Ruby Valley Cultural Trek 9 Days

9 Days

Trek Overview

The Ruby Valley Cultural Trek in Nepal sits in the north-central region. It offers trekkers a new experience in a remote and less crowded area. This trek guides you through the scenic Ruby Valley, named after its precious stones. It also introduces you to different ethnic communities like the Gurungs, Tamangs, and Newars, each with their unique traditions and culture.

The Ruby Valley Cultural Trek usually lasts 7 to 9 days, depending on the route and trekking speed. It’s suitable for fairly fit trekkers and offers a great chance to experience Nepal’s beauty and culture in a peaceful setting.

The Trek reveals great views of snowy mountains and beautiful scenery. This trek goes through the inner Ruby Valley Rural Municipality of Dhading, located between Langtang National Park and Manaslu Conservation Area. This area is famous for its ruby deposits in the Ganesh Himal region. One of the standout features of the Ruby Valley Trek is the chance to stay in local homestays. Thus, it allows you to experience the local culture and connect with the residents.

Ruby Valley Cultural Trek Route

The Ruby Valley Cultural Trek begins with a short drive from Dhading and Kathmandu. It passes through terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages. Trekkers can enjoy great views of nearby peaks and landscapes along the way. Along the way, you can explore charming villages like Chalish, Tir, and Shertung, experiencing the local culture and warm hospitality. Be sure not to miss the chance to revive in the healing hot springs of Tatopani.

As you hike through thick forests filled with rhododendrons, pines, and oaks, you’ll see wide views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Manaslu, along with other snowy peaks. This trek highlights the variety of geography, wildlife, and culture, giving explorers a special experience. Exploring the Ruby Valley lets you enjoy nature’s beauty and embrace the unique cultural heritage of local communities along the trek.

Hidden treasure

The Ruby Valley area offers various trekking options like Pangsang La Pass, Kalo Kunda, Seto Kunda, Singla Pass Trek, and Paldor Peak. However, trekking in the upper Ruby Valley requires camping gear and proper equipment, as the higher sections of the trek are more challenging than the lower parts. Along the trekking route, there is a natural hot spring located between Chalish and Hindung villages. Many tourists rest in Chalish and enjoy bathing in the hot spring, which has the healing benefits of improving blood flow, circulation, and metabolism due to essential minerals.

This trek also provides a cultural experience, where you can learn about the customs and traditions of different ethnic groups like Brahmins, Tamangs, Gurungs, and Ghale peoples. These communities follow a mix of Buddhism-Bon Po. They respect nature and deities, and some are Christian. During the trek, you’ll come across Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries. It will enhance the cultural richness of the trip.

During the homestay trek in the Ruby Valley, you’ll cross Pangasng La Pass. It is located at 3,850 meters above sea level. This pass, called Pangsang Danda, offers views of the Langtang Himal range, Manaslu range, and Ganesh range. In addition, it also has great high alpine wide open space and terraced landscapes.

Furthermore, don’t expect luxurious tea houses on this trek. Most of the place to stay involves staying with local families and experiencing their hospitality directly.

Best View on Ruby Valley Trek

The best viewpoint on the Ruby Valley trek is Pangsang La Pass. It sits at 3,850 meters above sea level. From here, trekkers can see great views of the Ganesh Himal range. It includes peaks like Ganesh Himal I (7,422 m), Ganesh Himal II (7,118 m), Ganesh III (7,043 m), and Ganesh Himal IV (7,104 m). They are also known as Babil, Salasungo, and Lapsang Kharbo. This pass offers wide views in all directions. Thus, it makes it a great spot to admire the nearby mountains.

The Ruby Valley Cultural trek usually lasts for 9 days. It starts at Dundur Khola, after a scenic bus trip from Kathmandu to Dhading Besi, followed by a Tata Sumo Jeep ride from Dhading Besi. It’s important to mention that the trek can also be done in reverse. We can start from Syabrubesi and go through Somdang, Tipling, Chalish, and then descend to Dhading Besi.

Best Time to Do Ruby Valley Trek

Autumn and spring are the best seasons for trekking in the Ruby Valley. Autumn lasts from September to November, while spring lasts from March to May. Each season has its unique charms and advantages.

In spring, Ruby Valley features a pleasant climate with hills adorned in vivid colors of rhododendrons, orchids, and other blooming flora. The warm temperatures and clear days make it the best time to enjoy great mountain views.

Autumn is considered the most beautiful time in Ganesh Himal Ruby Valley. Mild temperatures, even at higher altitudes, and clear skies characterize the days. It offers optimal visibility of the grand mountains. This season attracts visitors from all over the country to experience its beauty.

During winter (December to January), the Himalayas experience a slight chill and the possibility of snowfall. However, the days remain sunny and pleasant. While rain is rare in the Ruby Valley, winter can be a peaceful time to travel along less crowded trails. It’s a must to be prepared for the cold temperatures during this season.

To sum up, trekking in the Ruby Valley is best during the autumn and spring seasons due to excellent weather conditions and great natural beauty.

Ruby Valley Trek Permits

The Ruby Valley Circuit Trail is newly discovered. Trekkers don’t need special permits to trek here. However, you must obtain the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) as the trekking permit, necessary for most treks in Nepal. Additionally, you need to pay the Langtang National Park Entry Fee since the route passes through Syabrubesi and Gatlang, both within the national park.

Accommodation

Accommodations during the trek 

Our Ruby Valley Circuit Trek package includes standard category places to stay in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Kathmandu offers a range of places to stay, from 5-star resorts to comfortable guesthouses, lodges, and homestays, which can be adjusted according to the traveler’s choices, budget, and availability.

Once the Ruby Valley Trekking begins in Syabru Besi, you will spend nights at locally run basic homestays. Since this trail is newly discovered, there are no lodges or teahouse services like other trekking routes. The concept of homestays is introduced to give tourists a firsthand experience of local life. These homestays lack bathrooms or hot shower services. Instead, they have common traditional bathrooms and use a bucket of hot water as an alternative to hot showers.

Meals during trek

The accommodation includes breakfast. However, travelers can choose from various cuisines available in Kathmandu for lunch, dinner, and other beverages. These meals are not included in our package.

During the Ruby Valley trek, the package includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Since we’ll be staying in homestays, the food options are limited to locally available dishes. We will mainly have local Tamang cuisine and typical Nepali Daal Bhat all along the trek. However, we can also bring additional food supplements from Kathmandu.

We suggest carrying a reusable 2-liter bottle or filter bottle and water purifying tablets for drinking water. This way, you can refill from available sources once it’s empty. Alternatively, you can ask for boiled water at the homestays.

Other trek options

Besides the Ruby Valley trek, we also have other trek options which are listed down below:

Important Info

Please check our trek equipment list. This list will certainly be a guide for you if you plan to trek in Nepal. Similarly, you can check our AMC (Acute Mountain Sickness).  This is the most important thing to consider while going on a trek or climb in Nepal. The AMC (Acute Mountain Sickness) can be a good guide for you to learn more about getting ill at high heights in Nepal. Also, if you want to do a Peak climb in Nepal then please check the climbing equipment list that is a must while going on the Peak climb. Likewise, we suggest you check the updated TIMS card rule as there have been some new changes in Nepal.

Booking is open for 2024 / 2025

Are you planning to trek or tour in 2024? If so, then in our Best Deals part, you can find the ideal info on the best price for the trek or tour cost. Furthermore, book plans as soon as possible.

Contact us or you can also send a message or call us at

WhatsApp / Viber / Mobile: +977- 9851 022 814, +977 – 9841 451 681

We are available 24 / 7

Overview

Explore Nepal’s hidden jewel, the beautiful Ruby Valley cultural trek, which lies between the Manaslu Conservation Area and Langtang National Park. This trip, named after the Ganesh Himal, is thought to have originated from the deposits of the valuable gem ruby. It offers an exciting mix of natural wonders and variety in culture.

Exploring Varied Landscapes

Set out on an exciting adventure throughout a variety of environments, such as plains, terraced farms, and both easy and challenging climbs. The trek’s stunning scenery of lush forest and high, snow-capped peaks presents travelers with a constantly shifting view.

Cultural Immersion

Take in the rich customs of the Buddhist communities of Gurung and Tamang, who are devoted followers of the Buddha. Observe their distinct way of life, rooted in ancient customs and cultures. The trek offers a chance to learn more about their everyday lives, making it an incredibly engaging experience.

Breathtaking Mountain Views

The Ruby Valley trek offers amazing views of mountains such as Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Langtang Lirung (7,227m), and Boudha Himal (6,692m). The stunning vistas accompany trekkers throughout the journey, leaving a lasting impact.

Trek Highlight

  • Ruby Valley Cultural Trekking is the closest destination from the capital city Kathmandu
  • At least one relaxing natural hot springs (Tatopani)
  • Breathtaking panoramic closeup view of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal and Manaslu Himal ranges
  • Rocky hills, paddy terraces, farmland, Green meadow and mesmerizing landscape
  • Goat, Sheep, chicken, Ducks, Cows, Ox. Buffalos and exotic wild animal like Musk deer, Leopards, Bear, Wild goat, snow Leopard, Fox, Panda, Himalayan Thar/Goral etc.
  • Himalayan bamboos, Rhododendron, Pine trees, Oak trees, Bamboos and green lushes.
  • Rivers, Dovan and Tribeni (two and three rivers meeting point) for the pilgrimages, suspension and wooden box bridges, water falls, stone driven mills, Mane or Chhorten, Monasteries, Hindus Temple, Churches, shepherds (domestic animal huts) etc..
  • Untold and quite unique, rich, culture and traditions of Tamang, Gurung, Ghale, Newar and Dalit people.
  • Organic meals & Local Faces

Itinerary

You arrive in Kathmandu International airport, one of our office representatives will meet, welcome in a Nepali traditional way by flower garland then drop to your pre-booked hotel. Check in at hotel, rest a bit and then visit Alliance Treks & Expedition (P.) Ltd. For briefing your program, introduce your guide and porters and hand over trekking documents. In the evening leisure or personal activities.
Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu

After your breakfast at the hotel, with your trek guide and porter/s, drive by regular local bus/Micro Bus Or you may reserve your own private vehicle then d rive to Dhading Besi passing through Prithivi high way then after 3 hours you will arrive at Dhading Besi the district head quarter of Dhading District. Rest a bit and then changing another regular local Jeep sharing with other locals, drive to Dundure Khola (4 hour driving) passing through majestic landscape through Jumre hill, Katunje, Lapang Phedi and Dharkha village finally arrive at Dundure Khola. Road goes all the way up to Borang village however your start your trekking from Dundure Khola for the acclimatization. After walking 2-3 hours, finally arrive at Percho village and overnight at Local House.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Local House (Home Stay)

Take breakfast at the same local Lodge and then at 8:00AM trek via bit hairpin trail in Lisne Jungle to Borang Village (1700m/5576ft), 3km, 3 hours walking, take lunch then trek continue trek via Awoi village (1,750m/5,740ft) to Sertung Village the biggest Tamang village of Ruby Valley. On the way scenic views of Ganesh Himal ranges, Awoi valley, Galga Mane and finally arrive at Sertung village with incredible views of Chalish Village. Over night at Local House/Home stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Local House (Home Stay)

Early morning visit Ghale Durbar (2450m/8036ft), 45 minutes walking, take a look the striking Panoramic views of Ganesh Himal ranges, breath taking Ruby valley views and then visit Phyanchyat Gompa (Monastery), Chyamra Devi, Khaten Gompa and Sertung village. Taking about 4-5 hours, finally return back to the same place, take lunch and then trek to Chalish Village (30 minutes walking). In evening enjoy Gurung cultural show of Gurung mother and father group about 2 hours. Over night at home stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Local House (Home Stay)

After breakfast, trek down to Khar Khola passing Chalish villagers’ paddy terraces, Khar Khola then small village Pasabar Visit Tatopani/Hot Springs(1,050m/3,444ft), 5 km, 2 ½ hours walking, enjoy couple of hours in Tatopani, take lunch and then trek to Tir Village (1,820m/5,970ft), 4 hours walking. Over night at home stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Local House (Home Stay)

Take breakfast at the same home stay and then trek passing bit hairpin hilly trails (this area is bit dangerous of rock falling and hairpin trails so trekkers are strongly recommended to walk only with trekking guide or Sherpa porters) reach Rachyat village (1,520m/4,985ft) and then continue trek passing through Kapur Gaun(1,350m/4,428ft), bit down hill walking and passing a suspension bridge walk an hour uphill then arrive at Lapchyat Village (1,520m/4985ft). Take lunch and then via Kupchyat village (1,850m/6,068ft) trek continue to Khading village. Finally arrival at Khading village (2,020m/6,625ft).It’s a biggest Gurung village of the area and another best village of the ruby Valley culture show of Gurung Mother group and Lama dance as well as other different cultural program.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Local House (Home Stay)

Wake up, fresh up and then take local breakfast and then around 8:00am trek to Lapa village (1 hour walking) and look around Lapa village. This village is known as a biggest Tamang community village of Ruby Valley. Ruby valley Tamang culture, Ruby Valley Cultural trek, Ruby Valley landscape, Ruby Valley trekking trails and Ruby valley home stay as well as Ruby Valley Experience this is the village from where you will see fantastic Tamang community houses which are pretty much linked one to another. This is the village pretty much similar to Sertung village, Hindung and Neber village too. It’s much better than Langtang Trekking, Annapurna Trekking and Manaslu trekking. Trek down hill to Ankhu Khola (Ankhu Khola has many hydro project construction going on) and after an hour uphill walking finally arrive at Borang village and over night at home stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight at Local House (Home Stay)

Take breakfast at the same place and then by regular local sharing jeep drive to Dhading Besi and then changing another jeep, drive to Kathmandu. Total 11 hours driving and 80% of the road is dirt, rough and tough driving only from Dhading Besi to Kathmandu, 3 hours driving is black-topped road. Although technically nothing tough however road being quite rough, bumpy and turnings, it is still called moderate driving. Check in at hotel and over night at hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu

Take breakfast at the same hotel, rest of the morning leisure or personal shopping/activities and then in the afternoon drop to international airport for home country departure with “Sweet Memory” of Nepal, Ruby Valley Culture Trekking.

COST

The Cost Includes

  • International airport pick up and drop service
  • Hotel two nights in Kathmandu in twin sharing with breakfast
  • Regular Bus/Sharing local Jeep to trek starting & ending point
  • One professional trekking guide
  • Porter/s (one porter between two people)
  • Home stay along the way
  • All meals – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with tea/coffee during trek
  • Trekking equipment- Sleeping bag, Down Jacket etc.
  • Primary first Aid
  • Toilet paper
  • Guide and porters’ – Meals, day wages, insurance, equipment etc..
  • Emergency mobile for emergency use
  • Some dry fruits
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)
  • Trekking map

The Cost Excludes

  • Meals in Kathmandu except breakfast
  • Hard and soft drinks on the trekking – Coke, Beer, Mineral water
  • Personal traveling insurance
  • Persona nature expenses
  • Early and later return back to Kathmandu & expenses incur
  • Tips
Why you do Ruby Valley Cultural Trekking with Alliance Treks ?

1.Local owned company with deep knowledge of the Ruby Valley region
2.Experienced and knowledgeable local trekking staff (guides and porters)
3.Airport pick up and drop service with traditional welcome
4.Free excess luggage storage at Alliance Treks store during the trek
5.Emergency phone service for added safety and support
6.Trained guides who apply different safety precautions on the trek
7.Extensive medical kits recommended by professional medical Doctor/s
8.Provided amenities: Sleeping bag, raincoat, water bottle, kit bag, walking poles (returnable)
9.Comprehensive briefing and debriefing for a well-prepared trek/tour
10.Opportunity to explore Ruby, Crystal, Zinc, and Quartz mines
11.Direct interaction with locals for cultural insights and experiences
12.Customizable trekking itineraries to suit individual preferences
13.Local guides and porters with direct access to cultural information and insights
14.Support and promotion of eco-friendly and responsible tourism practices
15.Homestay accommodations for an authentic Nepali experience
16.Expertise in organizing trekking trips in the Ruby Valley region
17.Reliable and well-maintained equipment and gear provided
18.Assistance with visa processing and necessary permits
19.Specialized knowledge of the best trekking routes and viewpoints in the area
20.Commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience
21.Strong focus on customer satisfaction and personalized service

What is the Ruby Valley cultural trekking famous for ?

This mountain boasts deposits of the precious gem, Ruby. The Ruby Valley trek is an enthralling journey, encompassing diverse landscapes and walking terrains. From flatlands to terraced farms, gradual and steep climbs, to breathtaking vistas of lush green forests and towering snow-capped peaks, this trek offers a remarkable and varied experience. Ruby Valley cultural trekking is the best experience ever you will find with the most unique culture of Gurung, Tamang, Ghale, Dalit and Newari. Trust us, those ethnic group who perform their cultural shows in this region is very different than any other similar cultural group in other area of trekking region in Nepal.

Will we get electricity in Ruby Valley Cultural Trekking ?

In most of the area villages and campsites, electricity is available these days. However, during bad weather, power outages may occur. It is advisable to carry backup power bank batteries for emergency phone use, camera charging, and other devices. Please ensure that you bring Indian-made two-pin plugs for regular charging; European plugs with three pins won’t be suitable.

While we are confident that you will have access to power along the way, we suggest carrying backup batteries for unforeseen situations. Ruby Valley has nearly 98% of villages with electricity or solar power, ensuring a reliable power supply for your trekking journey.

What kind of cultural experience we expect in the Ruby Valley Cultural Trekking ?

Having a local guide during the Ruby Valley cultural trekking ensures an incredible cultural experience. Depending on your group size and available time, your guide can coordinate with locals for various cultural performances. These may include Gurung and Tamang Lama dances, Tamang cultural dances like Mane Nach, Jhakri-Shamanism, Mhendo Maya, Saikhole, Badel Dance, and Para mhendo dance. Additionally, you can enjoy Gurung cultural shows like Ghatu, Maruni, Chutka, and Dohori, Dalit Cultural show with Maleshree and Lokgeet, Nuewari Cultural show featuring Lakhe dance, and Ghale cultural show with Okhare and more.

While we don’t insist on payment, you have the option to contribute a bit of cash to local mother, father, or youth groups, which will be reciprocated with a special cultural performance. Your guide will be in charge of organizing this tour, so you can consult with them during your trek or discuss it with us before your trek departure.

What to do and not do do in Ruby Valley Cultural Trekking ?

In Ruby Valley Cultural Trekking – What to do ?
Respect Local Culture: Embrace the local customs, traditions, and culture. Show respect to the locals, their religious sites, and cultural practices.

Engage with Locals: Interact with the villagers and learn about their way of life. Engaging with locals will enhance your cultural experience and create meaningful connections.

Support Local Economy: Choose to stay in homestays and support the local economy by purchasing local products and services. This helps in promoting sustainable tourism and benefits the community.

Pack Responsibly: Carry essential items like reusable water bottles, snacks, and waste bags to minimize environmental impact. Avoid using single-use plastics and dispose of waste responsibly.

Follow Trekking Guidelines: Stick to designated trekking trails and follow the guidance of your guide. This ensures safety and helps in preserving the natural environment.

What not do do ?
Avoid Disrupting Local Life: Be mindful of your actions and avoid disrupting the daily routines of locals. Seek permission before taking photographs of people or their properties.

Do Not Litter: Keep the trekking routes clean by not littering. Dispose of waste properly in designated bins or carry it back with you.

Do Not Disturb Wildlife: Respect the natural habitat and wildlife. Refrain from approaching or feeding wild animals.

Do Not Wander Alone: Stick with your trekking group and avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar areas, especially during the night.

Avoid Cultural Insensitivity: Be sensitive to cultural differences and avoid any behavior or language that may be offensive to the local community.

When is the best time to visit Ruby Valley for the cultural trekking ?

Absolutely! Visiting Ruby Valley during Autumn and Spring offers a unique and vibrant cultural experience. These seasons coincide with various festivals and celebrations in the region, providing great opportunities to witness different cultural programs without any additional fees or charges. You can immerse yourself in the festivities, observe traditional dances, music performances, and cultural shows organized by the locals, all adding to the charm and excitement of your Ruby Valley cultural trekking adventure.

Is honey hunting tour possible in ruby valley cultural trekking ?

“Yes, if you ever plan to visit Nepal during the first week of July (monsoon season), it will be an ideal time to witness the fascinating tradition of honey hunting. Additionally, you can also experience this activity in November and December. During these seasons, local communities engage in harvesting wild honey. However, if you wish to have a truly exceptional and immersive experience, you are more than welcome to arrange special honey hunting tours with your camera crew. This will undoubtedly provide you with the best honey hunting experience compared to any other region.”

Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to be edited or if you need further assistance!

Is hot spring (Tatopani) bath worth to take in ruby valley cultural trekking ?

“Tatopani Hot Spring, located about 2 hours’ walk from Chalish village, holds a special festival organized by the local government in coordination with Ganesh Himal Tourism Development (GHTDC). The Ruby Valley locals gather to take baths, as it is believed that the hot spring’s waters can cure various skin diseases and provide relaxation while alleviating body pains. If you’re on a cultural trek through Ruby Valley, a hot spring bath comes highly recommended.”

Does my trekking guide speak local language ?

Your trekking guide is well-equipped for this journey, as they are fluent in Gurung and Tamang languages, making communication with the local communities smoother and more meaningful. Moreover, their extensive knowledge of the region’s culture, flora, fauna, and local heritage sites will enrich your trekking experience, providing valuable insights into the unique aspects of the area you’ll be exploring. With such a knowledgeable guide by your side, you can expect a more immersive and insightful adventure during your trekking expedition.

How many Kilogram my porter carries during ruby valley cultural trekking ?

During your Ruby Valley cultural trekking, your porter will be responsible for carrying a load of 15-25 kilograms, which includes your trekking equipment and supplies. However, your guide will not carry any load; their primary role is to provide expert guidance, ensure your safety, and offer valuable insights into the local culture and surroundings throughout the trek. By delegating the heavy load to the porter, your guide can focus on making your trekking experience enjoyable, informative, and memorable.

How is food and accommodation like in the ruby valley cultural trekking ?

“Food provided during the trek will be simple and basic, consisting of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodations will primarily be in dormitory-style lodges, where you’ll be sharing rooms with other trekkers or members of your own group. In some places, you may get a private room with a common bathroom. The accommodations are in local homestays, which provide restroom facilities (toilet) but no shower rooms. Instead, you will be provided with a bucket of hot water for showering whenever you need.”

How do you manage drinking water ?

“We will provide boiled water for drinking, which is safe to consume. However, to ensure and further safeguard your health, we will also supply water purifying tablets or liquid during your trekking journey.”

How is transportation like in the ruby valley cultural trekking ?

“For your trekking starting and ending points, we offer local sharing Jeeps and Mini buses. However, if you prefer a more comfortable and private experience, we can arrange a reserved private Jeep for you. It’s important to note that the road to the trekking area is newly built, making it quite rough and challenging. Traveling in local shared Jeeps might be inconvenient due to narrow seats and squeezing, which is a common experience for everyone. If you choose to reserve a private Jeep, it will be more comfortable, albeit at a slightly higher cost.”

How much does ruby valley cultural trekking cost /

“Our trekking experience, like Ruby Valley Trekking or Ruby Valley Circuit Trekking, offers a unique adventure. We specialize in tailor-made trekking packages for you and your friends. To inquire or book, please reach out to us via our official email at alliancetrek@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can contact us directly through WhatsApp/Viber at +977-9851022814.”

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Ruby Valley Cultural Trek 9 Days