Ruby Valley Trek
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Trip Duration
9 Days |
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Region
Langtang Treks |
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Country
Nepal |
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Group Size
2 to 15 person |
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Best Season
March To May And Sept To Nov |
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Max Altitude
3482M |
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Difficult Trekking is both moderate and difficult. Altitude you reach is around 4000-5500 meters. Hike about 6 hours per day and requires to be physically fit and acclimatization is required.
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Activities
Nepal Trekking
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Ruby Valley Trek Overview
Ruby Valley Trek in the Ganesh Himal region is among the best introduced recent treks in Nepal. Located between the Langtang and Manaslu range, this off-beaten trek receives only a handful of trekkers every year. Hence if you are someone seeking a peaceful trek on the Nepalese Himalayas, then this Ruby Valley Trek serves you with its best.
Every step on the Ruby Valley trekking trails mesmerizes you with the soaring views of the Langtang, Ganesh, and Manaslu range. The flora and fauna of this region never step backward to astonish you.
The exotic biodiversity and the intact natural beauty of the pristine lakes, natural hot springs, and gusting rivers take away all your stress from your busy life schedule. Further, the eyecatching waterfalls, including the popular Ganga and Jamuna, draw the attention of most of the trekkers visiting this region.
Eminent as the former mining center for Zinc, copper, and tin, the region got its name mainly from the locally found one of the highest-priced Ruby minerals. Abundantly found herbal species and former mineral mining tunnels of this Ganesh Himal region compels most of the trekkers to visit this region.
In the old days, these herbs were used to exchange salts with the people from the Tibetan lands. These herbs were used during the preparation of several Tibetan herbal medicines. In recent days also, these herbs hold huge importance in making several medicines. Wondering about the medical values of the herbal species? Do not worry, during your trek on this Ganesh Himal trekking trails, ask with the locals. They give you much more information.
Discovered by the TAAN(Trekking Agencies Association Nepal) in 2012, this Ruby Valley Trek’s cultural wonders are more fascinating than the other natural replenishment. Passing through each of the Tamang and Gurung villages, you will be fascinated by their overwhelming hospitality.
Though the accommodation service in those villages might not full your luxury needs, the interaction with the villagers never disappoints you. Instead, you are sure to fall in love with their sincerity and smiling faces. The cultural dances in the Tibetan-influenced Tamang villages of Gatlang, Somdang, Shertung, Tipling, and Chalish Gaon are there to reflect their culture among the trekkers. But, this does not mean that they perform the cultural dances just to lure the trekkers, they perform to show their identity as well.
With their cultural attire, the locals perform to promote their identity. If you have the will to immerse yourself in the wilderness of culture and nature, then you are just one click away. Booking the 9 Days Ruby Valley Trekking with Mission Himalaya Trek, you can explore the best of Nepal. We also customize the trek package as per your preference and needs.
Trip Highlights:
- Maximum Elevation: 3842m.
- Start Point: Syabrubesi.
- End Point: Dhading Besi.
- Route: Kathmandu-Syabrubesi-Gatlang-Somdang-Pangsang La Pass-Tipling-Shertung-Chalish Gaon-Borang-Dundre-Dhading Besi- Kathmandu
- Accommodation: Teahouse, Lodge, Homestays, Hotels
- Best season: Throughout the year
Why Ruby Valley Trekking?
Less visited by the trekkers, this newly opened trekking lets you immerse yourself in the pristine cultural and natural beauty of the rustic Himalayas. If you are craved for trekking in Nepal but are scared of the high-altitude treks, then this Ruby Valley trek is for you. From the historical mining tunnels to the lush rhododendron and pine forest, each of the factors seems appealing during this trek.
Moreover, the homestay on the traditional and ethnic villages of Tamang, Gurung, Ghale, Chhettris, and Brahmin is something to be experienced once in a lifetime. Watching the people working on the terrace farmlands gives you the idea of Nepalese agriculture ideas. The weaving of the bamboo handicrafts by the locals gives you glimpses of the skills of the local people. Each day on the trekking trails greets you with a unique trekking experience.
Whenever you think of trekking in Nepal, snowcapped white mountains are the only attractions that come up to your mind. But, it is not the only attraction available. There are a lot more things to explore and experience in Nepal. And this Ruby Valley Trek is the perfect example of that.
Short Itinerary for Ruby Valley Trek:
Below is our 9-day Ruby Valley Trekking Itinerary.
Day 1: Namaste and Welcome to Kathmandu Nepal.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi Drive.
Day 3: Syabrubesi to Gatlang Trek.
Day 4: Trek from Gatlang to Yuri Kharka to Somdang.
Day 5: Somdang to Tipling via Pangsang La Pass.
Day 6: Tipling to Chalish Gaon Trek.
Day 7: Chalish Gaon to Borong to Dundre trek and join the jeep drive up to Dhading Besi.
Day 8: Drive from Dhading Besi to Kathmandu Valley.
Day 9: Departure Day.
How to get into the Ruby Valley Trekking Trails?
To step into the trails of Ruby Valley, there are different options available. The first and most popular one is a drive from Syabrubesi, the gateway of Langtang Region Treks. The next one is a drive from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi. And the third one is a drive from Kathmandu to Arughat, the gateway of the Manaslu region Treks.
Commencing the trek from Dhading Besi or Arughat is quite daunting. Thus, we the team of Mission Himalaya Treks have chosen Syabrubesi as our Ruby Valley Trek starting point. Driving along the Pasang Lhamu Highway from Kathmandu we pass the Trisuli Bazaar and Dunche to reach the Syabrubesi. Proceeding the trek from Syabrubesi we walk through the Bahun Danda Pass to reach Gatlang. Cherishing the great hospitality, we further continue our trek towards Somdang, Pangsang La Pass, Tipling, Shertung, Chalish Gaon, Borang, and Dundre before taking a drive back to Kathmandu Valley from Dhading Besi.
Throughout the trail, you will get blessed with the awe-inspiring views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu Himal. On top of that, the overwhelming hospitality of Tamang, Gurung, and Gale is something that you admire for the rest of your life.
Ruby Valley Trek extensions:
If you have enough days to spend on the off-beaten trails of the Nepalese Himalayas, then Ruby Valley Trek serves you with several options of joining the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, and Tamang Heritage trail trek. Further, instead of making the downhill trek, you also have the option to further climb up towards the Ganesh Himal Base Camp.
Best Time for the Ganesh Himal Ruby Valley Trekking
Being the lower altitude trek, the trek to Ruby Valley is absolutely doable throughout the year. But, whenever there comes the best, nothing can beat the wonders of the Spring and Autumn trek. With the mind-boggling crystal clear view of the surrounding environment and moderate temperature, you can relish each second full of happiness. The unobstructed views of Langtang, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal range are the treasure of both the Autumn and Spring Trek to this Ganesh Himal region.
Where the colourful dry leaves greet your Autumn trek, the Spring trek astonishes you with the vibrant rhododendrons. Moreover, the greenery, waterfalls, and baby animals add more glamour to your Spring Trek to the Ruby Valley.
Though the winter and summer are considered the offseason trek in Nepal, the trek to Ruby Valley during the winter and summer fills up your journey with much wonder and excitement. Obviously, excessive summer rainfall and unbearable winter cold are always there to make your summer and winter trek quite irritating. However, with some tiny challenges, great scenery, experience, and memories are waiting for you in every season.
Accommodation and Food during the Ruby Valley Trek
Accommodation:
If you are thinking of spending a night with the luxurious service in the deluxe hotel rooms, then the Ruby Valley trek is not for you. But if you are seeking an off-the-beaten-path trek with the availability of just a simple place to put on your head then, this trek to the Ganesh Himal region is a perfect option.
Furthermore, if you love homestay service, then homestay on the Ruby Valley Trekking trails is the best homestay in Nepal. Yes, the service is extremely basic in both homestays and teahouses, but they never compromise anything regarding your hygiene and privacy. Normally, the bathrooms on these homestays are of Nepali squat styles and normally you have to use these bathrooms with other trekking members or family members.
Food
It is your foolishness if you expect the western dishes during your walk on the trekking trails of Ruby Valley. Unlike other popular Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and so on, the village on the trails of Ruby Valley Trek are quite more rustic and remote. The region is visited by only a few trekkers, so there are few lodges and teahouses on the route. And these teahouse does not offer much variety on their food menu.
Expect the delicious Nepali traditional Dhal Bhat set in each of the teahouses. Furthermore, during your homestay, you can also taste some traditional Tamang and Gurung dishes as well. Most of the food available here is organic. Though Nepali Dhal Bhat set is available in each of the villages, with the change of place, you will notice some different tastes.
How much Ruby Valley Trek in Nepal costs?
Compared to other popular Annapurna and Everest region Treks, this newly opened off-beaten path trek is far less cheap and is affordable for budget trekkers. As this trek does not demand any flight service to reach the trek starting point, it saves your money. Deluxe hotel service during the trek is not available so, you are likely to save much of your money with that. For the available basic service, you needn’t have to pay higher for food and accommodation.
Bring the moderate level trek, you needn’t have to invest your money on the climbing gears and equipment. Moreover, if you choose the local bus drive over the private jeep, you can save some money there. Thus, if you are seeking a budget-friendly trek, then book this Ruby Valley trek with us at a reasonable cost.
Electricity, Wifi and Drinking water during the trek
Electricity is not a matter of concern during the Ruby Valley trek. However, during your stay at the places like Somdang and Pangsang, people extract electricity from solar. So you may sometimes find it difficult on charging your cell phones and camera during your stay at such places.
Getting wifi service throughout the trails of Ruby valley trek is like dream. Yes, in most of the parts you can enjoy the wifi service. But if you expect it throughout the trial, be ready to disappoint yourself.
Drinking water straight from the tap is not good for the trekkers’ health. So to keep yourself healthy always drink the filtered water of boiled water. Drinking boiling water is quite impossible throughout the trek, so better keep water purifying pills in your bag and use them whenever you need them. If you are thinking of buying bottled water, then keeping environmental pollution in mind remove this thought from your mind.
Ruby Valley Trek Itinerary
Day 1: International Arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport and hotel transfer
Walking Hours: 30 Minutes Driving
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel
After your arrival at the only International airport in the Kathmandu Valley, our team member will meet you, greet you and escort you to the hotel room. Upon reaching the hotel room, do some rest. In the evening, after listening to some trek information and instruction enjoy your dinner.
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Syabrubesi
Walking Hours: 9 Hours Driving
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge
Max. Altitude: 1585M
Today we wake up early morning to catch the bus heading from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. Away from the bustling streets of Kathmandu Valley when you reach close to the Syabrubesi, you will find the drive a bit adventurous with narrow and winding paths. While trekking along the Trishuli river, you will pass the Trishuli Bazaar and Dunche before reaching Syabrubesi.
During the drive, you will get bewildered by the amazing landscape and mountain views. Once, you reach Syabrubesi, the gateway to the Langtang region Treks and Ruby Valley Trek itself, you will spend a wonderful night there.
Day 3: Syabrubesi to Gatlang
Walking Hours: 5 To 6 Hour Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge
Max. Altitude: 2330M
With the chirping sound of the birds, get up and take the early breakfast and prepare yourself for your first day on Ruby Valley trekking trails. Thereafter following the congested and meandering trails head to Gatlang after passing through the small Tamang settlement of Goljung. Appreciating the heartwarming hospitality of this Tamang settlement, spend your night there at Gatlang.
Day 4: Gatlang to Yuri Kharka to Somdang
Walking Hours: 7 Hour Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge
Max. Altitude: 3270M
On this day we will make your first hike to the Parvati Kund which is located around 45 minutes away from the Gatlang. We will stroll around this sacred pond for a while and then head towards the Yuri Kharka following the trail amidst a lush forest of pine and rhododendron.
With every ascending step we notice a few trekkers on the trail. And while walking on the tranquil trails, mesmerizing views of Langtang and Ganesh Himal are the one that accompanies you. After trekking for around 5 hours to the Yuri Kharka, we further proceed our trek towards Khurpu Bhanjyang (3710m) before the descend towards the Somdang river.
Well known as the border region of Rasuwa and Dhading districts, the trail from the Somdang river leads you to the Somdang Valley. On the trail, you can also observe some former mining tunnels. Though the tunnels are not much in use today, in the past, the mining tunnels were used to extract zinc, tin, copper, and so on.
Furthermore, Ruby was also found in this region and it is from where the trek got its name ‘Ruby Valley Trek’. Besides these mining tunnels, the trek today blesses you with the scenic Chukarma waterfall.
At the serene ambiance of Somdang, enjoy the peaceful sleep there.
Day 5: Somdang to Tipling via Pangsang Pass(3842m/12605ft)
Walking Hours: 7 Hours Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge
Max. Altitude: 2079m/6820ft
The trek today is the toughest yet rewarding. Starting our day with the Pangsang Pass trek towards the southwest direction from Somdang, you will get astonished with the views of the soaring Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. The Pangsang Pass is also the best viewpoint for admiring the surrounding landscape.
The small gompa at the Pass is also an attraction here. Further, with the huge biodiversity, the region lets you explore the diverse medicinal herbs and plants. With some time spent at the pass, we then venture into the rhododendron forest to reach Tipling. There are a handful of teahouses at Tipling where you can rest for the night.
Day 6: Trek from Tipling to Shertung to Chalish Gaon(1674m/5505ft)
Walking Hours: 6 To 7 Hour Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge
Max. Altitude: 1875/6188ft
On this day, after the morning breakfast, we descend towards the Adha Khola. Crossing the Adha Khola river we climb towards the Tamang village of Shertung. Trekking through the Shertung village, you get to better connect yourself with the local Tamang people.
Thereafter, we continue our trek to Chalish Gaon. Inhabited mostly by the Gurung people, Ghale, Tamang and other Dalit people are residing in this village. However, before exploring the village, continue your trek towards the Tatopani. After relaxing for some time at the hot water of Tatopani, make your return back to Chalish Gaon for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Chalish Gaon to Borang to Dundre trekking and drive to Dhading Besi
Walking Hours: 5 To 6 Hour Trekking And 1 Hour Driving
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge
Max. Altitude: 580m/1902ft
Today is the last day of our official Ruby Valley trek. Continuing the trek from Chalsih Gaon we head further towards Borang and then to Dundre. From Dundre, we take a jeep drive to reach Dhading Besi. After, the long day trek on the remote trekking trails with some of the best homestay in Nepal. Enjoy your night at the beautiful lodge in Dhading Besi.
Day 8: Return Back to Kathmandu from Dhading Besi
Walking Hours: 4 To 5 Hours Driving
Meals Included: Breakfast And Lunch
Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel
Max. Altitude: 1350M
Take a drive from Dhading Besi to Kathmandu valley. It takes around 5 hours to reach Kathmandu from Dhading Besi. Upon reaching the Kathmandu Valley, you can make your visit to some of the UNESCO world heritage sites.
Day 9: International Departure
Walking Hours: 30 Minutes Driving
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: None
This is your final day in Nepal. Our representative will transfer you to the airport.
Ruby Valley Trek Cost
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3 Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner in trekking).
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All transportation by private vehicle according to the itinerary.
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3-star standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
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English Speaking altitude certified Trek and Tour Guide with government licensed and first aid trained.
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Accommodation in lodge/homestays/tented camp during trek.
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Sleeping bag and Down jacket(have to be returned after trek finish).
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Trekking map of Ruby Valley.
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Required permits and TIMS(Trekkers Information Management system permits).
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Required number of porters.
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Accommodation, meals, salary, equipment, transportation, and insurance for the trekking staff (guide and porter).
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Welcome to Farewell Dinner depends on your arrival time.
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All applicable government taxes and official expenses(No hidden cost).
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International Airfare and airport taxes.
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Tips for guide porter and driver.
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Sightseeing cost in Kathmandu.
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Personal expenses including beverages or alcoholic drinks.
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Visa fee for Nepal (US$ 30 for 15 days).
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Travel Insurance(most cover higher altitude emergency evacuation).
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Expenses occurred due to unforeseen circumstances which we cannot control.
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Anything not mentioned in the includes section.
Trip Gear
Ruby Valley Trek Map
Download Map
Ruby Valley Trek FAQ'S
It’s all up to you, how long you want to spend on the Ruby Valley trekking trails. But speaking in general, this trek can be completed within a week and if extended takes more than two weeks to complete. Here we have designed the trek itinerary of 11 days.
Being the off-beaten Path trek, the trek to Ruby Valley is obviously not for the weak ones. Rather it is for the normal trekkers who have a good fitness level. If you have previous trekking experience, it will be a boon for you.
The main thing you have to keep in mind before this trek is that, the trekking trails goes uphill and downhill several time. Therefore, keeping the thought of at least 5 hours of daily uphill and downhill climb on the untrodden trekking trails, do some jogging and some normal exercise prior to the actual trekking.
As the trek to the Ruby Valley takes you to the highest elevation of 3842m, at Pangsang La Pass there is far less chance or no chance of getting caught by altitude sickness. But don’t forget, you are going to trek over the altitude of 2500, there is the risk of altitude sickness to some extent.
So to avoid this sickness, drink plenty of water and eat excessive fluidal eateries like soup, lentil and so on. Further, walking at the proper speed is also something that you need to take care of during this trek.
It is possible to trek the Ruby Valley with a Trekkers’ Information Management System(TIMS) card only. But, here on our itinerary, we are starting the trek from Syabrubesi. Therefore, starting the trek from Syabrubesi requires the Langtang region trek permits and that is Langtang National Park, Entry Card.
To acquire these permits, you can visit the Nepal Tourist Service centre in Kathmandu. No doubt, acquiring these permits from the Kathmandu office is always a better option. However, if you wish then you can get these permits from the Park entry point Dunche. Dunche is a village in the Rasuwa district that comes before the Syabrubesi.
Located at a close distance from Kathmandu Valley, the trek to the Ruby valley does not fall under the restricted regions. Thus trekking alone is completely possible. However, as the trekking trails of this trek are less traversed by the trekkers, it is recommended to hike this region with a guide.
When trekking alone on such less trodden trekking trails, there is a high risk of getting lost in the dense woods. Further, the people in the village do not know how to speak English Language, so to better connect with these locals also your guide plays a vital role.
Associations
