Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 17 Days
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Trip Difficulty Moderate
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Maximum Altitude 3,800 meter/12,467 ft
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Best Season To Visit Sept. to mid of Dec. and March to May

Trip Overview

Experience the Spectacular Ganesh Himal Trek: A Hidden Gem in Ruby Valley

The Ganesh Himal Trek, also known as the Ruby Valley Trek, is one of Nepal’s most stunning and least explored trekking adventures. Located between the world-famous Manaslu National Park and Langtang National Park, the Ganesh Himal Trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and an authentic cultural experience far from crowded trails.

Why Choose the Ganesh Himal Trek?

The Ganesh Himal Trek is named after the Hindu deity “Ganesh,” whose image is reflected in the shape of Ganesh IV peak. Mt. Ganesh I, towering at 7,118 meters (23,349 feet), was first conquered by Swiss and French climbers in 1955. This trek reveals pristine landscapes filled with diverse flora and fauna, alongside the rich cultural tapestry of ethnic groups such as Gurung, Tamang, Dalit, and Magar that you will encounter on the Ganesh Himal Trek.

Must-See Highlights on the Ganesh Himal Trek

As you traverse the Ganesh Himal Trek, you will witness breathtaking mountain vistas including Dorje Lakpa, Boudha Himal, Langtang Lirung, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Ganesh Himal peaks (I-IV). The highest point of the Ganesh Himal Trek is Pangsang La Pass at 3,842 meters / 12,605 feet, offering unmatched scenic beauty and an unforgettable camping experience in the wilderness.

Explore Nature and Culture on the Ganesh Himal Trek

The Ruby Valley, covered on the Ganesh Himal Trek, is home to rare endangered species, medicinal herbs, and precious minerals like rubies and crystals. You will wander through enchanting rhododendron and juniper forests, crystal-clear waterfalls, terraced hills, and lush meadows while experiencing authentic Himalayan village life unique to the Ganesh Himal Trek route.

Best Time to Experience the Ganesh Himal Trek?

The optimal trekking seasons for the Ganesh Himal Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November). During these periods, you’ll enjoy stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. Springtime offers vibrant rhododendron blooms, while autumn features crisp air and golden landscapes — perfect for photography and trekking the Ganesh Himal Trek.

Ganesh Himal Trek Difficulty: What to Expect

The Ganesh Himal Trek is moderate and suitable for beginners with basic fitness, as well as seasoned trekkers looking for tranquility away from popular routes. The daily hikes pass through alpine meadows, dense forests, and traditional villages. Prepare with cardio exercises and hiking practice for two months before your Ganesh Himal Trek adventure. Mental strength — patience and positivity — is key to fully embracing the Ganesh Himal Trek experience.

Why Book Your Ganesh Himal Trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks?

With Nepal Sanctuary Treks, your Ganesh Himal Trek is fully customized. As a  Travelife Certified company, we focus on sustainable tourism and support local communities through eco-friendly practices and partnerships. We keep group sizes small to provide personalized service for your Ganesh Himal Trek.

Unlike typical teahouse treks, the Ganesh Himal Trek is entirely camping-based. You’ll spend your nights in premium tented campsites that provide privacy, comfort, and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas along the Ganesh Himal Trek route.

Every day, our expert expedition cooks craft fresh, organic meals using locally sourced ingredients. These delicious meals are served warm in a cozy dining tent, adding a welcoming touch of comfort to your remote Ganesh Himal Trek wilderness adventure.

This is a sample itinerary, and we shall customize the program as per your needs and preferences. Get in touch with our travel expert or email us at info@nepalsanctuarytreks.com.

Note: Below trekking hours, altitudes and distances are approximate, and absolutely for general ideas only.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu Airport

Altitude : 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene to ensure a smooth and safe trek.

Day 02: Cultural Introductory Tour and Trek Preparation

Altitude : 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Tour Duration:  Approx. 8 hours

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Meal: Breakfast

9:00 AM: Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu Valley

Start your day with a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Explore the vibrant Kathmandu with our expert guides, who will share insights into the area’s rich history.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a historical royal complex with temples, palaces, and shrines dating back to the 15th century. Key attractions include Kumari Ghar (the house of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, built from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

Next, head to Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple, a sacred site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Admire the stunning white dome and golden spire, while soaking in the serene atmosphere filled with incense and prayer wheels.

PM: Boudhanath Stupa

Visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a spiritual center for Tibetan culture, surrounded by prayer flags, monks, and devotees chanting ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’.

Pashupatinath Temple

Conclude your tour at the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, located along the Bagmati River. Here, you can witness profound spiritual rituals, including the moving sight of open-air cremations, which hold deep cultural significance. After immersing yourself in this sacred experience, you will transfer back to your hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Syabrubesi

Altitude:  1,420 m/4,659 ft 
Drive Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, we begin our overland journey to Syabrubesi, the starting point of the Langtang Valley trek. This scenic drive offers stunning views of terraced hillsides, lush forests, and distant Himalayan peaks. As we navigate the winding mountain roads, we’ll pass through charming rural villages and observe locals going about their daily farming activities—a true cultural immersion.

The drive is both adventurous and visually rewarding, with countless opportunities for photography and taking in Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Get ready for a memorable day of travel into the heart of the Himalayas.

Day 04: Trek to Parvati Kunda

Altitude above sea level: 2,240 m / 7,349 ft.
Hiking duration: 6–7 hrs.  Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast ,Lunch , and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you take a steep trail for a couple of hours to reach Bahundanda. The gentle trail then winds through terraced farming fields, picturesque villages, rhododendron and bamboo forests, grassy meadows, soaring mountain views, and incredible landscapes all the way to Gatlang village.

Gatlang is a beautiful hillside village adorned with traditional stone houses. On a clear day, Langtang Lirung Peak is visible on the eastern side. From Gatlang, you walk on a flat trail followed by a steady 40-minute ascent that takes you to the sacred Parvati Kunda / 2,240 m / 7,349 ft. The lake holds religious significance, as locals gather here each year to perform rituals during Janai Purnima.

Day 05: Trek to Somdang via Khurpa Pass

Altitude above sea level: 3,271 m / 10,732 ft.
Hiking duration: 6–7 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you hike up through a lovely forest of pine and oak trees to Yurikharka. The trail then heads uphill to Khurpu Danda (Pass) 3,610 m / 11,844 ft. From the pass, you’re rewarded with wonderful views of the Annapurna and Langtang ranges.

Continuing on, you follow a steep descent to the Somdang River, soon arriving in a picturesque valley. Along the way, the trail passes the awe-inspiring Chukarma Waterfall. You will reach Somdang  in the afternoon.

Day 06: Trek to Marmilung Kharka via Pangsa La Pass

Altitude above sea level: Marmilung Kharka 3,200 m / 10,499 ft – Pangsa La Pass 3,850 m / 12,631 ft
Hiking duration: 5–6 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you follow an ascent trail through more picturesque terrain, passing dense forest on the way up to a high meadow called Pangsang Kharka. This is a stunning vantage point offering a commanding 360-degree view of the landscape, including the soaring peaks of Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal Range.

The region around the pass is renowned for its medicinal herbs. In ancient times, local people used to collect these herbs and trade them in Tibet, exchanging them for salt, clothing, and food.

After savoring the views, the trail descends through pine forests, eventually bringing you to Marmilung Kharka.

Day 07: Trek to Tipling Village

Altitude above sea level: 2,500 m / 8,202 ft.
Hiking duration: 3–4 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After having breakfast, you head toward the beautiful Tipling village. This is an old Tamang village, culturally rich and deeply influenced by Shamanism and Tantrism.

Spend your leisure afternoon visiting two Tibetan Gompas and even Catholic churches, showcasing the village’s diverse spiritual traditions.

Locals celebrate Mane Jatra in winter, a cultural tradition passed down through generations. During the Janai Purnima festival, you may witness Jhakris or Bombo (witch doctors) performing sacred rituals.

Day 08: Rest Day at Tipling Village

Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you can either take a rest day or spend time exploring Tipling village. Enjoy a relaxed stroll through nearby settlements inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, offering a closer look at their unique cultures, daily lifestyles, and traditional architecture.

Day 09: Trek Tipling - Neber Gaon

Altitude above sea level: 2,220 m / 7,283 ft.
Hiking duration: 6–7 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After having breakfast, the trail heads downhill to Chalish village. Along the way, you can visit the Tin Kanya Hindu Temple. The route passes through a picturesque village before continuing toward Khar Khola.

From there, a gradual ascent takes you to Pasabar Danda, where you can enjoy spectacular vistas of the sacred Tribeni River confluence.

The trail then continues gently uphill to Kalbarang, followed by a trek through dense forest. You pass the Hindung Tamang village and descend to Hundung Khola. From the river, the trail ascends once again, leading you to your final destination for the day—Neber village.

Day 10: Trek to Kapurgaun via Timla Pass

Altitude above sea level:  2,900 m / 9,514 ft.
Hiking duration: 5 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you set off on today’s trek toward Kapurgaon. From Neber, the trail leads through dense forest, where you may spot local wildlife and birds. You continue climbing until you reach the ridge at Timla Danda, which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and a vast, deep valley below. From the ridge, the trail descends steadily down to Kapurgaon.

Day 11: Trek to Khading

Altitude above sea level: 2,025 m / 6,644 ft.
Hiking duration: 5–6 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you begin your trek on a gentle descending trail that leads to a small river, where you’ll cross a suspension bridge. From there, the trail ascends steadily to reach Lapchet. Continue descending and cross another river before taking an ascending trail to Lapagaun. A final gradual uphill section brings you to Khading, your campsite for the night.

Day 12: Trek Khading - Nauban Kharka crossing Myangal Bhanjyang

Altitude above sea level: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Hiking duration: 5–6 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you take an ascending trail through forested terrain up to Myangal Bhanjyang (2,975 m / 9,760 ft). The trail features several ups and downs leading to Magne Goth.

After crossing a small pass, you will arrive at Nauban Kharka. From here, enjoy superb views of Himal Chuli and Bauddha Himal, part of the majestic Manaslu mountain range.

Day 13: Trek to Lamo Dhunga

Altitude above sea level: 2,200 m / 7,218 ft.
Hiking duration: 5–6 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, the trail heads down along a descending zigzag path all the way to Lamo Dhunga.

Day 14: Trek to Manbu

Altitude above sea level: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft.
Hiking duration: 5–6 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, you take a downhill trail into Dhunchet, the oldest village in the Tamang and Gurung settlement. Continuing downhill, you hike through an off-the-beaten path to Manbu. Manbu village offers superb views of Himal Chuli and Bouddha Himal.

Day 15: Trek to Arughat

Altitude above sea level: 605 m / 1,985 ft.
Hiking duration: 4 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Camping
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you descend to the Budi Gandaki River. Crossing the suspension bridge over the river, you connect to the main road leading to Arughat Bazaar. Finally, you follow the motorway all the way to Arughat.

Day 16: Drive to Kathmandu

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft.
Driving duration: 8 hrs. Approx.
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch

After breakfast, you take a long scenic drive back to Kathmandu.

Day 17: Final Departure

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.

Price Included

What's Included

  • Private airport transfer
  • Private transfer to/from the trek
  • Guided Kathmandu Sightseeing in Kathmandu with entrance fees
  • 3 nights in Hotel Tibet or similar in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Camping tent during the trek on full board
  • Trek Permits & National Park Fee,
  • Staff insurance on the trek,
  • Trek guide & porter/s
  • Map
  • Duffel bag

What's not Included

  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu (approx. US$ 20 per day)
  • Beverages
  • Personal equipment,
  • Personal bills,
  • International airfare
  • Visa fee: US$ 30 for 15 days and US$ 50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days multiple entries
  • Insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects),
  • Tips

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Ganesh Himal Trek