Machha Khola is considered the Manaslu Circuit Trek starting point. Trekkers get here by road transport from Kathmandu to Machha Khola village. The distance between Kathmandu and Machha Khola is 160 km (99 miles) and takes between 8 to 10 hours.
Initially, the route goes through the Prithvi Highway but becomes bumpy beyond Arughat village. Machha Khola village lies at 900 m (2,953 feet) and is situated along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River. One has three choices for transport from Kathmandu: a local bus, a shared jeep, or a 4WD car.
Where Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Start?
The Machha Khola village is usually the trekking trailhead for most Manaslu Circuit trekkers. This is a village located in the Gorkha district along the Budhi Gandaki River. The elevation of the village varies from 869 meters to 970 meters (2,851 ft to 3,182 ft) depending on the source.
Previously, the beginning of the trekking route was considered to be Soti Khola. This village is located just a few kilometers to the south of Machha Khola at an elevation of 710 meters (2,329 feet).
However, road development has changed the situation. In 2025 and 2026, the road that connects Soti Khola and Machha Khola is open, which means that it is possible to reach Machha Khola by jeep in the dry season.
It is faster for those taking the lower track to start trekking from Machha Khola, thus saving a day's walk along the lower trail. The lower track from Soti Khola to Machha Khola is said to be not very attractive in terms of scenic beauty. This is a journey along the river through a relatively low valley and warm area. The scenery becomes very beautiful as one crosses Machha Khola.
While some people might still prefer starting from Soti Khola, as it is cheaper to get there by bus and has an additional warm day, others opt to trek from Machha Khola as they have limited time.
Where is Machha Khola Located?
Machha Khola is the common practical starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, not because the road ends there, but because it is where most trekkers begin walking. The village sits in Gorkha district in Gandaki Province, central Nepal, on the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, which flows southward through the Manaslu region.
Vehicle access extends beyond Machha Khola. The road continues to Pangsing, and in dry conditions, jeeps can sometimes reach further up the valley. However, the final section of the drive beyond Arughat is rough, narrow, and often affected by landslides or washouts. Access can change seasonally.
Machha Khola, the starting point of Manaslu Circuit Trek
During the monsoon, sections of the road may become impassable, and even in dry season, only 4WD vehicles can handle the terrain. For most trekkers, Machha Khola remains the practical place to start walking, even though the road itself does not officially end there.
There are various reasons for its importance. Firstly, it is situated in the Manaslu conservation area. You need to get permits in order to enter there. Secondly, it is the first night stop for most trekking groups. Thirdly, it is the dividing point between road trip and hike.
The distance from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is about 160 km (99 miles). The last 12 km are rough and only 4WD jeeps pass through there.
Machha Khola has basic teahouses, a few small shops, and a health post. Trekkers can buy snacks, water, and simple provisions. The village is a practical place to restock before heading higher, though supplies are limited beyond this point.
On mobile coverage, both NTC and Ncell have service in Machha Khola, which sits in the lower Manaslu region. NTC generally provides more reliable coverage as you climb, but at this elevation, either network should give you basic calls and messages
Getting to Machha Khola: Transportation Options
Three common methods of traveling to Machha Khola from Kathmandu are by local bus, share jeep, or private four-wheel drive car. The journey will take the same route for all the options, starting from Dhading Besi, Arughat, and Soti Khola and ending up at Machha Khola.
Option | Travel Time | Cost | Comfort | Best For |
Local Bus | 8 to 10 hours | NPR 1,500 to 2,000 (USD 12 to 15) | Basic | Budget travelers |
Shared Jeep | 7 to 9 hours | USD 20 to 35 per person | Moderate | Independent trekkers |
Private 4WD | 7 to 8 hours | USD 190 to 320 per vehicle | High | Groups and families |
There are extended travel times during monsoon. Due to landslides and road damage, two to four hours may be added to any travel time.
Local Bus
Local buses provide you with a very affordable means of transportation. You leave from the Gongabu Bus Park, also known as the New Bus Park or Machhapokhari, in Kathmandu. Additionally, some buses have pickup points in Kalanki.
The buses leave early in the morning, somewhere between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM. Usually, there is one bus each day, or two in peak season.
During autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), seats will fill very fast, so it would be better to buy your tickets at least one day ahead. Your trekking agency will be able to assist you with that.
Local buses used as a mode of transportation in Nepal
The cost of a local bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola ranges from NPR 1,500 to 2,000 (USD 12 to 15). However, slower buses are available for a price of NPR 800 to 1,200. Prices increase in peak trekking season. It is going to be a long, crowded, and uncomfortable trip.
You are going to be traveling together with locals, students, vendors, and other trekkers. The bus will make numerous stops, vendors will come and sell snacks in the window, and the driver will play Nepali folk music. Seats are very hard, suspension is poor, and there is not much legroom.
Shared Jeep
Jeeps are faster and more comfortable than buses. The cost of shared jeeps for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is around USD 20 to 35, which is around NPR 4,000 to 5,000.
Shared jeeps can carry 5-7 passengers at a time and start once the jeep is full, generally leaving from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM. It will take you 8-9 hours to reach Machha Khola through shared jeeps.
The shared jeeps do not operate throughout the route to Machha Khola from Kathmandu. The shared jeeps generally operate until Arughat or Soti Khola. You might need to use other means of transportation such as other jeeps or even walking to reach Machha Khola from that point. You can check whether you will get a shared jeep to Machha Khola or not.
Private 4WD Vehicle
The use of a private 4x4 jeep is the best. The total fee for a full vehicle is USD 190 to 320, not per person. Some of the operators take NPR 24,000 to 32,000 (USD 190 to 250) for a full vehicle. When divided among four to seven people, the total comes to USD 30 to 80 per person, which is equivalent to a shared jeep.
Private jeeps provide hotel pick-up from Kathmandu, flexible timing, and door-to-door service. You will be able to stop at any place whenever you feel like stopping. The jeep will be yours for the day. The recommended vehicles are Mahindra Scorpio, Toyota Hilux, and Land Cruiser. Normal sedans cannot be used beyond Arughat.
Private 4x4 jeeps are the best for families, groups, and trekkers who carry luggage. Most operators recommend that you leave early at 6:30 or 7:00 AM to avoid late arrival. During the peak season, booking is mandatory. Your trekking operator can arrange both shared and private jeeps for you.
Which Option Should You Choose?
The local bus, which costs between $12 and $15, is ideal for lone backpackers traveling on a budget. If you need to feel comfortable and don’t want to hire a private vehicle, then sharing a jeep that will cost each passenger between $20 and $35 is ideal. However, for groups or families that do not have much time, a private 4WD is the best thing to hire.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola Distance and Travel Time
The distance from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is 160 kilometers (99 miles). Various other sources give distances ranging from 135 to 165 kilometers, with most giving 157 kilometers to 160 kilometers as the standard distance.
These distances are good for planning purposes but do not represent the actual amount of time it will take to cover them. The drive will take one down from 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) at Kathmandu down to 900 meters (2,953 feet) at Machha Khola. You travel into the warmer Budhi Gandaki valley.
Types of local buses used to reach trek start points in Nepal
The travel time greatly depends on the condition of the roads. The initial part of the route between Kathmandu and Dhading Besi runs along the Prithvi Highway, which is good and fast, but congested at Naubise and Galchi.
The next part between Dhading Besi and Arughat is partly paved and partly rough. Further to Arughat, there is no more tarmac. What is left of the way is a dirt and gravel road along Budhi Gandaki River that is narrow, dusty in winter and slippery in the monsoon.
Therefore, a personal jeep takes 7 to 8 hours during dry season, while a shared one, 8 to 9 hours and a local bus takes 8 to 10 hours. In case of monsoon, you should spend an additional two to four hours.
Is the Road to Machha Khola Safe?
The journey towards Machha Khola involves some dangers. Landslide is the biggest danger that exists during monsoon. Rocks may come down from the mountain during monsoon because of the steepness of the road at some places.
The road gets narrower at some parts, and overtaking other cars becomes impossible without moving backwards to a wider area. It is quite common in mountain roads of Nepal. Delays are another issue that is common during the rainy season, as landslides may block the road for many hours or even days.
The ideal time to travel is the dry season. From October to November and March to May, travel is more favorable and safe as there are no landslides and road conditions are good.
Experienced drivers are familiar with the road. They know about the areas where landslides are common and when they should exercise caution. The local bus drivers will be very familiar with this road having driven along it several times before. When hiring jeeps, use an operator who has experienced drivers.
The condition of the vehicle is important on this road. Good brakes, tires, and suspension will help you avoid delays in case of a breakdown in the remote part of the road.
Alternative Starting Points for the Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Machha Khola route is the most popular starting point for the hike, but there are other ways as well; your route can be something else, based on road conditions, trek length, and individual choice.
Starting from Soti Khola
Soti Khola is located at an elevation of 710 meters (2,329 feet) a few kilometers south of Machha Khola. It used to be the customary point from which people started trekking for decades. There are many routes that still begin here.
The hike from Soti Khola takes one more day than from Machha Khola. The trail passes through the valley along the Budhi Gandaki River. It is not quite as picturesque as the upper reaches of the trekking route, but it provides a nice warm-up. It can also be reached easily by bus.
Starting from Other Points
Although Machha Khola still remains the traditional starting point, road access has extended up the Budhi Gandaki river in the dry season, enabling higher starting points that can save at least a day's walk time. However, road access past Machha Khola is weather- and landslide-dependent.
The other popular start point is Jagat (1,340m/4,396ft). From here, it saves an entire day since it cuts out the 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) between Machha Khola and Jagat.
This is the official entrance to the Manaslu Conservation Area, where trekking permits for Restricted Areas Permits (RAPs) and Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) are collected. In the dry season, one can use privately hired 4x4 vehicles that can get to Jagat, or sometimes even to Philim if the road condition allows.
Pangsing, sometimes spelt as Pangsir or Bangsing, lies farther north in the valley. In late 2026, the repair work done on the road enabled the jeeps to access Jagat and motorbikes to access Pangsing. From Pangsing, one needs to walk towards Deng and join the main loop, thereby saving one day if one starts from Jagat. Some of the trekking trips start at Bangsing, where the jeep is dropped, and then one walks via Chisapani to Philim.
It is also possible to begin your journey from Pokhara rather than from Kathmandu. In the process, you will have to drive through Dumre and Arughat and finally follow the same path as before to Machha Khola. The total distance is 155-165 km (96-103 miles), and it takes about 7-8 hours to reach there. It is feasible if you are already in Pokhara or wish to combine Manaslu Trekking with Annapurna Trekking as well.
What is the Most Practical Way to Reach Machha Khola?
The most practical solution varies on budget, group size, and priorities.
Solo traveler on a budget: Take the local bus. It costs USD 12 to 15. It is slow and uncomfortable, but it works.
Solo traveler with extra money: Take a shared jeep. It costs USD 20 to 35 and is faster than the bus.
Group of four to six: Hire a private jeep. The cost splits well; you get hotel pickup, and you can set your own schedule.
Short on time: Hire a private jeep. It is the fastest option. You can leave in the morning and arrive by afternoon.
Limited budget but plenty of time: Take the bus. Pack food, water, and patience.
The right choice depends on your budget, group size, and schedule. A solo budget traveler has different needs than a family of five with luggage.
When is the Best Time to Travel to Machha Khola?
When is the right time to visit Machha Khola? This is contingent upon the condition of the road. The spring season (March to May) and the autumn season (September to November) are the ideal times when one can travel to Machha Khola.
Season | Road Conditions | Travel Time | Risk Level |
Spring (Mar to May) | Dry, stable | 7 to 9 hours | Low |
Autumn (Sep to Nov) | Dry, clear | 7 to 9 hours | Low |
Monsoon (Jun to Aug) | Muddy, landslide-prone | 10 to 12+ hours | High |
Winter (Dec to Feb) | Cold, generally dry | 8 to 10 hours | Moderate |
In the monsoon, rainfall is so heavy that there are landslides and road closures. The roads may remain closed for hours or even days, and the visibility is poor. If you trek at this time, you should allow some extra days in your plan.
The winter season is cold but mostly dry. It does not snow at Machha Khola's altitude. The only problem is the cold weather, especially inside the teahouses. There is little activity in the teahouses, and most of them may be closed.
The autumn season is the best trekking season when the roads and teahouses are busiest. You need to book your transportation and accommodation in advance.
Always inquire about the road status before leaving Kathmandu for your trek.
What to Expect on the Journey to Machha Khola
It is a long journey. It takes a whole day to reach there. But it is also an interesting journey. You get to see something about Nepal that most tourists have missed out on.
You pass by towns and villages. You see terraced fields, rivers, and hills. You see kids going to school, farmers working in the fields, and traders transporting goods.
From Arughat, the road gets tough. You feel every bump on the road. The ride becomes bumpy and shaky. Dust comes in through the windowpanes. During the monsoon, mud flies in all directions. This journey isn't going to be comfortable.
Food and toilet breaks become necessary during this journey. The stops are primitive. You have dal bhat, noodles, and tea there. Toilets are squat-type toilets. Carry toilet paper and hand sanitizers with you.
There might be a lack of facilities during some parts of the journey. There could be no proper restaurants or clean toilets for hours. Carry some snacks and drinking water with you. You don't want to rummage through your backpack on the roadside.
Tips for Traveling from Kathmandu to Machha Khola
Start early. Starting early allows more daylight time.
Make plans for your mode of transport beforehand in peak seasons.
Take motion sickness medicine in case you are prone to travel sickness.
Bring at least 2 liters of water with you.
Pack snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
Ensure that you carry your passport, permissions, and money in a secure backpack.
Wear comfortable clothes. It is advisable to wear layers.
Carry a buff or face mask in case of dust.
Carry your toilet paper and hand sanitizers.
Download maps and music on your phone offline.
Fully charge your mobile phone and power bank before setting off.
Do not drink too much water before long periods without restrooms.
Be patient. Delays can happen.
Be culturally sensitive. Wear modest clothes. Ask for permission before photographing.
Do not pollute the environment. Bring a trash bag along.
In case you are feeling ill, let your driver or tour guide know.
Plan Your Manaslu Circuit Trek With Us
Do you plan a Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2026? Write us a message on WhatsApp at +977-9851042334, and we will be happy to help you organize your trek according to your schedule, preferences, and physical condition.
Conclusion
Machha Khola is the practical starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The journey from Kathmandu covers 160 kilometers (99 miles) and takes 7 to 10 hours or more, depending on road and weather conditions. Spring and autumn offer the most reliable travel conditions. Monsoon brings landslides and delays.
Before leaving Kathmandu, check road conditions, Manaslu Circuit Trek weather forecasts, and transport availability. Confirm your permits and guide are arranged. Pack essentials in your daypack. Prepare well, and the trek ahead will reward you.
