Pokhara to Jhinu Danda Jeep Rental 2026: Complete Guide to Cost, Route & Tips

Jhinu Danda is one of the most rewarding destinations in Nepal’s Annapurna region. Perched at approximately 1,760 meters above sea level on a hillside above the Modi Khola river valley, this charming village is celebrated throughout the trekking world for two things: its famous natural geothermal hot springs on the banks of the Modi River, and its position as a key stopping point on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route between Chhomrong and Nayapul.

For trekkers beginning or ending the ABC Trek, for pilgrims visiting the Annapurna region, and for travelers simply seeking the relaxation of natural hot springs in a Himalayan setting, the journey from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda begins with one essential decision: what vehicle to hire and how to get there efficiently, comfortably, and affordably.

At Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd, we specialize in professional jeep rental services from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need — the route, the costs, the vehicle options, the road conditions, the hot springs, and the expert tips that make the difference between a stressful journey and a perfect start to your Annapurna adventure.

About Jhinu Danda – The Hot Spring Village of the Annapurna Region

Jhinu Danda (also written as Jhinudanda or Jhino Danda) is a small but internationally famous village in the Annapurna Conservation Area, located in Kaski District of Gandaki Province. The village sits above the Modi Khola river gorge at 1,760 meters and is surrounded by the dense subtropical forests and terraced hillsides characteristic of the lower Annapurna region.

The village serves a dual role in the Annapurna trekking ecosystem. It is both a key point on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek — positioned between Chhomrong (2,170 m) above and Siwai/Nayapul below — and the location of Nepal’s most accessible and most loved natural hot springs. Trekkers returning from ABC routinely describe the Jhinu hot spring soak as one of the greatest rewards of the entire trek.

Why Hire a Jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda?

4WD is Essential Beyond Nayapul

The road from Pokhara to Nayapul follows the well-paved Pokhara-Baglung Highway and is comfortable for any vehicle. However, beyond Nayapul, the road to Siwai and Jhinu Danda becomes a rough, unpaved, narrow mountain track that winds steeply through the Annapurna foothills. This section requires a 4WD jeep with high ground clearance. Standard passenger cars and 2WD vehicles are not suitable for this route.

Hotel Pickup from Pokhara Lakeside

With a private jeep from Nepal Vehicle Hiring, there is no need to travel to a bus station or public terminal. Your driver arrives at your hotel in Pokhara Lakeside at the agreed time and drives you directly to Jhinu Danda. This door-to-door service saves time and eliminates the stress of early morning navigation through Pokhara city.

Fastest Route to the ABC Trek Starting Area

A private jeep to Jhinu Danda is significantly faster than taking a bus to Nayapul and then walking or taking a shared jeep onward. For trekkers on tight itineraries, the time saved by driving all the way to Jhinu Danda versus starting on foot from Nayapul can mean an extra full day of trekking in the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Ideal for ABC Trek Return Pickup

Jhinu Danda is the most common pickup point for returning vehicles for trekkers finishing the ABC Trek. Most 7 and 8-day ABC itineraries end at Jhinu Danda (via Chhomrong) rather than walking all the way back to Nayapul. Arranging your return jeep pickup from Jhinu Danda before beginning the trek ensures your driver is waiting at the suspension bridge when you arrive.

Hot Springs Day Trip from Pokhara

Many travelers hire a jeep from Nepal Vehicle Hiring for a full-day round trip from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda purely to enjoy the natural hot springs. The combination of the scenic mountain drive, the Annapurna region atmosphere, and a long, relaxing soak in the geothermal pools makes this one of the best day trips available from Pokhara.

Pokhara to Jhinu Danda – Journey Quick Facts

Pokhara to Jhinu Danda Route Breakdown

The route from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda is a scenic journey through the foothills of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Here is a stage-by-stage breakdown of what to expect on the drive:

Stage 1: Pokhara to Nayapul – Approx. 42 km (1.5 to 2 hours)

The journey begins in Pokhara and heads west-northwest along the Pokhara-Baglung Highway. The road is smooth and well-paved throughout this section. You pass through the lively junction of Phedi, climb through the ridge village of Naudanda (with panoramic Annapurna views on clear mornings), and descend through Kande before reaching Nayapul.

Nayapul, at 1,070 meters, is a small bazaar village at a river confluence and serves as the major trekking departure point for the Annapurna region. The ACAP permit checkpoint is located just past Nayapul in Birethanti. Your driver will stop briefly here if you need to present or obtain your ACAP permit.

Stage 2: Nayapul / Birethanti to Siwai – Approx. 8–10 km (1 to 1.5 hours)

From Nayapul, the road crosses the Modi Khola river and turns onto the Annapurna Conservation Area jeep track. The surface immediately becomes rough and unpaved. This section winds through the Modi Khola river valley, passing through the traditional village of Birethanti and then following the river upstream through subtropical forest and small farming communities toward Siwai (also called Syauli Bazaar).

The road from Nayapul to Siwai is narrow, winding, and frequently passes through active farmland and small settlements. Your 4WD jeep driver will navigate this section carefully. The scenery is beautiful — the river rushes below, terraced fields climb the hillsides above, and the distant Annapurna peaks begin to appear on clear days.

Stage 3: Siwai to Jhinu Danda – Approx. 3–5 km (30 to 45 minutes)

From Siwai, the road continues on an even rougher track to the Jhinu Danda suspension bridge area. This final section is the most challenging driving of the entire route — steep, narrow, and deeply rutted in sections. The jeep descends into the Modi Khola gorge and reaches the vehicle drop-off point near the Jhinu Danda suspension bridge.

From the vehicle drop-off point, it is a short 5 to 10-minute walk across the famous Jhinu suspension bridge and up a short trail to reach Jhinu Danda village. The natural hot springs are a further 15 to 20 minutes downhill below the village on the riverbank.

Route Overview Table

Vehicle Options: Pokhara to Jhinu Danda 2026

Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd offers the following vehicle options for the Pokhara to Jhinu Danda journey:

Note: All private jeep prices include driver and fuel. Prices may vary by season, road conditions, and vehicle availability. Contact Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd for a confirmed quote for your travel date.

Private Jeep Rental: Pokhara to Jhinu Danda

A private 4WD jeep from Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt. Ltd. is the best choice for the journey from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda. Here is everything that is included with your private jeep rental:

• Hotel pickup directly from your accommodation anywhere in Pokhara Lakeside
• Well-maintained 4WD jeep – Mahindra Scorpio, Toyota Hilux, Fortuner, or Land Cruiser
• Experienced driver fully familiar with the Pokhara to Jhinu Danda route, including all rough road sections
• Flexible departure time – depart when you are ready
• Freedom to stop at any viewpoint, village, or attraction along the Pokhara-Baglung Highway
• Ample luggage space for full trekking bags, camera equipment, and personal belongings
• The driver remains with the vehicle at the drop-off point or returns at an agreed pickup time
• All fuel, toll charges, and driver expenses are included in the quoted price

Why a Scorpio or Hilux is Ideal for This Route

The Mahindra Scorpio and Toyota Hilux are the most popular and practical vehicles for the Pokhara-to-Jhinu Danda route. Both offer the 4WD capability and ground clearance necessary for the rough tracks beyond Nayapul, while providing comfortable seating for 4 to 6 passengers. The Hilux, in particular, with its 280mm ground clearance, handles the deeply rutted Siwai-to-Jhinu section with confidence.

Sharing a jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda

For solo travelers and budget-conscious trekkers, sharing jeeps to Jhinu Danda are available from Pokhara. Here is the key information:

Pros of the Sharing Jeep

• Most affordable option – NPR 1,000 to 1,500 per person
• Daily departures during trekking season – no booking required
• Good way to meet other trekkers heading to the ABC route
• 4WD vehicle handles the rough road sections competently

Cons of the Sharing Jeep

• Crowded – up to 7 or 8 passengers in one vehicle
• No hotel pickup – you must travel to Hari Chowk yourself
• Fixed departure time – departs only when all seats are filled
• No freedom to stop along the route for views or photos
• Less luggage space than a private vehicle

Private Jeep vs Sharing Jeep – Full Comparison

Jhinu Danda Natural Hot Springs – Everything You Need to Know

The Jhinu Danda hot springs are one of the most beloved natural attractions in the entire Annapurna region. The geothermal pools sit on the banks of the Modi River, approximately a 15-20-minute downhill walk from Jhinu Danda village. The springs are open year-round and accessible to all visitors, whether trekking or simply visiting for the day.

Location and Access

From Jhinu Danda village, a clear trail descends steeply to the Modi River gorge below. The hot springs are located right on the riverbank where geothermal water bubbles up from the ground alongside the cold glacial Modi River. The contrast between the warm spring pools and the rushing cool river beside them is remarkable. The trail down to the springs takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes and requires careful footwork on the steep stone path.

Temperature and Facilities

The hot spring water temperature at Jhinu Danda is typically between 35°C and 45°C — warm enough to be deeply relaxing and therapeutic after days of trekking, but not uncomfortably hot. The springs have been developed with basic concrete bathing pools and changing facilities. The natural setting, with the roaring Modi River below the Annapurna peaks, is spectacular.

Entry Fee and Opening Hours

Entry to the Jhinu Danda hot springs costs approximately NPR 200-300 per person. The springs are generally open from early morning to late evening during trekking season. There is no fixed official closing time during peak season.

Why Trekkers Love the Jhinu Hot Springs

• Perfect physical recovery after the steep Chhomrong descent and the full ABC trek circuit
• One of the few natural geothermal hot springs in Nepal accessible without a multi-day trek
• The view from the springs – deep gorge walls above, Modi River rushing past – is unforgettable.
• Soaking in hot water at 1,760 meters with Himalayan peaks visible on clear days is a uniquely Nepalese experience.
• Combined with a private jeep return to Pokhara, it makes for one of the best one-day excursions from the lakeside city

Jhinu Danda and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Jhinu Danda plays a central role in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary. Understanding how Jhinu fits into the ABC route helps you plan your jeep rental accordingly.

Recommended ABC Trek Transport Arrangement

The most popular and most efficient transport arrangement for the 7-day ABC Trek is as follows:

• Day 1 (Start): Private jeep from Pokhara hotel to Nayapul or Ghandruk – begin trekking toward ABC
• Day 7 (End): Trek descends from Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda – soak in hot springs (1–2 hours)
• Day 7 (Return): Pre-arranged private jeep picks you up at Jhinu Danda suspension bridge and returns to Pokhara hotel

This arrangement means you enjoy the hot springs as a reward at the end of your trek, and you arrive back at your Pokhara hotel the same evening rather than spending an extra night at Nayapul. Nepal Vehicle Hiring coordinates both the outbound drop-off and return pickup as part of a single booking.

Attractions Along the Pokhara to Jhinu Danda Route

Naudanda Ridge Viewpoint

Approximately 18 km from Pokhara on the Baglung Highway, the Naudanda ridge offers a sweeping panoramic view of Phewa Lake below and the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks above. On clear mornings, this is one of the finest roadside mountain viewpoints near Pokhara. Ask your Nepal Vehicle Hiring driver to stop for 10 minutes — it is well worth it.

Kande Junction

Kande is a small roadside settlement at a junction on the highway where the trail to Pothana and the Australian Camp begins. For trekkers combining a Poon Hill circuit with the ABC Trek, Kande is where the Poon Hill trail departs from the road. The mountain views from the tea stalls at Kande are excellent.

Nayapul and Birethanti

Nayapul is the major trekking gateway for the entire Annapurna region. Just past Nayapul, the charming village of Birethanti sits at the confluence of the Bhurungdi and Modi Khola rivers. The ACAP permit checkpoint is located here. The stone-paved village lanes, suspension bridge, and river views make Birethanti one of the most picturesque entry points to any trekking area in Nepal. Even if you are passing through by jeep, it is a beautiful spot for a brief stop.

Modi Khola Valley

The drive from Nayapul through Siwai to Jhinu Danda follows the Modi Khola river valley upstream. The turquoise-green river, the dense subtropical forest on the valley walls, the cascading side streams, and the distant white peaks visible at the head of the valley create a continuously spectacular series of views throughout this section of the drive.

Jhinu Suspension Bridge

The Jhinu Danda suspension bridge spans the Modi Khola gorge and provides the village’s final access. The bridge itself is a memorable highlight — swinging gently above the rushing river, with forested gorge walls above and the Annapurna peaks on the distant horizon. Crossing this bridge at the end of a successful ABC Trek, knowing the hot springs are minutes away, is one of the great small pleasures of Annapurna travel.

Permits Required for Jhinu Danda and the ACAP Area

Jhinu Danda lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. All visitors — whether trekking or visiting only for the hot springs — are required to hold an ACAP permit. Trekkers additionally need a TIMS card.

Note: Permits are checked at the Birethanti ACAP checkpoint, which all vehicles and trekkers pass through on the way to Jhinu Danda. Always carry your original permits with you.

Best Time to Hire a Jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda

Autumn (September to November) – Best Season

Autumn is the finest season for the Pokhara-to-Jhinu Danda jeep journey. Post-monsoon skies are crystal clear, roads are in excellent condition after the summer grading, and the Annapurna views from the Baglung Highway and the Modi Khola valley are outstanding. October and November are the peak trekking months. Book your private jeep well in advance.

Spring (March to May) – Excellent

Spring offers warm temperatures, blooming rhododendrons along the Modi Khola valley trail, and generally excellent road conditions. The Annapurna region is at its most colorful in March and April.—A superb time for the jeep journey to Jhinu Danda.

Winter (December to February) – Good

Winter offers clear skies and fewer fellow trekkers on the trail. The Pokhara to Jhinu Danda road is generally open in winter except after heavy snowfall above Nayapul. The hot springs are particularly enjoyable in winter — soaking in warm geothermal water on a cold Himalayan morning is a memorable experience.

Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended

The jeep track from Nayapul to Jhinu Danda is particularly vulnerable to monsoon damage. Heavy rainfall causes landslides, deep road rutting, and occasional complete blockages on this unpaved section. Nepal Vehicle Hiring does not recommend this route during the monsoon season.

What to Pack for the Pokhara to Jhinu Danda Journey

• Swimwear or shorts – essential for enjoying the Jhinu hot springs
• Quick-dry towel – pack a lightweight travel towel for the hot spring visit
• Warm layers and a fleece – even in spring and autumn mornings t, the Modi Khola valley can be cool
• Waterproof jacket – for the unpaved section from Nayapul onward, where rain can start suddenly
• Sturdy trekking shoes – the path down to the hot springs from Jhinu village is steep and rocky
• Camera – the Modi Khola valley drive and the hot springs setting are both outstanding photography subjects
• Nepali cash – for ACAP permits (if not already obtained), hot spring entry fee, and lunch at Siwai or Jhinu teahouses
• Water bottle – stay hydrated throughout the 3.5 to 5-hour journey
• Motion sickness tablets – the road beyond Nayapul is winding and bumpy
• Light snacks – energy bars and biscuits for the drive

Expert Tips for the Pokhara to Jhinu Danda Jeep Rental

• Book your private jeep at least 2 to 3 days in advance – and 5 to 7 days ahead during October, November, March, and April peak seasons.
• Obtain your ACAP permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Pokhara Lakeside on the morning of departure or the day before – do not leave it for the Birethanti checkpoint.t
• Depart from Pokhara by 7:00 AM or 7:30 AM to give yourself maximum time at Jhinu Danda, especially if planning a same-day return after the hot springs.
• If ending your ABC Trek at Jhinu Danda, always pre-book your return jeep with Nepal Vehicle Hiring before beginning the trek – do not expect to find a vehicle available at the Jhinu suspension bridge without prior arrangement.
• Tell your driver if you want to stop at Naudanda viewpoint – on a clear morning,s the Annapurna panorama from the ridge is spectacular and adds only 10 minutes to the journey
• Carry small-denomination Nepali notes for the hot spring entry fee (NPR 200–300) and for any food or drinks at teahouses in Siwai or Jh.inu.
• Wear sturdy footwear in the vehicle, even before the jeep ride – the walk from the vehicle drop-off point to the village and down to the hot springs involves uneven terrainn
• If visiting purely for the hot springs (no trekking), consider visiting on a weekday in the off-peak season for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
• The hot spring pools can be busy with trekkers in the late afternoon during peak season – arriving in the morning for a day trip from Pokhara means you often have the pools to yourself.

How to Book Your Pokhara to Jhinu Danda Jeep Rental

Booking your private jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda with Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd is quick and straightforward:

• Step 1: Contact us via phone, WhatsApp, or at vehiclehiringnepal.com
• Step 2: Share your travel date, departure time, group size, hotel name in Pokhara, and purpose of trip (trek, trek return pickup, or hot springs day trip)
• Step 3: Choose your vehicle – standard jeep, 4WD Hilux/Fortuner, or premium Land Cruiser
• Step 4: Confirm one-way, round-trip, or rTrip pickup arrangement (for ABC trekkers)
• Step 5: Receive your booking confirmation with the driver’s name, vehicle details, and exact pickup time
• Step 6: Your driver arrives at your Pokhara hotel at the agreed time and takes you to Jhinu Danda

For ABC Trek return pickups, we coordinate with your trek guide’s schedule to ensure your driver is at the Jhinu suspension bridge when your group arrives — even if your trek finishing time changes due to weather or pace.

WhatsApp: +977 9851013196
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.vehiclehiringnepal.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How far is Pokhara from Jhinu Danda?

The road distance from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda is approximately 50-60 kilometers. The exact distance varies depending on the specific road track used on the Siwai to Jhinu Danda section.

How long does the jeep ride from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda take?

A private jeep takes approximately 3.5 to 5 hours. A shared jeep typically takes 4 to 5 hours with additional stops. The time varies depending on road conditions, especially on the rough unpaved section beyond Nayapul.

How much does a private jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda cost in 2026?

A one-way private jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda costs approximately NPR 6,000 to 14,000 (USD 45 to 105) depending on the vehicle type. A round-trip costs NPR 10,000 to 24,000. All prices include driver and fuel.

Is a 4WD jeep necessary for this route?

Yes. The road from Nayapul to Jhinu Danda is a rough, unpaved mountain track that requires 4WD capability and high ground clearance. Standard passenger cars and 2WD vehicles are not suitable beyond Nayapul. All jeeps provided by Nepal Vehicle Hiring are 4WD vehicles.

Can I visit the Jhinu Danda hot springs without trekking?

Yes. Many visitors hire a jeep from Pokhara specifically for a day trip to the Jhinu Danda hot springs with no trekking involved. The hot springs are accessible to all visitors with a valid ACAP permit. Nepal Vehicle Hiring offers round-trip day tour packages for this purpose.

Where do shared jeeps to Jhinu Danda depart from in Pokhara?

Sharing jeeps to Jhinu Danda depart from Hari Chowk (near Bindhayabasini Temple) in Pokhara, approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi from Pokhara Lakeside. Departures are between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, depending on the jeep’s capacity.

How do I arrange a return jeep from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara after my ABC Trek?

Always pre-book your return jeep with Nepal Vehicle Hiring before beginning your trek. We coordinate with your trek guide via WhatsApp or radio to confirm your arrival time and ensure your driver is waiting at the Jhinu suspension bridge. Do not expect to find a vehicle available at the trailhead without prior arrangement.

What time do I need to leave Pokhara for a day trip to the hot springs in Jhinu Danda?

Departing from Pokhara between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM allows you to arrive in Jhinu Danda between approximately 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM. After 1 to 2 hours at the hot springs and lunch at a local teahouse, you can depart for Pokhara by early afternoon and arrive back by evening.

Do I need a permit to visit Jhinu Danda?

Yes. Jhinu Danda is within the Annapurna Conservation Area. All visitors need an ACAP permit (NPR 3,000 for foreigners), available from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Pokhara Lakeside. Trekkers also need a TIMS card (NPR 2,000). Hot spring day visitors need only the ACAP permit.

Book Your Pokhara to Jhinu Danda Jeep Rental with Nepal Vehicle Hiring

Whether you are beginning the adventure of a lifetime on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, returning from the mountains to reward yourself with a long soak in the legendary Jhinu hot springs, or simply making the scenic drive from Pokhara into the Annapurna foothills for the day, the journey from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda by private jeep is one of the finest short vehicle journeys in all of Nepal.

Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd provides Pokhara’s most reliable, professional, and fairly priced jeep rental service for the Jhinu Danda route. Our 4WD fleet, experienced Annapurna-route drivers, flexible booking options, and door-to-door hotel service make every aspect of your journey from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda smooth, safe, and truly memorable.

Contact Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd today at vehiclehiringnepal.com to book your Pokhara-to-Jhinu Danda jeep rental and start your Annapurna adventure the right way.

WhatsApp: +977 9851013196
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.vehiclehiringnepal.com