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Ruby Valley Trek

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  • Jyatha, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal

Trip Costs: US$ 850

Overview

The Ruby Valley Trek is a hidden gem in central Nepal that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and off-the-beaten-path adventure. Nestled between the well-known Langtang and Manaslu regions, this trek gets its name from the precious stones—like rubies and other crystals—found in the area. Despite its growing popularity, the Ruby Valley Trek remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering trekkers a rare opportunity to explore remote Himalayan landscapes and traditional villages without the crowds. The trail passes through scenic valleys, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and terraced fields, with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and Manaslu.

What makes the Ruby Valley Trek particularly special is its cultural diversity and authentic village life. Trekkers get to experience the unique customs and warm hospitality of various ethnic communities, including Tamang, Gurung, Ghale, and Dalit groups, each with their own languages, festivals, and traditional practices. The route often includes homestays rather than commercial teahouses, providing deeper immersion into local lifestyles and food. Along the trail, you may also encounter Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and sacred sites, as well as hot springs where trekkers can rest and rejuvenate after a day’s hike.

The Ruby Valley Trek is moderately challenging, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and a desire for an off-the-grid experience. The trek usually spans 7 to 12 days, depending on the route and pace, with starting points like Syabrubesi or Dhading Besi. Since this region lacks extensive tourist infrastructure, the journey requires more self-sufficiency or guidance from experienced trekking agencies or local guides. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and serene trails, the Ruby Valley Trek is an ideal choice for trekkers seeking a meaningful and less-commercialized Himalayan adventure.

Trip highlights

  • Relaxing natural hot springs
  • Panoramic close up view of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and Manaslu Himal
  • Superb Himalayan views from Pangsang La Pass (3,842 m)
  • Diverse terrain farmland, green meadow, and rocky hills
  • Home to the domestic animals like sheep, yak, goat, and ox and exotic animals like musk deer, leopards.
  • Dense rhododendron, pine, oak, and bamboo forests
  • Raging rivers with suspension bridges, gorges, waterfalls, and stone-driven mills
  • Unique, rich, culture and traditions of Tamang, Gurung, Brahmin, and Dalits
  • An exposure to Shaman Practice in Nepal

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

As you fly into Kathmandu, you'll have beautiful views over the valley, the snow capped mountain peaks in Himalaya, and of the terraced fields below. As per your arrival time, our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to your booked hotel. Overnight in Hotel

Day 02: Fully day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu

Today after the breakfast we will proceed for sightseeing tour in and around the Kathmandu valley. The Durbar Squares, Pashupatinath temple, Swoyambhunath temple and Boudhanath temple are the major sight-seeing areas around the Kathmandu valley. These all are listed in a world heritage sites. The Durbar Square shows us the regal life of ancient periods. Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimages. Swoyambhunath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa is the Buddhist temple which is very popular around the globe. Swoyambhunath is also known as money temple stands on the hilltop west of the Kathmandu valley. It can also be known as the viewpoint of Kathmandu valley. Boudhanath temple is the biggest Chhorten ever made around the world. Overnight in Hotel

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1503 m) – approx. 7/8 hours

You will start your Ruby Valley journey through a drive to Syabrubesi. We will be driving into Langtang National Park, where we must register our trek permits. The 7 to 8 hours scenic drive following the Trisuli Bazaar, Ramche Gaon, and Dhunche is undoubtedly a pleasant ride. The road is a bit narrow and rocky, but the alluring landscape will leave you in awe. We spend the night in Syabrubesi. Syabrubesi, being the mid-point of several treks and the border of China, has all the things you might require for the trek. We rest and relax at Syabrubesi and prepare for our hike the next day.

Day 04: Trek from Syabrubesi (1,503 m) via Chawatar to Gatlang (2,337 m) – approx. 5/6 hours

Our destination for today is a small Tamang village called Gatlang. We follow a narrow and twisty trail to Bahun Dada Pass and then descend to reach Gatlang. We stop at Chawatar for lunch. The food is amazingly delicious here as most of the vegetables are freshly picked and locally grown. As we pass through this magnificent Tamang village, we witness the richness of their culture and tradition. We stay at Gatlang with the Tamang people. Their hospitality and food, without a doubt, will prove to be one of the best experiences you will ever get.

Day 05: Trek from Gatlang (2,337 m) to Somdang (3,271 m) – approx. 6/7 hours

We begin the hike from Gatlang to Parvati Kunda, a natural alpine freshwater lake. Named after the famous Hindu Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva, this beautiful lake is also considered sacred by the local people.

As you trek further ahead, the habitat and lodges decrease. However, you might come across very few tourists. We continue the trail through lush pine and rhododendron forest to Yuri Kharka. After a delicious meal at Yuri Kharka, we hike towards the Somdang via Khurphu Bhanjyang. There is a shutdown mine, a few hours' walk from Somdang. Though the mine has not functioned for years, you can still take a look around and explore its astonishing beauty. In the past, this mine used to produce zinc, copper, tin, and crystals (including rubies).

We will spend the night at Somdang Valley. The valley is so remote and silent you will literally find out what silence looks like.

Day 06: Trek from Somdang (3,271 m) via Pangsang Pass (3,842 m) to Tipling (2,078 m) – approx. 6/7 hours

After waking up at Somdang, we enjoy a delicious breakfast. On this day, you will be passing through the Pangsang La Pass, which is a demanding, yet exciting trek. While appreciating the stunning mountains and spectacular landscapes, we head to the southwest of Somdang Village to reach Pangsang Kharka. Pasang Kharka is a large meadow that lies in Pangsang Pass.

From Pasang Kharka, you can witness the panoramic views of Mount Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal Range. As one of the lesser-traveled trekking routes, there are relatively fewer homestays here. Then, we descend to Laptung village, passing through dense fir and rhododendron forests until we arrive at Tipling after a long trek.

Day 07: Trek from Tipling (2,078 m) to Chalish Gaon (1,800 m) – approx. 2 hours

Today's trek will be a short and relaxing one as we trek our way to the sister villages of Shertung and Chalish Gaon. First, we descend through the serene jungle, cross a tributary and reach Chalish Gaon, which lies in an idyllic setting. About 100m, above Chailsh Gaon, is Shertung village, and both of these settlements have a lot to explore. However, you can just choose to relax and enjoy the spectacular surrounding fields and lush valley below. Shertung and Chalish Gaon are inhabited mainly by Gurungs, Tamangs, and Dalits.

Day 08: Trek From Chalish (1,800 m) to Borang (1,700 m) – approx. 3 hours , Drive to Dhading Besi (580 m) – approx. 5 hours

A final day before you return to Kathmandu, you will enjoy all the wonderments of this trail. After a pleasant breakfast, we will hike further to Borang village then descend to Lishne Khola from Borang. From Borang, we take a local jeep to take us through a curvy road past Ankhu Khola and Kimdang Phedi Villages to Dhading Besi. As you return, you will see several peaceful settlements, which will make you nostalgic. We will be staying at Dhading Besi for the night.

Day 09: Drive from Dhading Besi to Kathmandu (1,310 m) – approx. 5 hours

We drive from Dhading Besi to Kathmandu back to your hotel. Overnight in Hotel

Day 10: Rest day in Kathmandu.

You can explore around the Heritage sites in the city, stroll down the streets of Thamel for local cultural experience, visit nearby monasteries, relax at a nearby spa centers or do some souvenir haunting in the local bazaar. Overnight in Hotel

Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu.

As per your flight time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home or any other destinations. The airport check-in is 3 hours prior to the departure time and the hotel checkout time is 12 PM.

Or inform us if you want to stay longer for short tours such as Jungle Safari at National Parks, Mountain Biking, Rafting, a Tibet tour, a Tour to Bhutan or India Tour. We will be happy to assist you.

  • Trip facts

  • Trip duration : 11 days
  • Grade : Moderate to Fairly Challenging
  • Activity : Cultural sightseeing tour and trekking
  • Starts in : Kathmandu
  • End in : Kathmandu
  • Trek Type : Home Stay Accommodation
  • Accomodation : Tented Camp / Local Home Stay
  • Transportation: Private vehicle
  • Max Altitude : 3830 m

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop off services by private A/C vehicle
  • 4 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu on twin /double sharing basis with breakfast only
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with English Speaking local Tour Guide and entry fees
  • Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) during the trek prepared by our expert cook
  • Twin sharing accommodation in home stay during the trek
  • A Trekking Guide, Sherpa, necessary porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment
  • Trekking equipment (two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, table with chairs, kitchen utensils, and other necessary equipment during the trek)
  • Safe drinking boiled water will be provided during the trek
  • Transfer from Kathmandu to Arughat and after the trek back to Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • First aid kit
  • All necessary permits and paper works including Ganesh Himal Trek special permits
  • All government and local taxes
  • 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 from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening
  • All tax, VAT and company service charge

Cost Excludes

  • International flight & any other airfares
  • Nepal visa
  • Extra baggage charge if any (weight allowance 12kg+3 kg in domestic flight)
  • Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
  • Tips for Guide, porters, drivers etc.
  • Any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/road block due to any reason
  • Personal expenses such as table drinks, snacks while walking, hot water/shower, internet, telephone etc during the trek
  • Clients insurance and Medical expenses
  • Any other tours, transfers and hotel accommodations other than mentioned above
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu

Gallery

Extension Tours

Paragliding
Jungle Safari
Pokhara Tour
Rafting

Necessary Information

1. Visa to Nepal

You can obtain the Nepalese visa from Nepalese consulate in your country easily or upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. For that, you require a valid passport with 2 copies of passport size photos. Similarly, A visa for Nepal can be obtained at Nepal India border entry point at Birgunj, Nepalgunj, Kakadvitta, Bhairahawa, Gaddachowki and Kodari on the Nepal China border. A15/30/90 day multiple entries Nepalese visa can be obtained by paying USD 30/50/125 or equivalent foreign currency respectively. For more information, please visit http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa

2. Welcoming upon your arrival in Nepal

We will be at the airport to welcome you upon your arrival to Nepal. We will be carrying the Raj BalaTreks & Expedition placard with your name underneath. From airport you will escorted to your hotel and we help you to check-in.

3. Health Issues and Vaccinations Requirement for Ruby Valley Trek

As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.

The main health consideration during Ruby Valley Trekking is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them in Kathmandu. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and handle the low oxygen rate. If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you to consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude areas before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.

4. Difficulty Level of the trek

This is a moderate trek that does not require any technical expertise of mountaineering. Physically not very tiring, involves approx 5-6 hours trekking along well marked trail up to 3870m altitude. No previous experience is required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercises and enjoy walking in the high altitude conditions.

5. Food on the Trek

We provide three tasty, plentiful and nutritious meals daily with a variety of local and Western dishes. To start the day, breakfast consists of a choice of porridge, muesli and cereal followed by omelet, fried or scrambled eggs with chapattis or bread. Lunch is generally a selection of salad, cooked vegetable dishes, pasta and traditional breads.

After a long day on the trail, dinner is a hearty 3 course meal - soup, followed by a variety of vegetable, meat, rice and pasta dishes and completed with a simple dessert. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate are also provided at all meals. We use as much fresh produce as possible and special diets are regularly catered for. The leaders are able to maintain very tight controls on health and hygiene in the kitchen with respect to general cleanliness and food preparation and also within the group with respect to personal hygiene. This has allowed us to maintain remarkably high standards of health over many years of trek organization - and good health is vital to an enjoyable and successful trek and climb. All foods are well cooked and vegetables are treated by potassium permanganate or iodine. Boiled water is served for drinking. Antiseptic soaps and potassium or iodine treated water are provided for washing. Special dietary requirements can always be catered for.

6. A Typical Day on a Trek in Nepal

Your typical day begins with a hot cup of tea brought to the room at about 6 am, followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. After packing all your bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the morning’s walk. All you need to carry is a small day pack containing water bottle, camera, sun cream, hat, rain jacket and a warm jumper, just in case. The porters will carry the rest of your gear for you. After walking for 3-4 hours, we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we arrive at camp in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby villages, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days, we will arrive at camp by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free.

Dinner is usually served between 6 and 7 pm. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and talking with the crew, or perhaps even joining in some singing and dancing, before heading off to the tent for a well-earned sleep.

7. Land Transfers

You will be transferred from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and after the completion of trek from Dhading Besi to Kathmandu by private vehicle

8. Personal Expenses – Approximate money you should carry on the trek

Our 11 days Ruby Valley Trek cost is all inclusive of your accommodation, meals, permits and other official expenses.(See price includes and excludes section for more detail). Besides, other expenses depend on your spending habits. A USD 10-15 is sufficient to buy bottled water, snacks, chocolate bars, hot and cold drinks, and showers during the trek besides your included meals and accommodation.

9. Money Exchange

You can exchange money at a Bank or the money exchange counter in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Many Tourist class Hotels have money exchange facilities. For Trekking, there are Banks and exchange counters at major Tourist hubs like Namche and Lukla. These days, there are availability of ATMs everywhere in Kathmandu and some in Lukla and Namche.

10. Tips

Tips are appreciated by your support team after the completion of your trekking in Nepal. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise that you can allocate 5- 10 % of the total tour cost as tips. It is recommended that you talk to the members and hand it over individually as per the hierarchy on the last day of the trek.

11. Facility of communication available on trek

While trekking you may not have an access to telephone facility for some days or weeks. However, en route there may be few places where telephone facilities may be available and likely to be working.

If it is urgent for you to be in contact with your family and friends, we can provide the Satellite Phone along with rental charge on request.

12. Luggage while trekking

During trek your main luggage will be carried by porters. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. - a small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek. A trek bag is ideal for your main luggage, plus a small lockable bag for travel clothes or anything that you do not need during trek which you can leave at hotel’s locker room/safe deposit box in Kathmandu for free of charge.

13. Physical Fitness

The Ruby Valley Trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness, making it suitable for trekkers with some prior hiking experience and good general health. The trail involves daily walking of 5 to 7 hours through varied terrain, including steep ascents, descents, forested paths, and high ridgelines, with altitudes ranging from 1,000 meters to over 3,800 meters. While it doesn't reach extreme elevations like some other Himalayan treks, the continuous elevation gain and remote nature of the region can be physically demanding. Trekkers should be prepared for basic living conditions, carry light backpacks, and have the stamina to walk on consecutive days without rest. Pre-trek training such as cardio workouts, leg strengthening, and hiking practice can significantly enhance endurance and enjoyment on the trail. Overall, a reasonably fit individual with a positive mindset and willingness to adapt to rustic conditions will find the Ruby Valley Trek a highly rewarding experience.

14. Climate & best time to do the trek

The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600m and progressively lower the higher we go.

Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.

Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November. This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. At the highest altitudes although the days can be nice and sunny the temperatures can drop to 10ºC and much lower. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as minus 10ºC and lower at the highest altitudes.

Pre-monsoon/spring: March to May. Both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but haze will often build up in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring.

Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes. Summit day will be a very early start (usually about 2am) and will be extremely cold. Although mostly it is calm and clear on summit day the mountain does occasionally get high winds. You need to be equipped for temperatures as low as minus 25ºC plus wind chill on summit day.

Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.

15. First Aid Kit

We supply a medical bag with standard medicines prescribed by trekking doctors and a user’s manual. Since our staffs/guides are not qualified for suggesting medications to western clients, we would request you to use the medicines upon your own risk. It is safer and more reliable if you have your own medicine kit and not depend on what we have.

16. Rescue /Evacuation

Your safety and security are our top priority, and we always make sure that nothing untoward happen to you. However, if anything serious like sickness or a casualty occurs, we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. As you are responsible for all the expenses incurred in evacuation, please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it.

17. Drinking Water on the Trek

Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for trekking. You have to consume at least 4 liters or more of water to counter sweat-induced water loss. While natural water sources like rivers and springs are abundant on the trails, they are unsafe for direct consumption. To address this, tea shops heat water and offer it to trekkers. Boiled water is available for free at tea houses, but at tea shops, a small fee of USD 1 or 2 may be charged.

An alternative is purifying tap water using purification tablets. It’s advisable to carry a water bottle with a built-in filtration system, allowing you to filter water from natural sources along the trail. If you prefer the conveniences of bottled water, mineral water bottles are available for purchase at around $2 to $3. Although we strictly discourage the use of one-time plastic bottles on the trek path due to the increasing issue of plastic waste on the trekking trails.

18. All our guides are certified guides

All our guides are certified and trained trekking leaders. Our guides are certified by the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM), Nepal. They have years of experience working in this line of work and know the different trekking trails of Nepal, mountain ranges, culture, and mountain sickness.

19. Booking Procedure

Your booking of this Ruby Valley Trekking will be confirmed by email once we receive your deposit of 20% of the total trip and the signed copy of booking form and contract. The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 months prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.

20. Cancellation Policy

If you cancel your booking, the following scale of charges will apply:

2 months before departure – Loss of deposit (20% of the total trip)

29 days to 2 months before departure – 30% of total trip cost

10 to 28 days before departure – 60% of total trip cost

Less than 10 days before departure – 100% of total trip cost

Additional Information

1. Where is Ruby Valley Trekking Region?

The Ruby Valley trekking region is located in central Nepal, nestled between the Langtang National Park to the east and the Manaslu Conservation Area to the west. It lies primarily within the Dhading and Rasuwa districts, in the shadow of the majestic Ganesh Himal range, which dominates the northern skyline with peaks soaring above 7,000 meters. The region is accessed via road from Kathmandu, with common starting points being Syabrubesi, Gatlang, or Dhading Besi, depending on the chosen route. Despite its proximity to the capital, Ruby Valley remains relatively unexplored and less developed compared to Nepal’s more popular trekking destinations, offering pristine landscapes, traditional villages, and panoramic views of peaks like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and Manaslu. Its strategic location between major trekking corridors makes it an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking natural beauty and cultural depth without the crowds.

2. Why This Trek is a Special Experience?

The Ruby Valley Trek is a special experience because it offers an authentic and unspoiled glimpse into the heart of rural Himalayan life, far from the commercialized trekking routes of Nepal. This hidden gem takes you through breathtaking landscapes, from lush forests and terraced farmlands to high alpine meadows and dramatic mountain ridges, all while offering stunning views of the Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Manaslu ranges. What sets this trek apart is its deep cultural richness—along the way, trekkers interact with diverse ethnic communities such as the Tamang, Gurung, Ghale, and Dalit, experiencing their hospitality, traditions, and local cuisine through intimate homestays rather than commercial lodges. The journey also includes sacred sites, serene monasteries, and even natural hot springs, enhancing the spiritual and rejuvenating aspect of the trek. With its combination of scenic beauty, cultural depth, and tranquility, the Ruby Valley Trek offers a rare and meaningful Himalayan adventure unlike any other. 

3. Who Can Do Ruby Valley Trek?

The Ruby Valley Trek is ideal for anyone with a moderate level of physical fitness, a love for nature, and a desire to explore authentic Himalayan culture away from crowded tourist trails. It is suitable for both experienced trekkers seeking a quieter route and first-time trekkers who are well-prepared and comfortable with basic conditions. Since the trek involves walking 5 to 7 hours a day through varied terrain—including forested paths, ridges, and traditional villages—it is best suited for individuals who are comfortable with moderate trekking challenges and can adapt to simple accommodations like homestays with limited amenities. Families with older children, solo adventurers, and culturally curious travelers alike can all enjoy this trek, especially those looking for a more immersive and off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal. With proper guidance, pacing, and preparation, the Ruby Valley Trek can be an enriching journey for anyone eager to explore Nepal’s hidden gems.

4. Ruby Valley Trek Distance

The Ruby Valley Trek covers a distance of approximately 70 to 100 kilometers (43 to 62 miles), depending on the specific route, side trips, and starting or ending points chosen by the trekkers. The trek typically takes 7 to 12 days to complete and traverses a diverse range of landscapes—from lowland villages at around 1,000 meters to alpine ridges and high passes that reach elevations of over 3,800 meters. The distance is spread across daily hikes of 5 to 7 hours, with gradual ascents and descents through forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages. While not among the longest treks in Nepal, the Ruby Valley Trek's distance is made more challenging by the rugged terrain and limited infrastructure, requiring good stamina and preparation. The manageable trekking distance combined with cultural richness and natural beauty makes it an ideal journey for those seeking a rewarding yet less-traveled Himalayan adventure.

5. Flora and Fauna on Ruby Valley Trek Region

The Ruby Valley Trek region is rich in biodiversity, offering trekkers an immersive experience in Nepal’s pristine natural environment. The trail passes through a range of ecological zones, from sub-tropical forests to alpine meadows, supporting a vibrant array of flora and fauna. Trekkers can encounter lush forests of rhododendron, oak, pine, and bamboo, especially stunning during the spring bloom when the hills are painted with colorful rhododendron flowers. The region is also home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, langur monkeys, musk deer, red panda, and even elusive snow leopards in the higher altitudes. Birdwatchers will enjoy sightings of species like the Himalayan monal (Nepal’s national bird), pheasants, eagles, and several migratory birds. This rich natural diversity adds a fascinating layer of discovery to the Ganesh Himal trekking experience.

7. Ruby Valley Trek Equipments and Gears

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for Ruby Valley Trek. 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.

Head, face, and neck

  • Sun hat or cap (day)
  • Fleece beanie/woolen cap (night)
  • Balaclava (optional)
  • sunglasses
  • Sunscreens
  • Moisturizers
  • Lip Balm
  • Face towel
  • Scarf
  • Neck gaiters

Upper Body

  • T-shirts (preferably quick-dry and breathable) (day)
  • Parka/windbreaker (day)
  • Rain gear/poncho
  • Inner thermal (at night)
  • Fleece T-shirts (night)
  • Fleece jacket
  • Down jacket (night)

Lower Body

  • Undergarments
  • Trekking pants (preferably stretchable, quick-dry, and water-resistant) (day)
  • Rain gear
  • Inner thermal (at night)
  • Fleece/wool pants (night)
  • Hands
  • Light/outdoor gloves (day)
  • Warm winter gloves, fleece or woolen gloves (night)

 Legs

  • Thin socks (day)
  • Warm woolen socks (at night)
  • Hiking boots (preferably GORE-TEX) with spare shoelaces
  • Floaters or sandals
  • Knee support (optional)

Essential Items

  • Passport
  • Extra passport-size photos (min. 2) for trekking permit
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Money
  • Backpack and rain jacket
  • Duffel bag*
  • Padlocks
  • Rain cover and a day pack (30L)
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Personal medicine
  • water bottle

Toiletries

  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Facial wash, soap, and shampoo
  • Tissues or wet wipes
  • Toilet rolls
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Handkerchiefs (optional)
  • Basic first-aid kit

Others (Optional)

  • Thermo flask
  • Portable water filter/purification tablets
  • Earplug
  • A Universal Adaptor
  • Camera, memory card, and charger
  • Reading books or maps
  • Binoculars
  • Watch
  • Snack
8. Alternative Trips in Ganesh Himal Trek Region

If you are looking for alternative treks into this beautiful region, we have more options for this trekking region.

  1. Ganesh Himal Trek
  2. Ganesh Himal Base Camp Trek
9. Kathmandu Accommodation for Ruby Valley Trek

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be promptly transported to your designated hotel, a comfortable and well-maintained 3 star hotel.  Your stay includes twin-sharing/double accommodation with breakfast. All the rooms have a private bathroom, TV, and ample storage for your luggage.

If you desire a more exclusive experience, you can upgrade to single occupancy or enhance your stay to a 4- or 5-star hotel at an additional charge.

10. Attached Toilet/bathroom Facilities During Ruby Valley Trek

Attached toilet and bathroom facilities during the Ruby Valley Trek are generally limited, as the region is still relatively undeveloped and off the mainstream tourist radar. Most accommodations along the trail are local homestays or basic teahouses, which typically offer shared toilets located outside the rooms. Attached bathrooms are rare and, if available, are usually found in lower-altitude villages closer to the trailheads, where infrastructure is slightly better. The toilets are often traditional squat types, though some places may have simple Western-style options. Shower facilities are basic, and hot water—usually heated by solar power or wood—may be provided on request for an extra charge. Trekkers are advised to carry essential hygiene supplies like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and biodegradable soap, and to be prepared for rustic conditions, especially in the higher and more remote areas of the trek.

11. Travel Insurance for Ruby Valley Trek

Having travel insurance that covers high-altitude adventure activities (above 5,000 m) is mandatory. This includes contingencies like flight disruptions, accidents, and emergency evacuations.

You can buy such insurance online from various providers. Some of the common choices based on client experiences for Ruby Valley Trek include:

  • USA and Canada: Tugo, United Health Care, World Nomad, Blue Cross
  • Australia and New Zealand: Fast Cover, Allianz Australia
  • Singapore: Ergo, World Nomad (Explore plan level 3)
  • Europe: Europe Assistance, Austrian Alpine Club, Allianz Europe
  • India: ICICI Lombard

However, please ensure that the policy covers trekking up to 6,000 m altitude. While these are just suggestions, the policies, and coverage may vary accordingly. Contact these insurers directly to inquire about their offerings before making a purchase.

12. Phone and Gadgets Charging

Phone and gadgets charging on the Ruby Valley Trek can be limited and inconsistent due to the remote nature of the region and the lack of widespread electricity infrastructure. In lower-altitude villages, some teahouses and homestays may offer charging facilities powered by solar panels or small generators, often for an additional fee. However, as you ascend to more remote areas closer to the base camp, charging options become scarcer or unavailable altogether. To stay connected and ensure your devices remain functional for navigation, communication, and photography, it is highly recommended to carry a high-capacity power bank or solar charger. Trekkers should also consider minimizing power usage by switching devices to airplane mode and turning off unnecessary features when not in use.

13. Group Departure Treks & Private Treks

We conduct Group Departure Treks as well as Private Treks. If you have your own group, we provide you discounts based on your group size.

However, you will not get discounts for groups we assemble or our Fixed Group Departure Treks. For a group of 12 or more, we add an assistant guide. You can choose to conduct a private trek exclusively for your team.

14. Trip Extension

After completing the trek and tour, you may want to stay a couple of days extra in Nepal. There are many beautiful and adventurous places in Nepal.

You can spend your time in various ways, such as sightseeing in Kathmandu, Nagarkot View Trip, Chitwan Jungle Safari, paragliding, White Water Rafting, and canoeing before flying back.

15. Guide to Overcoming Challenges on Ruby Valley Trek

Overcoming challenges on the Ruby Valley Trek requires preparation, adaptability, and a positive mindset, as the trek traverses remote and rugged terrain with limited infrastructure. One of the main challenges is the lack of established facilities, including basic lodging and amenities, so trekkers should be mentally prepared for simple accommodations and carry essential supplies such as a sleeping bag, power bank, water purification tablets, and first-aid kit. Altitude can also pose a challenge, especially as the trek reaches elevations above 3,500 meters, making proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing crucial. Navigation can be tricky due to unmarked trails in some sections, so hiring a local guide or joining a reputable trekking agency is highly recommended for both safety and cultural insight. Physical fitness and stamina are key, as the trek involves long walking hours on steep ascents and descents. By training beforehand, packing appropriately, and embracing the unpredictable nature of off-the-beaten-path trekking, adventurers can fully enjoy the raw beauty and rich cultural experiences that the Ruby Valley Trek has to offer.

16. Medical Facilities at Ruby Valley Trek Region

Medical facilities available on the Ruby Valley Trek are very limited due to the region’s remote and undeveloped nature. Along the trail, there are only a few small health posts in lower-altitude villages, which can handle minor ailments and injuries but are not equipped for serious medical emergencies or high-altitude illnesses. In more remote areas, access to trained medical personnel is minimal or nonexistent, making self-care and preparation essential. Trekkers should carry a comprehensive personal first aid kit, including medications for altitude sickness, pain relief, and common gastrointestinal issues. It is highly recommended to trek with a guide trained in first aid and to ensure you have travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation, as reaching advanced medical care often requires air transport to Kathmandu. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and awareness of altitude-related symptoms are critical to staying safe and healthy throughout the journey.