Kathmandu to Machha Khola on the Manaslu Circuit covers 2 stages, via Soti Khola. It goes from about 1,400 m to about 900 m, a net descent of roughly 500 m. Timing depends on road and multi-day sections, so use the stage list.
Quick facts
- Start: Kathmandu, about 1,400 m
- End: Machha Khola, about 900 m
- Change: a net descent of roughly 500 m
- Stages: 2
- Total time: varies, see the stage list
- Hardest stage: moderate
Stage by stage
- Kathmandu to Soti Khola: 7 to 9 hours by road (easy to moderate)
- Soti Khola to Machha Khola: 5 to 7 hours (moderate)
How to split it
Some stages are road journeys or multi-day, so treat the stage list below as the guide. The route passes through Soti Khola. Lodge availability changes by season, so confirm night stops with your operator.
Altitude and health
This route stays below about 3,000 m, so altitude sickness is unlikely, though heat, humidity and fatigue still matter. Altitudes vary by a few tens of metres between maps and guidebooks.
Reverse direction
Walking Machha Khola to Kathmandu is the same route in reverse and means a net climb, so allow more time than the walk down.
Common questions
- How long is Kathmandu to Machha Khola? The time depends on road and multi-day sections, so check the stage list.
- Which places are on the way from Kathmandu to Machha Khola? The route passes Soti Khola.
Plan it
Back to all route information or see the Manaslu Circuit guides.
