Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley
In Nepali: मन्थली र सुनकोशी उपत्यका
Manthali sits low in the hot Sunkoshi valley, and its small airport has become the main departure point for Lukla in the busy trekking seasons, to ease congestion at Kathmandu. Many Everest trekkers now pass through, often starting before dawn.
The valley around is known for its oranges and for the Sunkoshi, one of Nepal's classic multi-day rafting rivers, which flows past here on its way east.
What to see and do
Most visitors are in transit to or from Lukla, but the Sunkoshi and Tamakoshi rivers, orange orchards and nearby villages make short walks worthwhile. The multi-day Sunkoshi rafting trip passes through the area.
Good to know
Flights to Lukla leave very early; many travellers stay overnight in Manthali or leave Kathmandu around 2–3 am. Check with your airline whether your flight departs from Ramechhap.
Quick answers
- Where is Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley?
- Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley is in Ramechhap district, Bagmati Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley?
- About 480 m (1,575 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley?
- For a 3-day trip from Janakpur, about NPR 5,500 (≈ US$41) per person on a budget, or NPR 16,500 (≈ US$120) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Janakpur and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley?
- October–May
- How do I get to Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley?
- About 4–5 hours by road from Kathmandu. It is about 75 km (straight line) from Janakpur.
- What is Manthali and the Sunkoshi valley called in Nepali?
- मन्थली र सुनकोशी उपत्यका
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