Ruby Valley Trek Highlights:
- Stunning views of the majestic Ganesh Himal range, and ample snow-capped peaks in rugged beauty.
- Experience the rich Tamang culture and stay in traditional Tamang villages.
- Explore the unexplored region of the Ruby Valley, known for its picturesque village, landscapes, and terraced fields.
- Relaxing break at the natural hot springs in Tatopani.
- Cross Pangsang La Pass 3,842 m /12,604 feet, which offers panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Manaslu ranges.
- Encounter numerous waterfalls that add to the trek's natural beauty.
- Experience the warmth of Nepalese hospitality by staying in local homestays, and learn about the daily lives of the villagers.
- Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries along the trek.
- Explore the historical valleys of both Langtang and Gorkha.
- Experience a peaceful and off-the-beaten path trek.
Ruby Valley Trek Overview
If you are looking for a trip unlike the overcrowded Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp Trek then Ruby Valley Trek would be the best choice. The Ruby Valley Trek is certainly a very captivating journey that takes you to the relatively unexplored trekking route in the Ganesh Himal region of Nepal. This hidden gem takes you into the untouched valley offering a unique opportunity to experience an off-the-beaten-path and enjoy the real trekking experience.
The Ruby Valley Trek lies between the Lantang Region and the Manaslu Region which offers a great mountain view and pristine natural beauty. This literally means that this beautiful trek will take you to the two different valleys of Langtang and Manaslu. Both of these valleys are hidden gems and untouched by mass tourism. The views of soaring peaks, vibrant landscapes, unique culture, flora-fauna, and diverse topography are as stunning and charming as any other commercial trekking destination of Nepal.
As you walk these two different valleys, you will have the opportunity to witness the unique cultural richness of these regions. You will be amazed to meet the TAMANGS in the valley of Langtang and as you progress further over the Pangsang La you will be greeted by the GURUNGS and the MAGARS. Tamang, Gurung, and Magars are in some way similar when it comes to their cultural dress and traditions. However, they have different languages and few dissimilarities in few customs and norms.
The local communities in the regions are considered very brave, helpful, honest, and peace-loving people. They take foreigners as their special guests and welcome them with open arms and warm hospitality. This may be the reason why, named after the precious gemstone, the Ruby Valley Trek is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and for its warm and hospitable local communities.
The Ruby Valley Trek offers a picturesque journey through remote valleys, dense forests, gushing waterfalls, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The trek takes you through the Ganesh Himal range, which consists of several majestic peaks, including Ganesh I, Ganesh II, Ganesh III, and Ganesh IV. These snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop throughout the trek, adding to the charm and allure of the experience.
Why is the Valley named 'Ruby Valley'?
The Ruby Valley which is located in Dhading in the Gorkha District is known for its Natural Mineral Resources. This beautiful valley was named 'RUBY' simply because of its association with the discovery of rubies and other precious gemstones in the area. However, there isn't any historical documentation regarding the large-scale ruby mining in the region. Furthermore, there isn't enough evidence that the valley was indeed a high source of rubies. But it is believed that many precious stones including the rubies were found in the region that attracted miners and traders. But there is very little known fact about the mining projects of rubies that were practically done in the area on a large scale.
With the little finding of the rubies, this stunning valley in the Gorkha region was named 'THE RUBY VALLEY' This valley which lies at the foothills of Ganesh Himal is stunningly beautiful. In recent years Ruby Valley is getting trendy as more and more trekkers are seeking serenity and solitude.
Today, the Ruby Valley is gaining recognition as a trendy Trekking Destination, with travelers visiting to explore its pristine natural beauty. Due to its untouched trekking routes, unique cultural heritage, and pristine beauty more and more trekkers are visiting the region every year. While the attraction of rubies may have faded in the region, the name Ruby Valley is of great historical importance.
Ruby Valley Trek Trip Information:
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, which is a 7/8 hours drive. We take a private vehicle and drive the winding road towards the north entering the Nuwakot district. As we drive we will witness diverse landscape settings and the the way of life from prosperous towns to rustic lifestyles. Gradually we will stop at the big town of Trishuli, named after the river which means a confluence of 3 rivers. After Trishuli we will now gradually enter the Rasuwa district and drive the lush forest roadway ascending towards hilly landscapes.
After reaching the town of Dunche we will descend to Syabrubesi with a dramatic backdrop of Ganesh Himal. Syabrubesi is a small prosperous town located on the banks of the Bhote Koshi River. From Syabrubesi, the trail ascends through terraced fields and traditional small villages. Gradually we get to the high ridge with the magnificent view of Ganesh Himal and from there the trail gets easy and gradual. As you walk the remaining trail, the landscape gradually changes with the most beautiful dramatic setting. Eventually, we get to the primeval-style TAMANG village of GHATLANG which is very popularly known as the BLACK VILLAGE, overnight at Ghantlang.
Leaving Ghatlang we ascend to the high-altitude serene village of Somdang where we will stay 2 nights for acclimatization. After Somdang we will cross the Pangsang La Pass 3842 m and descend around 1900 m to Tippling. Trekking to Tippling via Pangsang La Pass is pretty long but worth it. Now we enter into the new district of Gorkha. After Tippling we trek to the cultural Gorkha village of Shertung where we will visit the Natural Hot Spring. Gradually we will descend ascend to yet another high-altitude village of Jarluang and descend to Darkha Gaun. The trek concludes with a scenic drive from Dhading District to Kathmandu.
One of the highlights of the Ruby Valley Trek is the opportunity to interact with the local communities and experience their unique culture and way of life. The region is predominantly inhabited by Tamang and Gurung ethnic groups, known for their rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.
You can visit traditional and very cultured rustic setting villages along the way. You will have the chance to witness age-old traditions, taste authentic local cuisine, and stay in homestays or tea houses run by the locals. Feel the genuine LOCAL authenticity in Ruby Valley.
Accommodation Facilities at Ruby Valley Trek:
Unlike other popular trails, there aren’t luxurious accommodations along the Ruby Valley Trek. However, there are several options available, and here are some common types of accommodations you can expect during the trek:
Teahouses/Lodges:
Since Ruby Valley isn't as popular as Everest or Annapurna or Langtang very less trekkers trek in the region. It is only now that Ruby Valley is getting attention. Due to the region being less trodden, there are basic teahouses that offer rooms with beds, blankets and shared bathrooms. The facilities are typically basic and very simple, with limited amenities such as hot showers or rooms with attached bathrooms. However, these Teahouses are cozy and give you a genuine authentic feeling. They also serve a variety of meals, including both local and international dishes.
Homestays:
Another option during the Ruby Valley Trek is to stay in local homestays. This allows you to experience the local culture and hospitality firsthand. Homestays are usually basic, with shared facilities and traditional meals prepared by local families. The experience of staying at homestays is phenomenal. It is a fantastic opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life.
Camping:
If you prefer a more fascinating experience in nature, camping is another delightful option. Camping allows you to fully enjoy the beauty of nature. You will find yourself in a paradise-like setting surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of nature. It provides a unique opportunity to escape the reality of daily life and reconnect with the natural world.
However, it's important to note that Camping treks often cost more than Teahouse Trekking because it requires a larger support team including a skilled Cook, kitchen staff, porters to carry camping equipment, food supplies, etc, a professional Trek Leader, and Assistant Guides with good knowledge of camping equipment.
Community Guesthouses:
In some villages along the Ruby Valley Trek, community guesthouses managed by the local community are also available. These guesthouses are often set up to support the local community and provide an authentic experience for trekkers. The facilities and services offered can vary, but they generally provide comfortable accommodations and meals.
