Machha Khola: The Starting Point of Upper Manaslu Trek

Machha Khola is a small riverside settlement in Gorkha District, along the Budhi Gandaki River. It is the main starting point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, where trekkers begin walking toward Jagat and the upper Manaslu region.

The village serves as a practical trailhead after the road journey from Kathmandu, with basic accommodation and tea houses for trekkers preparing to start their trek. Trekkers continuing toward Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Samagaun, and Larkya La follow the Budhi Gandaki Valley north from Machha Khola.

Where is Machha Khola in Manaslu, Nepal?

Machha Khola lies northwest of Kathmandu, approximately 160 km (100 miles) by road, in Dharche Rural Municipality of Gorkha District, Gandaki Province. It sits along the Budhi Gandaki River at an elevation of around 870 meters (2,854 ft).

The settlement lies north of Soti Khola and south of Jagat along the Manaslu Circuit Trek route. It sits at the confluence of the Budhi Gandaki River and Machha Khola, the stream from which the settlement gets its name. It is surrounded by green hills, terraced fields, and forested slopes surrounding the river valley.

The name Machha Khola directly translates to “Fish River” in Nepali. “Machha” means fish, while “khola” means river or stream.

How to Reach Machha Khola in Manaslu Trek?

The journey from Kathmandu to Machha Khola takes around 7-10 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. The distance is approximately 160 km (100 miles) by road. Trekkers can travel by private jeep, shared jeep, or local bus. The route includes paved sections around Kathmandu and rough mountain roads to Machha Khola.

The road to Machha Khola includes landslide-prone sections and rough stretches that can become difficult during the monsoon. Heavy rain can cause mud, falling rocks, and travel delays.

The road to Machha Khola includes landslide-prone sections and rough stretches that can become difficult during the Monsoon. Heavy rain can cause mud, falling rocks, and travel delays.

Road closures may also change the final drivable point. In some conditions, vehicles may stop before Machha Khola, requiring adjustments to the journey.​

Why Is Machha Khola Important on the Manaslu Circuit Trek?​

Machha Khola is a practical starting point for many Manaslu Circuit Trek itineraries. The trekking route previously began farther south, at Arughat and Soti Khola, as road access gradually extended north. Although the road now reaches toward Bhansing, poor road conditions mean Machha Khola remains the usual starting point for the trek. ​

Machha Khola also serves as a starting point for the Tsum Valley trek. Its location makes it a useful overnight stop after the long road journey from Kathmandu. Trekkers can rest before beginning the walking section toward Jagat and the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley.

Why Your First Night in Machha Khola Matters

Machha Khola is the main starting point for the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the last place where local vehicles can go. The trip from Kathmandu usually takes 7 to 8 hours, so if you start trekking right after arriving, you might feel too tired and put extra strain on yourself.

Spending the first night in Machha Khola gives you time to rest, hydrate, organize your gear, and start walking fresh the following morning. The trek is better approached at a steady pace rather than trying to cover too much distance in the first few days.

The lower part of the trek lets you see the villages, local ways of life, changing scenery, and wildlife in the lower Manaslu region before you reach Jagat, where the restricted area starts. Spending time here helps you adjust from the road trip to the longer mountain walk ahead.

Accommodation, Food and Facilities in Machha Khola

Machha Khola has several family-run teahouses and lodges where trekkers can spend their first night on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Room prices generally range from NPR 500 to 1000, depending on the lodge, room type, and season. Prices and facilities vary between teahouses.

Teahouses and Overnight Accommodation

Most accommodation in Machha Khola consists of simple, family-run teahouses and lodges. Rooms are generally clean and furnished with twin beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets. Twin-sharing rooms are common, while private rooms depend on availability. Heating is unavailable inside rooms or in shared areas.

Toilet and Bathroom

Many teahouses in Machha Khola have shared bathrooms, while attached bathrooms are also available in some rooms. Toilets are basic, with both squat and western style toilets available. Hot showers are available, with water coming directly through the shower, but an extra charge usually applies. Towels and toiletries are not provided, so bring your own.

For your first night, carry a small personal hygiene kit with toilet paper, hand sanitizer, a quick-dry towel, toiletries, and personal hygiene products. Keeping these items together in a small pouch makes them easy to access.

Meals

Trekkers usually have two meals in Machha Khola: dinner on arrival and breakfast the next morning. Tea is served after arrival, followed by dinner shortly afterward. Food options are more diverse here, with Dal Bhat being a popular choice. Other options include noodles, pasta, momo, soups and more.

The next morning, breakfast is served before trekkers begin walking toward Jagat. Options may include Tibetan bread with curry, bread with butter and jam, potatoes and porridge. Warm drinks such as milk tea, black tea, ginger tea, milk coffee and black coffee are also available.

Other Facilities

Electricity and Charging: Electricity is generally available in Machha Khola. Charging sockets are available inside rooms in most tea houses.

Hot Shower: Hot Showers are available at many lodges for an additional charge.

Wi-Fi and Mobile Network: Some teahouses provide Wi-FI, but connection quality depends. Mobile network coverage depends on your provider and local conditions; NTC works well while Ncell gets a patchy network.

Drinking Water: Teahouses and local shops sell bottled water, or you can get boiled water. Carry a reusable bottle and use suitable water purification methods when needed.

Shops and Supplies: Small shops sell snacks, bottled drinks, toiletries, and other basic supplies. However, the selection may be limited, so bring any specific items you need.

Cash and Payments: There is no ATM in Machha Khola. Arughat Bazaar is the last reliable place to withdraw cash before reaching the village. Carry enough Nepalese rupees to buy snacks, pay for extra services, and cover personal expenses throughout the trek, as ATM access remains limited in the upper Manaslu region.

Laundry: Some lodges may offer laundry services, but availability depends on the teahouses and weather conditions. For a short overnight stay, carrying spare clothes is often more practical.

Note:
Facilities, fees and services vary by teahouse. Confirm the details with your lodge or guide when you arrive.

Machha Khola Weather and Temperature

Machha Khola has a warmer climate than the upper Manaslu region because of its lower elevation. Temperatures generally remain relatively high during spring and autumn, and the village is also warmer than the upper region in winter. As trekkers gain elevation toward Samagaun and Larkya La Pass, temperatures drop significantly, and stronger winds make conditions feel colder.

Pack lightweight clothing for the warm lower valley, along with a warm fleece, insulated down jacket, waterproof outer layer, gloves, and thermal layers for higher elevations. Carrying clothing for both warm and cold conditions is essential, as temperatures can change considerably throughout the trek. ​

For a better understanding of seasonal weather conditions, check out our guide on the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit.

Things to See and Experience in Machha Khola

Machha Khola offers a glimpse of village life in the lower Budhi Gandaki Valley. Trekkers can explore the riverside surroundings, green hills, and local footpaths before continuing toward Jagat.

Budhi Gandaki River and Riverside Landscape

The Budhi Gandaki River flows beside Machha Khola through a rocky valley. Green hills, terraced fields, and subtropical vegetation surround the settlement.

Suspension Bridges and Villages Surroundings

​Suspension bridges and footpaths connect parts of the village and trekking route. Short walks offer views of the river, hills, and riverside settlement.

Local Life in Machha Khola​

Small shops, teahouses, homes and agricultural land reflect everyday village life. Road access and trekking tourism have also shaped Machha Khola’s role as a stopping point for trekkers.

Practical Tips for Staying in Machha Khola

• Arrive with enough time to rest after the long drive from Kathmandu.
• Confirm the next day’s route and weather with your guide.
• Carry sufficient Nepali rupees, prepare drinking water and essential supplies, and charge your devices.
• Check your trekking shoes, backpack fittings and permits.
• Keep identification accessible and arrange an early breakfast before departure.

What to Expect During the Trek with Himalayan Masters

With Himalayan Masters, your guide helps to coordinate accommodation, meals and daily trekking arrangements in Machha Khola. They can also advise you on packing, essential medicines, cash and gear for the days ahead. Use the evening to organize your backpack, refill water and prepare your trekking equipment.

Before leaving the next morning, check that you have your Manaslu trek permits, identification, valuables, water and personal essentials. Have breakfast at the teahouse and confirm the departure time and trail conditions with your guide before starting toward Jagat.