Three Pass Three Kunda Ruby Valley Trek

The Ganesh Himal region is in central Nepal, located between Langtang National Park and the Manaslu Conservation Area.

The Three Pass Three Kunda Ruby Valley Trek involves hiking over three passes, namely Sing La (4,050 m), Pang Sang (3,850 m), and Magne Goth (2,950 m).

It also takes in three religious Kunda or lakes, namely Kalo Kunda, Seto Kunda, and Ganesh Kunda. The twin waterfalls of Ganga and Jamuna are also seen on this trek.

The passes themselves are not very high as passes in the Himalayas go! Sing La and Pang Sang are traversed on the same day. The views from the passes include Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu ranges, with just a touch of the Annapurna.

The final pass, Magne Goth leads, the following day, to Ganga and Jamuna. It is interesting that these names belong to Hindu twin goddesses and are usually given to twin girls (twins not being very usual in Nepal).

Thousands of devotees make a pilgrimage to the temple here, particularly on the Purnima and Makar Sakranti festivals. Devotees believe your desires will be fulfilled if you visit this temple.

Blessed with geographical, cultural, and biological diversity, in this area, there are not only hundreds of species of precious medicinal herbs but also rubies and crystals!

Around Hindung village is an area where crystals and rubies are mined, while in the surrounding highlands yarsagumba is harvested. Yarsagumba is a unique caterpillar-fungus fusion that occurs when parasitic mushroom spores infect and mummify a ghost moth larva living in the soil. A spindly fungus later sprouts from the dead caterpillar host’s head.

It is sought after, particularly in Tibet, as an aphrodisiac. Rubies are also mined around the area of the Kalo and Seto lakes, which are also thought to have mystical powers – being able to either bless or punish visitors. At the holy lake of Ganesh Kunda, shamans gather in large numbers during September.

This 16 days trek has a bit of everything from crossing Himalayan passes with stunning mountain views; learning about the culture and traditions, both Hindu and Buddhist of the surrounding area, and visiting magical lakes and waterfalls. It is a paradise for those who want to see the alternative trekking region of Nepal.

Three Pass Three Kunda Ruby Valley Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Bhalche Gaon (Drive) Bhalche Gaon

• Trek time: 6 hrs
• Elevation: 1,850 m / 6,069 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

Your guide will collect you from your hotel for the early morning bus from Kathmandu to Bhalche Gaon.

The road can be narrow and twisting as well as bumpy and dusty but the views of the mountains will make up for it.   You will be passing alongside the Trisuli River, one of the most popular rafting rivers in Nepal, and most likely stop for a short break at Trisuli Bazaar – market town for this area.

As you near Bhalche Gaon you will enter the Langtang Valley which has many treks meandering throughout its stunning scenery.  Bhalche Gaon is situated on the confluence of the Bhote Koshi, another popular rafting river, and the Langtang River.

Tonight, you will meet your camping crew who will accompany you on this adventure.

Overnight Bhalche Gaon – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Driving through the foothills and into the Langtang Valley.
• Seeing two exciting white water rivers.
• The road is long, sometimes busy with traffic, and winding.

Day 2: Bhalche Gaon to Rupchet – Rupchet

• Trek time: 6 hrs
• Elevation: 3,250 m / 10,662 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

After your first night camping and your first breakfast prepared by your camp chef, you start out on your first day on the trail.

Bhalche Gaon is a well-known starting point for many treks in the Langtang Valley but the route you are about to take is less busy than many.

Ascend out of your campsite and follow the Langtang River upstream with views of the surrounding peaks above you.  You will be rising over 1,400 m / 11,154.8 ft today, firstly through dense forests with plenty of bird life.  As you are ascending considerably, you are encouraged to take small breaks on the way and stay well hydrated.

Overnight at Rupchet – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Your first day on the trail is exciting.
• The Langtang River is beautiful, as are the mountains above you.
• It can be a challenging day being that you are climbing in altitude and it’s the first day of your trek – but you will get used to the rhythm.

Day 3: Rupchet to Pang Sang Pass via Singla Pass – Pang Sang Pass

• Trek time: 7 hrs
• Elevation: 3,842 m / 12,604 ft
• Accommodation: Cup of tea before dinner

This is another day where your body and stamina will be challenged but by the end of the day, the sense of achievement will feel great!

Start off by ascending from Rupchet through rhododendron forests until you reach the Singla Pass.  This pass is just over 4,000 m / 13,123.3 ft high with amazing panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal mountain range.  Crossing over the pass, you enter the Singla Valley with its beautiful flora and fauna and small traditional settlements.

Tonight you will overnight at Pang Sang Pass Phedi in preparation of another pass crossing in the morning.

Finally, make it to your campsite for a well-deserved cup of tea before dinner.

Overnight at Pang Sang Pass Phedi.

Highlights and Challenges

• Magnificent views from the top of the Singla Pass.
• Trekking through the Singla Valley.
• It is a little challenging today with the high pass.

Day 4: Pang Sang Pass to Chalish – Chalish

• Trek time: 6 hrs
• Elevation: 1,875 m / 6,151 ft
• Accommodation: camping

Today you have another pass to cross of roughly the same height as the Singla Pass.

With the same rough ground underfoot and the same wonderful mountain vistas of the Ganesh Himal range, you also have the stunning mountain ranges of Manaslu and Langtang to gaze today.

As you descend down the other side of the Pang Sang Pass you will notice an increase in temperature again as you come down in elevation.  Chalish village is a Tamang settlement with its terraced fields and warm hospitality.

Overnight at Chalish – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Crossing another pass so soon after the last may be physically challenging for some.
• The views from the top of the pass will make you forget your aching muscles.
• The evening is definitely warmer today so enjoy the freedom your campsite gives you.

Day 5: Chalish to Hindung – Hindung

• Trek time: 5 hrs
• Elevation: 2,402 m / 7,880
• Accommodation: camping

Today’s hike through forests is definitely more relaxing than climbing over the passes!  And equally as enjoyable as you enjoy the mountain views. It’s a shorter hike today with plenty of time to rest, relax and explore the village of Hindung.

Overnight at Hindung – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Enjoy a more relaxed hike today.·      
• Plenty of time to get great photographs and memories of the landscapes and village.

Day 6: Hindung to Thulo Dhunga – Thulo Dhunga

• Trek time: 5 hrs
• Elevation: 3,337 m / 10,948 ft
• Accommodation: camping

Again today you will be ascending to a higher altitude as you hike through rhododendron forests and juniper bushes.  There are also plenty of wild flowers in this area in the spring time, and wildlife and bird life year round. 

From your campsite you will see waterfalls in the valley and have plenty of time to take in your surroundings.

Overnight at Thulo Dhunga – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Himalayan wild flowers and junipers.
• Fantastic views of waterfalls.

Day 7: Thulo Dhunga to Ganesh Himal Base Camp – Base Camp

• Trek time: 6 hrs
• Elevation: 3,691 m / 12,109 ft
• Accommodation: camping

This is a thrilling day as you will reach Ganesh Himal Base Camp!   From here you will get mountain views of Ganesh I, II and III.

First however you have to ascend over loose scree and moraine to reach your camp for the night.

Overnight at Ganesh Himal Base Camp – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Reaching Ganesh Himal Base Camp – what a wonderful story to tell at home.
• The mountain views are simply fantastic.
• Tricky trails and high altitude make it a challenging day.

Day 8: Explore Ganesh Himal Base Camp – Base Camp

• Trek time: 6 hrs (side trip)
• Elevation: 3,691 m / 12,109 ft
• Accommodation: camping

It is time to explore around base camp with a side trip to Dobra Danda ridge.  From here you get your first views of two of the three lakes on this trek:  Kalo Kunda (black lake) and Seto Kunda (white lake). These lakes are said to have powers to give either blessings or curses to visitors!  

Overnight at Ganesh Himal Base Camp – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Spending time at Base Camp.
• Climbing up to Dobra Danda ridge.
• Seeing two stunning lakes from the top of the ridge.
• Hoping the lakes will give you good luck!

Day 9: Ganesh Himal Base Camp to Rajgang Kharka – Rajgang Kharka

• Trek time: 5 hrs
• Elevation: 2,570 m / 8,430 feet ft
• Accommodation: camping

After breakfast set out on a day of mainly descents are you leave base camp and head towards Rajgang Kharka with its grazing pastures. This small village is mainly inhabited by Gurung community members.

Overnight at Rajgang Kharka – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Beautiful downhill hike through pastures.
• Meeting members of the Gurung community, of which there are many in this area.

Day 10: Rajgang Kharka to Ganesh Kunda – Ganesh Kunda

• Trek time: 5 hrs
• Elevation: 3,500 m / 11,482 ft
• Accommodation: camping

Visit the third lake on this trek, Ganesh Kunda, and camp nearby.  

Overnight at Ganesh Kunda – camping

Highlights and Challenges

• The third beautiful lake on this trek.
• The stunning surrounding landscapes and mountains.

Day 11: Ganesh Kunda to Tatopani – Tatopani

• Trek time: 6 hrs
• Elevation: 1,250 m / 4,101 ft
• Accommodation: camping

After breakfast start descending down to Newar Gaon then continue hiking along the riverbank and through forests to Tatopani.  Here at Tatopani (literally ‘hot water’) you can find hot springs where you can bathe and relax. 

Overnight at Tatopani – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• The beautiful riverbanks and forests.
• Hot water springs to soak your aching body in.

Day 12: Tatopani to Lapa Gaon – Lapa Gaon

• Trek time: 5 hrs
• Elevation: 1,850 m / 6,069 ft
• Accommodation: camping

Another interesting day as you learn some more about the British Gurkhas.  For example, the stone steps on this trail were built in conjunction with the Gurkhas.  Love or hate stone steps, you have the army to thank! 

Cross a suspension bridge to arrive in Lapa Gaon, a village of mainly Tamang people. 

Overnight at Lapa Gaon – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• The jury is out on those stone steps – highlight or challenge?

Day 13: Lapa Gaon to Magne Goth Pass – Magne Goth Pass

• Trek time: 4 hrs
• Elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
• Accommodation: camping

The morning sees you climbing upwards through blue pine and rhododendron forests west of Lapa Gaon towards Magne Goth Pass where you camp for the night.

Note the evidence of ruby extraction nearby.

Overnight at Magne Goth – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Beautiful forests and scenery.
• Seeing first hand where Nepali rubies come from.

Day 14: Magne Goth Pass to Tinsure – Tinsure

• Trek time: 6 hrs
• Elevation: 1,850 m / 6,069 ft
• Accommodation: camping

There are more forests to pass through today on your way between campsites.  You will note there are no human settlements in this area.

At Tinsure the mountain views are simply stunning.

Overnight at Tinsure – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Peaceful trek through beautiful countryside.
• Wonderful mountain views from your campsite.

Day 15: Tinsure to Salangkot via Ganga Jumuna – Salangkot

• Trek time: 5 hrs
• Elevation: 1,250 m / 4,101 ft
• Accommodation: camping

This is another interesting day where you will see stunning twin waterfalls.  Known as Ganga Jumuna these waterfalls are visited by pilgrims during  Janai Purnama at the August full moon. 

Meantime, this is a day of hiking through rice terraces and local villages at an easy pace. A visit to the waterfalls is followed by hiking on to your overnight stop.

Overnight at Salangkot – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Fabulous twin waterfalls.
• Rice fields belonging to nearby villages.
• A relaxed hike today.
• It’s your final day on the trek.·    
• Feel accomplished having done 15 days on the trail.

Day 16: Salangkot to Kathmandu (Drive) – Kathmandu

• Trek time: 7 hrs
• Elevation: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft

After saying goodbye to your camp crew, board a public bus back to Kathmandu.  It’s a long, and possibly bittersweet drive.

Arrive in Kathmandu and be escorted by your guide back to your hotel.

Highlights and Challenges

• Sadly, it is the end of your trek but feel proud that you made it!
• Saying goodbye to your camp crew and guide.

Includes

Three Pass Three Kunda Ruby Valley Trek Map

Location of the Three Pass Three Lake Ruby Valley Trek

This trek is located in the Ganesh Himal region, which is itself  located in a remote area between Langtang National Park and the Manaslu Conservation Area.  The Ruby Valley falls within Dhading and Rasuwa districts.

It takes a day to drive there from Kathmandu and when you start trekking, you will pass through different administrative districts, which also have different landscapes and peoples.   The community people you will meet are mostly Tamangs, Gurungs and Ghales in the north, and Chhetris, Dalits, Newars and Chapangs in the south.  The former three communities are Buddhist while the latter four are Hindu.

Required Experience for this Trek

This trek is considered a moderate trek – by Himalayan standards!  That doesn’t mean that it is an easy trek; just not as challenging as some others!   There will be challenging days on the trail with a lot of ups and downs, but it is not a high altitude trek, despite having some days when you will be going over 3,500 m / 9,842.5 ft.  And there are three mountain passes to cross – but again, they are not particularly high – by Himalayan standards.

It is preferable if you have some trekking experience and be of good general health before coming for this trek. Additionally, if you have done ‘wilderness’ camping before, you will enjoy this trek more as you will know what to expect.

Physical Fitness – What You Need to Know

You should have a good level of general fitness, be able to hike 6-7 hours plus per day carrying your day pack.  You should be able to manage slippery trails and changeable weather conditions, including high winds. If you can manage that – it’s a fantastic trek in a remote, wilderness area.

Unless you have done ‘wilderness’ camping before, you may find it a little hard to adjust to the basic amenities.  But if you have an open-mind, stamina and determination and don’t mind missing a few regular showers, you will thoroughly enjoy the experience!

You will be sleeping at elevations over 3,000 m / 9,842.5 ft on six nights, which could prove difficult for some due to the altitude.  Staying well hydrated, and hiking slowly, with lots of short breaks, are the basic rules when traveling or sleeping at over 3,000 m / 9,842.5 ft.

In brief: you should have a good level of fitness, stamina, and be able to persevere at the times when the trek gets tougher. 

In advance: prepare your body through increased exercise, particularly cardio and legs.

What to Expect on a Typical Day on this Camping Trek

• You will be woken early with a cup of hot tea and some hot water for washing.  Then breakfast will be served, after which you will start trekking – and that should be around 8am.
• You will be provided with drinking water and a packed lunch to eat on the trail, prepared by your camp chef.
• The trail will vary from day to day but will include rhododendron and pine forests, loose rocks underfoot, lush grazing pastures, and beautiful waterfalls.
• There is wildlife:  monkeys (at lower levels), yaks, and blue sheep. Yes, there are rare mammals at higher elevations, but they are very hard to spot.  
• Your day may involve a 4 hour hike, or a 7 hour hike, depending on the itinerary. Each day presents a different landscape and evokes a different feeling and yet every day has a certain familiar rhythm as you get used to trekking through this area.
• Once you reach the overnight campsite you will be served snacks and more hot tea while you have a chance to relax before dinner.  Bedtime will be early, but there is always time for a bit of star gazing and conversation.

What You Will See and Learn on This Trek

This area is full of history and culture:

Holy lakes and river: There are three holy lakes in the Ruby Valley – Kalo Kunda, Seto Kunda and Ganesh Kunda.  Ankhu River flows from these lakes and the snow melt off Ganesh Himal.  All the lakes are considered sacred and have the power to bless or curse – so behave yourself!  At the full moon in August, many pilgrims make their way to this area.  

Ruby Valley: As you can imagine, the valley gets its name from the precious stones found here.  Lead and zinc are also mined in this location, but the mining is low-key. 

Mountains:  The main mountain range you will see is the Ganesh Himals while you will also see peaks in the Langtang and Manaslu ranges.

History of the Gurkhas:  Gurkhas originate from the Gurung communities in the ancient Gorkha Kingdom which now lies in Gorkha district.  The area itself has an amazing history as it was from here Prithvi Narayan Shah (the last ruler of the Gorkha Kingdom) unified the various kingdoms into one Kingdom of Nepal in 1768.  Prithvi Narayan Shah then became the first monarch of Nepal, and you can see his statue in many locations.  From that same area, the men have a reputation of being loyal soldiers and have been recruited into the British and Indian armies, as well as the Nepal army.   Today many Gurkhas are also among the UN Peacekeeping force.

Locals of the area: The vast majority of people you will encounter are from Tamang communities. They too have an interesting history, as Tamang people reportedly migrated from Tibet hundreds of years ago.  The word Tamang consists of ‘Ta’ which means horse in Tibetan, and ‘Mang’ meaning trader.  There is evidence that they were originally horse traders (as well as traders of other things) from Tibet who travelled along the ancient salt route through Nepal. 

Minimum Number of Trekkers for this Trek

For a camping trek in Nepal, we require a minimum of two (2) trekkers to make it viable. It is also more enjoyable for you if there are more in your group.

However, if you are one person traveling alone we will endeavor, if possible,  to put you with other trekkers who wish to do this trek.

Camping Trek – Remote and Different

Yes, there are some basic trekking lodges at various villages on this trek, but we prefer to be self-sufficient in remote areas where accommodation is not guaranteed.  We believe our guests love this aspect of the trek too.

At our campsites we will provide you with a comfortable tent and sleeping mat. There will be  a toilet tent and dining tent, as well as a  kitchen tent where the camp chef makes delicious food and boils drinking water.

We will be carrying everything we need with us – from the tents to the food.  This is not a luxury camping experience but one which reflects the countryside you will be passing through – rustic, yet memorable.

Food While Camping

Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks and dinner are made by our talented camp chef.

Breakfast will be getting underway when you wake up, lunch will be taken on the trail. Afternoon snacks will be available at the next campsite while the crew set up the camp and the chef prepares dinner.

As there is no electricity at the campsites the cooking is done on a kerosene stove which the camping crew will bring with them. 

We suggest you bring some of your own favourite snacks such as chocolate or power bars, dried fruits and nuts. These will provide an energy boost when needed and a taste of home.

Possible Menu While Camping:

Food on the trek will be simple, plentiful and tasty.  We will provide you with food we think you will enjoy!  Do let us know if you have any allergies or simply do not like a certain food.

• Breakfast may be porridge with bread (probably roti – a Nepali flatbread)
• Lunch and dinner can be pasta, noodles, dal bhat (Nepali vegetable curry), pizza, etc.  
• Afternoon snacks may consist of fried potatoes and popcorn.
• We will not attempt to buy meat on the trail as it may not be fresh but will bring some canned meat / tuna fish. 
• There will be vegetarian food available at every meal. 
• Tea/ coffee/ hot water is available in unlimited quantities. Powdered milk and sugar are available for your tea and coffee.
• We do not carry alcohol on camping treks as it is heavy to carry and is not the best idea to consume at altitude.

Drinking Water While Camping

The kitchen tent will provide you with boiled water for drinking.  If you come across a mountain spring, as long as you add purifying drops or tablets to it you can drink that water.  Best to ask your guide first as he will be more familiar with what lies upstream.

A Lifestraw, or similar, will filters out some, not all, larger bacteria and is a great investment.

What You Need to Bring for a Camping Trek

Take a look at our list of trekking equipment / gear  you need on any trek.  We suggest a few additional items for a camping trek, such as:

 Portable solar panel (one which hooks onto your day pack) to recharge equipment.

• Headtorch with batteries and extra batteries.
• Medicines – any ones you take regularly plus items such as headache tablets, stomach tablets etc.  A small first aid kit.
• Four-season sleeping bag. This can be rented on your arrival in Kathmandu.
• Toiletries in small, travel sized containers.
• Items for blisters and a few bandages in case of sprains.
• Nepali rupees in case there is something you wish to buy on the trek. 
• Your favorite snacks.

Carrying Your Gear

While you should bring enough correct gear to last you the duration of the trek, please be considerate of those who will be actually carrying your bag – the porters.

The same porters will be carrying the tents, kitchen equipment and food so please keep your gear to a sensible weight rather than add to their burden.

Best Time to do the Three Pass Three Lakes Ruby Valley Trek

Like the majority of treks in Nepal, the best time to undertake this trek is during the spring or autumn.  It is not a busy trekking area however, so you won’t see hundreds of others on the trails even in peak trekking season.

In the spring (March to May)  the rhododendrons will be in bloom at lower altitudes and the skies will be clear.  

In the autumn (Sept to Nov), the weather is similar to spring in that it is not too warm (at lower altitudes) and not too cold (at higher altitudes).

During the monsoon (June to Sept)  there will be rain, and the paths will be slippery and muddy.  Camping is not a great experience in wet conditions, and we don’t recommend it.

Winter (December to March) is not generally recommended for trekking in Nepal as there will be snow at higher altitudes and it will be cold.  If this is the only time you can make this trip, please talk to us. 

What Happens Before Your Trek

Your First Days in Nepal

We can meet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival, saving you time and effort.  Just let us know on the booking form but please note there is a charge for pick up. 

Hotels in Kathmandu

Please book your own hotel in Kathmandu.  We suggest looking at booking.com and hostelworld.com to get a selection of hotels to choose from.  We recommend staying in Thamel which is geared up for tourists with lively cafes, restaurants, bars and shops. Our office is also located in Thamel. 

Explore Kathmandu

There is plenty to see and do in Kathmandu and how you do it will depend on your available time.  If you have plenty of time you can do a combination of self-exploration and guided city tours.  If you are short on time, we recommend a city tour to see the main highlights.

The main highlights not to be missed are: Boudhanath (Tibetan area with a huge stupa), Swayambhunath (another Buddhist stupa), and Pashupatinath (Hindu temples and ghats). These are on everyone’s ‘must see’ list and are just three of the seven UNESCO Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley.

There are three Durbar Squares within the Kathmandu Valley as there were three kingdoms in the past.  The easiest to explore yourself is the Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur) which is a very short walk from Thamel. There you will also find the home of the Living Goddess (a prepubescent girl who is chosen to be a goddess until puberty).  Over in Patan they have their own Durbar Square which is the smallest of the three and houses a very interesting museum which is worth seeing. Again, you can easily do this one by taxi.  

The best of the Durbar Squares is at Bhaktapur.  This is an area which is traffic free and is still very much alive with artisans and locals making and selling their wares.   Definitely you should have a guide for this one.   If you have the time to overnight here we suggest you might want to do that.  It is also on route to the hilltop town of Nagarkot, which has marvelous mountain views.  Make it a short break– one night in Bhaktapur and one night in Nagarkot. 

We are very happy to provide you with information of our city tours and make recommendations.  Just ask us.

Visa for Nepal

Visa on arrival is available for people from most countries, via the Immigration Department of Nepal’s on-line site.   Complete the form, print it out and bring it with you.  Bring USD cash (exact money) to make payment on arrival at the airport. 

Visa on arrival is valid for 15 days, 30 days or 3 months and costs: 

• 15 Days – 30 USD
• 30 Days – 50 USD
• 90 Days – 125 USD

Trekking Permit You Need for this Trek  

Langtang National Park Entrance Fee

Cost:  

• USD25 per person
• SAAC Nationals Nrs 1,500 per person
• Children under 10 – FOC

Your fee goes towards the upkeep of the national park.

**We will have the entranced permit issued on your behalf.**

Safety on the Trek 

Altitude: Although this is not a particularly high altitude trek, there are days when you will be trekking and sleeping at over 3,000 m / 9,842.5 ft so you should pay attention to your body.  In particular look out for confusion, dizziness, headaches and general feeling of being unwell. 

Our guides are trained in first aid and in recognising signs of altitude so do not hesitate to tell them if you feel unwell. 

Getting lost: Getting lost is easy in the mountains as the trails are never as straight forward as they seem.  In remote areas there are very few signs showing the location of the next settlement.  Please do not wander off alone.

Water: Only drink the water provided by the kitchen tent or from clear springs which you can treat yourself.  If in doubt, ask your guide. An upset stomach will ruin your trek.

Communications: In many high altitude, remote areas, normal phone networks do not work.  You can buy a local SIM card at the airport for use at  those places with a network.  However, your guide will be carrying a satellite phone in case of emergencies. 

WiFi may be available in some of the larger villages (if there are trekking lodges operating there) but you will have to pay to access it.

Tips for Safety on the Trek:

Some basic tips on safety are:

• Bring trekking poles for stabilizing yourself on risky /  slippery / steep trails.
• Do not go off on your own at the rest/ overnight stops without telling your guide.
• Drink at least 4 ltrs of water per day so as to stay hydrated.
• Do not skip meals as you need to keep your energy up.  Energy boosting bars or nuts make a great snack for those times you just need a pick-me-up or some home comfort.
• Do tell your guide if you feel at all unwell. 
• Have the correct insurance – purchased before you come.
• Wear the correct gear. Bring waterproof gear in case of rain or snowfall even when it’s not forecast as the weather is unpredictable in the mountains.
• Bring your own regular medicines and a medical kit.
• Pay attention to the guide in tricky or dangerous areas. 
• Don’t provoke the animals – including yaks and/ or mules carrying goods.

Expenses You Should Calculate For

Included in the cost of the trek is the accommodation, local transport, your guide, your camp chef, the porters, and your food.   You have nothing else to pay to us on the trail.  You may wish to have a few rupees with you for daily use, and of course you will need money to tip the trekking crew and guide.

There may be monasteries / gompas you wish to visit.  It is normal to make a donation when visiting, say between Rs200-500 per visit.

There are not many places to purchase items on this trek.  We suggest you do bring a few Nepali rupees for things like soft drinks, tea or snacks if there is anywhere to buy them. Around USD 5 – 10 per day in Nepali rupees is enough. 

What is Included and Not Included in the Cost of Your Trek

Transport: Public transport to the starting point and public transport on the return journey at the end of your trek. 

Accommodation: Tents, and sleeping mats are provided. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Food: At the camp site you will get breakfast, dinner,  and afternoon snacks.  You will also get a packed lunch to eat on the trail which is prepared by your camp chef in the mornings.

Permits: The permit required for this trek is included in the cost of your trip.

Tips: Tips are not included in the cost of your trek.  Please calculate the tips for your guide and porters.  Tips can be in Nepali rupees or other currencies.

Before you come expenses: 

• Trekking / camping gear, good  trekking boots.
• Flight ticket, visa fee, and insurance.

Tipping the Guide, Chef and Porters

It is the norm to tip your guide and porters on treks to show your appreciation of the amazing people who help make your trek enjoyable and comfortable. 

Please be aware,  100% of your tips go to the staff. 

We suggest the following:

• Tip the guide 10% of your trip cost. 
• For the porters  it is normal to tip around a total of USD150  for each porter.
• For the chef, please tip USD200.

The tips for the guide and crew members are divided by the number of trekkers on a trip i.e. if you are three trekkers, then you pay USD50 each per porter.   

Transport Options

• Included in the price of your trek is transport by public bus.
• Should you wish to travel by private jeep please ask us about the cost. 
• Traveling by private jeep is more comfortable, quicker and enables you to make stops at the places you want to stop at. 

Trip Extension

At the end of your trek, you will pass through Dhading Besi on your way back to Kathmandu.  Should you wish to learn more about the people of Gorkha – the history and/or modern day Gurkhas, you can extend your trip to take in Gorkha Bazaar.  This lies approximately 2-3 hours drive west of Dhading Besi.

In Gorkha you can visit Gorkha Museum, Gorkhanath temple and Gorkha palace and learn about the history of the formation of the country of Nepal.  Gorkha is also only around 3.5 hours drive from Pokhara.  Pokhara lies in the opposite direction of Kathmandu but there are many transport options heading back to Kathmandu from Pokhara.

If this interests you, please ask us about this, or other trip extensions.

Why Book with Magical Nepal

Diversity – Equality – Inclusion: Keys to a Great Experience

We at Magical Nepal are a team of highly trained travel enthusiasts.  

We started Magical Nepal in 2015 and pride ourselves in growing a great team. From our climbing guides, trek guides, and liaison staff to our camp staff, porters and camp chef, we all love to explore and travel in the Nepal Himalayas. We also love to introduce our beautiful country to our clients.

We are committed to human dignity, security, and safety for all – for our clients and for the communities we visit. We are also committed to the environmental sustainability of the landscapes, flora, and fauna of the Himalayas.

We also pride ourselves on offering great value for money and a price guarantee – if you can find the same trek at a lower price, we will match it – guaranteed.

Please check the reviews from our past clients to see what they say about us.

FAQs For Three Pass Three Kunda Ruby Valley Trek:

Related Trip in Ganesh Himal Trek

Ganesh Himal Base Camp Ruby Valley Trek