Kathmandu to Sotikhola and Machhakhola by Jeep

Are you planning to do the Manaslu Circuit Trek and looking for the best way to get to the starting point, Sotikhola or Machhakhola? If so, you’re in the right place.

In this post, we’ll highlight how to get to Machhakhola and Sotikhola from Kathmandu using PRIVATE JEEP & Local Bus. Nonetheless, we’ll also cover the cost of hire/rent a jeep from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, Kathmandu to Sotikhola, Dharapani to Besisahar, and Besisahar to Kathmandu.

The trek to the Manaslu Circuit begins in Kathmandu with a drive to Sotikhola or Machhakhola. More than half of this long-distance drive is on blacktop, and the rest is off-road.

Typically, the Manaslu Circuit Trek used to begin from Arughat because there were no roads beyond Arughat to reach the camp by vehicle. However, the road has been expanding every year, and in recent years, it has become possible to drive to Machhakhola and even Jagat, shortening the trek by three days.

How far are Machhakhola and Sotikhola from Kathmandu

The road distance from Kathmandu to Soti Khola is approximately 126 kilometers ( 78 miles ), and from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is 140 kilometers ( 87 miles ). Depending on road conditions and traffic, the driving duration from Kathmandu to Machha Khola will vary, but it generally takes around 9 to 10 hours.

How long does it take to get Machhakhola and Sotikhola from Kathmandu by Jeep?

From Kathmandu, it takes a private jeep approximately 7 to 8 hours to reach Sotikhola and 8 to 10 hours to reach Machhakhola. The road is a mix of paved highway and rough, off-road terrain, especially after passing Arughat. Travel time can vary depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions. While the road distance from Kathmandu is just 87 miles ( 140 kilometers ), the off-road roads make for long-duration drives.

Price for Jeep Hire/Rent from Kathmandu to Machha Khola & Sotikhola

Local Bus may not be suitable for those looking for a quick, Safe and comfortable journey to Machha Khola or Soti Khola. Local buses are only suitable for those who prefer to travel very economically. Typically, the price for hiring a private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is around $195 per jeep in total. But if you’re traveling in the off-season (except in autumn and spring), you may get off-season discount.

Cost of Hire/Rent a private Jeep from Kathmandu to Machhakhola & Sotikhola

DestinationCosts in USD 
Kathmandu to SotikholaUSD 180
Kathmandu to MachhakholaUSD 195
Dharapani to BesisaharUSD 150
Besisahar to KathmanduUSD 175

Rent a 🚙 Jeep, 🚗 Car, or 🚚 Scorpio today to get in trailhead of the 🏔️ Manaslu Circuit Trek, and 🏞️ Tsum Valley Trek. For inquiries and reservations, Contact Us at WhatsApp/Viber/Signal: +977 984 971 7725 . Let’s hit the road together! 🏔️🚗

Conclusion of Jeep Hire/rent from Kathmandu Machha Khola & Soti Khola

Though local buses are available to drive to Machha Khola, they take more time and are not as comfortable as private transportation. If you want a comfortable drive to Machhakhola or Sotikhola, we can assist you.

We can provide you with private transportation to the trailhead of Manaslu trekking at the cheapest price. We also offer the best rate for Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar. Contact us now to book private transportation to Machha Khola.

About Author

Jayaram Jayaram Thapaliya is the Executive Director of Base Camp Hike, a Nepal-based trekking company offering professionally guided treks across all major Himalayan regions of Nepal. With extensive on-trail experience, he helps travelers plan safe, well-organized, and authentic trekking adventures.

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