Nepal Choose a Guide
From our independent local trekking guides

Sonam is originally from Chaurikharka in Solu Khumbu, but grew up in Kathmandu where he attended school from the age of 5. Being a trekking guide is Sonam’s second career -- he was first a martial arts teacher of Shitoryu Karate. At the age of 25 he gave up teaching and started helping his uncles in the trekking business. Now with 15 years’ experience and as a licensed trekking guide, Sonam has led treks in the Khumbu (Everest Region), Around Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna, Upper Mustang, and Nar Phu. He has also led groups up both Island Peak and Mera Peak. In the summer when the trekking gigs are few and far between, Sonam likes to get his exercise in the pool. An avid swimmer, he tries to swim at least once a week in the summer months. In addition to swimming, Sonam is a cyclist and has lead mountain bike tours as well as treks. In 2005 he had the chance to visit Japan and was awestruck by the Tokyo skyline. He was back indulging his travel bug in 2016 when he visited friends in South Korea. Seoul and Korean food were the highlights of the visit. Sonam’s travel bug has also taken him to India several times and to Mount Kailash in Tibet.

• Langtang Valley Upper Langtang Day Hike (Nov 2017)
• Langtang Valley Upper Langtang Day Hike (Mar 2018)

Lhakpa is from the Solokhumbu region of Nepal. He has led climbs of Chulu East twice reaching the summit a Fall 2012 with Italian team. Lhakpa has also summited Makalu also with an Italian team.

Originally from eastern Nepal, Yubaraj has been leading treks in Nepal and India since 1999. In Nepal, he has led treks in the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and Upper Mustang regions; and in India, he has trekked in Ladakh, Sikkim, Kumaun and Darjeeling. In addition to trekking, Yubaraj is an accomplished climber and has summited Mt. Everest, as well as Island, Lobuche, and Mera peaks. He has also completed courses in rock climbing, basic rescue, and basic mountaineering. When not in the mountains, Yubaraj enjoys tending to his vegetable farm.

An outdoor enthusiast, Dikki is a climber as well as trekker. She has summited Ramdhung (5900 m), Mera (6,461 m), and Manaslu (8163 m) Peaks. She has extensive training in mountain climbing, trekking, and first aid, completing courses in Basic and Advanced Mountaineering, Level One Rock Climbing, Mountain Leader Training, First Aid as well as Trekking Guide Training. In addition to her climbing accomplishments she has lead treks in Everest, Annapurana, Langtang, and Manaslu regions.

Lakpa Dawa Sherpa the village of Paiyan in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal. He has been leading treks in Nepal since 2011 when he was just 15 years old. During the years since he has led treks in the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Dhaulagiri, Upper Mustang, and Kathmandu (Nagarkot-Chisapani) Regions of Nepal. Lakpa has also completed courses in guiding and wall climbing. When he is not leading treks around Nepal Lakpa enjoys playing a lot of football (soccer) as well as the occasional game of snooker.

Originally from Lukla, Ngima has been working in the trekking industry helping trekkers explore the mountains around his home, since he was 15 years old. In the years since, he has led treks in Langtang, Annapurna, Lower Solu, as well has his home Khumbu (Everest) region. In addition to treks he has led trekking peak ascents of Island, Mera, and Lobuche peaks. Ngima is completed training in basic mountaineering, mountain leadership, wilderness first aid, in addition to trekking guide training. He loves to be in the mountains and to trek around Nepal. Ngima has also climbed in the Japanese Alps.

Sonam is from the village of Chaurikharka near Lukla in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal, where he still spends much of the year working around his family home. He started guiding in 1994, at the age of just 19 years old. He has since guided in Everest, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Langtang regions of Nepal, he has also led climbs of Mera Peak. When not working at home or leading treks in the mountains Sonam enjoys running and traveling.

Phurwa is from the solukhumbu district of Nepal, home to the highest mountains in the world. Trekking is a family business for Phurwa, she has been working in the industry since 2012, before getting her trekking license she assisted her uncle and other relatives with their treks. After completing her trekking guide training, she has lead treks in Khumbu (Everest) and Annapurna Regions. Phurwa loves to visit new places and finds working as trekking guide allows her to see and experience the diverse culture of her own country as well as learning about the culture of her foreign clients. When not leading treks Phurwa is studying to complete her bachlor’s degree, she is also studying German.

• Langtang Valley (Jan 2018)
• Langtang Valley (Nov 2017)

Ngawang is from Nepal's Khumbu region, famous for Mt. Everest. Since 1995, he has led treks in the mountains surrounding his home as well as in Annapurna, Upper Mustang, and Tibet. He has also led trekking peak ascents of both Island and Mera peaks. Ngawang has completed guide and first aid training. He also has experience as a cook and waiter. Ngawang enjoys traveling to foreign countries when he has the opportunity, and has taken trips to Switzerland, India, and Tibet.

Dawa is originally from Solokhumbu, the region surrounding Mt. Everest, and now resides in Kathmandu. Dawa started leading treks in 2012, and has led treks in the Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, and Kanchenjunga Regions of Nepal. Dawa enjoys reading books in his down time and when he is not in the mountains he indulges his passion for sports, playing football (soccer), basketball, volleyball, and practicing taekwondo.

Mingma grew up in the village of Churikharka, a village near Lukla in the Khumbu (Everest) Region of Nepal. Growing up so close to the airport serving the foreign tourists who came to view or climb the highest mountain in the world, Mingma entered into the trekking industry at the young age of 14. He worked first as a porter, then as an assistant guide and finally as a government licensed trekking guide. He has sense led treks throughout Nepal including the Everest, Annapurna, Nar Phu, Upper Mustang, and Manaslu regions. Mingma says what he enjoys most about being a trekking guide are the opportunities to meet new people from all over the world, have cultural exchanges, and visit new places.

• Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake and Classic finish via Poon Hill (Oct 2017)
• Mardi Himal (Mar 2018)

At 14 years old, Mingma began carrying loads up the mountains of the Khumbu where he grew up. With 20 years of experience as a porter and now a licensed trekking guide for the last 12 years, Mingma knows the mountains well. He has led trekking peak climbs of Mera and Island Peak, and treks in Khumbu (Everest Region), Langtang, Annapurna, and upper Mustang. In addition to his extensive Himalayan experience, Mingma has climbed in the Alps. From 2009-2012 he lived in Austria and Germany, and he returned to Europe in 2016, traveling through Switzerland. Trekking and travel are twin passions for Mingma. He enjoys both nature and meeting new people.

• Langtang Valley Upper Langtang Day Hike and via Gosainkunda (Apr 2017)

Dipa is from Taksindu, in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. Dipa first began working as an assistant guide in 2010. During this time, she became fascinated by the beauty and diversity of Nepal’s nature, cultures, languages, food, and people. Dipa’s desire to share her amazing country with the tourists who visit motivates her as a trekking guide. She has led treks in Annapurna, Mustang, Solu, and Khumbu (Everest) regions of Nepal. When not working, Dipa enjoys rock climbing and participating in social work projects in her community. She also wants you to know she is a good singer.

Like many who grew up in the Khumbu, Tashi comes from a long line of mountaineers. His grandfather died tragically while working for a Korean expedition 1972, during the deadliest climbing accident in Nepal when an avalanche on Manaslu claimed the lives of 15 climbers. Despite the risks Tashi’s father followed into the family business working on ascents of Everest and many other peaks. Tashi started out on a different path, with a degree in community health work he worked as a medic at Kopan monastery in Kathmandu before succumbing to the call of the mountains. Life in the mountains was a natural fit for Tashi. He started guiding treks in 2007, three years later he moved on to mountains. Since then he has summited Ama Dabalm, Everest, and Baruntse, and led trekking peak climbs of Island, Mera, Pachermo, Chulu East, and others. Tashi is a licensed trekking guide and a Nepal National Mountain Guide and expects to complete his International certification in 2018. He has also led numerous treks, in the Khumbu (Everest Region), Langtang, Rowalling, Annapuran, Around Manaslu, and Dolpa. Even when not working Tashi enjoyes sport climbing. He has also put up two new climbing routes on mountains near Manang and in Dolpo. When not climbing Tashi enjoys canoeing, motor bike touring, playing football (soccer), and basketball.

Nima is originally from a village just below Lukla, a town known for being the 'gateway' to the Everest Region. Nima has been helping trekkers visit the mountains of his home since 1998. During that time, he has led treks in almost every region of Nepal, including: Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dolpa. He has also led trekking peak ascents of Mera, Pisang and Chulu West peaks. In addition to his years of experience, Nima has completed training in Climbing, First Aid, and as a mountain guide. When not trekking, Nima enjoys travelling and learning about cultures in other countries.

Growing up in Lukla, the gateway to Mt. Everest, Pema has seen thousands of tourists pass through her home village. Watching her father work with trekkers, Pema knew that the industry offered good jobs that could support a family and allow her to meet people from all over the world. Inspired by these opportunities, Pema began working as a lead guide in 2007 and has since led treks in the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and Helambu Regions. During her time as a trekking guide she has enjoyed visiting many beautiful places and has gained friends from all over the world. She enjoys teaching others about her own Sherpa (and Nepali) culture while at the same time learning about her client’s culture and home country. Pema says “I have been loving my job and I will continue [as long as] I have energy.” When not trekking in the mountains, Pema enjoys studying English, visiting new places, reading, and watching travel documentaries. Pema is a self-described, “energetic, talkative, responsible, hardworking, female trekking guide.” She looks forward to sharing her country and culture with you.

• Everest Base Camp via Cho La (Feb 2018)

Ngawang is originally from Chaurikharka in the Solokhumbu region of Nepal. The village lies just beneath the airport at Lukla, the gateway for climbers and trekkers who wish to explore the Everest region. Ngawang started as a porter in 2008 in the mountains around his home and quickly moved up to guiding by 2009. He has guided extensively in the Everest region including Everest Base Camp, Three Passes, and Gokyo treks. Ngawang is also an extreme sport enthusiast and has twice completed the Everest Marathon, which starts at Everest Base Camp and ends at Namache Bazaar.

Mingma is from Chaurikharka, a village near Lukla in the Khumbu (Everest) Region of Nepal. Mingma completed his guide training in 1999 and in the years since has led treks in almost every region of Nepal including Everest, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Upper Dolpo, Upper Mustang and Manaslu regions. Mingma enjoys nature, traveling, and meeting people from all over the world.

Ang Tsering is originally from near Phakding in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal. Before becoming a trekking guide Ang Tsering was a monk and spent 7 years in India studying at a Buddhist University. Since 2007 he has been leading treks in Nepal, including treks in the Everest Region (3 passes, base camp, and gokyo), and the Annapurna Region (Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Nar Phu, Teri Pass, Upper Mustang and others). During the off-season Ang Tsering continues his study of Buddhist Philosophy.

Lhakpa is originally from Pangum, in Solukhumbu, and from an early age wanted to become a mountaineer. He began working as a guide in 1993, motivated by the desire to show the beauty and culture of his country to foreigners. He has since guided treks throughout Nepal working for various agencies as well as independently. In his long career as a certified trekking guide, Lhakpa has guided in Upper Mustang, Dolpa, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Everest regions, as well as the trek to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Lhakpa has completed courses in outdoor leadership, first aid, and wilderness training. In his free time he enjoys cycling, paragliding, doing yoga and physical exercise. He enjoys traveling. His hobby include singing and dancing usually his traditional Sherpa songs and dance.

• Around Manaslu via Punggen Gompa (Jun 2017)
• Langtang Valley Upper Langtang Day Hike and via Gosainkunda (Nov 2017)

Growing up in Lukla, site of the closest airport to Mt. Everest, Pemba was familiar with trekking and climbing from an early age. In 2016, her love of travel and interest in learning about other cultures and places lead her to become a certified trekking guide. She has since worked in both the Khumbu (Everest) and Annapurna regions. When not in the mountains Pemba likes to travel with friends, dance, sing, and read books. She describes herself as a healthy, young, honest, intelligent, friendly, helpful, and educated girl.

Ang Rita is originally from the Solukhumbu region of Nepal near Lukla. In the years since he started guiding in 2003, Ang Rita has led treks in the Khumbu (Everest), Manaslu, and Annapurna regions. He has led trekking peak ascents of Mera, Pachermo, Pokalde, and Island peaks. He has also worked on Mt. Everest expeditions, reaching camp 2 several times and ascending as high as the South Col. In his free time during the off season, Ang Rita takes training courses to improve his climbing and guiding skills and visits new places. He has completed courses in mountain leadership, basic mountaineering, ice climbing, rock climbing, guide training, and a helicopter marshal course.

Sanjaya is originally from the solokhumbu region of Nepal. He started in the trekking industry in 2010 as a porter but by 2012 he had worked his way up to become a guide. He has completed both his guide training and a course in first aid. Since becoming a guide, Sanjaya has led treks in the Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Upper Mustang, and Langtang regions of Nepal. He has most frequently led treks to Poon Hill, Upper Mustang, Langtang Valley, and around the around the Annapurna Circuit. Sanjaya is also an avid musician and when he is not in the mountains he enjoys playing and composing music.

Dawa is originally from the village of Hunggung, near the Tibetan border in the Makalu region of Nepal. Dawa began climbing high mountains at an early age, following in the footsteps of his father and older brother Pasang. In 2007, at the tender age of 19, Dawa made his first summit of Mt. Everest with his father. Two years later, he summited again from the North (Tibetan) side. In addition to being a prolific climber - summiting Everest 7 times - Dawa is trained in high mountain rescue and is an instructor in long line helicopter rescue technique. In the aftermath of the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, he put his training into action rescuing several people from the Everest Base Camp avalanche. In the post-earthquake period, Dawa worked with local helicopter companies and Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders to rescue people trapped by the earthquake. From fall 2015 to spring 2016 he served as a Mountain Guide Consultant for the United Nation Disengagement Observer Force in Syria. He has led treks throughout Nepal and in addition to Everest, Dawa has summited Ama Dablam twice, Lobuche 8 times, and Island Peak 8 times. He is a UIAGM, IVBV IFMGA certified Mountain Guide.

Nima grew up in the Solukhumbu (Everest) region of Nepal. He has been working in the trekking industry since 2007 and guiding since 2012. Nima has led treks in the Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang regions. He has also worked on Everest expeditions up to camp 1, and led trekking peak climbs of Mera Peak in the Khumbu (Everest) region. When not in the mountains Nima enjoys learning new languages and playing sports.

• Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake (Mar 2018)

Temba is most at home in his village of Hunkong, in the Sankhuwasabha District of Nepal. This mountainous region is home to Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world. A family man with 4 children ranging in ages from 14 to 20 years, when he is not leading treks or scaling 8000 meter peaks, Temba enjoys farming in his village where he grows crops of millet, corn, rice, wheat, and potatoes. With 15 years of experience as a trekking guide and 12 years climbing the highest peaks in the world, Temba is nearly as at home the mountains as he is on his farm. He has lead trekking groups in the Khumbu, Langtang, Annapurna, and Around Manaslu. He has also accomplished the amazing feat of summiting Mount Everest twice within a 3 day period. In addition to Mount Everest, Temba has been on expeditions in Pumori, Ama Dablam and Manaslu.

Ngima was born in Lukla and has been living in Kathmandu for the past 7 years. Inspired by his father who was also a trekking and climbing guide, Ngima started working in the trekking business in 2002, and in 2010 he began leading trekking groups on his own. Ngima has completed several trekking certificates, including: the basic mountaineering (2010) NMA; basic navigation (2010) NMA; Trekking Guide training (2008); and wilderness emergency medicine (2010) SOLO. Ngima first 8000m peak climb was Annapurna I, and he summited Everest in May of 2017. He has led trekking groups in his home region of the Khumbu as well as the Annapurna region. He has also led climbs of Island and Mera peaks. When he is not in the mountains, Ngima likes to keep fit by swimming and playing volleyball.

Pemba is originally from Churikharka, a village near Lukla in the Khumbu (Everest) Region of Nepal. While growing up in the mountains he had roundabout way into life as a trekking guide. He painted thangkas (Buddhist religious paintings) then worked in a hotel in the United Arab Emirates before returning to Nepal and now living in Kathmandu. Pemba still enjoys thangka painting in his free time as well as doing work around the house. He is a government licensed trekking guide and has lead treks throughout the Khumbu (Everest) Region.

• Everest Base Camp (Nov 2017)

Pemba is originally from Lukla the gateway to the Everest Region of Nepal. He has led many treks throughout Nepal, including treks in his home region: 3 passes (Cho La Kongma La and Renjo La), and into the Khumbu from Rolwaling over the Tashi Lapcha Pass. In addition from the treks, he has led climbs of many trekking peaks in the Everest region including Lobuche, Mera, and Island Peaks. In addition to the Khumbu (Everest) Region Pemba has also lead treks in Annapurna Region. In his free time Pemba enjoys Thakna painting (a traditional Buddhist religious painting). He also enjoys studying Buddhist texts, traveling, seeing new places and meeting new people.

Dawa grew up in the town of Lukla, the airport gateway of Mt. Everest. Growing up in a place so frequented by trekkers and climbers it is no surprise that Dawa wound up in the trekking business. Following in the footsteps of his father, Dawa began working as an assistant guide when he was 17, and then three years later began guiding treks on is own in 2008. A year later in 2009, Dawa completed the Mountain Navigation, Basic Mountain Rescue, Basic Mountaineering, and Khumbu Ice Climbing courses provided by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). He also completed the KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project) course in wilderness first aid. In 2012 he further honed his mountaineering skills completing the Advanced Mountaineering Course. Over his 8 years as trekking guide Dawa has led treks in the Khumbu (Everest Region), Around Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna, Upper Mustang, Nar Phu, and Dolpa. In addition to the treks he has led clients to the summits of Island, Mera, Yala, and Tent peaks. When he's not leading treks, Dawa volunteers for a Sherpa community group doing work for the Sherpa community in both Lukla and Kathmandu, where he helps organize charity events like blood drives. A keen traveler, in 2015 Dawa travelled to Switzerland and the Netherlands where he marveled at their organization.  When he’s not on the mountain Dawa likes to keep in shape playing football (soccer) with friends or going for a swim.

Sandy is from the historic city of Bhaktapur in the Kathmandu Valley. Her love of traveling, exploring new places, and adventure has led her to become a trekking guide. She has completed the trekking guide training from the Nepal Mountain Academy and 3 sisters adventure company & has experience trekking in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. A self declared extravert, Sandy loves music, singing, and sharing her experiences.

• Langtang Valley (Apr 2018)

Pemba grew up in Chaurikharka a village just below Lukla in the Everest region of Nepal. The son of a trekking guide Pemba followed his father’s footsteps into the profession and has been working in the trekking industry since he was 17 years old. He received his formal guide training from Nathan college and is a government licensed guide. Pemba has guided clients from all over the world and has lead treks throughout Nepal, including the Upper Mustang, Dolpo, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Everest Regions. Pemba also studied French at Alliance Français du Kathmandu. In addition to French Pemba has nearly completed his Master’s in Business and is currently doing a Master’s in Buddhism and Peace at Lumbini University in order to further his knowledge of Buddhism. In his spare time he enjoys listening to music and mediation. Pemba also believes in giving back to his community, he serves as the Nepal Project Manager for a small NGO called the Maya Sherpa Project, and has been working with the organization for many years. The Maya Sherpa Project supports health care, education, and environmental projects in the Sherpa community.

• Everest Base Camp via Cho La (Apr 2018)

Pasang is originally from the small village of Hunggung near the Tibetan border in the Makalu region of Nepal. He started as a porter at the age of 17 before becoming a serious climber. In 2006 Pasang climbed Mount Everest with his father, the first of his five successful summits of the highest mountain in the world. Pasang is a prolific climber who has successfully climbed eight of the fourteen 8000 m peaks, including Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Manaslu in Nepal, and K2, Gasherbrum I and II in Pakistan. He has also been on expeditions to Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Kanchenjunga, and many 7000 m peaks. He likes to show his trekking clients the Buddhist monasteries in the villages along the trekking routes and help them appreciate the culture of the region as well as its scenic beauty. In addition to completing trekking guide training, climbing training, and first aid training, Pasang has completed the international level aspirant guide course in Nepal. When he is not an 8000 m expedition or leading a trek, Pasang enjoys playing football (soccer), rock climbing, and cycling.

• Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake (Dec 2017)
• Around Manaslu via Manaslu Base Camp and via Tsum Valley (Mar 2018)
• Around Manaslu via Punggen Gompa (Feb 2018)

Ngawang started working as a porter at the age of 14 in the Khumbu (Everest Region) of Nepal where he grew up. From those early years, his life took a detour into spirituality and Ngawang lived as a monk in the monastery at Lukla for nine years. During his years as a monk, he developed a talent for thanka painting, the religious paintings done on cloth or silk and hung in monasteries and homes. He has since left the monastic life and has been working as a trekking guide since 2007. As a guide, Ngawang has led treks all over the Khumbu (Everest), Annapurna, Upper Mustang, Langtang, and Dolpo Regions. He has lead climbs of various trekking peaks including both Island and Mera Peaks in the Khumbu Region.

Rajkumar is from Tikot a village in the hills beneath the towering Annapurna Range. He began guiding in the mountains around his home in 2012. Rajkumar has since lead treks throughout the Annapurna Region including: Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp (Sanctuary), Ghorepani (Poon Hill), Khopra Danda, Mohare Danda, and the Myagdi Parbat Eco-Trek (Annapurna Dhaulagiri Community Trail). When not in the mountains, Rajkumar enjoys playing basketball, reading books, and working on the family farm.

• Community Trail to Mohare Danda and Khopra Danda (Apr 2018)

Karma grew up in Bung Khiraule, in the Solu Khumbu region of Nepal. After finishing school in the village, he moved to Kathmandu to attend college and pursue a degree in education. While in college he worked as a trekking guide during his holidays and time off in order to pay for his studies. After completing his degree, Karma worked part-time for 6 months at a local college but ultimately returned to work in the tourism sector as both a trekking guide and hotel employee. He has led treks in almost every region of Nepal including the Khumbu (Everest Region), Langtang, Annapurna, Upper Mustang, Nar Phu, and around Dhaulagiri, as well as climbs of Mera and Island peaks. In his off time, Karma enjoys both Nepali and “English” music. A musician himself, Karma plays the drums, harmonium, and flute. In Nepal, one of his favorite places to relax is by the lakeside in Pokhara.

Nawang Chimi Sherpa grew up in the Village of Chaurikharka just below Lukla in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Growing up, his parents ran a trekking lodge in Phakding, which is the first stop for trekkers and climbers on their way to Everest Base Camp. Nawang developed a taste for adventure sports when he was 17, working as a staff member on a trail race that ran from Rolwaling over three passes into the Khumbu. He was impressed by physical feat of the race, and has been a lover of adventure sports ever since. When not in the mountains, Nawang is often found sharpening his skills on the climbing wall in Kathmandu, canyoning with friends or on mountain bike trips around the Kathmandu Valley. And indoors Nawang trains as a boxer in his local gym and is currently studying to get his bachelor’s degree in business. Nawang is a licensed trekking guide and is trained in ice climbing. He has led treks in Annapurna, Manaslu, and Everest Regions including ascents of Island Peak. 

• Around Manaslu (Mar 2018)
• Around Manaslu via Tsum Valley (Nov 2017)

Nawang is originally from the Solukhumbu region of Nepal, where he has spent most of the past 9 years guiding clients around the mountains of his home. In addition to guiding in the Khumbu (Everest Region), Nawang has also led treks in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. He has also led climbs of Island Peak and Nirekha peak in the Everest Region.

Nirmala is from Pokhara, a beautiful Nepali city on the shore of Phewa Lake beneath the high mountains of the Annapurna range. As the gateway to the famous treks of the Annapurna region, Pokhara is one of the centers of tourism in Nepal. Nirmala became exposed to various trades within the tourism industry growing up. After much thought about her future, and because she enjoyed learning about the culture and lifestyles of the people who visited her city from all over the world, she decided to be a trekking guide. While she has been working in the industry since 2011, Nirmala got her official license after completing the required training in 2015. As an independent trekking guide, Nirmala enjoys working with her clients and providing them with quality service. Nirmala has a background in management, and when she has free time she enjoys working with local social organizations. She wants her clients to know that “I am glad that you visited Nepal and recommend it your friends. . . this place which is full of natural beauty.” Nirmala is available for short treks in the Annapurna Region and sightseeing in the Pokhara Valley and city tours of Pokhara. In 2018, Nirmala got her official Pokhara City guide license after completing a course from Nepal Academy of Tourism & Hotel Management.

• Ghandruk Loop (Sep 2017)
• Poon Hill (Nov 2017)

Lhakpa grew up in the small village of Pangkhongma, in the Solo Khumbu region of Nepal. At age 17, Lhakpa began guiding trekkers and climbers on and around the mountains he had known all his life. Now, with more than 7 years of experience, he has led treks through the Khumbu, to Makalu basecamp, over the Amphu Lapcha pass, Around Manaslu, Langtang, and in the Annapurna region. A seasoned climber, he has summited Mount Everest three times and has stood on the 8,156 m (26,759 ft) summit of Manaslu twice. He has completed NMA’s (Nepal Mountaineering Association) Advanced Mountaineering Course and is a trekking guide instructor for the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management. When he is not scaling 8000 meter peaks or leading trekking groups through the Khumbu, Lhakpa enjoys rock climbing and playing a bit of football (soccer).

• Around Manaslu (Nov 2017)

As for many boys growing up in the Solu Khumbu region of Nepal, trekking was the family business. Lhakpa started trekking by assisting his uncle and older brothers on treks. Now with 16 years of experience as a trekking guide, Lhakpa has led treks in the Khumbu, Makalu, Around Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna, Upper Mustang, Dolpa, and Nar Phu. He has also led climbs on many trekking peaks including Island Peak, Pisang Peak, Cholu East, Cholu West, Naya Khang, and Yala Peak. For the past 8 years, Lhakpa has been working with an Australian-based trekking company. Prior to that he worked with a French company. In 2012 he visited France, and enjoyed such famous sites as the Eiffel Tower while getting a chance to meet the French people. A traveler at heart, Lhakpa has also visited Japan (in 2006) where he was impressed by the order and hard work of the Japanese people.

Sonam is originally from the village Kharikola, south of Lukla in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. He started first as a porter and worked is way up to becoming a guide and climbing Sherpa. He has lead treks in most regions of Nepal including Annapurna, Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Everest, and Langtang. In addition to trekking he has also been on expeditions to Everest (reaching the South Col) and Amadablam (reaching camp 3) and summiting Himlong in western Nepal. He has led climbs of several trekking peaks including Island, Mera, and Lobuche East in the Everest Region, and Tharpu Chuli (Tent Peak) in the Annapurna Region.

Homraj, known to his friends as Raju, comes from village of Sishuwa Khola in the Sankhuwasabha District, home to the 5th highest mountain in the world, Makalu. Raju started his career as a cook on several Everest expeditions before transitioning to a trekking guide. As a licensed trekking guide with 10 years of experience, he has lead groups through the Khumbu, Around Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna, and upper Mustang. Raju loves being outside, hiking and trekking in the mountains, but when he has the time he also enjoys going to the movies, especially action movies.

Chhepal Sherpa comes from the village of Khunde in the Solo Khumbu region of Nepal. A short walk from Namche Bazar, Khunde lies at the center of one of the world’s most established trekking routes, as climbers and trekkers pass through en route to conquer or merely admire Mount Everest. Chhepal has 14 years of experience leading treks through his home Khumbu region and throughout Nepal, leading ascents of the trekking peaks such as Island Peak and Lobuche peak, as well as treks around Manaslu, to Makalu basecamp, Langtang, Annapurna, and upper Mustang. A licensed trekking guide, Chhepal has also completed a leadership training course. He has been guiding for New Zealand based Everest Treks, and when he’s not leading treks he loves to play football (soccer) with friends or travel to meet new people and see new places.

Originally from the Solukhumbu region of Nepal, Dorjee has been leading treks since 2010. He has lead treks all over Nepal in all major trekking regions including: Annapurna Region (Circuit, ABC, Mardi Himal, Upper Mustang, and Poon Hill), Everest Region (Base Camp, Gokyo, and 3 Passes), Rolwaling Valley, Langtang Region (Langtang Valley, Gosiankunda, and Tamang Heritage Trail), Dolpa, and even out to Kanchenjunga in the far east of Nepal. He has also lead ascents of Island, Mera, and Loboche East trekking peaks. When not in the mountains leading treks Dorjee enjoys rock climbing, both playing and watch sports, listen to music, playing guitar and read books. Dorjee is also a 2nd degree black belt in karate, and during the trekking offseason he teaches karate in Kathmandu.

Da Tenji has been guiding treks and leading climbs in the mountains of Nepal since 2003. In that time he has led treks in the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, Kanchenjunga, and Dhaulagiri regions of Nepal. Da Tenji has led successful climbs of Mera, Island, Pisang, Thorang, Nayakgng, Naya Kanga, and Lobuche peaks. When not in the mountains Da Tenji enjoys playing Volleyball.

Wangchu is from the solukhumbu region of Nepal. He has been leading treks in Nepal since 2013. He has led treks all over Nepal in the Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, Dhaulagiri, and Langtang regions. In addition to treks he has lead successful trekking peak climbs of Mera, Island, Thorang, and Lobuche peaks. When not in the mountains Wangchu enjoys testing his skills on indoor climbing walls, and cycling around the Kathmandu valley.

Dawa is originally from Sibuje village in Nepal's Everest region. He began working as a porter at 12 years old, and after a number of years started formal training to become a trekking and mountain guide. He completed courses in leadership, basic and advanced mountaineering from the Nepal Mountaineering Association, trekking guide training from Nepal Academy of Travel and Hotel Management, as well courses in first aid, mountain rescue and ice climbing. Dawa has also trained as a wilderness first responder (WFR) by the prestigious international NOLS wilderness school. With his extensive training, Dawa has led treks in Khumbu(Everest), Annapurna, Langtang, and lower Solukhumbu regions. He has worked on Everest expeditions, summiting Mt. Everest in 2013, and led climbs of several trekking peaks including Mera, Island, Labuche East, Pokalde, and Yala peaks. Dawa knows firsthand the challenge and danger of working on the mountain. He survived the 2014 avalanche in the Khumbu icefall that killed 16 other Sherpas.

Densa grew up a day’s walk from the Tibetan border in Farang, a village where farming -- not mountain climbing -- was the main occupation. In search of better opportunities, he headed off to Kathmandu where he met up with a cousin who was a climbing guide. His cousin helped him get a job as a porter and encouraged him to learn English, so he could move up the trekking ladder and become a guide. While working as a Climbing Sherpa on Ama Dablam, Densa climbed up a steep section of rock and then asked a more senior climber, “How do I get down?” This experience made Densa realize that if he was going to continue this line of work, he needed training. He is now an Aspirant Mountain Guide (NNMGA), and has completed basic mountaineering, high mountain rescue training, as well as being a licensed trekking guide. Armed with his technical training, Densa has summited Everest three times; once from the north (Tibet) side and twice from the Nepal side. He has also summited K2 in Pakistan, Cho Oyu twice, Ama Dablam 5 times, and many less well-known peaks throughout Nepal. When he is not leading treks or climbs, Densa enjoys swimming and spending time with his wife and two daughters. For the past few summers, Densa has been guiding groups on the glaciers of Norway.

Diku is originally from Kerung village in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal. She has completed trekking guide training and has led treks and guided in Nepal since 2012. She has led treks in the Khumbu (Everest), Langtang, and Annapurna Regions. When not in the mountains she likes to relax and read the paper. Diku enjoys learning new things and meeting new people.

• Around Manaslu via Tsum Valley and via Punggen Gompa (Oct 2017)

Pasang comes from the village of Chaurikharka, near Lukla in the Everest region of Nepal. Trekking has a long history in Pasang’s family his grandfather worked in the industry, and in 2011 Pasang joined the family profession. He started working first as porter, and then as an assistant guide, before eventually becoming a lead trekking guide in 2014. As a trekking guide Pasang has lead treks in the Everest, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Langtang, and Rolwaling regions of Nepal. He has also led trekking peak ascents of Island Peak. Pasang has completed courses in rock climbing and guiding. He plans to further improve his climbing skills by taking courses in Basic and Advanced Mountaineering. When not at work in the mountains Pasang enjoys rock climbing, playing futsal, learning new languages, and swimming in the summer.

Pasang Dawa Sherpa from a village called Tate beyond Lukla in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal. He has led treks in Manaslu, Annapurna, Mardi Himal, Langtang, Dhaulagiri, and all over his native Khumbu region. In addition to trekking Pasang is an avid climber and has climbed Everest from both north and south sides summitting 7 times. He has also led climbs of Ama Dablam, Mera, Chulu West, Pisang, Loboche East, and Island peaks. When not in the mountains Pasang enjoys rock and indoor climbing as well as watching football(soccer) games.