Getting to the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek takes a bit of planning, as it is in a relatively remote part of Nepal. The hike starts from Soti Khola, a tiny settlement atop the Manaslu region`s Gorkha District. Less accessible than Nepal’s more famous treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Manaslu Circuit isn’t the easiest to reach, as it takes a few forms of transport to get you there.
The initial point of access for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is via Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city and key international gateway. The closest large settlement to Soti Khola is Arughat, around which you can travel to via bus, private vehicle, and domestic flight from Kathmandu.
Most trekkers choose to take the bus between Kathmandu and Arughat, a journey that takes about 7 to 8 hours depending on the state of the road. The bus leaves from Kantipath in Kathmandu and travels west, winding through rural countryside, small villages, and terraced fields. Though the winding road leading to Arughat is steep and crooked, the views along the way make for an interesting journey. From Arughat, you can hire a jeep, or you can trek for 2 to 3 hours till Soti Khola, the official starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
If you have limited time or want something a little more comfortable, you can take a private jeep from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. You can do this, either through a trekking agency or via private vehicle hire. The journey takes about 6 – 7 hours with road conditions and will drop you off at the starting point of the trek. If you are traveling in a group, this is a more comfortable option since you can bypass the buses, as far as possible, which may also save you time.
For those with less time or looking for a more convenient option, you can take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (about a 30-minute flight) and then drive from Pokhara to Soti Khola. The first part, driving from Pokhara to Arughat, takes 4 hours, and from there, it’s another 2 to 3 hours of bumping around in a jeep to get to Soti Khola. While this may add a little more time to your journey, flying can make it more pleasant and convenient for any point that will be short in time, especially those who are short on time.
Also Manaslu Circuit Trek is in a restricted region of Nepal, So before starting the trek, you have to own permits. You can obtain these permits through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu, and it’s recommended to get them well in advance. Manaslu RAP: (restricted area program(CCRAPMANBL791 9)$10, permit obtained from trekking agency or directly in Kathmandu MRTI, Dungi HQ;2481545-012,721)Manaslu MCAP: (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit) (4$, permit collected from the trekking agency or in Kathmandu ACT739); ACAP(Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) (ACAP уведомления, который можно забрать у Trekking agency)
After reaching Soti Khola, expect basic lodging availability in small guesthouses or tea houses in which to stay before you begin your trek. Day 1: Trek from Arughat to Soti KholaSince the first day of the Manaslu Circuit Trek requires you to do a light hike, you can walk surrounded by green forests and small villages.
The trip to reach the trailhead of the Manaslu Circuit trek may seem long but the ride is beautiful and the adventure ahead makes for an exciting journey. With fallen trees — and the proper permits — out of the way, you’ll be all set to enjoy one of Nepal’s top trekking experiences.
So Why Did the Trek Begin at All: A Primer on the Trek’s Starting Point
The Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost is one of the most breathtaking and least traveled trekking routes in Nepal, allowing trekkers to journey through remote villages, towering mountain scenery, and colorful culture. But before you commence this awe-inspiring journey, it’s important to learn how to arrive at the beginning of the trek. The trek is initiated from the village of Soti Khola, which is located within the Gorkha District through a series of travel steps that can be started easily from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. When setting off for the beginning of your trek, being aware of the various transportation options available to you can provide for a much smoother experience, allowing you to focus your energy on the long way ahead.
Overview of the Beginning: Soti Khola
Manaslu Circuit Trek Travel Tips The trek actually starts from Soti Khola, which is approximately 7-8 hours by bus from Kathmandu. This small settlement lies on the edge of the Manaslu Conservation Area, the entry point to the trekking path. Soti Khola itself is not a big town, but there are basic guesthouses and tea houses for trekkers to sleep at before heading to the trail. Trekking from Soti Khola, hikers begin the first leg of the trek, which winds through dense forests, terraced fields, and local villages. The area has breathtaking views of the Manaslu Range, and it’s the starting point to enter one of Nepal’s most remote and beautiful areas.
Getting to Kathmandu: The Start Point for the Trek to Manaslu
The first step upon reaching the starting point of the famed Manaslu Circuit Trek is arriving in the vibrant capital city of Nepal—Kathmandu. Kathmandu is Nepal’s main international entry point, and a clearinghouse for travelers heading to treks elsewhere in the country. Most international flights arrive at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Most trekkers arrive here to base themselves in Kathmandu to sort out the permits, guide and transport for the trek to Manaslu Circuit. Though the capital is home to innumerable cultural landmarks and buzzing markets, it’s also the gateway to many of Nepal’s famed trekking expeditions, such as the Manaslu Circuit.
Kathmandu to Arughat (10 hours, 560 NPR)
Next, we travel to a bigger town called Arughat in Gorkha District — the starting point for the trek. This is the nearest population center of significance from the point where the trek begins. How long does it take to drive from Kathmandu to Arughat? Arughat is a main transportation station for trekkers heading to Soti Khola. A scenic route that takes you through the rural areas of Nepal, traveling through small villages, terraced fields, and lush green hills. Local buses or private vehicles are the recommended means of transport, which can be booked through trekking agencies in Kathmandu.
Traveling by Bus: Options and Duration
Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights The most economical and convenient means of transport from Kathmandu to Arughat for most trekkers is the bus. Local buses also leave from Kantipath, a busy area of Kathmandu, and the journey usually takes about 7-8 hours. The trip can be bumpy, and traffic in rural areas can slow things down, but it’s an affordable option for travelers. The journey is long but the bus ride is scener and gives a pretty good idea of the countryside and rural life in Nepal. Buses typically leave in the morning, and, for the majority of trekkers heading to Manaslu, the most convenient option.
By Car: The Comfort and Convenience
A private vehicle is the best option for many hoping for a little more comfort or quicker travel. For a more comfortable and quicker journey, hire a jeep or a car from Kathmandu directly to Arughat or Soti Khola. It takes around 6-7 hours to travel by road, again depending on the condition of the roads. Having a private vehicle enables flexibility with stops, waiting for trekkers to take breaks, for example. It would suit groups of trekkers or those who desire to pay a little more for a comfortable and tailored trip. And if you travel by private vehicle, it creates more space and comfort on Nepal’s sometimes challenging mountain roads.
From Arughat to Soti Khola: The Last Stretch
Once in Arughat, you still need to take a car to reach Soti Khola, where the Manaslu Circuit Trek officially begins. The final leg of the journey is usually done by jeep or local transport. It takes 2-3 hours from Arughat to Soti Khola and is rough with the unpaved road. The experience, however, is half the adventure, such bundles of pace offering the sight of local daily life, terraced fields, and the stunning natural beauty that carpets the region. You can rent jeeps in Arughat; your trekking agency can make these arrangements, or you can find local transport hubs.
Local transport and jeep hire options
Manaslu Circuit Trek Duration For the Arughat—Soti Khola trail, jeeps (and local transport) are frequent. It takes about 2-3 hours to move along several winding roads and through a small village. Even though the roads are almost always terrible, the jeeps are up to the task. While many trekkers opt for jeeps due to the convenience and comfort they provide, be prepared for a bumpy ride! If you’re traveling solo or in a small group, using local transport can be an economical alternative, though depending on when you go, it may be less common.
Alternative Ways to Get to the Starting Point
NOTE: The regular route to Soti Khola is via Arughat but many trekkers take alternatives due to timetables or weather conditions. Alternatively, you could drive up to Dhading, which is north of Kathmandu and then trek to Soti Khola through a shorter route. This option can be organized through trekking agencies, however, you should note that this would take some additional time for the entire trek. Either way, Soti Khola is the official starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the gateway to one of Nepal’s most remote and beautiful trekking routes.
Travel Considerations: Seasonality and Road Conditions
Before you go on the trip to Soti Khola, you must take into account the season and the condition of the road. Nepal’s roads, especially those in rural areas like Manaslu, can prove difficult, particularly during the monsoon season (June through September). Roads may become muddy and landslides are common, which could delay travel during this time. Hence, the best season to visit Soti Khola is in the dry season between September to November (autumn) or March to May (spring). The drive is easier, and safer, in clear weather. However, the winter months (December through February) may introduce snow and cold temps that can impact your road access and your trekking experience as we feel weather-specific temperature drops as you gain altitude. The weather can rapidly change and impact driveability so always check the forecast before heading out on the road.
Essentials and Food in Arughat and Soti Khola.
Manaslu Circuit Trek Weather Basic guesthouses and tea houses are available to trekkers at both Arughat and Soti Khola. These lodges are basic, offering beds, warm blankets, and food so you can rest easy before hitting the trail. Arughat being a bigger town has easier overnight places, hot showers, and a little more choice of food. Since Soti Khola is more remote, it has fewer options but still offers a welcoming atmosphere to catch up on rest before you head out. Most of the tea houses along the route serve basic Nepali food (dal bhat (a lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and Tibetan bread.
Tips to Get to the Starting Point of the Trail
The Manaslu Circuit trek Starting pointHow to Plan the trip to the Manaslu Circuit trek? The first step is to get your permission in place before going to Soti Khola, which can easily be arranged through trekking agencies in Kathmandu. It is also wise to check road conditions before embarking on your journey since weather conditions can dramatically change, especially during the monsoon. If you are traveling by bus or jeep, get ready for bumpy roads. If coming by bus from Kathmandu, pack snacks and water; it’s a long and bumpy ride. If you are a solo traveler and want extra comfort as well as convenience, you can also hire a private vehicle. We recommend carrying your travel essentials (jackets, trekking boots, and other personal items) in a lightweight and durable backpack to allow a smooth transition once you embark on the trek.
How to Get Ready for the Trek from Soti Khola
Soti Khola is the final stop on the drive before you start your Manaslu Circuit Trek. Allow yourself a period of acclimatization to the altitude and ensure your gear is in peak working condition before heading out. The first day of trekking is not too hard, so you can use it to acclimatize, especially if you’ve just come from lower altitudes. Before you hit the trail, make sure to stock up on essentials, such as snacks, water, and medications — facilities along the trail will be rudimentary. And be sure to verify your permits, as trekkers must present them at checkpoints on the way. Finally, ensure your trekking poles, boots, and rain gear are prepared for whatever might come up on the trail.
Guide Locally and Transportation Services
Manaslu Circuit Trek Seasons For trekkers, it is very advisable to hire local guides or porters, both for better safety and a richer experience. A guide is often familiar with the route, and with the local culture, and can help you negotiate the unexpected. They can also help you navigate the frequently treacherous roads from Kathmandu to Soti Khola, provide local transport options, and make your travels smoother. The agencies in Kathmandu can book your guide and porters or you can also just hire them in Arughat/Soti Khola directly.
Closing Thoughts on Your Manaslu Circuit Trek
It takes great planning and flexibility to reach Soti Khola, the beginning of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Expect rough roads and varying weather conditions, as well as basic facilities, but also enjoy the adventure! The drive to Soti Khola itself is half the charm of the trek, as it offers a look into rural Nepalese life. Once at your starting point, you’ll get to experience the breathtaking scenery, isolated communities, and elegant culture that make up the Manaslu region. This breathtaking journey is guaranteed to challenge, motivate, and reward you every single step along the way if you are prepared for the hike.
