A special permit is needed to travel into the enigmatic Nar Phu Valley, located in the area's northern section. Only in 2002 was this virgin valley accessible for hiking. Since then, Nar Phu has been a restricted area that can only be entered with a unique authorization.
Two Nar Phu Valley Trek permissions are required for prospective hikers: Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP) and the Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
Image Source: Amigo Trekking & Expedition
Caption: Nar Phu Valley
The approved offices in Kathmandu or Besisahar are where the trekker may apply for and get the ACAP. The Restricted Area Permit (RAP) may only be used for and obtained on behalf of the trekker by a legitimate Nepali trekking agency.
All the information about acquiring the Nar Phu Valley permit is detailed below:
#1. Permit for Restricted Area in Nar Phu Valley
The government of Nepal has classified the Nar Phu Valley as a restricted area due to its proximity to the Tibetan border. Its limited position aids in border security, tourism regulation, and historic culture and legacy preservation.
Image Source: Everest Trekking Routes
Caption: Nar Phu Permit
All hikers must have a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit this area. The appropriate Restricted Area Permit (RAP) that you purchased includes Nasho Rural Municipality and Narpa Rural Municipality because Nar Phu is situated in the Manang area.
Only your legally recognized and authorized Nepali trekking company is licensed to apply for this permission on your behalf. The price of a Nar Phu Valley Restricted Area Permit varies according to the time of year you go and the number of days you spend there. Walking through Nar Phu Valley is higher overall since it is more expensive than other prohibited places.
Cost
- September to November: $100 for the first seven days, followed by $15 for each extra day spent in the restricted region.
- December to August: $75 for the first seven days, then $15 for each day spent in the limited area after that.
#2. Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP)
Because the Nar Phu valley walks crosses within the Annapurna Conservation Area(ACA), an Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit is required. The charge is necessary to create routes and conserve the flora and wildlife of the Annapurna area.
Cost
- SAARC nationals: NPR. 1,000
- Nepalese: NPR 3,000
Documents Required for Nar Phu Valley Trekking Permit
During the registration process for the Nar Phu Valley Trekking permit, you must present the following documents:
- Two passport-size photos
- Xerox copies of your passport
- One scanned photograph
- Insurance papers
- Tourist visa for Nepal
- Itinerary of Nar Phu Valley Trek
Terms and Conditions for Nar Phu Valley Trekking Permits
The following are the terms and conditions to be aware of before and during your Nar Phu Valley trek:
- A minor under the age of 10 does not need permission; thus, it is free.
- Both permits are non-refundable, non-transferable, and only suitable for a single entrance and individual trekkers.
- Tickets are only available through selected few offices in Kathmandu, Besisahar, and Pokhara, and not from the available checkpoints along the trekking route.
- When visiting the Annapurna Conservation Area, visitors must adhere to the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act of 2029 B.S. (1973)
- You must take the entrance permits with you during the walk and show them to officials as needed at checkpoints.
- It would help if you banned filming without authorization in the restricted area.
- Permit holders may only visit the designated conservation and regional regions specified in their permit.
FAQ Related to Nar Phu Valley Trek
#1. Where can I get Nar Phu Valley hiking permits, and how do I get them?
The following are the locations where Nar Phu Valley hiking permits may be obtained:
- Kathmandu: The Nepal Tourism Board situated in Pradarsani Marg, is open in the morning from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m in the evening. on Saturdays and Sundays, except on public holidays.
- Besisahar: ACAP Entry Permit Counter, Besisahar, is open from 10 a.m. sharp to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, except for public holidays.
- Pokhara: The Nepal Tourism Board in Lakeside, Pokhara, is open in the morning from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the evening on Saturdays and Sundays, except on public holidays.
This permit can be obtained by hikers or the trekking agency that represents them.
#2. Is a TIMS card required for the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
The Nar Phu Valley Trek does not require a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. This is because the obligatory Restricted Area Permit includes the trekker's information, the route, emergency contact information, and other details.
#3. Do you require a guide with the Nar Phu Valley Trek?
The Nar Phu Valley hike requires a qualified professional guide since it is a restricted region with an uncertain off-the-beaten path track. The advantages of hiring a guide range from security and protection to conversing with locals and learning about the area's history, ethnicity, and traditions. Your contributions also support their livelihood and the Nepali economy by raising their living level.