Manaslu Trek Transportation and Their Cost
Route | Transportation | Duration | Cost (per person) | Description |
Kathmandu to Machha Khola | Local Bus | 8 to 9 hours | $7 - $10 | Cheapest option but can be crowded and slower. |
| | Private Jeep | 6 to 7 hours | $120 - $180 (per jeep) | Faster and more comfortable, ideal for groups. |
Machha Khola to Jagat | Sharing Jeep | 2 to 3 hours | $5 - $10 | Sharing jeeps are available and cost-effective for trekkers. |
Tiliche to Beshi Sahar | Local Jeep | 3 to 4 hours | $10 - $15 | Local jeeps are available but comfort is limited. |
| | Private Jeep | 3 to 4 hours | $80 - $120 (per jeep) | Direct and comfortable, ideal for private groups. |
Besi Sahar to Pokhara | Local bus | 4.5 to 6 hours | $5 - $10 | Cheapest and most frequent transport option, but slow and crowded. |
| | Private jeep | 3.5 to 4.5 hours | $120 - $180 (per jeep) | Comfortable and quicker, ideal for small groups. |
Besi Sahar to Kathmandu | Local bus | 6 to 8 hours | $8 - $12 | Economical option with multiple departures throughout the day. |
| | Private jeep | 5 to 6 hours | $150 - $220 (per jeep) | Faster and more convenient, best for groups or those who prefer comfort. |
Kathmandu to Machha Khola via Arughat
Reaching the starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is a lengthy and relatively adventurous road journey. The trek begins at Machha Khola, a tiny village in the district of Gorkha, reached via Arughat, the key transport nexus along the way. Road quality varies with season, and several alternatives exist for trekking parties traveling from Kathmandu to Machha Khola.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola by Bus
The local bus is the most affordable way of reaching Machha Khola from Kathmandu. But it is also the most uncomfortable due to long travel hours, rough roads, and frequent stops along the way.
Route and Duration
- Distance: Approximately 160 km (99 miles)
- Travel Time: 9 to 12 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic
- Route: Kathmandu → Dhading Besi → Arughat → Soti Khola → Machha Khola
Bus Schedule and Availability
- Local buses depart early in the morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) from the Gongabu Bus Park in Kathmandu.
- Most of the buses are on a first-come, first-served basis, so try to be there early to catch a seat.
Trip Cost
- Local bus fare: $10 – $20 USD per person
Note: The tickets can be purchased at the bus station or through trekking agencies.
Pros
- Cheapest for budget trekkers.
- Most traditional local mode of transport.
Cons
- Bumpy and dusty ride for long distances as roads are bumpy and dusty.
- Long stops make the journey tedious.
- Crowded buses, particularly during peak seasons of trekking.
Kathmandu to Machha Khola by Private Jeep
A private jeep is the most comfortable and fastest way to reach Machha Khola. It is strongly recommended for groups or travelers who want a hassle-free trip.
Route and Duration
- Distance: 160 km (99 miles)
- Duration: 7 to 9 hours (faster than a local bus, as fewer stops are made)
- Route: Kathmandu → Dhading Besi → Arughat → Soti Khola → Machha Khola
Private Jeep Options and Charges
- Hire of 4x4 Jeep: $220 – $280 per jeep
- Space: Typically 6 to 7 people
- Booking: Is bookable with travel agencies or booked upon arrival in Kathmandu
Pros
- Smooth and faster than taking public transport
- Private and convenient; time to stop and eat and sightseeing spots.
- Suitable for groups, therefore cost is more affordable when shared.
Cons
- More expensive than the local bus.
- The road from Arughat is bumpy, which is tiring.
Machha Khola to Jagat by Jeep
Alternatively, one can trek on foot or take a shared jeep from Machha Khola to get to Jagat, a village along the Manaslu trekking route. The jeep ride is a bumpy ride over rough and unpaved roads.
Route and Duration
- Distance: Approximately 22 km (13.7 miles)
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours jeep ride or 7 to 8 hours trek
- Route: Machha Khola → Tatopani → Dobhan → Jagat
Shared Jeep Fare & Availability
- Fare: $25 – $35 USD per person
- Availability: Few shared jeeps operate on this route and usually need to be reserved in advance from a local trekking agency.
Pros
- Saves time and effort for the rest of the trek.
- Better option for those who would like to save one day off the trek.
Cons
- Limited usage of pooled jeeps.
- Horrific bumpy ride due to the substandard road.
Tiliche to Beshi Sahar
After the completion of the Manaslu Circuit Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek, trek participants typically depart from Tilicho towards Beshi Sahar, the gate town to the Annapurna area. Since Tilicho is a remote area without any direct road connectivity, the transport involves trekking to the nearest accessible point where the transport continues by land. The most common types of transportation for traveling to Beshi Sahar from Tilicho are private jeeps and local jeeps with different levels of comfort, speed, and charges. A detailed description of the above mode of transport is elaborated below.
Tiliche to Beshi Sahar by Local Jeep
For budget trekkers, local jeep sharing is the lowest-priced way to get to Beshi Sahar from the Tiliche region. There are poor roads and only occasional availability of jeeps, making the journey frustrating.
Route and Duration
- Trek: Trekkers have to trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Manang (approximately 5-6 hours) before they board a jeep.
- Jeep Route: Manang → Chame → Dharapani → Beshi Sahar
- Distance: 95-100 km (59-62 miles)
- Time: 7 to 10 hours by jeep (depending upon road conditions)
Local Jeep Schedule and Availability
- Jeeps start early in the morning from villages around Manang.
- There are limited seats and priority is given to locals.
- Jeeps take breaks on several occasions during travel, picking up and dropping people.
Cost
- Local Jeep Fare: $20 – $35 per person
Note: Fare may change as per season, demand, and fuel costs.
Pros
- The cheapest mode of transport for budget-conscious travelers.
- Opportunities to interact with the locals and experience true travel.
Cons
- Bumpy, with dusty and rough roads.
- Can be congested, especially in peak season.
- No fixed times of departure—jeeps leave whenever they are full.
Tilicho to Beshi Sahar by Private Jeep
A private jeep is the ideal option for more comfort-oriented, flexible, and quick-moving trekkers. Private jeeps can be reserved in Manang, Chame, or Dharapani and provide a direct and less stressful journey compared to local jeeps.
Route and Duration
- Trek: Tilicho Base Camp to Manang (5-6 hours)
- Jeep Route: Manang → Chame → Dharapani → Beshi Sahar
- Distance: 95-100 km (59-62 miles)
- Time: 6 to 8 hours (according to road conditions)
Private Jeep Price and Availability
- Private Jeep Renting: $250 – $350 for per vehicle
- Seats: Able to carry 6 to 7 persons
- Bookings: May be reserved at trekking companies or village lodges of Manang, Chame, or Dharapani.
Pros
- Time-efficient and smooth, unlike the local jeeps.
- No wait—jeep takes off at your convenience.
- Improved trekkers' sitting space as well as bag accommodations.
Cons
- Expensive, especially for solo trekkers.
- Roads are still bad, and the driving is bumpy.
Beshi Sahar to Pokhara
After completing the Manaslu Circuit Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek, most tourists travel from Beshi Sahar to Pokhara, a vibrant lakeside city renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking mountain views.
Since Beshi Sahar is a significant transport hub, tourists have two options: local buses for lower fares or private jeeps for faster and more comfortable travel. The following is a comprehensive analysis of both transportation modes.
Beshi Sahar to Pokhara by Local Bus
Backpackers discover local buses as the most affordable means of reaching Pokhara. The buses, however, can be very crowded, slower, and less comfortable than private vehicles.
Route and Duration
- Route: Beshi Sahar → Damauli → Pokhara
- Distance: 106 km (66 miles)
- Duration: 4.5 to 6 hours (depending upon road and weather conditions)
Bus Schedule and Availability
- Local buses operate frequently throughout the day (every 1-2 hours approx.).
- The first bus is around 6:00 AM, and the last bus is around 4:00 PM.
- Buses run from the Besisahar Bus Park and end at Pokhara Bus Park in Prithvi Chowk.
Cost
- Local Bus Fare: $5 – $10 per person
Note: Fares vary according to season, fuel prices, and road conditions.
Pros
- Cheapest means of transport for solo travelers.
- Continuous departures throughout the day.
- A chance to socialize with locals and experience true travel.
Cons
- Crowded, especially during peak trekking season.
- Dusty, bumpy roads are not a pleasant ride.
- Frequent stops make the journey longer and exhaust you.
Beshi Sahar to Pokhara by Private Jeep
For trekkers who desire comfort, speed, and flexibility, a private jeep is the answer. Private jeeps offer a continuous, convenient ride with fewer halts and better seating conditions.
Route and Duration
- Route: Beshi Sahar → Damauli → Pokhara
- Distance: 106 km (66 miles)
- Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours (depending upon traffic and road conditions)
Private Jeep Cost and Availability
- Private Jeep Rental: $120 – $180 per vehicle
- Capacity: Accommodates 6 to 7 people
- Booking: Bookable by trekking agencies, hotels, or local transport in Beshi Sahar.
Pros
- Smooth ride, with fewer stops.
- Less cramped, more space for gear and luggage.
- No waiting—the jeep leaves at your convenience.
- Comfortable and faster than local buses.
Cons:
- More expensive than local buses.
- Not required for solo travelers unless part of a group.
Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu
After completing your Manaslu Circuit Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek, the final journey back to Kathmandu starts from Beshi Sahar, one of the major transport hubs. The tourists receive two main modes of transport: the local bus for an economical ride or a private jeep for a faster and warmer ride. A comprehensive breakdown of both these modes of travel is presented below.
Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu by Local Bus
The local bus is the lowest-cost way to cover the distance from Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu. But it is a very long journey with numerous stops in between, therefore a slow and often torturous experience.
Route and Duration
- Route: Beshi Sahar → Mugling → Kathmandu
- Distance: 175 km (109 miles)
- Duration: 6 to 8 hours (traffic and road condition dependent)
Bus Schedule and Availability
- Departure Points: Available from Besisahar Bus Park.
- Departure Time: 6:00 AM first bus, last bus approximately 3:00 PM.
- Drop-off Point: New Bus Park, Gongabu, Kathmandu.
Cost
- Local Bus Fare: $8 – $12 per person
Note: Price may vary according to season, road conditions, and fuel costs.
Pros
- Lowest cost for budget travelers.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
- A good option to experience local culture and travel.
Cons
- Crammed and uncomfortable, particularly during peak seasons.
- Slow journey due to frequent stops.
- The roads are dusty and bumpy, so the journey can get tiring.
Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu by Private Jeep
For hurry, comfort, and independence, hiring a private jeep is the best choice. Private jeeps provide an uninterrupted, hassle-free ride with few stops and ample space.
Route and Duration
- Route: Beshi Sahar → Mugling → Kathmandu
- Distance: 175 km (109 miles)
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours (depending on road conditions)
Private Jeep Cost and Availability
- Private Jeep Rental: $150 – $220 per vehicle
- Capacity: Can accommodate 6 to 7 passengers
- Booking: Bookable from local agencies, hotels, or Beshi Sahar transport services.
Pros
- Less bumpy and comfortable compared to the local bus.
- Departs at your own preferred time.
- More luggage and trekking gear space.
- Fewer stops, less bumpy ride.
Cons:
- Easier to cost than local buses.
- Not suitable for solo travelers except in a group.
How to Book Required Transportation for the Manaslu Trek?
Planning the Manaslu Trek involves planning various pieces of transport, like reaching the trekking point, Machha Khola, and planning return transport after completing the trek. Planning these arrangements by yourself can be difficult due to the remote location and poor infrastructure in the region.
By booking your trek with Green Valley Nepal Treks, you can make it easier. We have full services which include organizing all the transportation in advance so that everything proceeds smoothly and easily. This means you can use your time for relaxation and trekking enjoyment without worrying about the details of the travel.
Green Valley Nepal Treks is a reputable trekking company based in Kathmandu, known for organizing treks, tours, and other adventure activities in Nepal. Their experienced team handles all aspects of your journey, from transportation to permits and accommodations, providing a well-rounded and enjoyable trekking experience.
To reserve your Manaslu Trek with Green Valley Nepal Treks, you can contact us through our official website or connect through our social media handles. We offer personalized services to suit your unique needs and desires to make your Himalayan adventure unforgettable.
By selecting us, you reap the benefits of our local knowledge and sustainable tourism commitment, upgrading your trek experience while helping support the local people.
Final Thought
Finally, arranging transportation for the Manaslu Trek is necessary to conduct an easy and trouble-free task. Taking either the local bus or private jeep, whichever is your choice, comfort, convenience, time, and budget both have advantages. For the bus journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola and trekking, an understanding of what transportation is offered makes planning more efficient for the trip.
Booking your trek with a competent agency like Green Valley Nepal Treks can take transport problems off your hands. Booking all your travel arrangements nicely in advance just leaves you to think about the trek yourself, with the certainty that your transport requirements are happily in good care. Stress-free planning enables you to walk around the stunning beauty of the Manaslu trekking trail in peaceful calm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the transportation facilities to get to Machha Khola from Kathmandu?
You can go to Machha Khola from Kathmandu by private jeep or local bus, as per your economic strength and desire.
How far is Machha Khola from Kathmandu?
The journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is 6 to 7 hours by local bus and 5 to 6 hours by private jeep.
How much does a local bus from Kathmandu to Machha Khola cost?
The local bus fare from Kathmandu to Machha Khola is between $7 to $10 per individual.
Can one book a private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola?
Yes, one can book a private jeep from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, and the price is normally between $120 to $180 USD per jeep.
How do I get from Machha Khola to Jagat on the Manaslu Trek?
You can ride a sharing jeep from Jagat to Machha Khola which will cost you $5 to $10 per person.
What are the modes of transport from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar?
You can get from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar through a local jeep or a private jeep.
What is the local jeep fare from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar?
The normal fare of a local jeep from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar would be $10 to $15 per person.
How long is the travel time from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar?
It will take typically 3 to 4 hours by jeep from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar.
Can I hire a private jeep from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar?
Yes, hiring a private jeep from Tiliche to Beshi Sahar is possible at $80 to $120 per jeep.
How do I travel from Beshi Sahar to Pokhara?
You can travel from Beshi Sahar to Pokhara by private jeep or local bus.
How much does a local bus cost from Beshi Sahar to Pokhara?
The cost of a local bus from Pokhara to Beshi Sahar is usually $5 to $10 per person.
How much is a private jeep from Pokhara to Beshi Sahar?
A private jeep from Pokhara to Beshi Sahar will usually be between $120 to $180 USD per jeep.
How long does it take to travel from Pokhara to Beshi Sahar by bus?
The journey by local bus from Beshi Sahar to Pokhara is approximately 4.5 to 6 hours.
What is the most budget-friendly way to get from Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu?
The most budget-friendly way is a local bus, which will cost between $8 to $12.
How much to hire a private jeep from Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu?
A personal jeep from Beshi Sahar to Kathmandu would be $150 to $220 per jeep.
Does Green Valley Nepal Treks arrange transport for the entire Manaslu Trek trek?
Yes, Green Valley Nepal Treks arranges all the transports in advance, and a smooth ride from Kathmandu to the trekking trail and return.
