Overview
The Ruby Valley Trek in Nepal’s Ganesh Himal region is one of the least-explored hidden trekking trails. The walk was named Ruby Valley because the Ganesh Himal region contains reserves of the gemstone ruby. The mining is not particularly significant, but the entire region contains large reserves of minerals, including this red valuable stone. The Ruby Valley Trek is a peaceful and relaxing journey with a breathtaking view of the beautiful Himalayas. The Ruby Valley walk runs between Manaslu Conservation Area and Langtang National Park. Along with the breathtaking views of Ganesh Range, Lamjung Himal (6,800m), Langtang Lirung (7,300m), Manaslu (8,163m), and several more peaks, we also see two beautiful waterfalls: Ganga and Jamuna. Ruby Valley Trek combines breathtaking landscape with the distinct culture and traditions of Tamang, Chhetri, and Gurung societies. The trail, which is home to a variety of herbal plant species and minerals such as ruby, crystal, and zinc, is made even more lovely by the sight of exotic flora and fauna.
Top Highlights of Ruby Valley
- Stunning mountain vistas
- Vibrant local culture
- Pristine natural beauty
- Unique trekking experience
- Hidden gem of Nepal
Itinerary
You will arrive in Kathmandu valley at the Tribhuvan International Airport, and our agents from Gravity Expedition will be there to pick you up. They will take you to your hotel, where you can rest and enjoy a delicious and traditional Nepali meal. In the evening, you have the option to attend a fascinating folk cultural performance.
Following breakfast the following morning, you will go for a full-day sightseeing trip of the Kathmandu Valley. You may see Swyambhunath, a very old temple that is essentially classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the revered Pashupatinath Temple.
Highlights of our guided trip include the largest Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath and the exquisite artwork and old architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square, which showcase the ancient culture of Nepal.
Patan City’s historic architecture and renowned fine arts will charm you on a visit. You will have time to explore the neighborhood, eat supper, and maybe take a leisurely stroll down the well-known streets when you get back to your hotel. A traditional Nepalese dinner at the Nepali Cultural Restaurant rounds off the day.
After breakfast, we travel out of Kathmandu into the north-western slopes for almost 7-8 hours. Along the way, you will see beautiful scenery, including magnificent snowcapped mountains such as Mt. Annapurna II, Manasalu, Ganesh Himal, and other lesser peaks, as well as a lush landscape of hillocks, rivers, and villages. Explore the Himalayan landscape and lifestyle through terraced farms and rural settlements. The landscape of slopes and ridgeline vistas as you pass through Trishuli Bazaar, Betrawati, and Dhunche makes you feel like you’re heading into low ground. We have lunch at the Trishuli Bazaar before continuing on to Dhunche. We descend to Syabrubesi for an overnight stay.
We’ll travel from Sybrubensi to Gatlang via Chawatar. The track ascends the sandy and twisty motorway to Chawatar, then to Gatlang. Gatlang is a particularly popular settlement along the Tamang Heritage Trail. The Tamang ethnic group are the primary occupants of this village, and they have highly distinct customs and lifestyles. Overnight at a tent camp.
Parvati Kunda is located right above Gatlang. We will begin to journey upwards towards the famous sacred Kunda, which attracts many pilgrims during Janai Purnima. From here, the trail continues through pine and rhododendron forests to Yuri Kharka. We rest for a while before continuing on the trek to Khurphu Bhanjyang and then descending to the Somdang River. Stay overnight in Somdang. Overnight at a tent camp.
Pangsang Pass is only a short day’s trek from Somdang Village. It is the greatest vantage for seeing the stunning panoramic views of the Manaslu and Ganesh Himal ranges. We can see the stunning Ganesh Himal (7422 meters). In ancient times, the valley was utilized to trade herbs and animals with Tibet. A few lodges are being erected at Pangsang Pass, but we’ll stay in our tented camp for the night.
Today, we will leave Pangsang and travel to Tipling. We cross the Pangsang pass (3830m) to reach Pansan Kharka, a pastureland for local cattle herders. The trail follows the rocky ridge until it reaches Adha Khola. From here, we shall rise to the sister settlements of Shertung and Chalise Gaon. Overnight at a tent camp.
It would be a short four to five hour journey to Hindung village, commonly known as Gomba Danda. We will walk the entire hike along the Tatopani Khola, admiring the lush green hills and mountain peaks on the distant horizon. Locals in this region collect Yarsagumba (a medicinal herb) on the Hindung mountains. Overnight at a tent camp.
Today will also be a short day trip in hard uphill terrain with stunning vistas of the mountains in this region. The trail continues through seasonal meadow meadows utilized by residents to graze their cattle, eventually leading to a large open green field. It is the ideal area to camp. Spend the night at Thulo Dhunga in a tent camp.
Today we will explore the valley, starting with an ascent to Dorba Danda from whence we can see the Ganesh Himal (7422m). The breathtaking view is unforgettable. We will view the Seto Kunda and the Kalo Kunda, which are located at the base of the Himalaya. This Kunda is said to have supernatural qualities, and it is thought to benefit trekkers. We’ll descend back to Thulo Dhunga. Overnight at a tent camp.
The trek follows the same trail through the bush. The gorgeous mountains that surround us on all sides will keep us fascinated throughout the walk. The extraordinary biodiversity of the region will astound us as we descend to Hindung. We shall be greeted by the Pasang Dolma Gate as we return to Hindung. Overnight at a tent camp.
Our walk takes us through a hot spring where we can take a relaxing little soak before continuing along the stone-paved steps built by Nepal’s British Gurkhas. We shall pass via Tirgaon on our way to Richetgaon. Today’s hike takes us over beautiful hills and rich foliage before arriving at Richetgaon. Overnight at a tent camp.
Today our trail continues from Richetgaon. It is a small Gurung settlement with about 30 houses. The trail continues along the farmlands of rice and barley to Lapa Gaon which is the largest Gurung village in this region. Kapur Gaon is situated just above the Lapa Gaon. On reaching the Kapur Goan, we can enjoy the locals dancing on their cultural song and can have the typical meal prepared by the Gurungs. Overnight in a tented camp.
Magne Goth is a popular location for ruby extraction. Today’s trek leads us uphill through a deep and beautiful rhododendron forest to Magne Goth, which stands at 2936 meters. Following a rather short journey, we can tour the area and see the locations surrounding the extraction site. Overnight at a tent camp.
Today, after crossing the Magne Goth, we’ll enter Gorkha District. The trail drops steeply to the Chote Khola and then ascends to the forested landscapes with stunning mountain vistas of Manaslu Himal (8163m). We will pass through several small settlements, including Dhonjet, Kartunje, and Manbu. After passing through Manbu village, we shall return to the Dhading district, where the Lapu Danda is located. Overnight in a lodge.
We may take in the breathtaking vistas of Himalchuli (7853m), Shringi peaks, and the Ganesh Range. We shall continue to ascend the trail, going through the Besari farmlands. Beautiful mountains can be viewed along the road. The trek leads up to the twin waterfalls Ganga and Jamuna. Overnight at a tent camp.
Today will be our last day of trekking and we will continue along the trail descending gradually through the farmlands, small settlements, and a few waterfalls to reach Tripura Sundari. We will cross the beautiful Akhu River before entering the Tripura Sundari. We can reflect upon the successful completion of the trek on the final day. Overnight in a tented camp.
Today we’ll drive back to Kathmandu, taking in the last vistas of the Manaslu Range. A five to six-hour trip will take us to Kathmandu. We will transfer you to your accommodation upon arrival in Kathmandu. You can choose to rest or buy for gifts and souvenirs in the local bazaar. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Leisure day in Kathmandu, followed by a farewell meal and celebration. You can ask your guide to take you on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. On this day, you can visit the valley’s numerous museums, including the Narayanhiti Museum, which was previously the residence of Nepal’s last king. You can also visit the hilltop of Nagarkot. After exploring the valley’s world heritage sites, you will enjoy a farewell supper with your Nepali friends and guide. You and your guide may even decide to extend your stay to include a Chitwan jungle safari, rafting activities, and other activities.
Our representative of Gravity Expedition will accompany you to Tribhuvan International Airport as you prepare to board your flight back home. While you travel home, you can start thinking about your next adventure here in Nepal, and rest assured that Gravity Expedition will be there to provide excellent service for your future endeavors.

Cost Includes
- Airport – Hotel transfers in KTM,
- Hotel in KTM (Nepali Ghar) for 2 nights pre and two nights post-trek, including breakfast on a twin-sharing basis,
- City tour of Boudhanath, Pashupatinath & Swyambhunath,
- Transportation, tour guide and entrance tickets during the city tour,
- Transportation KTM – Sybrubesi – Tripura Sundari - KTM,
- Langtang National Park entrance fee,
- Tims (Trekkers Information Management System) card,
- Tents during the trek,
- Accommodations including food during trek,
- Boiled water, tea, coffee, including all food,
- Guide & Porter during the trek,
- Salary & insurance for all Nepali staff.
Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome and farewell dinner),
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary,
- Beverages and alcoholic drinks on the trek,
- Personal trekking equipment,
- All personal expenses, including Nepal Visa (for country entrance),
- Personal medical and evacuation insurance,
- All other additional charges for additional services,
- Additional tips for a tour guide,
- Personal purchases,
- Any other expenses that are not included in Cost Includes.
FAQs
The Ruby Valley Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The trek involves a mix of gradual ascents and descents through diverse terrain, including terraced fields, forests, and rugged paths. While the highest altitude reached is not extremely high compared to some other treks in Nepal, the trek can still be physically demanding due to the varying terrain and length of daily hikes. Regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training before the trek will help prepare your body for the physical challenges. Acclimatization to the altitude is also important, so ascending gradually and allowing time for your body to adjust will enhance your trekking experience.
Accommodation on the Ruby Valley Trek primarily consists of local teahouses and lodges run by families from the Gurung, Tamang, and Tibetan communities. These lodges offer basic amenities, including a bed, blankets, and communal dining areas. The facilities are generally simple but clean and comfortable. Some teahouses may offer private rooms, but most provide shared accommodations. The trek provides an authentic experience of local hospitality and allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s culture. It’s advisable to be prepared for basic living conditions and to embrace the simplicity and warmth of staying in traditional lodges.
Environmental considerations for trekking in the Ruby Valley region include following Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural environment. This involves avoiding littering, properly disposing of waste, and using designated waste disposal facilities. It’s also important to respect local wildlife and natural habitats by staying on established trails and avoiding disturbance. Using eco-friendly products, such as biodegradable soap, and conserving water helps protect the region’s fragile ecosystem. By being environmentally conscious, trekkers contribute to the preservation of the natural beauty and sustainability of the Ruby Valley Trek.
The Ruby Valley Trek is packed with highlights. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal and other stunning peaks, and pass through lush forests and terraced fields. The trek also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional Tamang and Gurung villages. You might even get the chance to see some local festivals or ceremonies, which can be a fascinating experience. Plus, the trek features natural hot springs where you can relax and unwind after a day of hiking.
The Ruby Valley region is rich in wildlife, although sightings can be relatively rare due to the area’s remote and less trafficked nature. Keep your eyes peeled for various species of birds, such as the Himalayan monal and several types of pheasants. You might also spot small mammals like red pandas and Himalayan tahr, especially in the more forested areas. As with any trek, it’s important to respect wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
Preparing physically for the Ruby Valley Trek will enhance your overall experience. A combination of cardiovascular exercises, such as running or cycling, and strength training for your legs and core will be beneficial. Aim for at least 3-4 days a week of training in the months leading up to your trek. Incorporate hikes with a loaded backpack to simulate trekking conditions and build stamina. If possible, try hiking at higher elevations to get accustomed to the effects of altitude. The better prepared you are, the more enjoyable and manageable the trek will be.
Equipments
1.0 Travel Documents
- Valid passport
- Credit/Debit card
- Passport size photo (6 pieces)
- Insurance paper and contact address
- Family contact number
2.0 Upper Body Wear
- Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs)
- Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Gore-Tex Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Down Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Cotton T-Shirt (2 Pcs)
3.0 Lower Body Wear
- Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs)
- Fleece Trouser (1pcs)
- Gore-Tex Pant (1 pcs)
- Mid Weight Pants (1Pcs)
- Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants (2-3 Pairs)
- Gaiters for trekking boots
4.0 Headwear
- Sun Cap
- Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs)
- Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs)
5.0 Handwear
- Thin fleece gloves
- Wind stopper/screen tap gloves
- 6.0 Footwear
- Normal Socks (2-3 Pairs)
- Trekking Shoes (Gore-Tex)
- Slipper (1 Pair)
7.0 Sleeping Bags
- Sleeping bag -20°c to -30°c for Base camp
- Down Sleeping Bag -40°c for extreme comfort
- Thermarests Mattress (Cell foam)
- Sleeping bag Liner
- Inflatable Pillow
8.0 Trekking Equipment
- Power Bank
- Pee Bottle
- Altimeter watch
- Pocket Knife
- Walking Stick/Trekking Pole
- Satellite Phone with credit
- Battery
- Headlight 500-700Lumens
- Spare Tape Slings/240cm
- Unlock Carabiner
- Lock Carabiner
9.0 Bag packs
- Rucksacks 35 L -50 L
10.0 Sun stuff
- Banana Boat/ Nivea Sun Cream (-20 Spf)
- Lip Guard -20 (Spf)
- Sun Glasses (Uv Protection)
11.0 Toiletries (Personal)
- Toilet Paper / Wet Tissue
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Towel
- Garbage Bag
12.0 Eating & Drinkings
- 1 ltr. Water Bottle
- 1/1.5ltr. Thermos Mug (Opt.)
- Spoon / Fork (opt.)
- Bowl (opt.)
13.0 Medical / First Aid
- Brufen / Ibuprofens
- Antibiotic
- Diamox
- Paracetamol
- Handy Plaster
- Crack Bandage
- Tincture Iodine
- Ondem
- Cetirizine
- Electrolyte
- Minil 10mg (Palpitation, anxiety)
- Codopar (Headache & chest pain)
- Salbetol 4mg (Breathless)
- Azithromycin 500mg (chronic tonsillitis, fever, nose, throat infection-must take 5 days)
- Flupen 250mg (prevent wound infection)
- Allegra 120/180mg (Allergic tonsil)
- Menstrual Products
14.0 Miscellaneous
- Nail cutter
- Umbrella /Raincoat
- Hot water bag
- Camera
- Trails Maps
- GPS Tracker (Recommended)
- Hand & Toe Warmer
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