Ruby Valley Trek

10 Days
  • Moderate
  • Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu
  • Rasuwa / Dhading
  • Adventure/Active
  • 12+
  • Private and Group
  • Fully Guided
  • Instant Booking
  • 3842 m
  • March-May and Sep-Nov

Overview

Ruby Valley Trek, previously known as the Ganesh Himal region, is a hidden gem located in central Nepal. It is one of the best less touristy hiking trails and is situated between the Langtang and Manaslu trails, making it a great option for those seeking a unique trekking experience. The trek is conveniently located close to the capital city of Kathmandu and is perfect for those who want to trek in a less touristic area and immerse themselves in the authentic local culture.

The main ethnic groups that can be found in the area are Tamang, Gurung, Magar, and Dalit. Tamang is the majority ethnic group in the upper part of Ganesh Himal and can be found in villages such as Sertung, Tipling, and Jharlang. In the lower part of Ruby Valley, there are Brahman, Kshetris, and Dalit, who are considered to be of a lower caste.

The Ruby Valley Trek takes you through the foothills and lowland terraced farmlands, leading to the Tamang villages located at higher altitudes. Along the way, you will be treated to close-up views of the magnificent Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Bouddha Himal, Hiunchuli, and other peaks of the central Himalayas. The highest point of the trek is the Pangsang Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 3850 meters above sea level. The Pangsang Pass offers some of the finest views on the trek and is a must-visit for all trekkers.

In conclusion, the Ruby Valley Trek is a hidden treasure that offers a unique and authentic trekking experience in Nepal. With its stunning scenery, diverse ethnic groups, and close proximity to the capital city, it is a great option for those looking for a less crowded trekking route. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, the Ruby Valley Trek is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the friendly locals, and experience the beauty of the central Himalayas.

The trek takes you through foothills and lowland terraced farmlands, leading up to ethnic Tamang villages at higher altitudes. As you progress along the trail, you will have the opportunity to enjoy close views of the magnificent peaks of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Bouddha Himal, Hiunchuli, and other central Himalayan peaks. The highest point of the trek is the Pangsang Pass, which stands at an altitude of 3850 meters above sea level and offers one of the finest views of the entire trek.

There are several ways to approach the Ruby Valley trek, depending on your preference. You can start the trek from Syabrubesi, which is about 150 kilometers from Kathmandu and is also the main gateway to the classic Langtang Valley trek. Another option is to start from Dundure Khola, which is 135 kilometers from Kathmandu and can be reached via Dhading besi. Some people prefer to start the trek from Bhalche in Nuwakot and trek via the Sing La Pass, which stands at a height of 4045 meters. Daily local buses are available to Bhalche, Syabrubesi, and Dundure Khola, connecting you to the trek via Dhading besi.

Highlights of Rubi Valley Trek

  • The Ruby Valley Trek offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists. This trek is not heavily visited, making it a rare and exclusive opportunity for travelers to explore the area. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the rich culture of the local dwellers, who are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature.
  • One of the highlights of the Ruby Valley Trek is the opportunity to visit the biggest natural hot spring in Nepal. This hot spring is a popular destination for those looking to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of trekking.
  • In addition to the stunning natural beauty of the area, visitors will also be able to sample delicious organic food varieties. The local residents are proud of their organic farming practices and are happy to share their bounty with visitors.
  • For those looking to cool off, the Ruby Valley Trek also offers plenty of opportunities for swimming and fishing in fresh running water. This is a great way to escape the heat and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
  • Finally, visitors to the Ruby Valley Trek will have the opportunity to experience an evening Gurung cultural program. This program is a chance to learn more about the local culture and traditions, and to enjoy traditional music and dance performances.
  • In conclusion, the Ruby Valley Trek offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists, with its rare tourist visits, rich cultural experiences, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality of the local dwellers.

Itinerary

The journey from Kathmandu to Sybru Bensi, which stands at an altitude of 1530 meters, marks the beginning of the Ruby Valley Trek. The trekkers will travel along the Northern Highway and pass through several charming villages, picturesque landscapes, and fertile crop fields along the way. The journey, which takes approximately 8 to 9 hours, will also offer breathtaking views of the Ganesh Himal Range, Manaslu, and the peaks of the Langtang range.

The first day of the trek will be spent in the beautiful Tamang village, which is located near the Bhote Koshi River. This village is renowned for its traditional Tamang culture and warm hospitality. The trekkers will have the opportunity to explore the village and learn about the local way of life.

As the day comes to an end, the trekkers will settle into a cozy lodge for the night. This will provide a comfortable and convenient base from which to begin their journey into the heart of the Ruby Valley. The lodge will offer all the necessary amenities and a warm bed to rest and recharge for the next day's adventures.

In conclusion, the journey from Kathmandu to Sybru Bensi is an exciting and scenic start to the Ruby Valley Trek. The trekkers will be able to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Tamang village, before settling into a comfortable lodge for the night.

The Ruby Valley Trek trail takes trekkers from the village of Sybru Bensi up to Bahun Danda Pass, and then down to the Tamang village of Gatlang. This journey offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Tamang people and to experience their unique customs and craftsmanship.

Gatlang is a foundation village on the Tamang Heritage Trail, and is located in a magnificent setting above the Parvati Kunda. The village is known for its stunning views and rich cultural heritage, and is a popular destination for those interested in learning about the Tamang people and their way of life.

In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Gatlang is also a popular pilgrimage site. Every year on the full moon of Janae Purnima, thousands of pilgrims are attracted to the sacred pond and nearby temple. This pilgrimage is an important event in the Tamang community, and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the religious and cultural customs of the Tamang people.

In conclusion, the trail from Sybru Bensi to Gatlang is a unique and unforgettable experience for trekkers. The journey takes trekkers through breathtaking landscapes and offers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Tamang people. Whether exploring the unique customs and craftsmanship of Gatlang, or participating in the annual pilgrimage, the Ruby Valley Trek is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.

The Ruby Valley Trek continues from Yuri Kharka, ascending uphill through a forest of Pine and Rhododendron trees. The journey to Yuri Kharka takes trekkers to an elevation of 3710 meters, where they can enjoy a lunch break and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

After lunch, the trek continues to Khurphu Bhanjyang, and then descends to the Mailung Khola. The Mailung Khola is located on the border of the Rasuwa and Dhading districts, and offers trekkers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remote region.

As the trek continues north of the Mailung Khola, it passes through a lush green valley to the 200-meter Chukarma waterfall. This stunning waterfall is a highlight of the Ruby Valley Homestay Trek, and is surrounded by breathtaking scenery that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Ruby Valley Trek also offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage. The area is home to a former mine that has been explored by both private and government investors. The mine is the site of a 1.4 km tunnel that was bored into the mountain to extract valuable minerals such as zinc, copper, tin, crystal, and other highly-prized materials. This fascinating historical site provides a unique opportunity for trekkers to learn about the region's rich mining heritage and to explore the remnants of this former mine.

It is a journey that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Whether exploring the lush green valleys, admiring the stunning waterfall, or learning about the region's rich mining heritage.

The Pangsang Pass, located at an elevation of 3842 meters, offers trekkers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding terrain. From the pass, trekkers can admire the soaring peaks of Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal Range to the north, taking in the beauty of the region from this unique vantage point.

After taking in the views from Pangsang Pass, the trail continues down to the Marmailung, and then to the Tamang settlement of Tipling village. Tipling is a vibrant and culturally rich community, with a majority of its residents belonging to the Tamang ethnic group.

The village is home to two Buddhist Gombas and a Catholic church, and is dotted with prayer flags and Chhortens along the way. When visitors and trekkers come to Tipling, they are treated to a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the Tamang community. Visitors can witness traditional cultural programs, such as the Shaman Dance, Horse Dance, Mane Dance, Mendo Maya, Paru Dance, and the Lama (Monk) Dance, which are popular among the local residents.

In conclusion, the Pangsang Pass and Tipling village are two highlights of the Ruby Valley Trek that offer trekkers a unique and unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain at the Pangsang Pass, to the rich cultural heritage and traditional programs of the Tamang community in Tipling, the Ruby Valley Trek is a journey that will leave a lasting impression on all who take it

After a nourishing breakfast, we embark on the next leg of our journey, making our way down to Kami Gaun. We cross the Adha Khola on a newly constructed box bridge, and then ascend the Sakpara danda and reach the village of Chalish. This trail takes us through fertile fields and flat terrain, and we get to see the daily life of the local Nepali people.

Sertung, another village on our route, is primarily inhabited by Tamang people, who are known for their rich culture and traditions. According to local folklore, the name Shertung means "place of gold", and it was said to have been founded by two brothers who were led there by a dream in search of gold. The Tamang people have a number of cultural dances that they perform for visitors, including the Jhankri or shaman dance, and the Ghode or horse dance.

Chalish, on the other hand, is primarily inhabited by Gurung, Ghale, and Kami people. The Newar community used to reside there but has since migrated to the city of Kathmandu. The hospitable people of Chalish are known for their unique customs and traditional cultural dances, such as the Ghatu Dance, a welcoming dance performed for visitors, and the Dohori, a call-and-response dance between male and female participants that is considered a type of courtship ritual. Some dances are performed during specific festivals, such as the Maruni Dance during Dasai and Tihar, the Hai Nelo Dance during Tihar, and the Ghatu or Ghasiri Dance during Chandi Purnima.

The men of the Gurung community traditionally wear vangra, a woven, embroidered cotton cloth that serves as a pouch for carrying goods. The Sri Tinkanya Devi Mandir is located above Chalish, and local women often tie bits of cloth or leave a bangle near a small pool of water surrounded by Barmase or periwinkle flowers, representing a wish they hope will be fulfilled.

After a nourishing breakfast, we embark on a hike to explore the hot springs. The trail takes us down to the Ankhu Khola, where we cross the Khar old suspension bridge. The path leads us through the fertile lands of the local villagers, and then ascends to Tikkas Danda, which offers a great place for a short break after the ascent. The journey continues as we descend into the lush jungle, walking along a well-trodden path until we reach the highly anticipated destination of Tatopani, a hot spring known for its rejuvenating properties. We spend some time relaxing and soaking in the warm waters before making our way back to Chalish Village. It is recommended to bring a packed lunch for this excursion, as it will take approximately 4-5 hours to complete the round trip, including time spent at the hot spring. Overnight accommodation will be arranged in Chalish Village.

Starting the day with a nutritious breakfast, we embark on a thrilling hike towards the destination of Borang. The trail leads us through a lush jungle, with the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves accompanying us along the way. The journey is a descent, with the trail winding its way down through the dense vegetation.

As we make our way through the jungle, we finally reach the destination of Borang, a place surrounded by natural beauty and serenity. After taking in the sights and sounds of the area, we then proceed to drive to Dhadingbesi, which serves as our overnight stay. Dhadingbesi offers a peaceful and comfortable environment to rest and recharge for the next day drive to Kathmandu

In the morning, we embark on a drive back to the bustling city of Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we will be transferred to our hotel where you can take a moment to relax and unwind after a long and adventurous journey. If you wish, you can also go for some last-minute shopping to pick up souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones back home. With a comfortable bed to retire to, you can spend the night in the hotel, ready to depart for your next destination the following day.

Includes/Excludes

Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop by car/van/bus
  • TIMS cards
  • Entry permit
  • Meals during trek (breakfast/lunch/dinner)
  • Experienced local guides and porters
  • All accommodation during the treks
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit) with regular check up of oxygen saturation

Excludes

  • Any food, deserts and accommodation during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • Travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost.
  • Nepal entry visa fee and International air fare.
  • Personal equipment.
  • Tips for guide and Porter (Tipping is expected)
  • Personal expenses such as: Alcoholic beverages, hot shower, water bottle, cold drinks, hot water, battery charge and donation. etc.
  • Extra night food and accommodation due to any reason.
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned on ‘price included’ section

FAQs

Best Seasons

All four seasons allow Rubi Valley trekking. The valley tastes different in each season. The Ruby Valley region is especially popular in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) after the monsoon.

Spring’s longer, warmer days, clear skies, and beautiful landscape make it ideal for Himalayan trekking. In spring, Ruby Valley’s rhododendron forests are pink, crimson, and white. After the dry winter, vegetation grows anew. Aromatic wildflowers surround pathways at higher elevations.

Exploring Ruby Valley in October is fantastic. You walk under a blue sky, fresh air, and mountain vistas. Langtang Trekking is ideal in the fall because to the temperate weather, festive season, amazing views, and well-maintained routes.

Lifestyle and Festivals

Tamangs dominate Rubi Valley. TheRubi Valley trail originally connected Nepal and Tibet. Because of the Himalayas, people in this region share many Tibetan beliefs and behaviors. Prayer flags and Mani walls symbolize their Buddhism. Tamangs make famous Yak cheese. During your tour, you’ll eat local cheese in numerous dishes. Your visit will be useful for cross-cultural dialogue.

Tamang music includes Damphu and Cello. Cello music is funny, sarcastic, joyful, and tragic. Tamang music is quick and rhythmic. Sonam Lhochhar is the Tamangs’ biggest festival (February–March). Festivities honor the Tamang new year.

Heritage and landscapes

On this trek, you’ll meet members of Nepal’s Tamang, Newari, and Sherpa communities, each with its own distinct culture and way of life. Villagers in this area of the Himalayas are very happy to share their culture with visitors, which has been heavily impacted by Tibetan Buddhism.

When compared to other renowned trekking destinations, the route to Ruby Valley is still something of a hidden gem. This means that even during the busiest time of year for trekking, you won’t have to worry about crowds ruining your experience of the stunning landscapes, charming villages, and tranquil trails adorned with Buddhist prayer flags and Chortens.

As a result, visitors to the Ruby Valley in Nepal will feel a sense of adventure and boldness, making it an excellent destination for those seeking solitude in the Himalayas.

Flora and Fauna

Ruby Valley includes Langtang national park which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna that can be observed by hikers on the trek, including pandas, the endangered musk deer, endangered goats, snow leopards, and many other species of birds and butterflies. As you travel through the

Ruby valley, you will likely come across these creatures.

If you’re looking for a trip with soul, look no farther than the Ruby valley. The Ruby valley is one of Nepal’s most picturesque areas, and it used to be a popular destination for hikers because of its proximity to Kathmandu, its rich cultural heritage, and the warm welcome they received at the many charming homestay guesthouses in the area.

Recommended Gears for the Trek

The Ruby Valley Trek Trek can be appropriate and pleasant if you are geared up with a proper packing list. Therefore, being prepared with the packing list prior to the trek comes in handy. 

The necessary packing list for the trek are mentioned under the following points:

Clothing

  • Jackets (Windproof or Down)
  • Waterproof outerwear
  • Thermal wears
  • Woolen hat or cap
  • Pair of gloves
  • Shoes
  • Tracksuits and trouser
  • Trekking boot
  • Towel 

Equipment

  • Bags
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Camera, binocular and mobile phones
  • Extra batteries or power bank
  • Water purifier tablets
  • Headlamp and torch
  • Trekking Sticks
  • Lighters
  • Whistle 
  • Toilet papers and tissue papers

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Ruby Valley Trek
From $650
/ Adult
  • Professional Local Guides
  • Customised Trip