Introduction:
The 10-Day Ganesh Himal Trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Beginning with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Betrawati, you’ll pass through charming towns like Trishuli Bazaar, witnessing the picturesque beauty of terraced fields, rural settlements, and the flowing Trishuli River. Upon reaching Betrawati, you’ll rest in a peaceful guesthouse or campsite, ready to start your trek into the heart of the Ganesh Himal region.
The trek continues from Betrawati through terraced fields, Tamang villages, and dense forests, bringing you to Kispang, a village surrounded by lush greenery. The 10-Day Ganesh Himal Trek gives you a deep dive into the traditional Tamang culture, where you’ll experience the local way of life as you pass through stone houses and cattle sheds. The trail gradually climbs, taking you to Thulo Chaur, an open pasture surrounded by rhododendron and pine forests. Here, you’ll camp under the stars, offering a perfect introduction to the beauty of the Ganesh Himal region.
As the trek ascends, you’ll reach Gonga, a serene forest clearing offering panoramic views of the Ganesh Himal and its neighboring peaks. The cool, crisp air and peaceful surroundings make this a perfect resting spot. From here, the trail climbs to Rupchet, a herder’s settlement offering majestic views of the Ganesh Himal range. You’ll enjoy a brief rest before heading to the Singla Pass (4,100m), the highest point of the trek. From the pass, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Langtang, and even the distant Annapurna Range.
After crossing Singla Pass, the trail descends to Kharka, an open grazing field, and further continues downhill through lush forests to Borang Village. This beautiful Tamang village showcases traditional stone houses and terraced fields. As you continue from Borang to Jharlang, the trek leads you through river valleys, suspension bridges, and small villages, giving you a glimpse into everyday life in the region.
The final leg of the 10-Day Ganesh Himal Trek takes you from Jharlang to Kintang Phedi, a riverside settlement nestled in the lowland valleys. This tranquil spot marks the end of your trek, where you can reflect on the stunning mountain views, rivers, and villages you’ve encountered.
On the last day, a scenic drive returns you to Kathmandu, where the adventure concludes. The Ganesh Himal Trek offers a memorable experience for those seeking to explore a less-traveled part of Nepal while enjoying majestic views, cultural immersion, and natural beauty.
Best time to go to the Ganesh Himal trek:
The best time to go on the Ganesh Himal Trek is during the months of March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is clear, offering panoramic views of the mountains, and the temperatures are moderate, making it ideal for trekking. The monsoon season from June to August should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides. Winter months from December to February can also be cold and snowy, making the trek more challenging.
Weather, and Temperature
The weather on the Ganesh Himal Trek in the Ruby Valley can vary significantly due to its range of altitudes. At lower elevations (1,000m to 2,000m), temperatures are mild, with daytime highs between 15°C to 25°C and cooler nights around 5°C to 10°C. As you ascend to higher altitudes (3,000m to 4,100m), temperatures drop, especially in the evenings, where it can range from -5°C to 5°C. The best time to trek is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is stable, and clear skies provide magnificent views of the Ganesh Himal range.
Trek Highlights:
- Scenic views of Manaslu, Langtang, and Helambu mountains
- Tamang villages with rich culture and traditions similar to the Tibetan lifestyle
- Enchanted forest of Rhododendron, Pine, and Oak trees with wildlife sightings
- Massive chain of Central Himalayan peaks with panoramic views of the Annapurna Himalayas
- Off-beaten trail trekking in an isolated and tranquil area in harmony with nature and mountains
- Stunning panoramic views of snow-capped mountains
- Walk through interesting Tamang mid-hill villages
- Unique cultural experience in the shade of the Ganesh and Langtang Himal range.
DAY 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Betrawati (850m) – 5 to 6 hrs
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu heading north through winding hills and small roadside settlements. You’ll pass through towns like Trishuli Bazaar and enjoy glimpses of rivers, terraced fields, and rural hill life. Upon reaching Betrawati, you settle in a local guesthouse or campsite near the riverbank. This area is peaceful and surrounded by greenery, giving you your first taste of the countryside.
DAY 02: Trek from Betrawati to Kispang (1,600m) – 6 hrs / 11 km
The trek starts with a steady climb through terraced fields and small villages. As you ascend, you’ll notice the lifestyle of the Tamang people, traditional houses, and cattle sheds along the trail. After passing several chautaras (stone resting platforms), you reach the quiet village of Kispang, surrounded by lush forest. Here, you’ll stay in a local homestay or simple tea house.
DAY 03: Trek from Kispang to Thulo Chaur (2,200m) – 5 hrs / 9 km
Today’s walk takes you deeper into the forested hills. The trail leads through thick rhododendron and pine woods, often echoing with birdsong. Occasional clearings offer views of distant snow peaks. You’ll stop for lunch in a scenic meadow, and by late afternoon, arrive at Thulo Chaur — a large open pasture area often used by herders. Camping is common here, under a sky full of stars.
DAY 04: Trek from Thulo Chaur to Gonga (2,900m) – 5 hrs / 8 km
After breakfast, the trail continues uphill through dense forests, gradually gaining altitude. The air becomes cooler and the vegetation starts to change. As you climb higher, the surrounding hills offer stunning views of Ganesh Himal and nearby peaks. Gonga is a small forest clearing with basic shelter options or tented camps, surrounded by peaceful wilderness.
DAY 05: Trek from Gonga to Rupchet (3,630m) – 4 hrs / 7 km
This is a relatively short but steep day. The path rises steadily along the ridge, passing moss-covered trees and yak pastures. As you ascend, views of Ganesh Himal become more dramatic. Rupchet is a seasonal herder’s settlement situated just below the Singla Pass. The air is crisp, and from the camp, you can enjoy a majestic sunset over the mountains.
DAY 06: Trek from Rupchet to Kharka (2,500m) via Singla Pass (4,100m) – 7 hrs / 13 km
Today is the most challenging yet most rewarding day of the trek. You start early to ascend Singla Pass, a high ridge offering one of the best panoramic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu, and even Annapurna in the distance. After enjoying the views, the trail descends steeply through high pastures and eventually into forested terrain. You’ll reach Kharka, an open grazing field used by locals, where you’ll rest for the night in tents or a temporary shelter.
DAY 07: Trek from Kharka to Borang Village (1,800m) – 5 hrs / 9 km
From the alpine Kharka, the trail descends into more inhabited areas. You’ll pass through forests, small streams, and traditional hamlets. Borang is a beautiful Tamang village with stone houses, farm terraces, and smiling locals. It offers a glimpse into everyday life and local hospitality in the Himalayas. You can visit local homes or even join in daily activities like cooking or farming.
DAY 08: Trek from Borang to Jharlang (1,700m) – 6 hrs / 11 km
Today’s walk is mostly downhill with some undulating sections. The trail meanders through small settlements, suspension bridges, and river valleys. Along the way, you can see Ankhu Khola, a clear Himalayan river where you can refresh yourself. Jharlang is a larger village where the Tamang culture is still strong, with traditional homes and vibrant community life.
DAY 09: Trek from Jharlang to Kintang Phedi (1,200m) – 6 hrs / 12 km
This is the final trekking day, and mostly downhill. The landscape changes as you descend from hills to lowland valleys. You’ll cross several bridges and enjoy scenic views of layered hills and terraced farms. Kintang Phedi is a small riverside settlement where the trek ends. It’s a tranquil spot to celebrate your journey.
DAY 10: Drive from Kintang Phedi to Kathmandu – 6 to 7 hrs
You’ll board a local or private vehicle for the return drive to Kathmandu. The route offers scenic views of hills, rivers, and rural life. After a bumpy but scenic ride, you’ll arrive back in the capital, where your Ganesh Himal trekking adventure concludes.
What is included
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Private car/van/hiace for airport and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
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2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
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All ground transportation as per the itinerary.
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Professional tour guide for Kathmandu Valley sightseeing.
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Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and accommodation during the trek.
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Experienced, government-licensed trekking guide.
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All government taxes included.
What is not included
- Meals in Kathmandu apart from breakfast.
- Travel insurance.
- International flight tickets to and from Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fee, which is easily issued upon your arrival at Tribhuwan international airport at Kathmandu.
- Your personal first aid kit, equipment, and items of personal nature.
- All kind of drinks (Water/Coke/Alcoholic beverage and hot drinks).
- Tip for Guide and porter, it is Highly expected.
A private departures on any day all around the year can be arranged for this trek/tour, for more details and dates E-mail
info@safeholidayadventure.com
AVAILABILITY OPTIONS
OPENED: This date is available and open for bookings.
LIMITED: There are very limited number of available places on this departure. Immediate booking.
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CLOSED: This date is currently unavailable. Please contact us, if you are interested in travelling on this date.
Your Program Duration =
10 days
Days
All the Prices are in GBP (£) Per Person.
1. Trekking Difficulty & Fitness Level
The Ganesh Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, but it does involve some challenging sections. The trek includes steep ascents, uneven trails, and long walking days. Depending on your pace and the trail conditions, the daily trekking hours typically range from 5 to 8 hours. Since the route involves several high-altitude passes and climbs, it’s important to be in good physical condition to handle the trek comfortably. Before your trek, focus on endurance training, such as hiking, cardio workouts, and leg strength exercises, to ensure you’re physically prepared for the journey.
2. Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for trekking in Ganesh Himal are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The daytime temperatures at lower elevations are comfortable, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, while the nights at higher altitudes can drop below freezing, especially in the winter months. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides. Similarly, winter (December to February) can be very cold, especially at higher elevations, so it’s best to avoid these months unless you’re prepared for harsh conditions.
3. Permits Required
To trek in the Ganesh Himal region, you need the following permits:
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TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System): This permit ensures your safety and helps the authorities track trekkers in the area. You can obtain it through a trekking agency or by yourself.
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Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Since the Ganesh Himal region is considered a restricted area, this permit is essential. It allows you to trek in areas like Ruby Valley, which requires special permission.
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Langtang National Park Entry Permit: The trek passes through part of Langtang National Park, and this permit grants access to the protected area. It’s also available through authorized trekking agencies.
4. Altitude and Acclimatization
The Ganesh Himal Trek reaches elevations of up to 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). At these altitudes, the risk of altitude sickness increases, which can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea. To minimize the risk, acclimatization is key. You should plan to take rest days at intermediate points during the trek to allow your body to adjust to the thinner air. Additionally, it’s recommended to ascend slowly, avoiding rapid gains in altitude. Staying hydrated, eating well, and resting adequately can help your body cope with the altitude.
5. Weather and Temperature
The weather on the Ganesh Himal Trek varies depending on the elevation. At lower altitudes (1,500 to 2,500 meters), you’ll encounter relatively warm weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. As you climb higher, the temperatures drop, especially during the night when they can fall below freezing. At higher altitudes (3,500 meters and above), be prepared for cold nights with temperatures well below freezing. In winter, snow may cover the higher sections of the trek, adding an extra challenge. Therefore, it’s important to pack layered clothing, including thermal wear, windproof jackets, and a good sleeping bag for cold nights.
6. Route and Highlights
The Ganesh Himal Trek offers incredible scenic beauty and cultural experiences. The route takes you through remote Tamang villages, terraced fields, dense forests, and alpine meadows. Some key highlights include:
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Ganesh Himal Range Views: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Ganesh I, II, and III, along with other peaks like Manaslu, Langtang, and Annapurna.
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Ruby Valley: Known for its pristine beauty, this valley offers glimpses into the life of the local Tamang people, who maintain their traditional lifestyles.
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Rhododendron Forests: In spring, the trek becomes a colorful spectacle, with blooming rhododendron forests painting the landscape in vibrant hues.
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Cultural Immersion: You’ll pass through remote villages where you can interact with local communities, experience their customs, and witness their daily life.
7. Cultural Sensitivity
The Ganesh Himal region is home to the Tamang and Gurung communities, who have rich cultural traditions and lifestyles. These ethnic groups are known for their hospitality and are predominantly Buddhist. When trekking through these villages, show respect for their customs and religious practices. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people or their homes. It’s also respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. Supporting local businesses by purchasing handcrafted goods or staying in local tea houses can positively impact the community.
8. Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation during the trek primarily consists of tea houses or simple lodges, offering basic amenities like beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. The higher up you go, the more basic the accommodation may become. Most tea houses serve local meals like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, soup, and momos. It’s important to be flexible with food choices, as the menu may be limited in remote areas. While the food is generally safe, make sure to drink purified water and avoid raw vegetables or food that may not be cooked properly.
9. Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for trekking in Nepal, especially in remote areas like Ganesh Himal. Your insurance should cover:
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Trekking at high altitudes.
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Emergency evacuation in case of illness or injury.
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Health coverage, including medical treatment for common trekking ailments like altitude sickness or minor injuries.
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Trip cancellations or delays due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
10. Packing and Gear
Proper gear and packing are critical for your safety and comfort on the Ganesh Himal Trek. Some essentials include:
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Clothing: Layered clothing for both warmth and flexibility, including thermal layers, waterproof jackets, gloves, and hats.
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Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots are essential for uneven terrain.
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Sleeping Bag: A high-quality sleeping bag that can handle temperatures as low as -10°C is recommended for higher elevations.
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Trekking Poles: Useful for stability on steep or rocky sections.
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First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit, including bandages, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, and medications for altitude sickness.
