Is the Krishna Bhir Landslide Affecting Manaslu and Annapurna Region Treks? Road Closures, Alternative Routes, and Flight Options

Nepal’s trekking industry depends heavily on road access. Before reaching the spectacular trails of the Himalayas, trekkers often need to travel for several hours—or even an entire day—from Kathmandu to their trekking starting point.

The recent Krishna Bhir landslide has therefore raised an important question among travelers planning a Manaslu trek, Annapurna trek, and other popular treks in Nepal:

The short answer is that the situation primarily affects transportation and access to trekking trailheads, rather than automatically closing the trekking trails themselves. The major disruption is on the Prithvi Highway, particularly the Kathmandu–Muglin section, which is an important transportation corridor for travelers heading toward Pokhara and several western and central Nepal destinations.

This article explains the possible impact on Manaslu Circuit Trek access, Annapurna region trekking, the Kathmandu to Pokhara road, the Kathmandu to Machha Khola/Gorkha road and the best alternative trekking routes and transportation options for trekkers.

What Happened at Krishna bhir on the Prithvi Highway?

The Krishna Bhir collapse occurred on the Prithvi Narayan Highway, the primary road corridor connecting Kathmandu to Pokhara, Gorkha, Chitwan, and the Annapurna and Manaslu road-heads.

Key facts from the ground:

• Where: Krishna Bhir, Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality, Dhading — on the Kathmandu–Muglin section of the Prithvi Highway
• When: Saturday, 30 August 2026, morning
• What happened: A 20-metre stretch of highway sank and cracked, with more than half the carriageway subsiding. The road runs along a slope roughly 60 metres high above the Trishuli River, which was swollen by the 26 August Bhote Koshi flood wave.
• Status: Closed both directions; the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Office is holding highway-bound vehicles inside the valley.
• Estimated closure: At least one month, according to Dhading District Police. The Department of Roads cannot set a firm engineering schedule until the river drops enough to assess the erosion.
• Cause: The Trishuli River, swollen by the upstream Bhote Koshi flood, eroded the toe of the slope beneath the highway, causing it to sink rather than slide.

Muglin is the critical junction where the road out of Kathmandu splits: west to Pokhara and south to Narayangadh and Chitwan. Because Krishna Bhir sits above that junction, every road route from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Gorkha, Chitwan, Lumbini, and the Annapurna and Manaslu road approaches is cut at the same place.

The Kathmandu Valley Traffic Office has stopped highway-bound vehicles inside the valley and instructed operators at the New Bus Park to keep scheduled services parked until conditions improve. Travellers have been told to confirm before starting a journey rather than turn up at the terminal.

This isn’t Krishnabhir’s first failure. The same stretch saw a major landslide in 1999, and subsidence was repaired here again just last year. It’s a known weak point on a corridor that normally carries around 14,000 vehicles a day.

Is the Krishna Bhir Landslide Affecting Manaslu and Annapurna Region Treks?

The recent Krishna Bhir landslide and road collapse along the Prithvi Highway have created uncertainty for travelers and trekkers planning to leave Kathmandu for western and central Nepal. The Prithvi Highway is one of Nepal’s most important transportation corridors, connecting Kathmandu with Pokhara and providing access toward several popular Himalayan trekking regions.

For international trekkers arriving in Kathmandu, the situation can directly affect transportation planning. A road disruption does not necessarily mean that trekking itself is impossible. However, it can change how you reach your trekking starting point, how long the journey takes, and whether you need to reroute your itinerary.

The important question for trekkers is therefore not simply, “Can I still trek?” Instead, the better question is: How can I reach my trekking trailhead safely and efficiently while the Prithvi Highway remains disrupted?

This is particularly important for travelers planning the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Poon Hill Trek, and other popular Annapurna region treks.

How Does the Krishna Bhir Landslide Affect the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

Unlike some trekking regions where the current disruption primarily affects general tourist transportation, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is directly affected by the current road disruptions on the routes leading to Machha Khola. Machha Khola is one of the major starting points for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and trekkers traveling from Kathmandu normally depend on road transportation to reach the trailhead. At present, there are two major access problems affecting this journey.

1. Rasuwa Flood Damage: Bridge Washed Away Between Malekhu and Furkhe Khola

The first major disruption is related to the Rasuwa flood, which carried away a bridge along the Malekhu–Furkhe Khola road section leading toward Dhading. This has disrupted the commonly used Kathmandu to Dhading to Machha Khola route, making the regular road journey to the Manaslu trekking trailhead difficult.

For trekkers, this means that simply hiring a vehicle in Kathmandu and following the usual route to Machha Khola may no longer be possible. The situation should therefore be considered a direct Manaslu Circuit Trek transportation disruption, rather than merely a general highway inconvenience.

2. Krishna Bhir Road Collapse Blocks the Kathmandu–Gorkha–Machha Khola Route

The second major problem is the Krishna Bhir road collapse on the Prithvi Highway. The damaged section has disrupted road access from Kathmandu toward the Gorkha side and subsequently toward Machha Khola.

This is particularly significant for Manaslu trekkers because another commonly used approach involves traveling: Kathmandu → Gorkha → Machha Khola

With the Krishna Bhir landslide/road collapse affecting this corridor, this alternative approach is also currently blocked or severely disrupted. As a result, trekkers cannot simply switch from one standard Kathmandu road route to another and expect normal transportation to Machha Khola.

What Does This Mean for Manaslu Trekkers?

The current situation means that road access to Machha Khola from Kathmandu is directly affected from multiple directions. Therefore, trekkers with a Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary should not assume that their regular Kathmandu-to-Machha-Khola jeep or bus transfer will operate as usual.

However, this does not necessarily mean that the Manaslu trekking trail itself is closed. The primary issue is access to the trailhead. Fortunately, there are alternative transportation arrangements that can allow trekkers to continue with their Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Alternative Routes to Reach Machha Khola for the Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trekkers currently have two major alternatives to consider.

Alternative Route 1: Manaslu Circuit Trek from Pokhara - Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara and Drive to Machha Khola

For trekkers who want the most straightforward alternative to the disrupted Kathmandu road journey, flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara can be an effective option.

The revised journey can be arranged as: Kathmandu → Pokhara by flight → Machha Khola by private jeep

After arriving in Pokhara, we can arrange a private jeep from Pokhara to Machha Khola. This option avoids the disrupted Kathmandu–Prithvi Highway–Krishna Bhir section and provides a different approach toward the Manaslu trekking area.

Pokhara to Machha Khola by Private Jeep

A private jeep from Pokhara to Machha Khola is particularly useful for trekkers traveling as a group or those who want to minimize uncertainty and maintain control over their itinerary. The journey can be arranged according to current road conditions and may require additional travel time depending on the condition of the roads. 

Budget Alternative: Pokhara to Gorkha to Machha Khola by Local Bus

Travelers who want a more economical option can consider using flight to Pokhara, then local buses from Pokhara to Gorkha, followed by another local bus from Gorkha to Machha Khola, if those services are operating.

The potential route is: Kathmandu to Pokhara by flight → Gorkha by local bus → Machha Khola by local bus

This can be considerably more budget-friendly than hiring a private jeep. However, local bus services are more dependent on road conditions and availability. Travelers should therefore verify the operating status locally before relying on this option.

Alternative Route 2: Kathmandu → Benighat → Arughat→ Machha Khola by Private Jeep

Another possible alternative is to travel from Kathmandu through the Benighat–Arughat side using a private jeep.

The proposed route is: Kathmandu → Benighat → Arughat → Machha Khola

This route provides an alternative approach toward the Manaslu trekking region while avoiding the regular transportation arrangement affected by the current road disruptions.

Why Private Jeep Is Important on This Route

At present, local bus transportation is not accessible on this alternative route, so trekkers considering this option should plan for a private jeep rather than expecting to find a regular local bus connection. This option can therefore be more expensive, but it may provide a practical solution for trekkers who are already in Kathmandu and want to continue with their Manaslu Circuit Trek rather than cancel or completely change their itinerary. Because road conditions can change quickly, the exact route taken by the jeep should be confirmed immediately before departure.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Access: Current Options at a Glance

How Is the Krishna Bhir Landslide Affecting Annapurna Region Treks?

The impact can be equally significant for travelers planning the Annapurna region, especially those who normally travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus or private vehicle.

Pokhara is the primary tourism gateway for many famous trekking routes, including:

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Poon Hill Trek
• Ghorepani Trek
• Khopra Danda Trek
• Australian Camp Trek
• Mohare Danda Trek
• Several shorter Annapurna trekking routes

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is slightly different because its classic road access toward Besisahar also depends on transportation through the wider Prithvi Highway corridor before turning toward the Marsyangdi Valley.

This means that a major disruption on the highway can affect both: Kathmandu → Pokhara access and Kathmandu → Besisahar access for the Annapurna Circuit

Best Alternative for Annapurna Treks: Fly From Kathmandu to Pokhara

For travelers whose trekking itinerary begins in or near Pokhara, the most convenient alternative during major highway disruption is often to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. A domestic flight avoids the affected overland journey between the two cities and allows trekkers to continue their journey toward their selected trailhead. Recent travel guidance following the Krishna Bhir disruption has specifically highlighted flying as the most practical option for travelers needing to reach Pokhara while the main highway situation remains uncertain.

Is Annapurna Circuit Trek Possible from Pokhara as well?

Traditionally, trekkers traveling from Kathmandu to the Annapurna Circuit would travel overland along the Prithvi Highway, reach the Pokhara area, and then continue toward Besisahar, the gateway to the Marsyangdi Valley and one of the major access points for the circuit.

Instead, trekkers can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then drive from Pokhara to Besisahar. In fact, Pokhara is significantly closer to Besisahar than Kathmandu is, making the Pokhara-based approach a convenient option even beyond the immediate need to avoid the damaged highway.

The journey can therefore be organized as: Kathmandu → Fly to Pokhara → Drive to Besisahar → Continue toward Dharapani/Chame → Annapurna Circuit Trek

Once in Pokhara, trekkers can take a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu rather than depending on the potentially disrupted highway for the return journey. Therefore, trekkers do not necessarily need to abandon their Annapurna Circuit Trek because of the current Kathmandu–Pokhara road disruption.

Should You Cancel Your Manaslu or Annapurna Trek?

Not necessarily. The first thing to understand is that a highway disruption does not automatically mean every trekking trail in that region is closed.

The Krishna Bhir situation mainly creates an access and transportation challenge. Before canceling your trek, check:

1. Is the trekking trail itself officially open?
2. Is the original trailhead accessible?
3. Is there an alternative road route?
4. Can the trek start from another location?
5. Can your itinerary be extended by one or two buffer days?
6. Can you fly to Pokhara?
7. Would switching to another trek save your holiday?

For many travelers, the answer may be to adjust logistics rather than cancel the entire Nepal trip.

Best Alternative Treks if the Original Plan Cannot Continue

For trekkers with limited vacation time, spending several unexpected days dealing with road disruptions may not be practical. In that situation, changing the trek entirely can be a better decision. Here are some of the most practical alternatives.

Everest Region Trek

If your entire itinerary becomes too complicated because of road access, consider rerouting to the Everest region.

Possible options include:

• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Everest View Trek
• Gokyo Lakes Trek
• Three Passes Trek

These treks use a different access network from the Pokhara and Prithvi Highway corridor, although flight operations and mountain weather must always be considered. A complete reroute to the Everest region may be suitable for trekkers who are highly flexible and want to avoid uncertainty connected with western road transportation.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the best alternatives for trekkers who can reach Pokhara by flight. For trekkers who originally planned another route but can still reach Pokhara, the ABC Trek can be an excellent replacement.

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is another excellent alternative for trekkers affected by the road situation. Because Pokhara serves as the primary gateway, flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara can make this trek particularly convenient compared with relying on the affected Prithvi Highway.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

For trekkers with limited time, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a practical alternative. The famous Poon Hill sunrise provides panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This trek is particularly suitable for travelers who want the Himalayan experience even for a short period.

Khopra Danda Trek

The Khopra Ridge Trek, also known as the Khopra Danda Trek, is a quieter alternative in the Annapurna region. For trekkers seeking an alternative to the more popular routes, Khopra can be a rewarding option.

Important Advice for Trekkers During the Krishna Bhir Road Disruption

Keep Extra Buffer Days

Do not plan a trekking itinerary with no flexibility. Road conditions in Nepal can change quickly during periods of heavy rain, landslides, floods, and road construction. Add extra days before and after your trek whenever possible.

Do Not Rely on Old Transportation Information

A route that was open yesterday may be delayed today, while an alternative route may become available tomorrow. Always check the latest Nepal road update, Prithvi Highway status, and local transportation conditions before departure.

Confirm the Exact Trailhead Access

Do not simply ask whether “Manaslu is open” or “Annapurna is open.”

Ask specifically: Can I reach the planned trekking starting point today? This is often the more important logistical question.

Be Flexible With Your Trekking Itinerary

Flexibility is essential when trekking in the Himalayas. A flexible itinerary can prevent a road problem from becoming a canceled holiday.

You may need to:

• Change your transportation day
• Fly instead of driving
• Start trekking from a different village
• Add a rest or buffer day
• Shorten the itinerary
• Select a different Annapurna trek
• Reroute completely to another region

Final Thoughts: Is Krishna Bhir Landslide Affecting Manaslu and Annapurna Treks?

Yes, the Krishna Bhir landslide can affect the Manaslu and Annapurna trekking experience but primarily through road transportation and access to trekking gateways, rather than meaning that every trekking trail is closed.

The damage on the Prithvi Highway has disrupted a major Kathmandu–Muglin transport corridor, making normal overland journeys more difficult and potentially affecting travel toward Pokhara and other trekking access points. Recent reports confirm severe disruption at the Krishna Bhir section and indicate that travelers should monitor restoration and alternative traffic arrangements closely.

The most important advice is simple: do not cancel your trek based only on the news of the Krishna Bhir landslide. Check whether your specific trail, trailhead, transportation route, and alternative access options are operating.

With good planning, flexibility, and up-to-date local information, trekkers can still make informed decisions about whether to continue with their original Nepal trekking itinerary, modify the route, or choose an alternative Himalayan adventure.