Introduction
Besisahar is a vibrant town in the Lamjung District of Nepal. It is the formal beginning/ending point of the
Manaslu Circuit Trek and people begin Annapurna Circuit Trek here and are also a major transportation center in the region. With an elevation of approximately 760 meters (2,493 feet), Besisahar is at lower hills level and can be reached by road, connecting trekkers to the Himalayas.
Actually, if the trekkers are planning their
Manaslu Circuit Trek in winter months, we Haven Holidays Nepal Team recommend them to begin it from Besisahar via
Dharapani. It is because, it has less chance of sliding on the snow during Larkya La Pass(5106m) crossing. In fact, it is safer though it is equally challenging.
Actually, Besisahar is a livable market town, where tourists and locals come together. It contains a mixture of urban amenities and rural charm, with old-style Nepali life alongside new development. Various ethnic groups, including Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin, live in Besisahar, increasing the cultural diversity.
As the starting point of the Manaslu trekking/Annapurna Circuit area, Besisahar is a critical aspect of trekking logistics. It has services including travel agencies, trekking outfitters, banks, and hotels to accommodate tourists. Most of the trekkers begin from here upon reaching
Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Geographically, Besisahar is situated on the Marsyangdi River, between cultivated fields and green hills. The town's location provides breathtaking views of surrounding mountain ranges and serves as an excellent introduction to Nepal's natural beauty.
Apart from a trekking center, Besisahar is also a lively local town where celebrations, markets, and daily activities provide tourists with the true essence of Nepali culture.
Briefly, Besisahar is a major town that marks the start of Himalayan expeditions. Its accessibility, amenities, and vibrant culture make it a preferred choice for trekkers who are soon to embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek and other neighboring places. However, it’s rare cases that the trekkers begin their Manaslu circuit Trek in Besisahar.
Geography and Location
Besisahar lies in Nepal's Gandaki Province, specifically in the Lamjung District. It is approximately 760 meters (2,493 feet) above sea level and is situated in the lower hill zone before the height rises to the Himalayas.
Actually, Besisahar is physically situated on the banks of the Marsyangdi River, flowing through a broad valley bounded by green hills and field terraces. The area has fertile soil and temperate climate, favoring diversified agriculture like rice, maize, millet, and vegetables.
Meanwhile, the town Besisahar is the administrative and commercial center of the district. It is road-linked with major cities such as Kathmandu and
Pokhara via the Prithvi Highway and other local roads. Besisahar is the principal entry point for trekkers heading to the Manaslu region due to the favorable location.
In fact, the landscape around Besisahar is hilly with regular small villages and patches of forest. To the north are distant Himalayan summits such as Annapurna and Manaslu, visible on clear days.
Being situated by the Marsyangdi River, there is also room for river adventure like rafting, which is loved by adventure tourists.
Briefly, geography positions Besisahar as a major gateway to the Himalayas. That it is situated in a fertile river valley, which is road-linked and set amidst scenic beauty, holds a lot for its profile as a cosmopolitan town and trekking hub.
Accessibility
Besisahar is highly accessible to most Himalayan villages and is the main access point for trekkers to the Manaslu Circuit Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek and other places in the Himalayas. The town is highly road connected to Nepal's key cities, like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Actually, tourists usually travel to Besisahar by jeep or bus from Kathmandu, approximately 6 to 8 hours via the Prithvi Highway then taking a turn toward Lamjung District. There are regular buses and tourist jeeps available on this route with easy flexibility.
Besisahar is about 3 to 4 hours from Pokhara by a winding hilly road. This allows it to be an easy starting point for trekkers coming to Pokhara, which is a major tourist destination and has a domestic and some foreign flights airport.
Upon arrival in Besisahar, the trekkers begin their trekking adventure on foot because vehicles cannot proceed any further on the Manaslu trek/Annapurna Circuit path. There are parking lots for vehicles and areas where the service of guides, porters, and obtaining permits can be booked.
Also, when trekkers end their Manaslu Circuit Trek at Besisahar, they drive back to Kathmandu by bus, jeep or car along Prithvi Highway. They cross Larkya La Pass from
Dharmasala and then to to stay overnight at
Bimtang and then trek to Dharapani and then drive back to Besisshar.
In fact, there is intermittent interruption to road access during the monsoon months (June to September) by landslides, and travelers should check locally before setting out. In the remaining months, roads are generally passable.
While Besisahar town itself is road accessible, trekking routes around it entail trails walking through mountain terrain. Helicopter evacuation services are readily available in the event of an emergency but are costly and weather dependent.
Briefly, Besisahar's good road connectivity and transport facilities make it a comfortable and accessible point of entry to the Manaslu circuit/Annapurna Circuit for travelers and trekkers.
Facilities
Besisahar is a bustling town that has a stupendous array of facilities to suit the needs of the trekkers, tourists, and locals as well. Being the main entry point to the Manaslu Circuit Trek, it has developed according to the needs of travelers willing to take on the challenging trek in front of them.
Actually, there are several accommodations in Besisahar. There are guesthouses, hotels, and lodges ranging from budget to mid-range in the town. These have clean rooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi in most cases, and it is possible for trekkers to unwind before their trek.
Likewise, food is readily available, with the majority of restaurants and cafés serving Nepali, Tibetan, and international cuisine. Dal bhat, noodle, momos, and soups are common fare. Fresh fruits, snacks, and trekking gear are found in shops and markets.
Moreover, Besisahar has efficient services such as banks with ATMs, internet cafes, and mobile phone coverage. This makes it easier for tourists to withdraw cash, communicate, and have connectivity.
Also, there are big hospitals, small pharmacies and clinics for overall health care requirements. For serious medical issues, patients are usually referred to larger hospitals in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Similarly, there are permit offices and trekking agencies present here, making it convenient to employ guides, porters, and obtain necessary permits like the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and TIMS card.
Additionally, transport facilities are well placed, with regular buses and jeep taxis from Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other nearby towns. Vehicles have parking facilities and storage areas for trekkers' personal luggage.
In short, Besisahar has good facilities that meet the needs of tourists and trekkers. It possesses well-developed infrastructure and services, which make it a crucial point for Himalayan expeditions.
Major Attractions
Besisahar boasts a series of attractions that make it more than a gateway town for trekkers. Its natural beauty, cultural past, and indigenous lifestyle provide a stimulating introduction to Manaslu and
Annapurna circuit region.
Meanwhile, one of the Besisahar town's main attractions is the lovely Marsyangdi River flowing through it. The valley of the river is surrounded by green hills and cultivated terracing, creating postcard scenery. Visitors stroll along riverbanks and distant Himalayan vistas on good days.
Also, Besisahar also features a dynamic local market. There, traders and farmers offer fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, handicrafts, and fabrics. The lively atmosphere is a manifestation of daily life and local tradition.
Moreover, the town Besisahar observes various festivals during the year, which are dedicated to different ethnic communities such as Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin societies. The festivals are initiated with traditional music, dance, and vibrant rituals, and they attract a lot of people interested in cultural experiences.
In the neighborhood, tourists can see ancient temples and villages, which illustrate the religious as well as architectural past of the region. The stupas and small temples give a glimpse of traditional Hindu and Buddhist practices.
More importantly, adventure sports enthusiasts can initiate river rafting in the Marsyangdi River in Besisahar, which has exciting rapids and scenery.
Overall Besisahar's major attractions are its river valley landscape, busy markets, cultural events and pilgrimages, religious sites, and outdoor adventure sports. All these make the travel experience more rich and make the tourists feel at home in the core of the Manaslu region of Nepal.",
Major Activities to Do
Besisahar offers a lot of activities that would be suitable for both trekker and culture, nature, and adventure-tourist visitors. Its location and vibrant community promote many opportunities to engage in before or after completing the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Meanwhile, the major thing to do in Besisahar is a visit to the local market. This is a chance for tourists to walk through the busy streets, buy fresh vegetables and fruits, spices, handicrafts, and cloths. This is a reflection of local economy and daily life.
Likewise, another activity to do in Besisahar is a walk along the Marsyangdi River. The scenic beauty of the riverside trails with green hills, level fields, and distant Himalayan peaks makes it a popular activity. The peaceful atmosphere is ideal for photography, nature viewing, and relaxation.
For those who love culture, being present at local festivals and ceremonies is very fulfilling. Besisahar has events showcasing traditional music, dance, and rituals that depict the rich ethnic diversities like Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin. The celebrations reveal the rich heritage of the area.
Moreover, river rafting on Marsyangdi River, with its hair-raising rapids and scenic beauty, is available for adventure seekers here in Besisahar. There are guided rafting trips for novices and experienced alike offered by different operators.
More importantly, tourists can also arrange for guided trips to local temples, villages, and natural points of interest. Short treks around town offer possibilities to trek through the surrounding hills and woodlands.
Briefly, significant activities in Besisahar include market walking, riverside walks, cultural festival tours, river rafting, and short hikes. These activities complement trekking tours and add to the overall travel experience.
What Is Besisahar Popular for?
Besisahar is popular among trekkers and travelers because of several significant reasons, which make it a gateway of choice to Manaslu and elsewhere.
To begin with, its very good road accessibility from major towns such as Kathmandu and Pokhara renders Besisahar an accessible base for Himalayan treks. Most tourists prefer starting their travel from here because it has good transportation connectivity.
Secondly, the town is also well equipped with facilities and services. From accommodation and eateries to trekking agencies and permit offices, Besisahar has everything one may require for trek preparation. This advantage draws both seasoned trekkers and first-timers.
Third, the affluent local heritage of Besisahar welcomes visitors. The Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin indigenous communities provide zest to vibrant markets, vibrant festivals, and customs. Visitors enjoy immersing themselves in this authentic Nepalese atmosphere.
Fourth, the scenic surroundings close to Marsyangdi River with the hills and mountain view around it provides natural beauty to the town. The calm river valley offers a soothing and thrilling ambiance to visit.
Finally, Besisahar being the hub for many activities such as river rafting, cultural tours, and village excursion in the area makes it more than a transit point. It provides tourists with multiple experiences to enhance their experience.
In short, the popularity of Besisahar relies on its accessibility, full facilities, rich culture, natural beauty, and activity options. All these considerations make it a popular and essential option for tourists traveling to the Himalayas of Nepal.
Lodges and Guesthouses in Besisahar
Besisahar offers a variety of local guesthouses and lodges to cater to trekkers and travelers in preparing for their Himalayan trekking adventure. As it is a key gateway town, its hotels range from budget to mid-range, catering to different needs.
Actually, most lodges in Besisahar provide clean, simple rooms with a limited selection of amenities like beds, blankets, and communal toilets. Some have en-suite rooms and hot showers, but others maintain the natural ambiance for budget tourists. Most lodges have public areas where guests can mingle and relax.
Likewise, food served in such lodges in Besisahar is usually Nepali, Tibetan, and a dash of international food. Baseline foods are dal bhat, momos, noodles, and soups, prepared fresh daily to be used as wholesome meals for trekkers.
Moreover, electricity in Besisahar is generally available in most lodges, which are run on local hydroelectric or solar power. This implies illumination and charging electronic devices is possible, while periodic power outages can occur.
Similarly, internet connection in Besisahar is more reliable than in other remote villages like
Samagaon and Dharmasala, with Wi-Fi in some lodges and mobile phone connectivity in others. This enables trekkers to communicate with relatives and arrange logistics.
Meanwhile, good lodges in Besisahar include the Green Hill Lodge and Manaslu Guesthouse, both of which offer good service and a welcoming ambiance. Bookings ahead are recommended during the high trekking season.
In addition, the majority of the lodges in Besisahar also assist with trekking permits, guide and porter bookings, and transport reservations, thus making them so popular among travelers.
In short, Besisahar's local lodges provide crucial comfort, food, and services to supplement trekkers' needs. Their presence and quality allow the town to serve a crucial role as a starting point for Himalayan treks like Manaslu and
Annapurna Circuit.
Lodges, Guesthouses and Hotels in Besisahar
Heaven Hill Homestay
Dudhpokhari Community Homestay
Galaxy Guest House & Restaurant
Lumbini Garden Lodge
Horizon Homestay
Hotel Grand Holiday
Baranda Restro & Events Hotel
Gateway Himalaya Resort (in nearby Ghanpokhara)
Hotel New Crystal
Hotel Tukuche Peak
Hotel Super View
Hotel Peace Heaven
Hotel Kailash
Annapurna Guest House
Hotel Namaste & Lodge
Lamjung View Hotel
