The Ruby Valley Trek is a 12-day off-the-beaten-path adventure through the spectacular Ganesh Himal Region of Nepal. This culturally rich trek takes you deep into remote mountain villages, pristine forests, sacred alpine lakes, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes that remain untouched by mass tourism.
Beginning with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, the trail winds through traditional Tamang settlements, including Gatlang, Somdang, Tipling, and Chalish Gaon. Along the way, you'll visit the sacred Parvati Kunda, cross the magnificent Pangsang Pass (3,800m), and enjoy panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, Dorje Lakpa, and the Tibetan Himalayas. The trek also offers opportunities to experience authentic village life through comfortable homestays, traditional cuisine, and warm local hospitality.
Ideal for trekkers seeking a genuine cultural experience, the Ruby Valley Trek combines moderate hiking with unforgettable scenery, rich traditions, and diverse landscapes. From lush rhododendron forests and terraced hillsides to alpine meadows and remote valleys, every day offers a unique perspective on Nepal's hidden Himalayan beauty. This trek is perfect for those looking to escape crowded trails while supporting sustainable tourism and local communities.
The Ruby Valley Trek offers an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal's least-explored trekking regions, nestled between the Langtang and Manaslu mountain ranges. This hidden Himalayan trail is renowned for its spectacular mountain panoramas, authentic Tamang and Gurung culture, and peaceful trekking routes far from the crowds.
Throughout the trek, you'll discover picturesque villages, cross the scenic Pangsang Pass, visit the sacred Parvati Kunda, and walk through forests filled with rhododendrons, pine, and diverse wildlife. The route rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of more than 20 snow-capped peaks, including Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna, Dorje Lakpa, and the Tibetan Himalayas.
With traditional tea houses and community homestays, the trek provides an authentic cultural experience while directly benefiting local communities. Suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness, the Ruby Valley Trek is an excellent choice for travelers seeking adventure, natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a true off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal.
Welcome to Kathmandu! Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will meet our representative at the airport who will take you to your hotel in the center of Kathmandu. On your first day you can spend the rest of the day to relax or explore the vibrant streets and winding allies while discovering numerous restaurants, cafés and stores. The evening is yours to settle down after your long journey.
You will start your Ruby Valley journey through a drive to Syabrubesi. We will be driving into Langtang National Park, where we must register our trek permits. The 7 to 8 hours scenic drive following the Trisuli Bazaar, Ramche Gaon, and Dhunche is undoubtedly a pleasant ride. The road is a bit narrow and rocky, but the alluring landscape will leave you in awe. We spend the night in Syabrubesi. Syabrubesi, being the mid-point of several treks and the border of China, has all the things you might require for the trek. We rest and relax at Syabrubesi and prepare for our hike the next day.
Our destination for today is a small Tamang village called Gatlang. We follow a narrow and twisty trail to Bahun Dada Pass and then descend to reach Gatlang. We stop at Chawatar for lunch. The food is amazingly delicious here as most of the vegetables are freshly picked and locally grown. As we pass through this magnificent Tamang village, we witness the richness of their culture and tradition. We stay at Gatlang with the Tamang people. Their hospitality and food, without a doubt, will prove to be one of the best experiences you will ever get.
We begin the hike from Gatlang to Parvati Kunda, a natural alpine freshwater lake. Named after the famous Hindu Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva, this beautiful lake is also considered sacred by the local people.
As you trek further ahead, the habitat and lodges decrease. However, you might come across very few tourists. We continue the trail through lush pine and rhododendron forest to Yuri Kharka. After a delicious meal at Yuri Kharka, we hike towards the Somdang via Khurphu Bhanjyang. There is a shutdown mine, a few hours' walk from Somdang. Though the mine has not functioned for years, you can still take a look around and explore its astonishing beauty. In the past, this mine used to produce zinc, copper, tin, and crystals (including rubies).
We will spend the night at Somdang Valley. The valley is so remote and silent you will literally find out what silence looks like.
On this day, you will be passing through the Pangsang La Pass, which is a demanding, yet exciting trek. While appreciating the stunning mountains and spectacular landscapes, we head to the southwest of Somdang Village to reach Pangsang Kharka. Pasang Kharka is a large meadow that lies in Pangsang Pass.
From Pasang Kharka, you can witness the panoramic views of Mount Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal Range. As one of the lesser-traveled trekking routes, there are relatively fewer homestays here. Then, we descend to Laptung village, passing through dense fir and rhododendron forests until we arrive at Tipling after a long trek.
Today's trek will be a short and relaxing one as we trek our way to the sister villages of Shertung and Chalish Gaon. First, we descend through the serene jungle, cross a tributary and reach Chalish Gaon, which lies in an idyllic setting. About 100m above Chalish Gaon is Shertung village, and both of these settlements have a lot to explore. However, you can just choose to relax and enjoy the spectacular surrounding fields and lush valley below. Shertung and Chalish Gaon are inhabited mainly by Gurungs, Tamangs, and Dalits.
Spend a leisurely day off in the lovely village of Chalish Gaon. Explore the traditional settlement, engage with the welcoming locals, and take in their distinct way of life. You can also unwind and soak in the serene mountain scenery or go for an optional hike to the neighboring natural hot springs offers a soothing experience for those who want to explore further. Additionally, you can explore nearby monasteries, take in expansive vistas, or just relax while admiring the serene alpine landscape. Experience an unforgettable cultural presentation in the evening that offers a true understanding of the rich legacy of the area through traditional music and dances performed by the local population
After a pleasant breakfast, you will hike through verdant forests, terraced farmlands, and small rural settlements on your way to the traditional village of Borang. Along the route, take in the serene ambiance of the Ruby Valley and breathe in stunning vistas of the nearby hills. The trail gradually descends from Borang to Lishne Khola, passing through wooded areas and streams until arriving at the campsite by the river. You can unwind and take in the peaceful natural surroundings during the evening.
Today, after having your breakfast, you will drive from Lishne Khola to Dhading Besi (580m/1,902ft), the district headquarters of Dhading. A last look at the stunning Ruby Valley panorama is provided by the scenic drive, which winds along winding mountain roads through charming communities, terraced fields, and verdant river valleys. After arriving, settle into your accommodation and have a leisurely evening.
After breakfast, say goodbye to the stunning Ruby Valley highlands and start your picturesque journey back to Kathmandu. Before connecting to the Prithvi Highway, the route travels by picturesque villages, terraced farmlands, and the Trishuli River. Enjoy the shifting scenery as you go from the peaceful countryside to the busy capital. After arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing and thinking back on the trek's special moments.
Today is your relaxing day in Kathmandu after your rewarding trekking adventure. You may choose to spend the day resting at your hotel or treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa or traditional massage to ease tired muscles. Before you leave, this is the ideal time to indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping, enjoy regional cuisine, or just think back on the amazing mountain scenery, friendly locals, and life-changing experiences of your trip.
It is time to say Goodbye to Nepal. We will pick you up and drop you off at the airport, where you will catch your flight back home. We hope you had a wonderful, long-lasting experience with us, and maybe you now know the answer to why you were looking for that special challenge. Have a safe trip!
| 2 travellers | 4 travellers | 8 travellers | |
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Standard
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$ 1769 | $ 1719 | $ 1639 |
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Deluxe
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$ 1988 | $1938 | $1879 |
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