How to reach the Manaslu region is one of the first questions that comes to mind when planning your trek to this remote and breathtaking part of Nepal. Wondering about the cost? Luckily, there are several ways to get there—whether it’s by public bus, van, private vehicle, or even a scenic flight. The choice is yours, and you can select the transportation option that best suits your budget and preferences.
The starting point to the Manaslu circuit trek, Manaslu base camp trek, Larkya la pass trek, or even the Tsum valley trek starting point is Soti Khola or you can also say Machha Khola which is in the Gorkha District of Nepal in the northern Himalayas near the Annapurna and Ganesh Himal ranges. Let’s Discuss every possible way to reach the Manaslu region in detail:
Lets see How to Reach the Manaslu Region? in all possible ways.
Table of Contents
By Public Bus
The first and foremost thing you can do to reach Macha Khola or Soti Khola is take a public bus from the Gongabu Bus Parkwhich is just a 2/3 km walk from the Thamel. The bus will take you around 5 to 8 hours to reach the destination. Every day several bus starts from the bus park. The bus usually departs at 6 AM from the bus park. The cost is around 10 USD to 20 USD which is approx 1000 to 2000 Npr. depending upon the bus conditions.
Advantages of taking a Public bus
The advantage of taking a public bus is that you will reach the destination at the most affordable price. You will be able to meet the locals and get to know about them. You will be able to see the daily life of the local people traveling on the route.
Disadvantages of taking a public bus
The main disadvantage of taking a public bus is that the journey will be uncomfortable and long due to which you may become mentally exhausted. There will be no AC or heating for the temperature maintenance. You will have less luggage space. The bus will have frequent stops and crowded.
By Private Vehicle
If you don’t want to travel to the starting point of the Manaslu region by public vehicle. You can rent a private vehicle like Scorpio or Jeep which is an easy and convenient way to reach your destinations. The vehicle you rent will be according to your comfort. The cost of the vehicle is generally Nprs. 25,000 which is around 250 USD per vehicle. If you are in a group you can divide the vehicle among each other. If you do not have a group you can still divide among other trekkers who will be trekking to the Manaslu circuit or any other trekking routes.
Advantages of renting a vehicle
The main advantage of renting a vehicle is that you will have a comfortable drive to your destinations. You will have the flexibility of the timing due to which you can choose your starting time according to your comfort. You will have privacy. You can stop the vehicle according to your will if you want to do some sightseeing or explore some places on the way.
Disadvantages of renting a vehicle
The main disadvantage of renting a vehicle is that the cost will be on the higher side which may hamper your budget. If you are trekking in peak seasons like Autumn and spring the availability may be limited.
By Helicopter
If you don’t want to travel by the rented vehicle or the public vehicle another option for you can be a helicopter tour from Kathmandu to Jagat. Jagat is the starting point of the Manaslu and other treks as well in the region. You will need to book in advance for the helicopter. You will have a 1-hour flight from Kathmandu to Jagat or Samagaun which is just near the Manaslu Base Camp. After that, you can start your trek to Manaslu circuit.
Advantages of helicopter charter
The advantage of a helicopter charter is that you will not need to take a drive of 5/8 hours which is lengthy. You will faster and more convenient methods to reach your destinations. You will have scenic mountain views throughout the flight from the Langtang Lirung to the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. You will fly over the beautiful scenic villages adding beauty to the environment and flight.
Disadvantages of helicopter charter
The main disadvantage of doing a helicopter charter is that the cost will be on the higher side which can go up to 5000 USD if you are alone. However, if you have a group you can divide the cost or join the flying group and divide the cost with them. To fly from Kathmandu to Manaslu you will need to book in advance. Your flight may be delayed or canceled in the case of the weather conditions.
Tags: larkya la pass, manaslu circuit trek, manaslu region