Ruby Valley Ganesh Himal trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Camp / Home stay

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

4050 m.

Transportation

Private Jeep

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Duration

16 Days

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Ruby Valley Ganesh Himal Trek: Naturally gifted wilderness trek

Ruby Valley Ganesh Himal trek is a culturally and naturally gifted wilderness trek. The trekking trail is easily accessible from Kathmandu and is popular for stunning mountain views, pristine biodiversity and rural culture and lifestyle.

Trekkers on this route will be rewarded with great views of Ganesh and Langtang Himalayan including Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Buddha Himal and Manaslu. The high point of this trek is the crossing of three highest mountain passes, namely Magne Goth (2950m),Pangsang La Pass (3842m) and Sing La (4050m). You will also pass through three high-altitude lakes: Kalo Kunda, Seto Kunda, and Ganesh Kunda and explore twin waterfalls of Ganga and Jamuna. The trail mostly covers Langtang National Park which is home to many endangered species including Red Panda and Himalayan Black Bear.

Syabrubesi, Gatlang Shertung and Tipling are some famous villages on the route that are largely inhabited by Tamang ethnic groups. Known for their Buddhist tradition, their culture and customs are bear similar resemblance to Tibetans. The trek also offers community homestay allowing you to immerse in local culture and tradition.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi takes about nine hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1460

Start the day with an early morning drive towards Syabur Besi, north out of Kathmandu, passing through scenic green hills, terraced farms and rivers. From the bank of Trishuli River you will catch a glimpse of beautiful Ganesh Himal. You will drive pass Dhunche, the headquarters of Rasuwa District and shortly arrive at Syabrubesi. Mostly inhabited by Tamang ethnic community, Syabrubesi is a small town featuring restaurants and guesthouses. Stay overnight at lodge

Day 2 : Trek from Syabrubesi to Gatlang (2238m.) via Goljung takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2238

After breakfast, start your trek from Syabrubesi as you go on an easy but uphill path. On reaching Goljung village, you will observe the lifestyle of Tamang people distinct for their black tiled houses and Tibetan influenced culture. If lucky, you will also attend cultural show at Goljung and later at Gatlang. Gatlang set high on a hillside among terraced fields where one can visit a Tamang monastery and beautiful Parvatikunda Lake. Stay overnight at lodge

Day 3 : Trek from Gatlang to Somdang (3500m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

3500

The trail is initially along the graveled but motorable road. On the trail, you will already begin to enjoy spectacular mountain views of Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges including many other unnamed peaks. You will pass by few Tamang villages ahead before getting to Somdang. There is a zinc mine in Somdang that might of interest. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 4 : Trek from Somdang to Pansang Bhanjyang (3850m.) via Paldor Bhanjyang (3600m.) takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

3850

Follow the trail through villages and partly forests as you gradually ascend towards Pangsng which is a good viewpoint to watch mountain peaks including Ganesh Himal and Manaslu. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 5 : Trek from Pangsang Bhanjyang to Chalise (2000m.) takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

2000

The trail descends at first and then climbs up through bamboo, pine, rhododendron forests and waterfalls. Tipling is the first village you encounter on this route. It is a big Tamang village rich in mixed culture and has chorten and also a church. The houses here are made of wood, tin and stones and the locals are known for making goods from bamboo sticks. You can see farming terraces where farmers grow potatoes, wheat, barley, buck wheat, maize and green vegetables. Now climb down steeply until you cross a suspension bridge over Gorkhen Khola (stream) from where the trail go uphill to Sertung Chalise which is a Gurung village. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 6 : Trek from Chalise to Hindung (2420m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

2420

The early part of the trail goes down to Menchet Khola (stream) but after crossing this stream you trek steep up to arrive at Hindung. This day too you will meander through small Tamang villages, farming terraces and green hills. Hindung is a pretty big village mainly inhabited by Tamang whose main occupation is farming mainly growing potatoes, millet, barley, maize, beans and other vegetables. The mani walls and prayer flags give distinct Buddhist heritage look to the villages. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 7 : Trek from Hindung to Rajgang Kharka (3780m.) takes about five and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

3780

Leaving Hindung the route goes up to Rajgang Kharka. The trail is covered with rhododendron forest home to various species of birds and wild animals. During Spring to Autumn season locals bring domestic animals here especially sheep for grazing. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 8 : Trek from Rajgang Kharka to Kalo Seto Kunda (Black and White Lake) takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

3691

Ahead the trail is narrow and mostly uphill through forests. At this altitude you will find alpine vegetation here. There are two lakes in Kalo Seto Kunda you can visit. Considered holy, the surface of Kalo or Black Lake is covered with black stones while the surface of Seto Kunda or White Lake is covered with white shinning stones. During winter season these lakes are frozen. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 9 : Rest day at the and Ganesh Himal Base Camp (3691m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

3691

This a rest and acclimatization day. You can go for a brief excursion in and around Kalo Seto Kunda (Black and White Lake). You can easily capture the majestic views of Ganesh I, II & II, Paldor Himal and others from here. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 10 : Trek from Ganesh Himal Base Camp to Rajgang Kharka (3780m.) it takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

3780

You will trek along a descending narrow path surrounded by alpine vegetation of shrubs and pastures. TStay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 11 : Trek from Rajgang Kharka to Chalise (2000m.) takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

2000

The trail goes downhill from Rajgang Kharka all the way to Chalise passing through forests till Hindung. Beyond It, you will come across a few Tamang villages. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 12 : Trek from Chalise to Laba village (1750m.) takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

1750

Your trek first makes a slow descent to Laba Besi then climbs up to reach Laba village. En route the scenery of pine forests, traditional Nepali villages, farming terraces, green hills will be captivating. Laba is a beautiful Gurung village with their unique tradition and culture. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 13 : Trek from Laba village to Manyang Bhanjyang (2934m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

2934

This day the trail is through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests inhabited by variety of plant and wild animals. The trail gradually goes to the top of Manyang Bhanjyang which offers first glimpse of Ganesh Himal. While trekking you pass Khading village mainly resided by Tamang and Gurung. Manyang Bhanjyang is a ridge surrounded by oak and rhododendron forests and grassland making it a perfect place for camping. You camp for the night. Stay overnight at camp

Day 14 : Trek from Manyang Bhanjyang to Majhgaun (2200m.) takes approximately six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp / Home stay

Elevation

2200

To reach Majhgaun today you have to drop down before ascendin.. On the way you pass forests of rhododendron and oak as well as villages and farming terraces . The views of Manaslu Himal range along with Buddha peak appear on a clear day. As you enter Majhgaun you will find local people engaged in their farming and day to day activities. Stay overnight at camp/home stay.

Day 15 : Trek from Majhgaun to Budathum (852m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

852

Today you will walk along the trail dominated with villages, forests, streams and terraces. It is an easy hike down to Budathum, which is a small bazaar area with schools, restaurant and lodges. This village town is mostly resided by Newar community. You will able to catch spectacular views of Manaslu range at far distance. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 16 : Drive from Budhathum to Kathmandu

Food

Breakfast & Lunch

Elevation

1400

After your early morning breakfast, you will drive from Budathum back to Kathmandu that takes about 6 hours. This is a enjoyable drive with scenery of villages, rivers and green hills.

What Is Included ?

a) Kathmandu

All airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast at 3-star standard hotel
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening

b) Trekking

One trekking guide
Required porters including cook (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the trek
Accommodation in lodges/camp/home-stay during the trek
Required equipment: Tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, cooking utensil and trekking poles
Entry Permit for Langtang National Park
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
Land transportation: Kathmandu to Syabru Beshi and Jharlnag Phedi to Kathmandu by private jeep
Meals, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment for the guide and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT, and service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured with a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment costs)

What Is Excluded?

Personal expenses (telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot showers, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any alcoholic beverages)
Travel/ Medical insurance
Tips for guide and porters
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu

Ruby Valley Ganesh Himal trek Altitude Profile

FAQs

The ideal time to trek Ruby Valley is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. In spring, the forests are lush with blooming rhododendrons, while autumn offers crystal-clear mountain views and stable weather. The monsoon season (June to August) is very wet, and winter (December to February) can be extremely cold, especially at higher elevations.

The Ruby Valley trek is considered moderately challenging. The trails involve daily walks of 5–7 hours over hilly and sometimes steep terrain. While no technical climbing is required, the trails can be rugged and remote. Trekkers should be in good physical condition and prepared for basic facilities. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not essential if you’re reasonably fit and determined.

Hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended. Since Ruby Valley is a lesser-known trek, the trails can be confusing and are not always well-marked. A guide ensures safety, navigational help, cultural interpretation, and logistics support. Plus, guides often have local connections and can enhance your interaction with villagers. As of recent rules, solo trekking in certain remote regions of Nepal may not be permitted without a guide.

Yes, you need two permits:

Langtang National Park Entry Permit
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

If your route crosses into the Manaslu Conservation Area or other restricted areas, additional permits might be needed. A trekking agency or your guide can usually arrange these.

Some of the standout highlights include:

Stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and Manaslu ranges
Peaceful trekking away from the crowds
Authentic Tamang, Gurung, and Ghale village cultures
Natural hot springs at Tatlun or Ri Gaon
Terraced farmland and lush rhododendron forests
Deep gorges, suspension bridges, and waterfalls.
It’s a nature-lover’s and culture-seeker’s dream.

Altitude sickness is less common on this trek since the highest point is around 3,850 meters (Pangsang Pass). However, it can still occur, especially if you ascend too quickly without acclimatization. To minimize risks:

Ascend gradually
Stay hydrated
Avoid alcohol
Listen to your body and rest if needed
Consult your doctor before trekking and consider carrying medication like Diamox if you're prone to AMS.

Most treks start from Syabrubesi, Gatlang, or Dhading Besi, depending on the route. You can reach these starting points by:

Taking a local bus or jeep from Kathmandu (6–9 hours depending on road conditions)
Arranging private transport for more comfort and flexibility
Roads in these regions can be rough, especially after rain, so plan accordingly.

While it’s technically possible to trek solo, it’s not advised. The Ruby Valley trails are remote and not always clearly marked, and facilities are sparse. If anything goes wrong, help may be far away. Hiring a guide (or at least trekking in a group) increases safety, enjoyment, and local interaction.

Ruby Valley is ideal if you want:

A quiet, less-crowded trek
Rich cultural interaction with ethnic minorities
Unspoiled natural beauty
An authentic experience of rural Nepal
A moderate challenge without going extremely high

It’s a true hidden gem, offering a peaceful alternative to more commercialized routes, and perfect for trekkers looking for something fresh, local, and soul-stirring.

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

General Items:
Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:
Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff

Sun-worn Items:
Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:
Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),

Liquid/Snacks:
Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:
First Aid Kit

Optional:
Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

Additional items for camping trek:
Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

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