Ruby Valley Trek

Ruby Valley Trek Overview

Ruby Valley Trek, formerly known as Ganesh Himal Region, is one of the best, least touristy hiking trails in central Nepal. It is a hidden valley between the Langtang and Manaslu trails. This newly proposed trekking destination is close to the capital city of the Kathmandu Valley. Ruby Valley Trek is best for those who like to trek in very little tourist areas to experience authentic local culture, stay at home, and interact with locals residing in the region. The main ethnic groups are Tamang, Gurung, Magar, and Dalit. Tamang is the majority ethnic group in the upper part of Ganesh Himal in villages like Sertung, Tipling, and Jharlang, whereas there are Brahmans, Kshetris, and Dalits (considered to be low caste) in the lower part of Ruby Valley. The scenery is splendid, from Pangsang Pass to Singla Pass.

The trek goes through foothills and lowland terraced farmlands to ethnic Tamang villages at higher altitudes. Along the trail, the trek offers splendid close views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Bouddha Himal, Hiunchuli, and other peaks of the central Himalayas. The highest altitude on this trek is the Pangsang Pass, at an altitude of 3850 m above sea level. Pangsang Pass offers one of the finest views on this trek.

Getting There

There are multiple ways to get around it. The trek can be started from Syabrubesi, some 150 km from Kathmandu. Syabrubesi is also the main gateway to the Classic Langtang Valley Trek. Alternatively, this trek can be started from Sertung Village - the biggest Tamang people settlement (155 km) from Kathmandu via Dhading Besi. Many people start the trek from Bhalche in Nuwakot and trek via Sing La Pass (4045 m). Daily local buses are available to Bhalche, Syabrubesi, and Borang from Kathmandu, which is connected via Dhading Besi. Our original itinerary starts from Bhalche village, the longer version trek at Arkhet, following the Manaslu Circuit Trekking trail for the first day. 

Ruby Valley Trekking Permit

Yet, Ruby Valley is neither a conservation area nor a national park, so this trek doesn’t require a specific trekking permit. As the TIMS Card is compulsory for all the treks in Nepal, this is necessary for this trek too. If you are starting a trek or ending this trek in Syabrubesi, you will need to purchase a Langtang National Park entrance permit, which can be obtained in Kathmandu. Wilderness Excursion included the trekking permit as part of your Ruby Valley Trek Package. For more information on Nepal Trekking Permit. .

Facilities in Ruby Valley

Ruby Valley Trek in the Ganesh Himal region is not facilitated like other major trekking trails, such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Trek Route; basic lodges and homestay facilities are available. Homestay trek is comparatively low cost, so it is affordable for most of you wilderness lovers on a budget. If you are looking for a comfortable trek with good accommodations and a variety of food options, then this trek may not be ideal for you. Wilderness Excursion can arrange a fully supported camping trek with the best service on your request.

Ruby Valley Extended Itinerary to explore the area in depth (Cost USD 899 per adult, exclusive package). 

Day 01: Follow the Manaslu Circuit Trek Route to Arkhet, then cross the river and trek up to the Lapu Danda (1026 m).
Day 02: Trek via Dhunchet to Lamo Dhunga (1930 m).
Day 03: Mostly a forest walk today to our camp in a clearing at Nauban Kharka (2710 m).
Day 04: Cross the Myanghal Bhanjyang and descend to Lapagaon (1700 m).
Day 05: Descend to the river, cross 2 bridges, and stop for lunch at Borang (1425 m). Trek to Sertung(1900 m), our home village.
Day 06: Rest in Sertung and a Day Hike to Phyangchet Monastery and Buddha Statue.
Day 07: Trek via Tipling to Marmelung Kharka (3000 m).
Day 08: Ascend to the Pansang La (3850 m) and camp there.
Day 09: Trek south on the Tiru Danda to a camp at Gokchet (3660 m) below the Sing La.
Day 10: Cross the Sing La Pass (4000 m) and descend to Gongam Bhanjyang (2900 m).
Day 11: Descend through forest and then farmland to Kipsang Pokhari (1790 m).
Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu, where we check in at the group hotel.

What side trips are recommended while doing the Ruby Valley Trek

The Ruby Valley Trek offers stunning Himalayan scenery and unique Tamang and Gurung culture, with some side trip options to enhance your trekking experience.

• Kalo Daha Side Trek: Kalo Daha is a holy and isolated lake situated at the very lap of the Ganesh Himal, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and folk tales. This Side Trip to Kalo Daha will require + 5 days from Sertung. You can arrange local porter cum guides at Sertung if you are trekking independently. However, there are no teahouse facilities on the route, and you need to supply your necessities yourself. We recommend hiring a properly experienced guide to enhance your trekking experience in depth.
• Tatopani (Natural Hot Spring): Tatopani meaning “hot water” in Nepali is a day hike destination for a natural hot spa, Nepalee believe that illness such as arthritis and other body ache related deseases can be healed by soaking in natural hot spa: Is some 2 to 2. 5 hours downhill walk from Sertung and 3 hours to retuned based at Sertung camp.
• Brakar Jo: From Sertung, you can hike to Brakar Jo, the distance is some 500 meters up. There is a huge newly built Buddha Statue and the (Phenchet Gompa) Buddhist monastery of Nyingma Tradition that holds important religious and historical significance. The shrines were renovated after the deadly earthquake in April 2015. The place provides a spectacular view of the Ganesh Himal range and the Ruby Valley itself.