Ruby Valley Trek
Discover Ruby Valley Homestay Trek: Authentic Nepal Cultural Adventure in Ganesh Himal
Step into the untouched heart of Nepal’s Ruby Valley, a lesser-known trail tucked between the soaring peaks of Ganesh Himal and the wild beauty of Langtang and Manaslu regions. This isn’t your typical trek—it’s a chance to wander through quiet villages and rugged landscapes that feel like secrets kept by the mountains themselves. Here, in the Ganesh Himal region, you’ll find trails rarely walked by outsiders, offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse into Nepal’s soul.
What is unique about the Ruby Valley Trek ?
Imagine waking up in a stone-walled Tamang homestay in Gatlang, the smell of woodsmoke mingling with the aroma of fresh dal bhat cooked over an open fire. You’ll sit with locals, their faces etched with stories of Himalayan life, maybe learning how they craft yak cheese or weave bamboo baskets by hand. As you trek, the land shifts from terraced fields glowing green in the morning light to dense forests of Rhododendron that burst into color come spring. Climb to Pangsang Pass at 3,850 meters, and you’ll stand in awe as the Himalayas unfold before you—Ganesh, Langtang, and even distant Annapurna peaks piercing the sky, with Tibet’s ranges shimmering on the horizon.
In Somdang, you’ll pass old mining trails where the earth once yielded rubies and zinc, giving the valley its name. Then there’s Tipling, a village that surprises with its Christian heritage in a Buddhist heartland, where ancient Tamang customs blend with hymns echoing from hillside churches. It’s these moments—sipping tea with a local family, hearing tales of shamanic rituals, or standing by the sacred waters of Parvati Kunda—that make this trek feel like a journey to another time.
Why choose the Ruby Valley Trek ?
This isn’t a grueling climb; it’s an easy-to-moderate adventure, welcoming anyone with a curiosity for the road less traveled. Recent trekkers have called it “a rare chance to see Nepal as it was decades ago” and praised the “unforgettable warmth of homestays and views that stop you in your tracks.” Unlike the crowded trails of Everest or Annapurna, Ruby Valley feels like your own discovery, a place where the mountains and people invite you in like an old friend.
If you’re yearning for a Nepal that’s off the tourist map, where every step feels personal and every view feels earned, this is it. Join us for the Ruby Valley Homestay Trek, and let the Himalayas share their hidden stories with you. Book now ! Don’t let this quiet corner of the world pass you by.
Highlights of the Ruby Valley Trek
- Authentic Homestay Experience : Live Like a Local. Unlike commercial trekking routes, this journey is centred around homestay accommodations, allowing you to experience authentic Nepalese village life, share meals with local families, and immerse yourself in their culture.
- Discover the Traditional Tamang Village : Stay in Gatlang, a highland village known for its Tamang culture and horse-riding heritage. Visit the Yak Cheese centre, learn about traditional cheese-making, and explore the sacred Parvati Kunda, a high-altitude lake with spiritual significance.
- Explore Somdang : Journey to Somdang, an area historically known for its ruby and mineral deposits. This rugged landscape is also a perfect spot to enjoy stunning views of Ganesh Himal.
- Breathtaking Views from Pangsang Pass (3,900m) : Cross the lesser-known Pangsang Pass, one of the best viewpoints in the region, offering 360-degree panoramic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and distant peaks of Tibet.
- Soak in Natural Hot Springs at Chalise : If the lodge at Pangsang Pass is unavailable, we may trek to Chalise and relax in the mineral-rich natural hot springs, known for their healing and rejuvenating properties.
- A Rarely Explored Himalayan Trekking Route : Unlike popular commercial routes, this trek offers a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience, allowing you to immerse in untouched nature and authentic village culture, experiencing the rural beauty of typical Nepali Villages.
Ruby Valley trek features
Duration of your trek
Day-min : The minimum number of days required for the trek (from Kathmandu to Kathmandu)
Day-max : The maximum number of days you can spend on this trek. A prolonged itinerary can be discussed with our team.
AWTD : Average walking time per day (<3 : easy, 3 to 5 : moderate, >5 : strenuous
Altitudes of your trek
Min : Minimum altitude of your trek.
Max : Maximum altitude of your trek.
Ascent : The total ascent throughout the trek.
Descent : The total descent throughout on the trek.
Difficulty of your trek
Stamina : The physical effort involved during your trek. Rated from 0 (easiest) to 100 (most strenuous). If you have an average fitness you can consider all the treks up to 50. See here for more details
Technical : Difficulty of your trek in terms of exposure to danger and required experience.
0 to 20 : No difficulties,
20 to 40 : Walking on good mountain trails,
40 to 60 : Some walking on difficult mountain trails (steep slopes, rocks, etc.),
60 to 80: You are exposed to some dangers (void, snow, falling rocks, etc.),
80 to 100 : Experience required (please inquire).
Overall : Average between Stamina and Technical rating.
Duration
Altitudes
Difficulty
Ruby Valley trek map
Ruby Valley Trek Map with illustrative itinerary
The Ruby Valley trek will ideally take 9 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. We can customize the trek for you if you want to spend more time at the campsites en route the base camp or extend your tour in Nepal and/or India
Ruby Valley trek elevation profile
Trek ascent and descent
The trek to the Ruby Valley involves a moderate ascent and descent. The trek includes ascending to the Pangsang Pass at 3900m above sea level. We have the option to stay overnight at the Pass or descend to Tipling village.
This is an easy trail compared to Everest or Annapurna base camps and offers the opportunity to witness magnificent landscapes without a strenuous trek.
Ruby Valley trek, best time to go
Best time to trek to the Ruby Valley is in spring from March to May and then in autumn from September to November. Unlike Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp, the Ruby Valley Trek has fewer crowds and offers a great experience for travellers seeking solitude.
Winter from December to February is an ideal time to visit if you are seeking a true adventure. With possible snowfall at higher altitudes, you will need to carry the proper layers of clothing. Optimum fitness and the will to trek even in lower temperatures will allow you the opportunity to enjoy the trail at this time of the year when there are only a handful of enthusiasts on the trail. You may come across snowfall and storms on certain days, but you also have clear skies after the storm passes.
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Itinerary
Day One : From Delhi [220m] to Kathmandu [1400m]
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You may need to arrive in Delhi before you fly to Nepal. The Kathmandu airport has very few direct flights from Europe/US/UK. There are frequent flights from Delhi to Nepal. A 90 minute flight will take you from Delhi to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. On arrival cab will transfer you to your hotel in Lalitpur. |
Day Two : Kathmandu [1400m] to Gre [2000m] via Syabrubesi [1470m]
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After an early breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive to Syabrubesi village. Syabrubesi is the gateway to Langtang valley, Ruby valley and Gosaikonda region. From here, we will engage in a short hike to Gre village where we will spend our night. Gre is a hamlet with Tamang settlements |
Day Three : Gre [2000m] to Gatlang [2200m]
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Gatlang is an authentic Tamang village known for its indigenous horse-riding culture. We will visit the Yak cheese processing unit to witness traditional cheese-making process. We will also explore Parvati Kund, a sacred alpine lake with stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. |
Day Four : Gatlang [2200m] to Somdang [3200m]
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Journey through diverse landscapes to Somdang, a historically significant area known for its ruby and mineral deposits. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Ganesh Himal Range, making it a truly rewarding experience. |
Day Five : Somdang [3200m] to Pangsang Pass [3900m]
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Ascend to Pangsang Pass (3,900m), a stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of Ganesh Himal, Lamjung Himal, Langtang, and distant Tibetan peaks. Depending on lodge availability at Pangsang Pass, either stay there to enjoy a high-altitude overnight experience or continue to Tipling village. Tipling is a remote village where 70% of the population follows Christianity, making it an interesting cultural contrast to traditional Buddhist settlements. We also have the option to trek to Chalise and enjoy the natural hot spring. |
Day Six : Pangsang [3900m] to Borang [1700m]
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Classic Nepalese Village with Terraced Farming – Trek through lush landscapes and terraced farmland to Borang, a typical Nepalese village with a charming rural atmosphere, offering insights into local agriculture and traditional lifestyles. |
Day Seven : Borang [1700m] to Kathmandu [1400m]
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Enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Treat yourself to a nice Spa and relax at the hotel. |
Day Eight : Fly back to Delhi
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After breakfast, fly back to Delhi or extend your stay to explore more of Nepal |
Gallery
Ruby Valley Trek photos
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