Trip Introduction
Dhading, Gorkha, Rasuwa and Nuwakot district is at the geographical centre of Nepal. Ruby Valley Trek lies at the heart of the nation. It is from these hills that Gorkhahillmen, led by Prithvi Narayan Shah, set out unite of Nepal in the late 1700s. Since then, Gorkha soldiers have received international fame for their bravery and skill as warriors.
Although near to both Kathmandu and Pokhara, the Ganesh Himal Region has remained a well-kept secret to all but Nepal’s most avid trekkers. Wildflowers flourish, and waterfalls embellish the lush hill scenery in a land blessed with wide-ranging geographical, cultural and biological diversity. Sensational view point features the sublime Himalaya to the north. Moreover, most prominent is the Ganesh Himal range, a family of peaks among the most attractive of the entire Himalaya. Selected view point in the area offers immense panoramas.
Most rewarding are the cultural attractions including magnificent Ganga Jamuna, twins waterfalls, Kalo, Seto and Ganesh Kunda, hot spring and Tripurasundari Temples. The area is populated mainly by Tamang Gurung and Ghale to the north. Brahmin, Chhetri, Dalit, Newar and Chepang are at the lower elevation in the south. Peoples welcome visitors warmly with a friendliness that makes Nepal Legendary. Besides that, the Government registered trekking Agency will be happy to set up visitors with a guide. They also set up necessities for exploring this captivating, undiscovered region.
Another adventurous option is to hike in from the Tamang Heritage Trail of Rasuwa and follow the ruby trek, so named for the precious stones harvested in the area as well as Balche Nuwakot, Gorkha and Dhading Besi. We will take you to Ruby Valley Trek with dramatic scenes of natural beauty, village scenery and cultural charm.
What's included
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Four nights accommodation in a three star Hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast. This will be for the two nights before trek Two nights after trek.
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Private Jeep Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and Dading besi to Kathmandu.
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All accommodation whilst on trek.
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You are able to choose any food, any tea and coffee from menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
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Return transport to the beginning and end of the trek to Kathmandu.
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Trekking Permits.
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Langtang National park permit is also required for this area.
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Trekking leader, guides accommodation and food.
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Porter accommodation and wages while on trek.
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Trekking Leader, guides and porters insurance.
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An English speaking tour guide for Kathmandu sightseeing.
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Sightseeing entrance fee and guide fee
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Private transportation in Kathmandu including all airport arrivals and departures. This is also for the sightseeing tours.
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All government texes and Service Charge.
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Medical supplies (Frist aid kit).
What's excluded
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Flights to and from Nepal.
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Visa to Nepal. (Available when you land).
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Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu/Pokhara.
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Extra night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu if arrive early or late departure.
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Personal expenses( bar bills, coke, beer, bottle of water, phone call, laundry service etc.
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All the hotel accommodation or meals in Kathmandu.( in the case return early from trek due to any reason).
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Tip for Guides and Porters.
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Your Insurance.
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Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to the country of Top of The World! As you arrive in Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives will receive you and transfer to the hotel and check into the hotel there istime for a cup of tea, shower and then a chance to see the tourist district of Kathmandu by night as we go for dinner before an early night!
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Day 2
Sightseeing in Kathmandu
A day in Kathmandu where we will take you to Swayambhunath which is a Buddhist stupa and Monastery, which is over 2000 years old and one of the oldest in the world. Here is a great chance to see across the valleys, see some monkeys and begin to learn about this fascinating country.The afternoon will be spent getting for the trek and some time to relax and make sure all the kit and packing is complete. Also the first time you can go shopping which inThamel is an adventure in itself!
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Day 3
Kathmandu Syabrubasi ( 1503m/ 4945ft) 8 – 9 hours drive.
Taking local bus early in the morning or a private four wheel drive journey from Kathmandu reaches syabrubesi, gate way to the Langtang valley at the confluence of the Bhotekosi abd Longtang Rivers. Mesmerizing scenic driving and passing throw Trisuli Bazaar, Ramche Gaon and Dhunche Bazaar makes you scenic driving. Narrow and bit adventurous Zig zags Road but amazing landscape along the way driving will make you good start day dreveof the trek.
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Day 4
Syabrubasi to Chawater (lunch – Gatlang 2337m/ 7690ft) 5-6 hours hike.
Adirt trek zig zags to the west up to Bahun danda pass and then down to the Tamang settlement of Gatlang, cornerstone village on the Tamang heritage trail or hike to Gatlang by way of Chawater. Gatlang is a tamang village with unique customs and craftsmanship in a magnificent setting. Above lies Parvati Kunda, popular during ganaipurnima when thousand of pilgrims are attracted to the secret pond and nearby Temple.
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Day 5
Gatlang – Parvati Kunda , Yuri Kharka lunch – Somdang (3271m/ 10760ft) 6-7 hours
The trail acascends through pine and rhododendron forest to lunch point of Yuri Kharka before continuing to Khurphu Bhanjyang and the then dropping down to the Somdang River, border between Rasuwa and Dhading district.A sprawling mining compound, no longer functioning but locals are appealing Government to revive it, lies a few hours to the north upriver. The high passes through a scenic valley featuring the 200m Chukarma waterfall. The former min leaves a lot be explored and is the site of a 1.4 km tunnel bored into the mountain to extract zinc, copper, tin, crystal and even highly – prized rubies.
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Day 6
Somdang TO Pangsang (Aka,pasang) pass(la)3842m/1264oft)3.5 hours.
Pangsang Kharka is a view point south west of Somdang village with a broad panoramas of the surrounding terrain. To the north are the soaring peaks of Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal range. The large meadow is graced with a giant entry gate way and is a sensational location for camping and trekking in the breath taking scenery the whole Ganesh Himal region is blessed with abundant herbal plants. Previously, herbs were taken to Tibet along an ancient trade route exchanged for salt, livestock, wool and turquoise. This hill / Danda/ pass is known as one of the most beautiful and the best magnificent mountain views point almost in 270 degrees, Lantang ranges, Ganesh Himal ranges, Manaslu ranges and bit of Annapurna ranges Mountain view point. So far tea house has not developed yet so highly recommended to have own tent however local yak huts can be used for a night halt. But dry fruits is recommended for a night camp.
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Day 7
Pangas pass – Tipling(lunch )-Shertung ( 1875m/6188ft) 5-6 hours.
Descend to Tipling, a large village that hosts two Buddhist gombas and both a protestant and catholic church. Along ridge top to the east a gomba and cremation ground for both Buddhists and Christians lined with colorful flags. Being a majority of Tamang people it has a beautiful Tamang cultures show.Descent to cross the Adha khola on a box bridge and ascend to the sister villages of Shertung and Chalish, regally overlooking the fertile river valley and abundant fields. Shertung is inhabited mainly by Tamang. The name Shertung means, place of gold. According to a legend, two brothers in search of gold were led here by a dream and thus the settlement was born. Tamang people have own rich culture to show for the visitors Jhankri (Shaman) dance ghode or horse dance, said to have been brought from Tibetan culture long ago. Jhankri ( Shaman) activity is robust in this territory with the worship of natural forces and indigenous local deities interwoven with Hindu and Buddhist practices.Holy Cayamra danda, Fyanchyat monastery and Sajyat are the main holly attractions of the village spectacular mountain view of lapsang karpo, Ganesh Himal ( Yangri) as well as Ganesh II and Ganesh Himal III can be seen from this village
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Day 8
visit Hot spring (2.5 hours walk ) and back Chalish Gaon. (1674m/5505ft) 5 hours.
After breakfast, trek down to Chalish village taking 30 minute walk , leave your luggage and treke to Tatopani ( Hot spring) walking 1.5 hours where pack lunch will be suited to eat ( no lodge has built yet. Enjoy half of the day taking bath with one of the best hot spring of this region. After enjoying return back to Chilish village. Chalish is inhabited primarily by Gurung, Ghale and kami. There used to be Newar people but they migrated to Kathmandu city. The hospitable people of this area have unique custom and craftsmanship and traditional dance, including a hospitable welcome dance, Ghatu dance Dohori is also popular with call and response between male and female participants, a type of courtship ritual, complemented by folk music. Some dance depend on the time of year and take place during festivals including the maruni dance during Dasain and Tihar, Hainelo dance of tihar, and the Ghatu (Ghasiri dance) that a occurs during chandi purnima in the Nepali month of Chaitra. Deusi Bhailo program in Deepawali are also quit popular. Gurung men traditionally wear vangra, a woven, embroidered cotton cloth tied at the ends serves as a pouch for carrying goods. Sri Tinkanya devi mandir lies above Chalish. Local women tie bits of cloth or leave a bangle representing wish to be fulfilled near a small pool of water surrounded by Barmase a periwinkle flowers. This village is known as one of the most friendliest of the areas in terms of culture show program, Hospitality, kindness and helpful. Most of the youngsters of this village are in tourism work as a trek guide, Sherpa, porter even trek and travel owners.
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Day 9
Chalish – Ukhum (lunch )- Jharlang (Ungul) (3000m/9900ft) 5-6 hours
After breakfast trek to mani danda 30 minute walk from where you will see the breath taking Ganesh Himal ranges mountain views and a stone throw entire Chalish village views on the back. Trek continue passing Deual danda, Gobre village ( hilly edge as walking slow walking is recommended with your guide and porter ), Chhap danda Bandare bhir where rock climbing possibility has been seen. So any rock climber who is willing to climb is highly recommended but basic infrastructure has not developed yet. Arrive Borang village which is also majority of Tamang people and trek continue to Ukhum for lunch. After lunch trek continue to Lishne jungle, cross suspension bridge, passing through Chhapchyat village you finally get to Jharlang village(Ungul). One of the best and panoramic mountain view point of area. This is Tamang village and belong nearly 200 houses.
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Day 10
Jharlang Gaun – Darkha Gaun (850m2805ft)6 – 7 hours
After breakfast trek all the down to Jhalang phedi walking 2.5 hours passing Paddy terraces and surrounding landscape . Passing through suspension bridges, breath taking views of Ankhu khola and Chyamchyat as well as Ri village others side of the river finally reach at Daekha Gaun. This village is mix culture village of Brahmin people and Tamang as well as Dalit.
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Day 11
Darkha Gaun – Darkha phedi – Dhading besi – Kathmandu(1310m/4323ft) 6 -7 hour drive.
After breakfast trek all the way down to Darkha ppphedi taking 45 minutes down hill walk and then take Sharing local jeep with other people and the arrive in the Dhading besi after 3-4 hours rough and tough zig- zags road drive. Crossing through Ankhu Khola as well as Kimding phedi villages Katunje and Jyamrung village will make you fun driving having fabulous landscape surroundings. From Dhading change another bus and drive back to Kathmandu taking 3 hours drive.
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Day 12
Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Today after a leisurely start we will continue the tour of Kathmandu by visiting the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. Boudhanath stupa is a world heritage site and a place which is an amazing place to see Buddhism and understand more about not only the religion but the Nepali culture.A group dinner will be had in the evening to celebrate the end of the trek.
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Day 13
Departure Day
Depart to home. Extra days are available at your own cost but we will be happy to arrange this for you.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Please be aware that your safety while in Nepal is our number one propriety. All itineraries are subject to change if there are safety concerns, health concerns of people in the group and/or weather concerns. This will be decided by the trek leader but we will always discuss the options with the group where possible to ensure peoples wishes are taken into account, however, the Treks leader decision is final.
Book our fixed departures
Equipments
Equipment Check – List
What clothing and equipment to take is one of the things that people worry the most about! We can advise you and help you and it does, of course, depend on the time of year, the area, the altitude and how many days you are trekking/climbing. When you arrive in Kathmandu we will go through all your equipment to ensure that it is correct for your trip. In Thamel (the tourist area of Kathmandu where you will be staying) there is an abundance of shops selling equipment and clothing so if anything is forgotten it can easily be sourced. It is also possible to hire climbing equipment and also items such as down jackets, and sleeping bags saving you a large purchase.
The following equipment list is suggested and necessary for both camping and tea house treks. Use this list as a guideline. The basic checklist should help you with your packing for any of our trips. Please remember that you should always try to keep the weight of your clothing equipment down to a minimum. Your packed trek bag should weigh no more than 15kg. Please remember this is just a checklist and you do not necessarily need to bring everything that is listed below.
GENERAL CHECKLIST
The following basic checklist should help you with your packing for any of our trips. Please remember that you should always try to keep the weight of your clothing equipment down to a minimum. Your packed trek bag should weigh no more than 15 kilograms. Please remember this is just a checklist and you do not necessarily need to bring everything that is listed below. Use your own experience and judgment to make your decision.
-Light and expedition weight thermal tops.
-Fleece jacket or pullover.
-fleece wind –stopper Jacket (optional)
-Waterproof shell jacket (preferably breathable fabric)
-Lightweight thermal gloves.
-Underwear (4)
-Shorts (2)
-Lightweight cotton long trousers/pants.
-Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms.
-Sun hat or Scarf.
-Warm fleece hat or light balaclava.
-T-shirt (2)
-Thin, lightweight (inner socks) (4).
-Sunglasses with UV protection.
-Sleeping bag rated to 0 degrees ¾ season
-Headlamp (eg Petzl) Spare bulbs and batteries.
-Small padlock to lock trek bag.
-Basic first aid kit(see First aid medicine bellow)
-Plastic bags –for keeping items dry inside trek bag.
-Daypack ( 35 to 40 litters/ 2500 to 3000 cubic inches.)
-Camping mattress, eg Thermarest pad.
-water bottles.
-Toiletries.
-Small wash towel.
-Footwear, appropriate to the trip.
-Waterproof shell trousers/pants. (Preferably breathable fabric)
TREKKING CHECKLIST
In addition to the items listed in our general checklist you will need to take the following on your trekking trip:
-Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer.
-Down vest and/ or jacket (optional).
-Fleece or wool trousers/ pants.
-Trekking/ hiking boots with spare laces.
-Thick, warm wool hiking socks (4)
– Footwear for around camp, eg running shoes and /or sandals.
-Gaiters (optional).
-Telescopic trekking/ ski poles (optional)
MOUNTAINEERING / CLIMBING CHECKLIST
In addition to the checklists for general trekking equipment above, and depending on the trip you have chosen, various items of mountaineering equipment may also be required, eg:
-Plastic boots and crampons (preferably step – in bindings ) with front points.
-Mountaineering Safety harness.
-Mountaineering Ice axe(60 to 75 cms long – depending on your height and personal preference).
-120 cms (4ft) climbing sling and to locking and unlocking caravans.
-Telescopic ski – sticks (optional).
-Prussik loops.
-Climbing helmet (optional).
-Jumper (Ascender & Descender).
-Pocket Knife.
-Headlamp.
-Mattress.
-Rope and Snow bars.
-Ice crew.
-High altimeter.
Most if not all of this equipment will be needed for any trip that crosses steep, snow-covered ground, or which includes sections of glacier travel. Our recommendation that you take no more than fifteen kilos of trekking equipment dose not include your plastic boots, ice axe, Crampons otherness/carabiners. During the trek, climbing hard wear will be carried separately from your trek bag, in group bags until needed.
EQUIPMENT RENTAL
To minimize your expense outlay for trekking and climbing equipment you may never use again, equipment rental and buying is possible in Kathmandu. You find them a lot cheaper than you find in Europe and the USA. Shops in Thamel offer a wide range of equipment available for rent and buy. Here is some cost which gives you an idea of the cost to rent in Kathmandu.
-Sleeping bags.
-Down Jackets.
-All-purpose mountaineering Ice axe (60 – 70 cms)
-Ice hummer.
-Climbing Harness.
-2 looking Carabiners, Climbing Sling.
-12 – point Crampons.
-Plastic Climbing boots.
-Helmet.
FIRST AID MEDICINE
-Bandage for Sprains.
-Plaster/ Band-aids.
-Iodine or Water filter(optional)
-Moleskin/ Second skin – for blisters.
-Antiseptic ointment for cuts.
-Anti-bacterial throat lozenges (with antiseptic)
-Aspirin/ paracetamol- general painkiller.
-Oral rehydration salts.
-Broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxacin).
-Anti – diarrhoea medication (antibiotic).
-Diarrhoea stopper (Imodium – optional).
-Antibiotic for Giardia or similar microbe or bacteria.
-Diamox (Altitude sickness – can be bought in Kathmandu.
-Sterile Syringe set (anti-AIDS precaution).
– For more details please see our staying healthy topic.
