Ruby Valley Trek

Overview

Ruby Valley Trek, formerly known as Ganesh Himal Region, is one of the best less 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 less touristic areas to experience authentic local culture, stay in 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 on higher altitude. Along the trail, the trek offers splendid close views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Bouddha Himal, Hiunchuli and other peaks of central Himalayas. The highest altitude on this trek is the Pangsang Pass, at an altitude of 3850 m from 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 gate to the classic Langtang Valley trek. Alternatively, this trek can be started from Dundure Khola (135 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 to Dundure Khola, which is connected via Dhading Besi. Our original itinerary starts from Arukhet, following the Manaslu route 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 one is starting a trek or whether ending this trek in Syabrubesi, one needs to buy a Langtang National Park entrance permit that can be purchased at Dunche or in Kathmandu. Trekking agencies are happy to arrange the permit and guide. For more information about Nepal trekking permits,.

Facilities in Ruby Valley

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

Itinerary

Day 01: Follow the Manaslu 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, stop for lunch at Borang (1425 m). Trek to Sertung (1900 m).
Day 06: Rest in Sertung and optional afternoon visit to Phyangchet Monastery.
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 (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.