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 sothern 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, where 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.
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).
Combined Tent- and Lodge-Trekking
While for the crossing of the Namun-La and Mesokanto-La passes, we definitely need camping gear. we can resort to teahouses in the remaining sections of the trek for accomodation.
Overwhelming Mountain Scenary
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.
Fascinating Culture
The trek brings you to picturesque mountain villages and lonely landscapes. Eperience especially in the Nar-Phu region the hospitable and spiritual Himalayan culture on the encounter with people in the villages.
Length and Duration
The total length from Sikkles to Jomsom depends on the tour variant, the whole trek requires 16-18 hiking days at a covered distance of appr. 200km.
Highest Elevation
The highest elevation of the 3-passes trek is the Kangla-Pass with its 5320m. Good health condition and acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
Best Travel Time
The best trekking seasons are from March to May and from September to November. During these periods, weather conditions are in general stable and temperatures are most pleasant.
Accomodations
Depending on the route section, either camping gear is essential, or simple and basic teahouses are available.
Requirements
Good health condition and experience in mountaineering is required to cross the high passes, professional preparation and mountain gear is essential.
Peak Summitting
The 3-passes trek does not incude any peaks, however there is the possibility to summit trekkig-peaks on the way, e.g. the Chulu-Fareast peak (6038m) is relatively easy to climb, however good health conditions and acclimatization as well as stable weather conditions are mandatory.
Permit
For the Nar-Phu region, a dedicated permit and accompaniment of a licensed travel guide are required. For peak summiting, an extra climbing permit and certified climbing guide are mandatory.