Langtang & Helambu Region
Ruby Valley Trek
A hidden gem between Langtang and Manaslu rich in gemstones and raw isolation
Overview
“A man who has walked a hundred miles will feel different from a man who has walked ten.”
Ruby Valley Trek is a lesser-known trek in Nepal, wedged between the Langtang National Park and Manaslu Conservation Area in the Central Himalayan range. The trek offers a perfect blend of stunning Himalayan scenery, diverse landscapes, high cultural richness, and warm local hospitality. It is one of the least visited trekking routes in Nepal, which makes it ideal for those who want the authentic, crowd-free experience.
Geographically, the hike traverses rolling hills, dense forests, and high-altitude meadows, eventually making way to craggy alpine country. The climate itself changes with height, from gentle and temperate in the lower valleys to chillier alpine conditions in the higher elevations.
The trek is named after the precious rubies that are reported to be found there. The highest point of the trek is Paldor Base Camp (4,800m), which offers a breathtaking view of Paldor Peak (5,896m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Langtang Lirung (7,227m), and Manaslu (8,163m). Other major attractions also include Pangsang Pass (3,850m), Parvati Kunda (a sacred high-altitude lake), Shertung (a cultural hub), and the Ganga Jamuna Waterfall (a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site).
Route Map
Interactive route map — Coming in Phase 2
Itinerary
Start with a scenic 120 km drive from Kathmandu via Trishuli Bazaar and Syabrubesi. Arrive at Ghatlang, a Tamang village with unique stone houses and prayer flags. Explore Parvati Kunda, a sacred lake, and observe the rich Tamang culture. Ghatlang offers a stunning view of Ganesh Himal and Langtang Lirung. Enjoy traditional welcome, visit the village monastery, and get warmly greeted. Rest in a locally owned teahouse, prepared for the trek ahead. Overnight at a teahouse at Ghatlang.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+1,200m
Suitability:Long travel day. Suitable for all.
After breakfast, start with a gentle ascent through dense forest and cultivated fields. The trail passes through pines and rhododendron forests, offering dramatic views of Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges. Rest at Yuri Kharka, a grazing ground for yaks, before proceeding towards Somdang. The trek is made up of waterfalls, diverse flora, and occasional wildlife sightings. Reach Somdang, a remote village renowned for copper mines in the past. Explore the location of the mines and rest in the peaceful environment. Overnight stay in a teahouse at Somdang.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+671m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for trekkers with basic fitness.
Begin the acclimatization day with a challenging hike to Paldor Base Camp. The sloping climb offers stunning vistas of Paldor Peak (5,896m), Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu. The trek includes moraines, glaciers, and alpine grasslands. Have a picnic lunch at the base camp, savoring the pristine views. Descend carefully back to Somdang for much-needed rest. The hike acclimatizes before ascending to higher altitudes. Sleep the night under local hospitality and in preparation for tomorrow's hike. Overnight in Somdang teahouse.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+1,529m / -1,529m (round trip)
Suitability:Strenuous. Suitable for experienced, acclimatized trekkers.
Trek on forested trails to Pangsang Pass (3,850m), one of the best viewpoints of Ganesh Himal. Gradual climb but with rewarding 360° panorama of Manaslu, Annapurna, and Langtang ranges. The pass, renowned for its yak herders and prayer flags, offers excellent sunrises and sunsets. Rest and follow back the route to Labdung, relishing the virgin terrain and tranquil atmosphere. Spend the evening relaxing and sharing stories with fellow trekkers. Overnight at a teahouse at Labdung.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+500m / -500m (approx.)
Suitability:Moderate to challenging. Suitable for acclimatizing trekkers
Follow down through thick rhododendron and pine forests, passing through isolated settlements and tiny streams. Visit Puru and Lingjo, the last villages of the valley, where traditional Tamang culture still lingers. Explore their stone houses, chortens, and rice fields. These villages are renowned for organic farming and hospitality. Take time to mingle with the locals, learn about their customs, and sample traditional food. Return to Labdung via the same route, indulging in the pristine beauty of the region. Overnight at a teahouse in Labdung.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-850m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for cultural and nature enthusiasts.
Descend by trekking through rhododendron forest and fields along prayer flag trails. There are fine views of Ganesh Himal and the Paldor Peak from this multi-cultural Tamang village named Shertung. A visit can be made to the monastery at Shertung, a significant Buddhist ritual and teaching center. Lunch is followed by ascending to the comparatively peaceful ridge that features a mini-meditation center named the Gomba Danda. Immerse in the spiritual environment, watching monks recite prayers. Return to Shertung for an evening of cultural exchanges, Tamang traditional dances, and storytelling. Overnight at a teahouse.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-1,125m
Suitability:Easy to moderate. Suitable for all trekkers.
Walk down through dense pine and bamboo forests, crossing suspension bridges over small streams. Reach Borang, a Gurung and Tamang village, where houses are built in a traditional style. Explore local weaving centers, see handloomed carpets, and speak with villagers who trade ancient farming techniques. Go to a small Buddhist shrine, where villagers offer prayers for prosperity. Dine on traditional Dhindo and Gundruk, Nepali staples. See a serene sunset over the valley, and then overnight in a teahouse.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-375m
Suitability:Easy. Suitable for all.
Walk along a scenic trail through waterfalls, orange groves, and terraced farms. Walk through remote Tamang villages, where the locals practice honey hunting on steep cliffs. Darkha village, which is culturally diverse, is a reflection of the blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Visit a local school and learn about the reconstruction process of the community following the earthquake. Enjoy organic farm food and a night of folk songs from the village. Overnight in a teahouse, prepared for the next day's cultural experience.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-400m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for all trekkers.
Walk uphill along forest tracks and green meadows. Tawal is a rare village that has good rural planning and environmentally friendly development. The village is properly planned, with proper infrastructure, clean drinking water, and community-served facilities. Tawal is also famous for bamboo weaving, where the local villagers weave baskets, mats, and furniture out of locally found bamboo. Visit weavers' centers and witness traditional craftsmanship. Experience community life, seeing their serene way of living. Experience a night of Tamang cultural performances. Overnight at a teahouse in Tawal.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+600m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for trekkers with good endurance.
Drive to Ganga Jamuna, twin holy waterfalls, believed to have been formed by the blessings of Goddess Ganga and Jamuna. Hindu pilgrims visit here for ritual bathing and worship. Trek on forested trails to Phulkharka, a peaceful village dominated by Hindu and Buddhist villages. Explore ancient shrines, stone-carved deities, and traditional mud huts. Engage with local craftsmen crafting wooden deities and prayer wheels. Indulge in homestay, relishing organic food. Overnight at Phulkharka teahouse.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-150m
Suitability:Easy. Suitable for all.
Walk along a scenic route amidst rolling hills and meadows. Hatiyakot is a tiny village but a legendary one with a connection to the Prahlad legend, a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu mythology, Prahlad was tortured by his demon father King Hiranyakashipu for being a Vishnu worshipper. His steadfast devotion moved Vishnu to assume an incarnation as Narsimha to rescue him. This is the crux of the festival of Holi, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Arrive at Chapthok/Again Chowk, enjoying local hospitality. Overnight stay at a teahouse.
Elevation Gain/Loss:+250m
Suitability:Moderate. Suitable for trekkers with basic fitness.
Drive through hills, rivers, and villages, enjoying the highlights of the trip. Stop at local tea houses along the way, getting to know villagers and enjoying local snacks. Arrive in Kathmandu, where you can relax, walk around the lively streets of Thamel, or visit heritage sites like Pashupatinath or Swayambhunath. Dinner at a Nepalese restaurant with standard Nepalese cuisine, reminiscing about the diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and spiritual endeavors encountered on the trek. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Elevation Gain/Loss:-400m
Suitability:Travel Day. Suitable for all.
What's Included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu hotel accommodation (as per itinerary)
- Tea house or lodge accommodation during the trek
- All standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service (as per package policy)
- Trekking permits and TIMS card
- First aid medical kit
- Government taxes and service charges
Not Included
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
- Personal trekking equipment and gear
- Snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks
- Hot shower, Wi-Fi, and battery charging during the trek
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses and laundry
Requirements
Fitness
Moderate fitness required; regular hiking or cardio recommended.
Experience
No high-altitude experience required; prior multi-day hikes are helpful.
Gear
Warm layers, trekking boots, sleeping bag, and rain gear are required.
Trek Details
Distance
3,850m
Duration
12 Days
Max Elevation
3,850m
Start Point
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
From
$1,680.00
per person