Annapurna 3-Passes Trek with Nar-Phu
The Annapurna 3-Passes Trek leads over 3 high passes through the Annapurna mountain range. We start trekking in the mountain village Sikkles, at the southern face of the mighty Annapurna II (7932m). Hiking scarcely populated landscapes we cross the Namun-La pass (4850m) and reach the Marshyangdi valley, joining the classical Annapurna Circuit in Koto. Here we enter the remote Nar-Phu region, hike into northern direction till the village Phu, which is the last village before the boarder to Mustang and back again to the village Nar to cross the Kang-La Pass (5320m) and reach Manang. The last section of the trek leads to the Tilicho Lake, which is the largest mountain lake worldwide in around 5000m altitude, from there we cross the Mesokanto-La Pass (5240m) and descend to Jomsom, the final end of the trek in the Kali-Gandaki valley.
- Region: Annapurna Conservation Area, North Central Nepal
- Duration: 18-22 days (typical)
- Highest point: Thorong La Pass, 5,416 m
- Accommodation: Tea houses/lodges and occasional camping
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Permits & Fees:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Itinerary
Day 1-3: Journey to Sikkles and Initial Ascent
From the starting point in Sikkles, we begin trekking through initial mountain trails, gradually ascending and preparing for the challenging passes ahead.
Cultural Transition: Experience the initial shift from lower valley landscapes to high mountain terrain.
Day 4-6: Namun La Pass and Approach to Kyang and Phu
Trek towards and cross the challenging Namun La Pass, continuing to the remote settlements of Kyang and Phu.
Remote Exploration: Navigate through some of the most isolated settlements in the Annapurna region.
Day 7-9: Nar Pedi and Nar Valley
Explore Nar Pedi and reach the distinctive village of Nar, spending time acclimatizing and experiencing the local culture.
Cultural Immersion: Discover the unique Tibetan-influenced lifestyle of high mountain communities.
Day 10-11: Kang La Pass Crossing
Ascend to and cross the Kang La Pass, offering spectacular mountain views and a significant trekking challenge.
Mountain Challenge: Prepare for a demanding pass crossing with potential technical sections.
Day 12-14: Chulu Far East Climbing Option and Approach to Manang
Optional Chulu Far East climbing extension or approach to Manang, with essential acclimatization.
Mountaineering Option: For experienced climbers, an opportunity to attempt a challenging peak ascent.
Day 15-17: Tilicho Lake Exploration
Detour to the stunning Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest lakes, offering breathtaking high-altitude scenery.
Natural Wonder: Experience the isolation and beauty of Tilicho Lake at 4,919m.
Day 18-20: Mesokanto La Pass
Trek towards and cross the challenging Mesokanto La Pass, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Remote Beauty: Navigate a less-traveled mountain pass with spectacular scenery.
Day 21-22: Descent to Jomsom
Descend through changing landscapes to reach Jomsom, completing the epic mountain journey.
Transition: Experience the dramatic shift from high alpine environments to the more accessible Mustang region.
Different Tour Combinations
The 3-passes trek can be combined with the classic Annapurna Circuit in different variants. After crossing the Namun-La pass, we might follow the classic way to Manang, thereby bypassing the Nar-Phu region and the Kang-La pass. From Manang we can decide to reach the Tilicho-Lake and cross the Mesokanto-La pass, or we choose to cross the Thorong-La pass (5416m) to descend to Jomsom. In addition, we may summit a trekking peak, e.g. the Chulu Fareast peak (6038m).
Extension Options
1. Upper Mustang Exploration (7-10 additional days)
- Highlights: Explore the restricted, ancient Tibetan kingdom of Lo
- Description: Continue beyond initial routes to experience the unique landscape and preserved Tibetan culture of Upper Mustang.
2. Annapurna Base Camp Side Trip (5-6 additional days)
- Highlights: Visit the iconic Annapurna Sanctuary
- Description: Add a detour to Annapurna Base Camp for an up-close view of the Annapurna massif.
3. Poon Hill Sunrise Trek (2-3 additional days)
- Highlights: Panoramic sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Description: Extend your trek with a visit to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint for a spectacular mountain panorama.
FAQ
How challenging is this trek compared to standard Himalayan routes?
Extremely challenging. The route involves multiple high-altitude passes, remote terrain, and potential technical climbing sections, requiring excellent physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience.
What is the best time of year to do this trek?
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Winter treks are possible but extremely challenging due to cold temperatures and potential snow on the passes.
How do I prepare for the high altitudes on this trek?
Proper acclimatization is crucial. The itinerary includes rest days, but additional physical preparation, staying hydrated, and ascending slowly are key to managing altitude challenges.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
Accommodations will vary between basic teahouses, local lodges, and potential camping in more remote sections. Expect very basic facilities in high mountain areas.
Is a guide necessary for this trek?
A professional guide is strongly recommended due to the trek's difficulty, remote nature, and potential navigation challenges. Local expertise is crucial for safety and cultural understanding.
What level of fitness is required for this trek?
This trek demands exceptional physical fitness and mental preparedness. Participants should be able to hike 6-8 hours daily in challenging high-altitude conditions, with potential technical climbing sections.
Which peaks over 8000m do I see along the route?
Along the trek we can view Manaslu (8163m) and Dhaulagiri(8167m) which are above 8000m, and we can experience tightly several high 7000m peaks of the Annapurna range, however Annapurna I (8092m) is visible only if we summit a trekking peak.