Why Choose the Ruby Valley Trek?
Ruby Valley is a hidden gem located on the lap of Langtang and Ganesh Himal. Unlike other regions, the Ruby Valley trek allows travelers to journey through the wilderness in peace and solace. Furthermore, its unique landscapes and a mix of traditions and cultures make this trip truly memorable. Here are several reasons why you should undertake the 7-day Ruby Valley Trekking challenge.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Ruby Valley Trek allows travelers to journey through the vast terrain in solitude. You can explore the untouched regions without having to worry about the large crowds that you generally find on other trekking trails in Nepal.
Natural Beauty: Prepare to be awestruck by the stunning landscapes comprising lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic mountain vistas. Trekking the Ruby Valley will introduce you to the postcard images that Nepal flaunts.
Cultural Immersion: The Ruby Valley trail has several ethnic communities. You will find people of Tamang, Gurung, Brahmin, and Chhetri origins living harmoniously in the remote region of Nepal. Each culture has unique customs and heritage but is equally hospitable toward its guests.
Moderately Easy Trek: This trek is suitable for people of various fitness levels. You will find adventures and also get a chance to relax and embrace the natural beauty along the trail.
Permits to Go on the Ruby Valley Trek
Langtang National Park has Ruby Valley as a part of it. To officially enter the Ruby Valley area, you will need to obtain specific permits.
Permit to Enter Langtang National Park: The cost of the Langtang National Park Permit is different for people from outside of SAARC and those from SAARC. People from outside of SAARC must pay NRS 1500 for a permit to visit the national park, while tourists from other countries must pay NRS 3000.
A card for the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS): To get on the hiking path, you also need a TIMS card. Getting a TIMS card costs the following:
- Everyone from a SAARC country has to pay NRS 1000, which is about USD 10.
- The price is NRS 2000 (about USD 20) per person from countries that are not part of SAARC.
Best Time for Ruby Valley Trekking in Nepal
Like all trekking routes in Nepal, the Ruby Valley Trek is best if you leave during the spring or autumn. Spring (March to May) offers pleasant weather and temperatures. You will find the landscape decorated with blooming rhododendrons and wildflowers, transforming the surroundings into a vibrant canvas of colors. The days are warmer, and the nights are a bit chilly but still bearable. The summertime is an ideal time to see nature at its best.
Likewise, the autumn months from September to November share similar traits as spring. The skies are pristine, and the weather is calm and stable. You will observe the stunning views of the Himalayas amid the crisp air that enhances the visibility. Autumn-time treks are best to capture the foliage and natural wonders of the Ruby Valley.
Though trekking in monsoon and winter months is still achievable, it is not recommended. From June to August, you will see heavy rainfall disrupt your plans, as there are risks of landslides. The trails are slippery, making it difficult to walk in the Ruby Valley terrain. Above all, the fog and clouds obstruct the prized views of the mountains. In winter, from December to February, the temperatures reach below the frigid point. Snow engulfs the terrain. However, if you are well prepared and experienced, you will discover a rewarding experience.
Preparing according to the season is essential if you’re planning for a Ruby Valley Trek. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and moderate difficulty, it caters to a wide range of trekkers.
A Typical Day on the Ruby Valley Trek
Ruby Valley is a hidden gem nestled in the laps of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal. Every day, you are able to wake up to the sound of nature on this 7-day-week trek. The day begins with a hearty breakfast that provides you with the much-needed energy to embark on the day’s journey through a diverse landscape. You will walk through lush green valleys to rugged mountain paths and see breathtaking vistas along the way.
You stop for lunch in a small village on the trail. The trek usually ends in 5 to 6 hours. Therefore, the afternoon includes exploring local villages and interacting with the residents to experience the local culture. You can head back to your teahouse/lodge for dinner before ending your day.
How Hard is Ruby Valley Trek
The Ruby Valley Trek difficulty is rated moderately easy. This is not a demanding trek and can be completed by travelers with moderate physical fitness. On most days, you can complete the trek in 5 to 6 hours. Being a short and easy trek, the Ruby Valley Trek is also recommended to first-time trekkers. There are a few ascents, but the altitude does not exceed 4000 meters. So, there is no need to set an extra day for acclimatization.
Preparing for an Incredible Journey to Ruby Valley Trek: Gear/Essentials Checklist
The Ruby Valley Trek, which lasts 7 days, is considered a moderate trek. Although thorough preparedness may not be necessary, it is still advisable to carry the essential gear for the 7-day journey in Ruby Valley.
Below is a comprehensive gear checklist that we would recommend for travelers:
Clothing: Base layers, insulation layer, outer shell layers
General Trekking Equipment: Basic trekking attire (pants, t-shirt, and shorts), waterproof jacket and trousers, undergarments
Head Gear: Sun hat, beanie, neck gaiter
Hand and Footwear: Liner gloves, outer gloves that provide insulation, Hiking boots, trekking shoes, sandals, Comfortable hiking socks, thermal socks, gaiters
Bags and Packs: Duffel bag, backpack, daypack, rain cover, dry bag
Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, earplugs
Trekking Accessories: Trekking poles, sunglasses, headlamp
Other Essentials: Water bottle/hydration bladder, quick-dry towel, female urination device, locks, waterproof bags
Extras (optional): Camera, portable charger, books/playing cards, passport, cash
Medication and Hygiene: Water purification tablets, electrolyte powders, diamox (altitude medication), general medications, first aid kit, sunscreen, wet wipes, toiletries, adhesive bandages, oximeter, hand sanitizer
Ruby Valley Trek 7 Days in Nepal: Alternative Trekking Trails
The Ruby Valley trek provides travelers with a unique experience in the remote regions of Nepal. While the hike is ideal for people with limited time and trekking experience, there are other alternatives.
The Ruby Valley Trek and the Langtang Valley Trek, for example, are similar in a number of ways. This is another trail that allows cultural immersion and introduces you to various ethnicities of the region. The Langtang Valley Trek takes you closer to the Langtang Himal range and allows you to experience its grandeur, all the while immersing yourself in the stunning flora and fauna of the Langtang National Park.
Away from the Langtang region, you can take on the Poon Hill trek. Anyone of any fitness level may do these easy hikes at any time of year. If you prefer a more strenuous hike, the Gokyo Valley Trek is a better alternative. The Gokyo Valley Trek goes through the Khumbu area and leads to magnificent lakes with views of the mountains. Climb Gokyo Ri to see the area from a high point and learn about Sherpa culture and how lovely they are.
Book your next trek with The Everest Holiday. We understand the preferences of the trekkers and design tailor-made itineraries that best align with your requirements. To customize your trek in Nepal, call us now!
