Ruby Valley Trek

Your Ruby Valley adventure begins in Nepal's vibrant capital. After airport pickup, settle into your hotel and attend a pre-trek briefing with your guide. Take time to explore Kathmandu's historic sites, gather any last-minute trekking supplies from Thamel, and sample authentic Nepali cuisine while preparing for the adventure ahead. Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Kathmandu with modern amenities.

Begin your journey with a scenic 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. The route follows the Trishuli River valley before climbing into the hills along winding mountain roads. Enjoy spectacular views of terraced fields, traditional villages, and occasional glimpses of the Himalayan peaks. Syabrubesi serves as a gateway to both the Langtang Valley and Ruby Valley treks, offering a first taste of mountain village life. Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Syabrubesi.

Your first day of trekking involves a 5-6 hour climb from Syabrubesi to the traditional Tamang village of Gatlang. The trail ascends steadily through pine and rhododendron forests, offering progressively expansive views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Gatlang is one of the most picturesque villages in the region, with traditional stone houses arranged in a compact settlement and a historic Buddhist monastery. The village also features a sacred lake, Parvati Kund, which holds spiritual significance for local residents. Accommodation: Community lodge or homestay in Gatlang.

Today's challenging 7-8 hour trek takes you from Gatlang to Somdang, climbing through changing vegetation zones and across Khurphu Bhanjyang pass. The initial portion follows a ridge with expansive views before descending to cross the Bamdang Khola river. After a rest at Yuri Kharka, a summer grazing area, the trail climbs steeply to cross the Khurphu Bhanjyang and then descends to Somdang. This former mining settlement sits in a wide valley surrounded by impressive peaks. If time permits, explore the abandoned zinc mine that once drove the local economy. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or homestay in Somdang.

This pivotal day features a challenging but rewarding 6-7 hour trek over the highest point of your journey, Pangsang Pass (4,300m). Starting early from Somdang, climb steadily through alpine terrain with diminishing vegetation. The final approach to the pass is steep but presents increasingly spectacular mountain panoramas. From the prayer flag-adorned summit of Pangsang Pass, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views encompassing the Ganesh Himal range, Langtang peaks, Manaslu, and on clear days, even the Annapurna range. After celebrating at the pass, descend to Pangsang Kharka, a high-altitude summer grazing area, for your overnight stay. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or seasonal herder's shelter at Pangsang Kharka.

Today's 6-7 hour trek involves a substantial descent from the alpine elevations of Pangsang Kharka to the mid-hill village of Borang. The trail winds down through rhododendron forests that bloom spectacularly in spring, with changing vegetation marking your descent through multiple climate zones. As you approach Borang, terraced agricultural fields become prominent, showcasing the farming lifestyle that sustains these mountain communities. Borang village offers your first encounter with the Gurung culture on this trek, with traditional round houses and friendly locals known for their hospitality. Accommodation: Community lodge or homestay in Borang.

This easier 4-5 hour day takes you from Borang to Shertung through beautiful middle-hill landscapes. The trail follows gentle contours through terraced fields and scattered hamlets, offering plenty of opportunities to observe daily rural life. Shertung village is known for preserving traditional Tamang culture, including distinctive dress, music, and religious practices that blend Buddhism with ancient shamanic traditions. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, visiting the local monastery, or possibly witnessing traditional dance performances if your visit coincides with local celebrations. Accommodation: Community lodge or homestay in Shertung.

Continue your journey with a 5-6 hour trek descending further into the lower valleys. The trail passes through several small settlements, terraced crops of millet, corn, and rice, and patches of subtropical forest. The climate becomes noticeably warmer as you lose elevation. Chalish village sits near the confluence of local rivers, with a mixed community of several ethnic groups. The area is known for its traditional crafts, including bamboo weaving and local pottery, which you might observe being practiced. Accommodation: Basic teahouse or homestay in Chalish.

Today's 4-5 hour trek takes you through the lower foothills to Darkha village. The trail follows the river valley, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through small farming communities. The subtropical environment features banana plants, orange trees, and other fruit crops that thrive in the warmer climate. Darkha is a larger settlement with slightly more developed facilities than previous villages, offering a transitional experience as you prepare to return to urban areas. Accommodation: Teahouse in Darkha.

Complete your trekking journey with a 3-4 hour morning hike from Darkha to Salanghat, where the trail meets the road. At Salanghat, board local transportation for the drive to Dhading Besi, the district headquarters. This busy market town offers a stark contrast to the peaceful villages you've experienced during the trek. Celebrate the completion of your journey with a farewell dinner with your trekking team. Accommodation: Local hotel in Dhading Besi.

Board your return vehicle for the 3-4 hour drive back to Kathmandu. The journey follows busy highways, providing time to reflect on the stark contrast between rural Nepal and the rapidly developing urban areas. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy the comforts of city amenities after your immersive rural experience. Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Your Ruby Valley adventure concludes with a transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your schedule, you might have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu before leaving Nepal with unique memories of a region few international travelers have experienced.