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Manaslu Circuit

Machha Khola to Jagat trek: altitude, time and route

3 min readUpdated 23 Oct 2026By the Base Camp Hikes trek team

The Machha Khola to Jagat section of the Manaslu Circuit runs from about 900 m to about 1,340 m. Typical time is 5 to 7 hours, rated moderate. That is a net gain of roughly 440 m.

Quick facts

  • Start: Machha Khola, about 900 m
  • End: Jagat, about 1,340 m
  • Change: a net gain of roughly 440 m
  • Typical time: 5 to 7 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Also spelled: Machhakhola

The route

The route passes Khorlabesi and Tatopani, where there are hot springs, then crosses the river and climbs steep, narrow sections to the village of Jagat, where the restricted-area permits are checked.

Altitude and health

This section 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.

Tips

Keep your permits in an easy-to-reach pocket for the checkposts. The hot springs at Tatopani are a good place to rest tired legs.

Common questions

  • Where are permits checked? Jagat has a checkpost, and there are others along the route. Carry all your paperwork.
  • Is there a hot spring? Yes, at Tatopani, between Machha Khola and Jagat.

Reverse direction

Walking Jagat to Machha Khola is the same trail in reverse. It is usually quicker because it is mostly downhill, but a long descent is hard on the knees, so poles help.

Nearby legs on this route

Plan it

Back to all route information or see the Manaslu Circuit guides.

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