How to Get to Manaslu Circuit Starting Point from Kathmandu

Whether you opt for a jeep or local bus, navigating your way from Kathmandu to the Manaslu Circuit starting point—typically Machha Khola, or Jagat—is an unforgettable part of the experience. Here's your guide to making that journey smooth, informed, and worthwhile.

Where Does the Manaslu Circuit Start?

The classic Manaslu Circuit Trek trailhead starts at Soti Khola (700m), though now trekkers begin at Machha Khola (869m) or Jagat (1,340m) to skip the bumpiest sections.

Both trailheads lie in the Gorkha district of Nepal and can be accessed only by road—no flights, no railways, just one adventurous overland drive.

Option 1: Jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola/Jagat (Private or Shared)

This is the most comfortable and reliable option, especially if you're short on time or value convenience.

Private Jeep

• Duration: 7–9 hours, depending on traffic and weather

• Cost: USD 220 per jeep (up to 5 people)

• Route: Kathmandu – Dhading – Arughat – Machha Khola/Jagat

• Perks: Door-to-door service, flexibility with departure time, photo stops

• Best For: Groups, families, or trekkers who want comfort and speed

Shared Jeep

• Duration: 9–11 hours

• Cost: USD $35–$40 per person

• Availability: Shared jeeps usually depart from Gongabu Bus Park early morning

• Drawback: Less room, fixed schedule, longer stops
  
  

Analogy alert: Taking a private jeep is like booking a first-class ticket through the backroads of a medieval kingdom—bumpy but private, and packed with scenery most tourists never get to see.

Option 2: Local Bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola

If you're a budget traveler or up for cultural immersion, this one's for you.

Local Bus

• Duration: 12–14+ hours

• Cost: USD $10–$15

• Departure Point: New Bus Park (Gongabu)

• Final Stop: Arughat or Soti Khola (may require a change of bus en route to Machha Khola)

• What to Expect: Crowds, chickens, Nepali folk music, and the real Nepal experience

• Downside: Long travel time, unpredictable stops, less safety, and comfort
  
  

Tip: For the short Manaslu Circuit Trek 10 Days, consider taking a jeep to Machha Khola or Jagat directly and save one trekking day.

Ground Transportation? We've Got It Covered

When you book the 14-Day Manaslu Circuit Trek or the 10-Day Short Manaslu Circuit Trek with Places Nepal Treks, your entire overland journey is arranged—so you don’t need to worry about the complex logistics of getting to and from this remote region.

Here's what's included:

• Local bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (your trek starting point)

• Shared jeep from Dharapani or Syange back to Besisahar

• Local bus from Besisahar to Kathmandu
  
  

This combination offers a cost-effective and authentic travel experience, giving you a glimpse into rural Nepal before your trek even begins.

Want More Comfort?

You can upgrade to a private jeep for either leg (or both) of the journey. This is ideal if you’re looking for:

• Faster travel times

• Greater comfort and privacy

• Flexible departure schedules

• Minimized travel fatigue before and after the trek
  
  

Just let us know in advance, and we’ll arrange a private 4WD transfer to fit your itinerary and budget.

Whether you’re going all-in on the adventure or prefer a smoother ride through the foothills, Places Nepal Treks handles every detail, so you can focus on the mountains—not the map.

How Are the Road Conditions?

Think of the road as your first acclimatization test. It begins paved from Kathmandu to Dhading, then transitions into rough gravel and dusty switchbacks that snake along hillsides.

• Dry season (Oct–May): Passable with mild dust, but still bumpy

• Monsoon season (Jun–Sep): Muddy, landslide-prone, often delayed

• Driving skill required: High – local drivers are experts at this terrain
  
  

The final stretch beyond Arughat can be grueling, especially in local transport. However, you’ll pass terraced farms, roaring rivers, and dramatic gorges—setting the tone for your trek ahead.

Day-by-Day Overview: How It Ties into the Trek

Return Tip: You’ll exit the trail at Dharapani or Tiliche, where jeep transport to Kathmandu takes 8–10 hours via Besisahar.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Permits, Partners & Peace of Mind: What You Need to Know

Before you even think about hitting the trail, there’s an important regulation every Manaslu trekker must follow:

You need at least 2 trekkers (excluding guides/porters) to obtain the Restricted Area Permit for the Manaslu region.

This isn’t a casual hike—it’s a protected area near the Tibetan border, and solo trekking is not allowed for safety and security reasons.

Permits Must Be Obtained Through a Licensed Trekking Company

Only a government-authorized trekking company like Places Nepal Treks and Expedition can apply for your permits, arrange your itinerary, and organize official documentation. We ensure you're fully covered with:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

• TIMS card not required for this region

Let Places Nepal Treks handle the road. Whether you’re headed to Machha Khola or Jagat, we’ll arrange your private or shared jeep with experienced drivers. It’s all part of the Places Nepal Treks and Expedition experience—safe, reliable, and tuned to your trekking timeline.