Machhakhola: The Starting Point of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Introduction

Machhakhola is a beautiful riverside village in Nepal's Gorkha District next to Sotikhola. It is located at about 869 meters of elevation above sea level. It runs along the Budhi Gandaki River, and Machhakhola is an important early stop for the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Most trekkers stay overnight here on the first or second night of the Manaslu trek. Green steep hills, agricultural fields, and wooded ridges surround the village. Compared to urban life, Machhakhola has peaceful trails and countryside ambiance.

Actually, the name "Machhakhola" which is "Fish River" in Nepali is derived from the pristine meaning streams flowing into the Budhi Gandaki close by. Weather here in Machhakhola is hot and humid due to its lower elevation. Due to this reason, paddy fields and millet fields have easy cultivation in the place. Local people are mostly Gurung and Magar, and their hospitality is warm and sincere.

Moreover, the Machhakhola village has slowly grown with the growth of tourism. Trekkers are able to find several basic teahouses, where food and shelter are available. Simple meals are dal bhat, noodles, and tea. There is electricity, but mobile phone signal is weak. Internet is not available or very rare. However, trekkers are fond of the serene environment and laid-back lifestyle.

In brief, Machhakhola is not only a stopover during Manaslu Circuit Trek. It also exposes trekkers to mountain village life for the very first time. Its riverbank placement, natural beauty, and friendly villagers make it unforgettable. Therefore, it turns out to be a peaceful beginning to the Manaslu region. Machhakhola is the real beginning of the Himalayan journey for many.

Geography and Location 

Machhakhola is situated in the northern part of the Gorkha District in mid-Nepal along Manaslu Circuit Trail. It is situated at a height of approximately 869 meters above sea level. The village is on the Budhi Gandaki River, which flows south from the Manaslu Himalayas. The location has a warm, sub-tropical climate because it is at a low level. This provides a rich environment, with terraced fields and forest nearby.

Likewise, it lies on the route to Manaslu Conservation Area while doing Manaslu Circuit Trek. It comes after the village of Lapubesi, and before Tatopani and Jagat. The trail remains very close to the river, often following landslide zones and cliffs. There are various suspension bridges and sliver stone trails on this part of the trail.

Moreover, steep hills rise on either side of Machhakhola, encompassing a beautiful valley. During monsoon, the river broadens and swells. This occasionally changes trail conditions. During spring and autumn, however, the trail is usually dry and secure. Because of the incline, the area is subjected to periodic rockfalls and minor landslides, especially after rains.

Unlike high-altitude villages like Samagaon or Lho, Machhakhola offers a lush environment. You’ll see banana trees, millet fields, and waterfalls nearby. The region is also home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys and many bird species. The peaceful setting and riverside trails attract trekkers and nature lovers alike.

Generally, Machhakhola geography consists of rivers, forests, and fields in a Himalayan gorge that is steep. It is situated strategically and visually as a resting point for trekkers traveling further into the Manaslu region. It is 2 hours drive from Sotikhola and 3-4 hours drive from Arughat Bazaar.

Accessibility

Both road and foot access is possible to Machhakhola from Arughat Bazaar or Sotikhola, depending on the season and trail conditions. At approximately 869 meters, the village is an important entry point for trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The majority of trekkers used to begin their trek from Arughat Bazaar or Soti Khola. But, these days, Manaslu Circuit Trek begins from Machhakhola as there is access of road directly from Kathmandu. One to two days' walk from there brings one to Jagat or Deng villages. The path goes along the Budhi Gandaki River through small villages and suspension bridges.

In recent years, rough roads have extended closer to Machhakhola. Jeeps at times reach close to the village during dry periods. The road is rough but gets washed away during rain. During the monsoon months between June and September, landslides and floods normally block the path. For this reason, most trekkers still, sometimes, opt to walk from Soti Khola. In contrast to the Annapurna area, this trek has fewer tourists, and therefore is a peaceful start.

Actually, trekkers normally ride the jeeps/bus from Kathmandu to Arughat, and to Soti Khola and then to Machhakhola. It takes 8 to 10 hours. From there it's an easy walk along the river to Deng and Namrung. It is a beautiful path but slippery during rain. Suspension bridges and narrow paths must be traversed carefully, especially when one has heavy backpacks.

Also, there are no airports or direct flights to Machhakhola from Kathmandu. Helicopter service is possible in emergencies but not for regular use. Mobile signals are weak in certain areas but improve near the village. Overall, Machhakhola is road and trail accessible with a moderate and scenic route. Its accessibility makes it a sensible and friendly first overnight stop on the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Facilities

Machhakhola has plain but sufficient accommodation for trekkers. Being a chief overnight stopping place along the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it has plenty of teahouses and guesthouses. Rooms are mostly plain with wood beds, clean linens, and warm blankets. Bathrooms are mostly shared and most often consist of squat toilets. Some provide bucket showers with hot water, especially in the high-season trekking months.

Also, there is electricity, usually dependent on local hydropower or solar energy. Charging phones or cameras usually costs a small charge. The power supply is not always available, though. Cellular phone network coverage is poor, especially indoors. Like in larger towns, internet and Wi-Fi do not exist or are rare and slow if they do exist.

Moreover, there are few food options at Machhakhola but enough to sustain trekkers. Dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, and plain soups are what most lodges offer. Tea, coffee, and soft drinks can also be found. Tibetan bread, porridge, or pancakes are what breakfast usually entails. Bottled water or recharged from taps in the area can be bought. But trekkers have to use water purification tablets or filters since water is not treated.

However, these village stores provide standard goods like biscuits, snacks, soap, some basic trekking equipment and batteries. There aren't many options, though, so it is best to carry personal items from Arughat or Kathmandu. ATM facilities are nonexistent, but a few are there,  so one needs to carry cash from Kathmandu. Small Nepali money should be carried by trekkers to make transactions simpler.

Moreover, advanced medical services are lacking here at Machhakhola. For sickness or injury, trekkers must rely on their own first-aid kits or seek the help of guides. There are a few local community health posts and local pharmacies. In an emergency, evacuation by helicopter is possible but at an eye-watering expense.

Generally, Machhakhola provides basic but necessary services for the trekkers who are doing Manaslu Circuit Trek. Though modest, its services are sufficient for a comfortable staging point on the trail to higher Manaslu region.

Major Attractions

Machhakhola may be a small village, but it's got some nature and cultural attractions. At around 869 meters, it lies along the winding Budhi Gandaki River. The river, Budi Gandaki itself is the big attraction. Its strong current, suspended bridges, and rocky bank create a peaceful but wild atmosphere. Trekker teams normally take their snaps here, especially at sunrise or sunset when sunlight hits the hills.

Likewise, the landscape around Machhakhola is green and dense. Rice terraces climb up the hill sides, and closed forests cover the slopes. This is wonderful for short trekking excursions into nature. In spring, wildflowers growing along the path splash color onto the landscape. Birdwatchers can also view many Himalayan birds in the trees. Compared to the high alpine areas, the terrain around Machhakhola is tropical and diverse.

Meanwhile, one of the most accessible nearby destinations from Machhakhola is Tatopani, only a walk ahead. "Hot water" is what the Nepali name translates to. Natural hot springs line the river there. Even more travelers stop there to relax sore muscles. The therapy is part of the scenic experience.

Culturally, Machhakhola introduces trekkers to ethnic diversity of Manaslu. Villagers are largely Gurung and Magar, and the traditional way of life prevails among them. The houses of the villagers are made of stone and mud, and the people wear traditional clothes. Farming practices, food culture, and language can be studied here. Warm smiles and open hearts welcome the visitor.

Briefly, Machhakhola offers a mix of river views, forest scenery, hot springs and cultural uniqueness. It is not just a resting place—it's a place to visit. Therefore, the majority of trekking enthusiasts enjoy staying here before visiting higher trails.

Major Activities to Do 

Trekking is the main activity in Machhakhola. The village lies on the famous Manaslu Circuit Trek, so overnight stay here is a favorite. Trekkers usually reach here after trekking from Soti Khola, enjoying the scenic routes and river scenery. A hanging bridge, waterfalls, and forests constitute the trail to Machhakhola. Because it is located at 869 meters, it provides a gradual transition to higher altitudes.

Aside from trekking, Machhakhola offers opportunities for short nature walks. Village walks around the region pass by rice paddies, bamboo groves, and thick subtropical forest. There is bird life here. Birdwatchers can see kingfishers, eagles, and other Himalayan birds. Butterflies are also seen on the trail during spring and early fall.

Also, a few trekkers relax along the Budhi Gandaki Rivera at Machhakhola. The riverbank is peaceful and good to rest tired legs. The locals are often seen fishing or washing clothes. Watching the local life here gives the visitors a better feeling of belongingness in the place.

Meanwhile, a popular hike to Tatopani, an hour's walk ahead, is another popular excursion at Machhakhola. Natural hot springs there provide muscle relaxation after a long trek. Unlike a hectic spa resort, the setting is rural and bordered by forest and river.

Moreover, cultural encounters are also included in the experience while staying at Machhakhola. Travelers get to mix with local Gurung and Magar households, learn about their lifestyle, and observe customary farming. Some trekkers also hire guides or porters here for the upper Manaslu route.

Machhakhola, in brief, offers easy trekking, local culture, rest on the rivers, and natural appeal. Therefore, it is more than just an overnight stop—it is a pleasant initiation of the Manaslu trekking adventure.

Why Is Machhakhola Popular?

Machhakhola is famous for the variety of practical, natural, cultural and scenic purposes. It is one of the first large villages on the Manaslu Circuit Trek and is at approximately 869 meters. Trekking teams typically use it as their first or second night's stay. The village runs along the Budhi Gandaki River with a peaceful riverfront atmosphere. Unlike the tourist throngs of trekking centers, the village of Machhakhola is peaceful and calming.

Moreover, the location of Machhakhola is one among the reasons why it is so popular. It's a day's trek from Soti Khola if the bus or jeep cannot go there. Also,  the classical trekking from Arughat to Machhakhola is scenic, crossing forests, hills, and narrow ridges. Because of this, the majority of trekkers experience the real essence of adventure in the Himalayas from here. The first hanging bridges and waterfalls on the way also leave their own deep impression.

Machhakhola also has its local culture to offer. The locals, Gurung and Magar, treat visitors with hospitality. Their simple way of living, traditional houses, and agricultural lands provide a glimpse of rural Nepal at its core. Trekkers get to see the daily life—farming, cooking, and animal husbandry. It gives a cultural touch to the trekking experience.

Moreover, its serene environment is another reason that Machhakhola is famous. Ringed by green hills, rice fields, and the sound of rivers, the village provides the opportunity for trekkers to take a break and recover. With simple but cozy teahouses, it provides shelter as well as warmth. Local visits such as Tatopani hot springs also contribute.

Briefly, Machhakhola is loved for its scenery, friendly locals, and ease of access by the trekkers. It is the real beginning of the Himalayan trail for Manaslu Circuit Trek. Therefore, it remains a trekkers' choice destination while visiting the Manaslu region.