The Manaslu Trekking route can only be reached by traveling from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. Machha Khola in Gorkha serves as the starting point for the Manaslu Trek. It is 160 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu. A private jeep takes 7 to 8 hours from Kathmandu to reach Machha Khola. However, if you travel by public transportation, such as buses, the journey takes 9 to 10 hours.
Whether you travel by bus or jeep is entirely up to you. The route is smooth until Hanuman Danda. However, the path becomes more rugged and hard after that. The route from Arughat to Soti Khola is challenging but safe. You must know the weather and road conditions for a safe and comfortable journey.
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How to Get From Kathmandu to Machha Khola
Kathmandu to Machha Khola by Local Bus
The cheapest method to travel from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is by local bus. The buses normally depart early in the morning. The buses have 35 seats and can follow a variety of itineraries. Take a bus along the Dhading Besi route. The journey takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. The buses take some breaks now and then for lunch and toilet stops.
Since it’s a long trip, you should have breakfast before heading out. You can also bring along some snacks for your journey. Buses often make stops near local restaurants, allowing you to grab lunch while you wait. The duration and timetable of the stop may change. The road conditions can change, so stay hydrated and keep your energy up.
Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Trek to Machha Khola
You’ll start your adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola in a private jeep. You will trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola. The journey will lead you along beautiful roads, winding through charming villages and up into the hills. You’ll be taking the Dhading Besi route as you follow the twisty path of Soti Khola. The smooth road will take you to Arughat. After that, you’ll start your bumpy journey to Soti Khola. You’ll arrive at your destination after about 8 to 9 hours drive. You’ll spend the night at Soti Khola.
The following day, you’ll start your trek to Machha Khola. You’ll walk through the Sal forests and up to a ridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. You’ll be hiking up and down rocky paths as you make your way to Khursane village. Then, you will arrive at Labubesi, a charming village inhabited by the Gurung community. As you progress, the valley expands, and you’ll stroll along the sandy riverbed. After you climb over the ridge, you’ll need to cross a suspension bridge. Then, you’ll arrive at the Machha Khola village.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola by Jeep (Private vs Sharing)
Taking a jeep is quicker than riding the local bus. You can choose between getting a private jeep or sharing one with others. Hiring a private jeep can be quite pricey. However, it is more convenient to travel than the local bus. The private jeep has comfortable seating for 5 to 7 people. For small groups of 5 to 7, traveling by private jeep is an excellent option.
Jeep sharing is an excellent choice for solo travelers or groups of two or three people traveling from Kathmandu to Machha Khola. The cost is lower than renting a private jeep. Local jeeps are common on this route. They leave early in the Morning from Machhapokhari.
How Long Does it Take to Get Machha Khola and Sotikhola From Kathmandu?
The road distance from Kathmandu to Soti Khola is about 126 kilometers, and from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is 140 kilometers. Driving time from Kathmandu to Machha Khola varies based on road conditions and traffic but typically takes 9 to 10 hours. The Manaslu Circuit begins in Soti Khola, an 8-hour jeep ride from Kathmandu.
Machha Khola, a one-day camp near Soti Khola, is about a 9 to 10-hour jeep ride from Kathmandu. The road distance from Kathmandu is about 140 kilometers, but the off-road roads make for long drives.
Road Conditions From Kathmandu to Machha Khola
Trekkers used to have to walk from Arughat to Machha Khola because there were no drivable roads. However, road construction has gradually extended closer to the village in recent years. A rough jeep track now extends the pathway to Machha Khola, but it is still too bumpy for vehicles to drive directly there.
The driveable road currently ends at Lububesi village, between Soti Khola and Machha Khola. So, the jeep can drive as far as Lububesi, but trekkers must walk the remaining 3-4 hours to Machha Khola. Some road sections are still muddy and dusty, but others have improved.
Manaslu Circuit from Machha Khola
The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts in the village of Machha Khola. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a less-commercialized but unspoiled region of the Annapurna region. It is located in a rural place surrounded by calm Himalayan nature. The Manaslu Circuit trail is less popular than other trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit. Trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty and mountain vistas of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and other summits.
The trek is relatively demanding, and anyone with basic fitness can do it. The journey will take you through diverse scenery, rural villages, and ancient monasteries. It passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area. Similarly, you will hike to the high mountain pass of Larkya La, situated at an elevation of 5,160 meters above sea level. Larkya La is the highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Jeep Service
The jeep service from Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Machha Khola is a reliable and comfortable way to travel and see Nepal’s hidden beauties. The jeep route passes through stunning natural scenery and mountain ranges. However, the local jeep leaves Kathmandu’s New Bus Park at 7 a.m. You can also hire jeeps or private vehicles from a local tour operator and start your journey to Machha Khola.
The trip from Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Soti Khola takes roughly 9-10 hours. Along the trip, you’ll see stunning hills and people rafting in the Trishuli River. The public and private jeeps used on this road are mostly four-wheel drive, which can handle any terrain in Nepal’s Himalayan region and make your ride more pleasant.
The jeep service can fit 7 to 8 passengers in a single jeep, with all luggage stored on the rooftop. The route from Kathamandu to Machha Khola and Soti Khola is exciting and allows you to see stunning mountain ranges and panoramic countryside views.
Conclusion
The journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola by jeep or bus is a popular route. The trip from Kathmandu to Soti Khola to Machha Khola takes you through breathtaking scenery of mountain ranges, hills, and rivers. The journey begins in Nepal’s capital city of Kathmandu. To go to Soti Khola, a small town in Nepal’s Gorkha district, you must take a jeep, bus, or private vehicle.
FAQs
What is the altitude of Machha Khola?
Machha Khola is at 870 meters of altitude from sea level. Machha Khola is located in the northern part of Gorkha district. This village is the gateway to the popular Manslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley. The Machha Khola is known for its distinctive terrain and natural beauty.
How do I get to the Manaslu Circuit trek?
You get to the Manaslu Circuit trek from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, which passes through Soti Khola. Private jeeps go 160 kilometers in roughly 8 hours, whereas local buses take 9 to 10 hours. You will have an exciting off-road experience.
How far is Soti Khola from Machha Khola?
Soti Khola to Machha Khola trek distance is 14.1 kilometers. The Soti Khola to Machha Khola distance is the starting part of the Manaslu Circuit trek. It takes 5 to 6 hours by foot to reach Maccha Khola height from Soti Khola via Armala, Lapubesi, Nauli Khola, and Khanibesi.
How much is a jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola?
The jeep cost from Kathmandu to Machha Khola can vary depending on the jeep type and the service provider. On average, hiring a private jeep might cost around $250. Shared jeep rides may be cheaper. Prices can also change based on the season and road conditions.
Is there a bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola?
Yes, there is a bus from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. However, local buses have a transit in Arughat where you must move to another vehicle, such as locally run mini jeeps or local vans. A local bus ticket costs between $10-12. Local buses are the most popular and cost-effective kind of transportation.
