Ngawal is a small village at about 3,660 m on the upper trail between Pisang and Manang, in the Annapurna Circuit region. It follows Ghyaru on the high route and sits above the valley floor. It is also where the Kang La route from Nar comes down to meet the Circuit.
Altitude: about 3,660 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Ngawal is and why trekkers stop
Ngawal is the second village on the upper route, after Ghyaru, with the trail then dropping to the main valley near Mungji and onward to Manang. Trekkers stop for lunch, a night, or a short rest before the descent. It also has a place in the wider network of trails, because those who cross Kang La from the Nar valley come down toward Ngawal before reaching Manang. That gives the village a quiet role as a junction between the classic Circuit and the longer side trek. For most walkers, though, it is simply a pleasant halt between two high lanes.
What to expect at Ngawal
Expect a modest village with a few lodges, stone houses, fields of barley and the sense of a place working around the seasons. The walk from Ghyaru is mostly along the hillside, so it feels easier than the climb from Pisang. Views across the valley to Annapurna II and IV make the effort feel worthwhile. After Ngawal the trail drops, so take care on loose stones, particularly if you leave late in the day. Mornings are cold but often clear, and afternoon wind is common on the exposed sections of the path.
Altitude and how you may feel
Ngawal sits close to the same height as Ghyaru, a little lower, and still above Manang. That makes it a good place to sleep high and then walk down, and the height gained here is modest and steady. Even so, thin air affects people differently. Watch for headache, nausea, breathlessness at rest and disturbed sleep. If symptoms get worse, do not push on. Rest, drink water, and descend if there is no improvement. Tell your guide early rather than late.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodges are simple, with basic rooms, shared toilets and a dining room warmed by a stove in the evening. Expect standard tea house food such as dal bhat, noodles and soup. Charging and hot showers may cost extra and can be unreliable, so carry a power bank. Start the descent in good time, because arriving anywhere in the dark on loose ground is tiring and risky. Carry cash and keep your permits handy. Timings vary with pace and trail conditions, so build in slack rather than rushing the final stretch.
Common questions
Is Ngawal on the main Annapurna Circuit?
It is on the upper variant between Pisang and Manang rather than the lower valley road. Many trekkers choose this variant for better views and for a gentler gain in height before Manang.
Can Ngawal be reached from Nar?
Yes, the Kang La crossing from Nar finishes with a long descent toward Ngawal. Most itineraries run in that direction because coming down into the Manang valley is easier than climbing steeply from Ngawal to the pass.
What can I see from Ngawal?
The views across the valley include Annapurna II and IV, best in clear morning light. Around the village you will also see terraced fields, stone houses and prayer flags typical of the upper Manang valley.
