Traveling from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola is the only way to access the Manaslu Trekking route. Machha Khola is the starting point of Manaslu Trek which is located in Gorkha. It lies in the northwest direction from Kathmandu and 160 Kilometers away.
It takes 7 to 8 hours from Kathmandu to reach Maccha Khola in a private jeep. But if you opt to travel by public transportation, i.e., buses, it takes 9 to 10 hours of journey. Whether to travel by bus or jeep entirely depends on your preferences.
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The road condition is smooth until Dhading Besi. But from then on, the road conditions became rugged and rough. The road from Arughat to Soti Khola is especially challenging. But do not worry; it is safe despite the challenging road conditions.
We will help to make your travel journey from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola safe and comfortable. We keep up with the latest information related to weather and road conditions. So make sure you stay with us until the end of the article for full details related to Kathmandu to Maccha Khola.
33 days itinerary, Tsum, Manaslu & Annapurna Circuit – Lifetime Experience with Dream Team
Not many trekking companies provide us an opportunity to integrate two difficult treks into one single long itinerary but as the name calls ‘Nepal alternative treks & expeditions’ they were instrumental in this. This was challenging, strenuous and enduring high altitude trek. Including 1 porter and guide, we were team of 4 and had some great experience and time in greater Himalayas
Mr Tej Gurung, Managing Director was key in Planning this trek and based on our feedback, Organizing the trek itinerary with utmost precision was commendable. Response from him from initial stage of planning till we bid adieu at KTM was just professional & this shows his commitment for trekkers.
Execution with high priority, focusing towards Safety & Quality is the responsible of ground team, which was well taken care by our Guide, Mr Nauser Gurung. His immense knowledge of routes & trails, weather condition, teahouses, water points are just meritorious. His helping & friendly attitude, adventure spirit and strive to keep us in comfort zone in tough situations is praiseworthy. And indeed he is a master of skill set required to execute such long duration trek.
Our porter Deepak, was quick mover and one tough young chap. His movement on Ice and snow will keep anyone wonder how he could do it with such ease.
This 30 days of trek, which is absolutely 1st class expedition, is a perfect challenge and getaway. Complete trek was of great value for money & excellent in every dimensions.
I would take this opportunity to thank Nepal alternative treks & expeditions for their efforts for keeping us safe, comfortable & happy throughout the trek & I highly recommend ‘Nepal alternative treks & expeditions’. Can’t wait to reunite and head for yet another high altitude 30+ days trek in Himalayas.
5.0
Shivakishor Sing
India
Where are Soti Khola and Maccha Khola Located?
Soti Khola and Maccha Khola are located in the west-central region of Nepal. It takes 8 to 9 hours to reach Soti Khola by jeep. It is 710 meters from Kathmandu. The road takes you through the twisty, countryside roads along the hillside.
From Soti Khola, you can either drive to Maccha Khola or trek. Until 2021, the road from Kathmandu was only connected to Soti Khola. Post-COVID-19, the road from Kathmandu to Machha Khola started operating. Most trekkers still opt to trek from Soti Khola to Maccha Khola. Trekkers will walk through the beautiful forest of Sal and come across villages like Khursasne and Labubesi before reaching Maccha Khola. The trek takes around 7 hours from Soti Khola. We will cover 900 meters distance during the trek.
Kathmandu to Maccha Khola By Local Bus
Traveling from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola by local bus is the most budget-friendly way. The buses usually depart in the morning, but you can also find night buses, The buses are 35-seater, and they can take different routes. Take a bus that travels through the Dhading Besi route. The entire journey takes 9 to 10 hours. The buses make occasional stops for lunch and toilet breaks.
Since it is a long journey, it is best that you have your breakfast before departure. Or you can pack something to eat while traveling. The buses usually stop by local eateries, so you can have lunch during that period. Also, you can refresh yourself and take a break from sitting. Note that the stop’s length and schedule can vary. It is best to get some packaged food, snacks, and water while traveling. The road conditions can also vary so you must stay hydrated and maintain your energy.
Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Trek to Maccha Khola
The tour itinerary includes a drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola by private jeep. From Soti Khola we will trek to Maccha Khola. The day will start early as we begin driving from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. The drive will take you through scenic roads passing by picturesque villages into the hill. We will take the Dhading Beshi route as we follow the twisty road to Soti Khola. The smooth road journey will end at Arughat. From then onwards, our bumpy ride to the town of Soti Khola will begin. After 8 to 9 hours drive, we will reach the destination. We will stay overnight at Soti Khola.
The following day, we will start our trek to Maccha Khola. We will hike through Sal forests and climb onto a ridge over the Budhi Gandaki River. We will ascend and descend on rocky trails towards Khursane village. After that, we will reach Labubesi which is a Gurung village. As we continue our trek, the valley opens up and we will walk along the sandy river bed. Then after climbing over a ridge, you will have to cross a suspension bridge. We will then reach the Maccha Khola village.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola By Jeep (Private vs Sharing)
Driving by jeep is faster than by local bus. There are options of getting a private jeep or sharing. Renting a private jeep is relatively expensive. However, it is the most comfortable way of traveling than by local bus. The private jeep has spacious seating which can easily accommodate 5 to 7 people. For a small group of 5 to 7, then traveling by private jeep is a good option.
For solo travelers or a group of two to three people, jeep sharing is a good option for getting from Kathmandu to Maccha Khola. The cost is comparatively budget-friendly than renting a private jeep. Local jeeps are commonly found in Besi Sahar. They depart almost every hour and are a convenient way of traveling.
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Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a less-commercialized but untouched region of the Annapurna region. It lies in a remote area and is filled with serene Himalayan nature. The trail of the Manaslu Circuit is less crowded compared to trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit. Trekkers can witness the spectacular natural beauty and get mountain views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and other peaks.
The trek is moderately difficult and trekkers with basic fitness levels can take part. It starts from the village of Maccha Khola. The trail will take through varied terrain, remote villages, and ancient monasteries. It goes through the Manaslu Conservation Area. Similarly, you will trek to the high mountain pass, Larkya La. It is situated at 5,160 meters elevation above sea level. It is the highlight of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
We have the perfect Manaslu Circuit Trek package or if you want, you can customize your itinerary to suit your needs. So if you are interested in Manaslu Circuit Trek or need any further information, you can contact us.
Sunita Gurung has been actively involved as the leading women tourism entrepreneur in Nepal. She has been leading Nepal Alternative Treks as executive director over 10 years.
Leaving her birthplace Ruby valley, Dhading after completing her high school at the age of 20 years she has been pushing herself to empower women to stand on own feet and work as team. The result, she is president of Ganesh Himal female Society and board member of women tourism entrepreneurs Network, Nepal.
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