Kathmandu to Sotikhola and Machhakhola by Jeep

by Jayaram Thapaliya · Updated September 1, 2023

You have decided to do Manaslu Circuit Trekking but looking for the best way to get starting point of the trek, either Sotikhola or Machhakhola? If yes, you’re in the right place because in this post, we’re going to highlight how to go to Machhakhola and Sotikhola from Kathmandu using Local buses and Private Jeeps.

Nonetheless, we will also highlight the Cost for Kathmandu to Machhakhola Jeep Hire, Kathmandu to Sotikhola Jeep Hire, Dharapani to Besisahar Jeep Hire, and charges for Kathmandu to Besisahar by private Car/Jeep.
Trekking to Manaslu Circuit begins from Kathmandu with the drive to Sotikhola or Machhakhola. In this long-distance drive, more than halfway is blacktop, and the rest of them are off-road.

How far are Machha Khola and Soti Khola from Kathmandu and how long does it take to get there by drive?

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

Soti Khola, the starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, can be reached via an 8-hour jeep ride from Kathmandu whereas Machhakhola (a 1-day camp from Sotikhola), can be reached by 9 to 10-hour Jeep drive from Kathmandu. While the road distance is only 87 miles (140 km) from Kathmandu, the off-road roads make long-duration drives.

Kathmandu to Machha Khola Jeep Hire:

Though, from Newbuspark, you can also get Local Bus to Machha Khola, it might not be suitable for those who are looking for a quick and comfortable journey to Machha Khola or Soti Khola. Local Bus is suitable for only those who prefer to travel in a very economical way but don’t consider the comfort of drive and safe. Typically, the price for hiring a private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is around $250 per jeep. But if you’re travelling in the off-season ( except in Autumn and Spring Season ), you can get some off-season discounts too.

What is the cost of hiring a private Jeep for Manaslu Circuit Trek and Tsum Valley Trekking

Typically Manaslu Circuit Trek used to begin from Arughat because, beyond Besisahar, there were no road facilities to go further to Camp by using the vehicle. Every year, the road is expanding. Thus, up to some years ago, you could able to drive up to Sotikhola But these days, you can drive up to Machhakhola as well as up to Jagat. It shortens 3 days of your holiday time.

Conclusion

Though we have Local Bus available to drive to Machha Khola, it takes more time and is not comfort as Private Transportation. If you want to make a comfortable drive to Machhakhola or Sotikhola, we are here to you assist you. We can provide you with private transportation to the trailhead of Manaslu trekking at the cheapest price. Nonetheless, you will get the best rate for Dharapani to Kathmandu via Besisahar from us.