Soti Khola is the usual starting point of the Manaslu Circuit trail, a village by a river in a low, warm valley at about 700 m. A road reaches it, and the trek begins there. The Manaslu region is a restricted area, so a permit and a licensed guide arranged through a registered agency are required.
Altitude: about 700 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Soti Khola is and why trekkers stop
Soti Khola lies at the lower end of the Budhi Gandaki valley, reached by road from Kathmandu. Our route pages link it with Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng and Namrung, and note that a road reaches it and the trek starts from there. Trekkers spend a first night here before the real walking begins. The Manaslu Circuit needs restricted-area permits and a licensed guide via a registered agency, and checkpoints may ask to see them.
What to expect at Soti Khola
Expect a riverside village with lodges, simple rooms and a warm, humid feel, particularly in the months before and after the monsoon. The sound of the river runs through the evening. Terraced fields and forest line the valley sides, and the first trail section follows the river upstream. Facilities are basic but adequate for trekkers, and many groups use the first night to sort bags, porters and last minute supplies.
Altitude and how you may feel
Soti Khola is low, at about 700 m, so altitude effects are not a concern at the start. The altitude gain comes later, when the trail climbs toward Samagaun, Samdo and the Larkya La. Altitude illness can strike on the higher stretches of the circuit, so treat this first stage as a chance to build rhythm, hydrate and sleep well. If symptoms ever worsen at height, descend. Heat and humidity here can make walking tiring.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodges offer standard trekking meals of dal bhat, noodles and soup, and rooms are simple. Carry cash, since cash machines are absent along the trail. Pack insect repellent, sun protection and a light rain jacket. Keep photocopies of your permits with you, and let your guide handle checkpoint formalities. Because the drive from Kathmandu can be long and bumpy, rest on arrival and begin the walk early the next day, allowing for weather and trail conditions.
Stage guides that pass through Soti Khola
These day-by-day guides start or end at Soti Khola, with walking times, ascent and where to sleep.
- Soti Khola to Jagat trek: stages, altitude and time
- Soti Khola to Machha Khola trek: altitude, time and route
- Soti Khola to Namrung trek: stages, altitude and time
- Soti Khola to Deng trek: stages, altitude and time
- Kathmandu to Soti Khola trek: altitude, time and route
Common questions
Is there a road to Soti Khola?
Yes. A road reaches Soti Khola and the trek starts from there. Road conditions vary with season and weather, so allow time for the drive and ask your agency about current access.
Do I need a permit and guide for Soti Khola?
The Manaslu Circuit is a restricted area. You need restricted-area permits and a licensed guide arranged through a registered agency. Your guide handles checkpoints along the route.
Which stop comes after Soti Khola?
Machha Khola is the next village, followed by Jagat, Deng and Namrung. Times vary with pace and trail conditions, so plan buffer days for weather.
