Getting around · Manang
How to Get to Manang
The classic trek up the Marsyangdi from Besisahar versus the jeep road — and why walking up matters.
The short answer: you reach Manang up the Marsyangdi valley on the Annapurna Circuit, either by trekking in from Besisahar over several days or by taking a jeep along the rough valley road for part or most of the way. Walking the upper section is strongly preferred, because gaining altitude slowly is what keeps you safe before the high pass.
The classic trek in
From the trailhead at Besisahar — about six to seven hours by road from Kathmandu or Pokhara — the route climbs through Chame and Pisang to Manang over roughly five to seven days. That gradual ascent up the Annapurna Circuit is the whole point: each night a little higher lets your body adjust, so by the time you reach Manang at 3,540m you are far better prepared for the Thorong La pass approach.
The jeep road
A rough road now runs much of the Marsyangdi valley, and shared or private jeeps operate from Besisahar and Chame in the dry seasons. It saves days, but gaining altitude fast by vehicle raises the risk of altitude sickness — so if you drive up, build in extra rest days and read our Manang acclimatization guide. For the wider picture on buses, jeeps and flights, see getting around Nepal.
Good to know
- Season matters: The road can be cut by monsoon landslides; check conditions and see the best time to visit Manang.
- Permits: You need the ACAP permit and TIMS card for the Annapurna region — sort these in Kathmandu, Pokhara or Besisahar.
- Where to sleep: Plan your stops with where to stay in Manang.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Manang?+
Manang is reached up the Marsyangdi valley on the Annapurna Circuit. The classic way is to trek in from Besisahar via Chame and Pisang over several days, which lets the body acclimatize gradually. A rough jeep road now also runs much of the valley, so some travellers drive part or most of the way.
Can you drive all the way to Manang?+
A jeep road now reaches well up the valley toward Manang, and shared or private jeeps run from Besisahar and Chame in the dry seasons. However, gaining altitude quickly by vehicle raises the risk of altitude sickness, so many trekkers deliberately walk the upper section instead of driving it.
How long does it take to trek to Manang?+
Trekking from Besisahar to Manang typically takes around five to seven days, depending on where you start walking and your pace. The gradual ascent through the Marsyangdi valley is part of the acclimatization process, which is why a slower walk in is recommended over a fast jeep ride.
How do you reach the start at Besisahar?+
Besisahar is the standard trailhead, reached by bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu or Pokhara in roughly six to seven hours. From there, local buses and jeeps continue up the rough valley road toward Chame, where most trekkers begin or resume walking toward Manang.
