Tatopani simply means hot water. On the Manaslu trail it is a small cluster of houses and a tea shop where warm spring water flows from spouts built into a concrete wall beside the river. Locals use it for washing clothes and bathing, and trekkers stop to rinse off the dust of the jeep ride and the morning's walk. The water is warm rather than hot, pleasant on cool spring mornings and refreshing in the heat of September.
There is no proper pool, so this is a quick wash rather than a soak. Wear shorts and a T-shirt or a sarong, keep soap away from the spouts, and remember that this is a village water supply first. Women trekkers usually wash in shorts and a top rather than swimwear, following local habits.
From Tatopani the trail climbs on stone steps, crosses the river on a suspension bridge and continues through the gorge to Dobhan and then Jagat. Use the stop to refill water and eat a snack, because the next section has steep climbs in full sun.
Good for
- Groups
- Solo
- Couples
- Families
Questions travellers ask
Where is the Tatopani hot spring on the Manaslu trek?
It is on the main trail between Khorlabesi and Dobhan, roughly 2.5 to 3 hours' walk north of Machha Khola on the first trekking day. You reach it before the gorge section to Jagat. It is a small roadside spring with spouts, not a resort, and there are tea shops nearby.
Can I swim at Tatopani on the Manaslu Circuit?
There is no pool to swim in. Hot water flows from spouts into a small concrete area used by villagers for washing. Trekkers usually wash their arms, faces and feet or have a quick shower under a spout in shorts and a T-shirt. Keep soap away from the spring.
Is the Tatopani water safe to drink?
Do not drink it untreated. Hot spring water carries minerals and the area is used for washing. Refill your bottle from a lodge's filtered water or treat stream water with tablets or a filter. Drinking 3 litres a day in this warm lower valley helps prevent headaches.
