Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 11 Days
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Trip Difficulty Moderate
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Maximum Altitude 3,850 m /12,631 ft.
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Best Season To Visit March-May, Mid September-Mid December
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Average Group Size Min. 2 pax

Trip Overview

The Ruby Valley Trek, tucked between Manaslu and Langtang National Park., is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and least-traveled trekking routes. This hidden Himalayan gem offers raw natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and authentic cultural encounters.

As you hike through this off-the-beaten-path trail, you’ll explore traditional mountain villages, stay in cozy homestays, and savor organic, locally prepared meals. The journey provides a genuine glimpse into rural Nepali life, far from commercial trekking crowds.

The Ruby Valley  Trek also showcases Nepal’s ecological diversity. Trekkers walk through forests filled with wildflowers, medicinal herbs, and may even spot rare wildlife like red pandas and Himalayan tahrs. The region is famous for its natural deposits of rubies and crystals, adding a unique twist to the trek.

The trail winds past cascading waterfalls, terraced hillsides, vibrant rhododendron forests, and scenic pastures. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan giants, including Ganesh Himal (Yangra Peak), Manaslu, Langtang, Paldor, and Lapsang Karbo.

One of the highlights of the Ruby Valley Trek is the ascent to Pangsang La Pass (3,842 m) — the highest point of the route. From the summit, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Ganesh Himal range and beyond — a moment of pure mountain magic.

When to trek Ruby Valley?

The Ruby Valley Trek is one of the few treks in Nepal accessible throughout the year, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure. While it’s possible to trek this route year-round, the optimal season is from  March- May, and mid-October to May, when weather conditions are most favorable, and the mountain views are at their clearest.

During the winter months, especially in January and February, heavy snowfall can occasionally close high mountain passes for extended periods. However, the lower sections of the Ruby Valley Trek typically remain open, making it a great option for those seeking winter trekking in Nepal without the crowds.

Ruby Valley Trek Difficulty Level and Fitness Requirements

The Ruby Valley Trek is rated as a moderate trek, making it suitable for those with a reasonable level of physical fitness and some prior trekking experience. It’s perfect for adventurers who seek a bit of a challenge while enjoying stunning Himalayan scenery and authentic cultural encounters.

This 7 to 9-day trek covers varied terrain, including dense forests, terraced farmlands, and rugged mountain ridges. Certain sections feature steep and uneven trails, which may be tough for first-time trekkers. You should be prepared to hike 5 to 7 hours daily at high elevations.

With proper training and preparation, even beginners can complete the Ruby Valley Trek. Activities such as hiking, swimming, cycling, or jogging several weeks before your trek can help improve your stamina and endurance for this incredible journey.

Why Choose Ruby Valley Trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks?

At Nepal Sanctuary Treks, we provide a personalized Ruby Valley Trek experience. With over 26 years of expertise in the field, we craft custom Ruby Valley Trek itineraries to suit your pace and preferences. Our experienced guides bring invaluable knowledge, offering insights into the rich local culture while ensuring your safety throughout the journey. They have trekked the Ruby Valley Trek many times and knows the region inside out.

We focus on small group sizes and rigorous safety protocols, providing you with personalized attention and safety. Our long-standing partnerships with trusted suppliers ensure you have carefully selected accommodations and reliable transportation during your Ruby Valley Trek.

As a Travelife Certified company, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable and eco-friendly travel. When you choose Ruby Valley Trek you support local communities and help minimize environmental impacts, making responsible tourism a key part of your adventure. Your safety, comfort, and unforgettable experience are our top priorities.

Contact us today to plan your tailored Ruby Valley Trek.

This is a sample itinerary of the Ruby Valley Trek . We shall customize the program as per your needs and preferences.

Note: below trekking hours, altitudes and distances are approximate, and absolutely for the general idea 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: 4,659 ft / 1,420 m
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 Ghatlang

Altitude: 2,240 m / 7,350 ft.
Hiking Duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before tackling a steep uphill hike of about two hours to reach Bahundanda. From there, the trail eases into a gentler path through terraced farmlands, traditional villages, colorful rhododendron and bamboo forests, grassy meadows, and stunning mountain panoramas. This scenic trek leads you to the charming Gatlang village.

Perched on a hillside, Gatlang captivates with its authentic stone houses and rich local culture. On clear days, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of Langtang Lirung Peak to the east — a must-see highlight for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Day 05: Trek to Somdang via Khurpa Pass

Altitude:  Somdang (3,258 m / 10,692 ft), Khurpa Pass (3,610 m / 11,847 ft)
Hiking Duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a mostly flat trail, followed by a steady 40-minute climb to the sacred Parvati Kunda Lake (2,240 m / 7,350 ft). This lake holds religious significance, as locals gather here annually to perform rituals during Janai Purnima.

Next, you’ll trek through enchanting pine and oak forests to reach Yurikharka. The trail then ascends to Khurpa Danda Pass at 3,610 meters, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Langtang ranges. After soaking in the scenery, descend steeply towards the Somdang River and enter a stunning valley. Along the way, you’ll pass the impressive Chukarma Waterfall before arriving at Somdang village in the afternoon.

Day 06: Rest day at Somdang

Accommodation: Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, spend the day exploring the charming Somdang village. Nestled in a stunning location, Somdang offers panoramic views of the Ganesh and Jugal mountain ranges. You can also take an exciting hike to the nearby lead and zinc Lari mine, renowned for its rare and valuable rubies. From this vantage point, enjoy mesmerizing views of Paldor Peak along with other majestic peaks in the Ganesh Himal range.

Day 07: Trek to Pangsang La Pass

Altitude: 3,850 m / 12,631 ft.
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, embark on today’s trek toward Pangsang La Pass. Starting from Somdang, you’ll ascend through scenic landscapes featuring dense forests leading to Pangsang Kharka, a beautiful alpine meadow. This spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Manaslu and Ganesh Himal mountain ranges.

The area surrounding Pangsang La Pass is renowned for its rich medicinal herbs. Historically, local communities collected these valuable herbs and traded them in Tibet, exchanging them for essential goods such as salt, clothing, and food.

Day 08: Trek to Tipling

Altitude: 1,890 m / 6,200 ft.
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, descend to Tipling, a traditional Tamang village known for its deep-rooted Shamanism and Tantrism practices. Spend a relaxing afternoon exploring two Tibetan Gompas and Catholic churches in the village. Experience the vibrant local culture, especially during the winter Mane Jatra festival, celebrated for generations. During Janai Purnima, you may also witness Jhakri or Bombo (witchdoctors) performing traditional rituals.

Day 09: Trek to Chalise

Altitude: 1,674 m / 5,495 ft.
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, continue your trek toward Chalise village, a vibrant community inhabited by Gurung, Ghale, and Kami ethnic groups. Experience the warm hospitality and discover the unique customs, traditions, and artisanal crafts of the locals. Along the way, cross the scenic Adha Khola river and ascend to the twin villages of Shertung and Chalise. Upon arrival at Chalise, enjoy a delicious lunch followed by a relaxing visit to a natural hot spring.

Day 10: Trek to Dhundure

Altitude: 900 m / 2,953 ft. 
Hiking Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, the trek descends gently all the way to Dhundure. The trail becomes easier as you pass through several charming Tamang villages, surrounded by stunning terraced fields and following the Ankhu Khola river below.

Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu

Altitude: 1,302 m/4,272 ft.

Driving Duration: Approximately 7 hours

Accommodation:  Hotel Tibet or similar

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

After breakfast, depart for Dhading Besi by vehicle. Enjoy a lunch break there before continuing your drive onward to Kathmandu.

Day 12: 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 a trek
  • Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with entrance fees
  • 3 nights in Hotel Tibet or similar in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Tea house and homestay during the trek on full board
  • Trek Permits & National Park Fee,
  • Staff insurance on the trek,
  • Trek guide & porter
  • 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 for 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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Ruby Valley Trek