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Jagat is a scenic stone-walled village situated in the Manaslu region of Nepal, positioned at an elevation ranging between 1,340 meters and 1,410 meters along the Budhi Gandaki River.
This settlement serves as a critical entry point for trekkers on the Manaslu Circuit going into the upper trails of the region.
| Category | Details |
| Location | Manaslu region, Gorkha District, Nepal; along Budhi Gandaki River. |
| Elevation | 1,340m – 1,410m. |
| Permits Required | Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP). |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms. Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies. Avoid monsoon (June–Aug) and winter (Dec–Feb) for less ideal conditions. |
| How to Reach | - From Kathmandu: 7–9 hrs drive to Arughat + 6–7 hrs trek from Soti Khola. - From Machha Khola: 6–7 hrs trek (22 km). - Options: Public buses (budget) or private jeeps (faster). |
| Accomodation | Basic tea houses/guesthouses with twin-share rooms, shared bathrooms, limited Wi-Fi (extra fee for hot showers). |
| Food Options | Dal bhat, thukpa, momo, fried rice, Tibetan bread. Bottled water available. |
| Cultural Highlights | Gurung/Tamang communities, stone-paved streets, mani stones, prayer flags, Buddhist chortens. |
| Trekking Next Stop | Deng Village (2,095m): 6–7 hrs trek (15 km) through forests and river crossings. |
Jagat lies within the Gorkha District and acts as a mandatory checkpoint for two essential permits: the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
These permits are required for all trekkers venturing beyond Jagat, as the area falls under regulated access to preserve its cultural and environmental integrity.
The village’s location along the Budhi Gandaki River valley makes it a natural stopping point for acclimatization and logistical preparations before ascending further into the Manaslu region.
For more details on Permits required to trek through the Manaslu Region, including Jagat, check it out here!
Jagat is a culturally rich settlement that introduces trekkers to the traditions of the Gurung and Tamang communities.
The village features traditional stone-paved streets, intricately carved mani stone slabs, and vibrant prayer flags draped across chortens (Buddhist shrines). These elements reflect the deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist influence in the area.
The surrounding landscape is characterized by terraced fields, dense rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and dramatic gorges carved by the Budhi Gandaki River.
The village’s elevation provides trekkers with their first glimpse of the Manaslu Circuit’s diverse ecosystems, transitioning from subtropical lowlands to alpine terrain as the trail progresses.
As the last major settlement before the trail ascends toward Deng, Namrung, and Lho, Jagat serves as a logistical hub where trekkers finalize supplies, confirm permits, and adjust to the trekking rhythm.
The village’s stone-walled architecture and warm local hospitality offer a glimpse into the rural Himalayan way of life, making it an essential cultural immersion point before the more remote sections of the trek.
Jagat’s role as a permit checkpoint and cultural introduction ensures that trekkers are both legally compliant and mentally prepared for the challenges and rewards of the Manaslu Circuit.
Its combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and trekking utility makes it a foundational stop on the journey.
Reaching Jagat, the gateway to the Manaslu Circuit, involves a combination of road travel and trekking. The journey varies depending on the starting point, with the most common routes originating from Kathmandu, Soti Khola, or Machha Khola.
Distance and Duration: The total journey from Kathmandu to Jagat takes 7–9 hours by road, followed by a trek or jeep ride.
Route
Distance and Duration: A 22 km trek (6–7 hours), following the Budhi Gandaki River upstream.
Route Highlights:
Note: Some trekkers opt for a jeep from Machha Khola to Jagat in favorable weather, cutting trekking time to 2–3 hours.
At Trek Me Nepal, we handle all logistics, including early jeep bookings to secure transportation, arranging your MCAP and RAP before departure, and provide guided trek support from Kathmandu or Machha Khola to ensure smooth river crossings and route navigation.
We offer flexible options for private transport or adjusted trek schedules based on weather and group preferences, just let us know if you prefer a jeep-assisted trek or a full walking itinerary, and we’ll customize your journey accordingly.
The optimal time to visit Jagat falls during two primary trekking seasons: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods have stable weather conditions and the most favorable trekking environment along the Manaslu Circuit.
Spring (March to May) has mild temperatures. This season is particularly notable for the rhododendron bloom, when the forests surrounding the village burst into vibrant shades of red and pink.
The trails are dry and clear, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for trekking. However, as this is a popular season, tea houses and trails may see more trekkers compared to other times of the year.
Autumn (September to November) is equally favorable, characterized by crisp, clear skies and excellent visibility of the Himalayan vistas. Daytime temperatures are similar to spring, though nights begin to cool significantly by late November.
The post-monsoon landscape is lush, and the festive atmosphere of Dashain and Tihar (major Nepali holidays) adds cultural richness to the experience. This season is often preferred for its reliable weather and quieter trails early in the season.
The monsoon (June to August) is less ideal due to heavy rainfall, which renders trails muddy and slippery. Landslides can disrupt road access to trailheads like Soti Khola, and leeches are common in the humid forests.
Similarly, winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures, especially in the mornings, with occasional snowfall at higher elevations. While trekking is still possible, shorter daylight hours and colder conditions require additional preparation.
For those prioritizing comfortable trekking conditions and cultural immersion, spring and autumn remain the best time to visit Jagat, balancing pleasant weather, scenic beauty, and cultural vibrancy.
Monsoon and winter treks are only recommended for experienced trekkers seeking solitude and prepared for additional challenges.
For more details about the weather in the Manaslu region, check it out here!
Jagat is an important overnight stop along the Manaslu Circuit, offering basic but adequate accommodation and food servicess. The village has several tea houses and guesthouses that provide essential amenities for travelers continuing their journey into the Manaslu region.
The lodging facilities in Jagat consist of simple tea houses and guesthouses with basic rooms. Most offer twin-share accommodations with wooden beds, thin mattresses, and shared bathroom facilities.
The rooms are typically unheated, though some may provide extra blankets during colder months. A few establishments now offer limited Wi-Fi access, though connectivity remains unreliable. Hot showers are available at some tea houses, usually for an additional fee.
The standard of accommodation is modest but clean, with electricity available in most places, though power cuts can occur.
Tea houses in Jagat serve a variety of meals catering to trekkers' needs. The staple food is dal bhat (rice with lentil soup and vegetable curry), which provides substantial carbohydrates for the journey.
Other common menu items include noodle soups (thukpa), Tibetan-style bread, fried rice, and momo (dumplings). Some tea houses offer Thakali-style meals, featuring traditional Nepali flavors with local spices.
Breakfast options typically consist of porridge, eggs, toast, and tea or coffee. While the variety is limited compared to urban areas, the food is freshly prepared and provides adequate nutrition for trekking.
Most tea houses can accommodate basic dietary requests with advance notice, including vegetarian options. Those with specific dietary requirements (gluten-free, vegan, etc.) should inform their guide beforehand so arrangements can be made with the kitchen staff.
The water in Jagat should not be consumed untreated; bottled water is available for purchase, or trekkers should use purification methods.
Food hygiene standards are basic but generally acceptable for the region, though those with sensitive stomachs may want to exercise caution with raw vegetables and stick to cooked foods.
The village has small shops selling basic snacks, toiletries, and trekking supplies, though selection is limited and prices higher than in Kathmandu. Some tea houses provide charging stations for electronic devices, often for a small fee.
There are no proper medical facilities in Jagat, so trekkers should carry their own first aid supplies. The tea house owners and staff are accustomed to international trekkers and can communicate in basic English regarding accommodation and food needs.
Trek Me Nepal team can advise on which tea houses typically offer better facilities and food quality based on current conditions.
Jagat offers basic but functional accommodation and dining options for trekkers along the Manaslu Circuit. The village serves as an important overnight stop where travelers can rest before continuing their journey into higher elevations.
Tea houses and guesthouses in Jagat provide simple twin-share rooms with wooden beds, basic mattresses, and shared bathroom facilities. Most rooms are unheated but include blankets for colder nights.
Some establishments now offer limited Wi-Fi access (often unreliable) and hot showers available for an additional fee. Electricity is generally available, though power cuts occur frequently. The accommodations are modest but clean, with common dining areas heated by wood stoves in the evenings.
The standard menu includes:
Some tea houses serve Thakali khana, a traditional Nepali meal set. Meals are prepared fresh but options are limited compared to cities. Bottled water and basic snacks are available for purchase.
Most tea houses can accommodate basic dietary requests with advance notice. Those with specific requirements (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) should inform their guide beforehand so kitchen staff can be prepared.
Facilities
The standard is adequate for trekking needs but travelers should not expect luxury amenities. Rooms are basic but provide necessary shelter and warmth. Food, while simple, is hearty and provides sufficient energy for trekking. All water should be treated before drinking.
The trekking experience through Jagat and its surrounding areas offers a diverse display of natural landscapes and cultural elements characteristic of the Manaslu region.
The village is an important transition point where the terrain begins to change from subtropical valleys to higher mountain environments.
The area around Jagat features terraced agricultural fields that demonstrate traditional farming methods still practiced by local communities. As trekkers approach and depart Jagat, the trail passes through mixed forests containing rhododendron, bamboo, and pine trees.
The Budhi Gandaki River gorge presents dramatic rock formations and several small waterfalls along the route. The elevation range between 1,340m to 1,410m creates a temperate climate zone with visible ecological transitions.
Jagat itself is a traditional stone-walled settlement with architecture adapted to the mountainous environment. The village contains several Buddhist religious structures including mani walls (stone slabs carved with prayers), chortens (stupas), and numerous prayer flags.
The local population consists primarily of Gurung and Tamang ethnic groups who maintain their cultural traditions. Stone-paved pathways connect different parts of the village, reflecting historical trade route designs.
The trails in this section consist of well-established paths with some stone steps and occasional suspension bridge crossings over the Budhi Gandaki and its tributaries.
The walking difficulty is moderate, with gradual elevation changes rather than steep climbs. Trekkers can expect to share sections of the trail with local porters and mule trains transporting supplies between villages.
The village offers opportunities to observe daily life in a traditional Himalayan community. Many homes follow the distinctive architectural style of the region, with stone foundations and wooden upper levels.
Some residents may offer simple handicrafts or snacks for sale to passing trekkers, though commercial activity remains limited compared to more developed trekking areas.
The natural scenery and cultural elements makes Jagat a significant location for understanding the environmental and social context of the Manaslu Circuit.
The trek from Jagat to Deng represents the next stage of the Manaslu Circuit, marking the transition into higher elevation zones with distinct changes in landscape and cultural character. This section typically requires 6-7 hours of trekking time covering approximately 15 kilometers.
Leaving Jagat (1,410m), the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River upstream through a series of ascents and descents. The path crosses multiple suspension bridges, including a notable crossing at Salleri (1,460m).
The terrain becomes progressively more rugged, with sections of stone steps and exposed trails along the river gorge. After passing through the villages of Sirdibas (1,490m) and Philim (1,570m), the trail enters the official Manaslu Conservation Area checkpoint at Ekle Bhatti (1,600m).
The destination village of Deng sits at a noticeable elevation gain from Jagat, featuring:
Jagat serves represents the cultural and scenic gateway to the entire trekking region.
This stone-walled village at 1,340-1,410m elevation provides trekkers with their first authentic experience of the Gurung and Tamang communities, traditional Himalayan architecture, and the dramatic landscapes that characterize the Budhi Gandaki River valley.
For those seeking to experience Jagat and the full Manaslu Circuit with professional support, Trek Me Nepal offers complete trek packages that handle all logistical details while allowing you to focus on the trekking experience.
We offer three primary package options: Standard (13 days), Extended (16 days) and Combined with with Tsum Valley (21 days).
We can customise the treks according to your requirements. All bookings include guide services, permits, accommodation, and meals as specified in the chosen itinerary.
Our services remove the complexity of permit applications, transport coordination, and route planning while ensuring authentic cultural interactions and safety throughout your journey.
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