we are in the Lost/Hidden Valley, we can explore the culture, natural diversity, and religious practices of the ethnic groups like Lama, Gurung and Ghale in here. Besides this, we can trace out how people make their survival depending on agriculture, animal breeding and seasonal migrations in such remote location or in the hidden valley. It is also the day for us to explore the Tashi Lakhang Monastery – the old Buddhist Monastery listed out of the 108 world’s great Buddhist Monasteries; it is supposed to be the last monastery constructed by Karmapa Rinpoche. Apart from exploring the cultural avenues of the lost valley, the valley also offers us a great view of Himlung Himal and other snow peaks in the region. Overnight at Phu Gaon.
Day 9: Phu Gaon to Nar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 4,110m/13,485ft
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
The trail descends passing many streams and suspension bridges until Mahendra Pul which takes about 4 hours. We pass the high suspension bridge 80m over the Gorge of Lapche River. We have lunch in Mahendra Pul. After lunch, the trail steeply ascends passing many Buddhist stupas until Nar Village which takes about 2 hours. We find several Buddhist Monasteries here to visit coupled with the glorious vistas of Pisang Peak and other small peaks. Overnight in Nar.
Day 10: Acclimatization and preparation at Nar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 4,110m/13,485ft
This is the second scheduled acclimatization/rest day for this trek. We spend the day taking a day hike nearby and explore Nar village and have a close look over the local culture and lifestyle. We also prepare for the trek next day. Overnight in Nar.
Day 11: Nar to Kang La Pass to Ngwal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 3,660m/12,008ft
Hiking: 7-8 hrs
Today is adventurous day with long day hike so we get up early in the morning and head to Kangla pass. From pass we can see the Annapurna massif. We further trek down to Ngwal from there. Overnight in Ngwal.
Day 12: Ngwal to Manang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 3,519m/11,546ft
Hiking: 4-5 hrs
From Ngwal, we head for Manang today. We pass through the isolated village of Paugh overlooking the amazing views of Annapurna range. We then move gently uphill to Mungli and then to the main trail of Annapurna Trail at Mungli. We eventually reach Manang, where we set up our camps for overnight stay. Overnight in Manang.
Day 13: Manang to Yak Kharka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 4,110m/13,485ft
Hiking: 3-4 hrs
From Manang village, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to a village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola. The trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, a scrub of juniper trees, as it steadily gains elevation. The trail further passes near the small village of Ghunsa, a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trailhead. Now the trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. Overnight at Yak Kharka.
Day 14: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 4,110m/13,485ft
Hiking: 3-4 hrs
We make our way to the foot of the pass, Throng Phedi today. Thorong Phedi is a small busy settlement catering to the needs of tired trekkers and climbers. Trekkers like us use this point as a base camp. Some visitors also attempt a hike to the High Camp today so that the next day can be easier for them. But, Himalayan Glacier’s team leader does not advise this. Although we will have a tough day tomorrow, we stop at Thorong Phedi so that we can have sound sleep in lower altitude rather than risking sleeping in a higher altitude at High Camp. Overnight at Thorong Phedi.
Day 15: Thorong Phedi to Thorong La to Muktinath
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,770ft
Hiking: 7-8 hrs
Crossing the arduous Thorong La Pass at a dizzying height of 5,416m/17,764ft is another highlight of this trek. An early start is important to go through the icy high-altitude trail. But the picturesque mountain vistas are more than compensates the strenuous walk through the grueling trail. We reach Muktinath by sunset which is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhist. We can stroll around the area which hosts a Vishnu temple and a Monastery nearby. Overnight at Muktinath.
Day 16: Muktinath to Jomsom
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Maximum Altitude: 2,700m/8,859ft
Hiking: 5-6 hrs
We begin descending down the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge through the arid land. We pass by Jharkot and Khingar villages which has typical Tibetan architecture. Following the valley floor most of the way sprawled along the banks of the Kali Gandaki, we reach Jomsom. Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 17: Jomsom to Pokhara Flight
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel (Mount Kailash Resort)
Maximum Altitude: 827m/2,713ft
Flight: 30 Min
After breakfast we fly to Pokhara. The scenic flight takes us through the gorge of the two huge mountains, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. On arrival at Pokhara airport, we will be transferred to lakeside hotel. We get some rest and explore the beauty of Pokhara Valley in the evening. While we leisurely walk along the bank of Fewa Lake, the second biggest lake of Nepal while admiring the mountain view of Machhapuchhare. We can also go for a boat-ride in Fewa Lake or take a short hike to the World Peace Pagoda. We can end the day with a leisurely stroll around the mesmerizing lakeside area.Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 18: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel (Yatri Suites and Spa)
Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
Driving: 5-6 hrs
Today, after breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, we will be transferred to our hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize our photos. We can spend the evening leisurely or perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping. Either way, we celebrate the successful completion of our journey with a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight at Kathmandu.
Day 19: Final departure from Nepal
Meals: Breakfast
Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! A Himalayan Glacier representative will escort us to the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
