Nar Phu: How to Get Permits to Trek to this Hidden Valley. A special permit is required to enter the mystical Nar Phu Valley, which is located in the northern part of the area. Only in 2002 was this untouched valley accessible for trekking. Since then, it has been a restricted area that can only be entered with a special permit. Two Nar Phu Valley Trek permissions are required for prospective hikers: the Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP).
The designated offices in Kathmandu or Besisahar are where the trekker can apply for and get the ACAP. The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) can only be applied for and obtained on behalf of the trekker by a legitimate Nepali trekking agency.
Travelers might wander to the villages of Nar and Phu to experience the authentic Himalayan wildness. Experiencing historical Tibetan culture, prehistoric trade routes, harsh canyons, rock formations, and one of the high passes are the highlights of this hidden valley.
Nar Phu Valley Trekking Permits and Fees:
The government of Nepal has classified the Nar Phu Valley as a restricted area because it is so close to the Tibetan border. Its restricted stance aids in border security, tourism management, and the preservation of historic culture and heritage.
Because of this, all trekkers must have a Restricted Area Permit to enter this area. The appropriate Restricted Area Permit you obtained covers Narpa Rural Municipality and Nasho Rural Municipality because Nar Phu is located in the Manag area.
It costs US$100 for the first 7 days from September to November (autumn) and then US$15 for each subsequent day spent in the restricted area.
Winter, spring, and summer months from December to August: US$ 75 for the first 7 days, plus US$ 15 for each extra day spent in the restricted area.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Cost
Due to the Nar Phu valley trek’s route through the Annapurna conservation area, which stretches above Manang, an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit is required. The fee is necessary to build trails and save the local animals and flora in the Annapurna region.
The cost for SAARC nationals is Rs. 1000 ($10 approximately) per person.
Other nationals must pay a fee of NRs. 3000 ($30 approximately).
Required paperwork for a trekking permit in Nar Phu Valley
When applying for the Nar Phu Valley trekking permit, you must present the following documents:
- 1 or 2 passport-size pictures (for ACAP permit).
- One scanned image should be submitted with the Nar Phu Valley RAP online form.
- passport photocopies (with at least six months validity)
- Travel insurance documents (includes helicopter evacuation of up to 6000 m)
- Tourist visa for Nepal
- Information on the Nar Phu Valley trek route
Where can I get a permit to trek through the Nar Phu Valley?
The information on where to get permits for trekking in the Nar Phu Valley is listed below:
Permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area: Trekkers can obtain this permit in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Besisahar. Your best possibilities are Kathmandu and Besishar, which you will be passing by.
In Kathmandu, the Nepal Tourism Board is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, excluding public holidays.
Besisahar, Lamjung: The ACAP Entry Permit counter is located at Besisahar and is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, excluding major holidays.
Pokhara: The Nepal Tourism Board’s Lakeside location is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, excluding public holidays.
Trekkers can obtain this permit on their own or through an agency in Nepal. However, Trekkers cannot obtain the Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit, hence a legitimate Nepali trekking service should apply for and get the permit on their behalf. The organization will receive all the necessary information and documentation from trekkers and then process an online permit application. The Trekking Department of Nepal Immigration office, located in Kalikasthan, Kathmandu, is where they will pick up the approved permit. Please be aware that neither the Nepal Tourism Board nor TAAN publishes it.