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Chhewang Lama

My Name is Chhewang Lama, and I am from the remote Nyinba Valley, located in Simikot-Humla, West Nepal where the people are of Tibetan origin. I believe that the rich cultural heritage of my homeland is what connects me to my passion for the mountains. I have worked in the tourism industry for over two decades and have travelled around Asia, Europe and the USA.

It is my close relationship and commitment to the many indigenous communities that give Responsible Treks its unique signature.

To this day, I remain inspired by the magic of the mountains and our people. I am passionate about my work and about sharing the amazing experiences of Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan with others.

Since Covid -19, I have been involved with social enterprises. I am the founder of Boudha Residency and serve as an Advisor at Karnali tourism Entrepreneurs Society, Karnali Direct and Women Light the World.

I was also selected as a tourism think think tank member for Visit Nepal Year by the Nepal Government’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Nepal, Tibet & Boudha-Kathmandu. Our specilazion is trekking in the remote areas of the Trans Himalayas : Mustang, Manang, Dolpo, Humla, Mugu, Kailash and Tibet. I remain passionate about preserving the traditional heritage of the Tibetan/Himalayan culture and creating more opportunities for the younger generations. My hobbies is hiking, so I have started leading weekend eco-hikes around Kathmandu every Saturday and a regular Thursday walk to Pullahari and Kopan Monastery. I want to encourage more people to hike and be healthy. #HikeforHealth"

How did you get involved in travel?

"I was born in a very remote area in Humla, West Nepal. As a young child, I studied hard knowing that the future would take me further than my small mountain town. After Grade 3, I first moved to Kathmandu to pursue further studies, then to Chandigarh, India. After completing a college degree in business, I returned back to Kathmandu. I was pursuing continuing my education in then USA in 2004, In between I began to work part-time at one of the leading trekking company based in Thamel, Kathmandu. Back then there was a maoist insurgency, I was so desperate to go abroad.

Meanwhile a trek to the Tamang heritage trails and Langtang in November 2005 changed my life. After that, there was no turning back- I found my true passion. It’s the magic of the mountains and its people that still inspires me today."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"There are so many unique experiences, Among them; when I first established my own company I went with a British friend on a 25 days expedition starting from my village in Simikot to the Limi valley and crossed the border into Tibet to Mount Kailash. We then headed towards Everest's North Face before returning back to Kathmandu. That was an epic. I lost 10 kg! Our adventures were featured in popular British travel magazine and also in Nepal ECS. It was hard, but very memorable."

Chhewang is part of the following groups: Bhutan Travel Agents, Nepal Travel Agents
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Recent trip reviews for Chhewang

If I could give 10 stars I would! I wasn't...
Nepal | Mar 22 - Apr 1, 2024

Nicole
Nicole T.
Rancho San Diego, CA | Reviewed on Apr 02, 2024
If I could give 10 stars I would! I wasn't sure what I wanted to do for an 11 day adventure so I asked Chhewang to put something together. I knew I wanted to see Everest and wild life and we worked together to create the perfect itinerary. The process was easy and the communication was perfect. Whenever I had a question or concern, it was addressed immediately. We were picked up at the airport by Rikzin and he was our guide for at least half the trip. The airport is hectic and it... Read more

If I could give 10 stars I would!

I wasn't sure what I wanted to do for an 11 day adventure so I asked Chhewang to put something together. I knew I wanted to see Everest and wild life and we worked together to create the perfect itinerary. The process was easy and the communication was perfect. Whenever I had a question or concern, it was addressed immediately.

We were picked up at the airport by Rikzin and he was our guide for at least half the trip. The airport is hectic and it takes a while to get the visa, but once you are through, your guide will be ready to pick you up.

Weather is unpredictable and we had to make a few changes on the fly; but, there was nothing we couldn't switch around. Some of the hikes were difficult for my traveling companion and we were able to get those modified.

Everyone was kind, in contact with us using Whatsapp, and empathetic to our needs. It was indeed a trip of a lifetime and we were taken care of like royalty.

Make sure you tip! No one asks but these folks work their butts off! Show them some love!

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Apr 08, 2024

Hello Nicole,

Thanks for your review, We are super happy to hear that we get 10 Stars.

it was a great pleasure to meet you and Michelle’s. We hope to see you out in the Himalayas again soon for another adventure. May be Bhutan or Tibet.

Best Wishes,

Chhewang & Team

Short but wonderful stay in Kathmandu Valley
Nepal | Mar 12 - Mar 15, 2024

Sandy
Sandy K.
Fruit Cove, FL | Reviewed on Mar 22, 2024

Gyaljan, our guide was super knowledgeable and also fun. He really was fantastic. It was also great to meet and spend time with Chhewang who helped us to plan out the trip we wanted. Our last night at the traditional Nepali dinner & dance was such a nice way to end our visit. Swayambunath and Changu Narayan temple were both really special spots thanks to Gyaljan sharing so much info and stories, both Buddhist and Hindu. The aarti ceremony at Pashupati was great to experience. And one of the biggest highlights was our hike on our 2nd day and having a delicious lunch outside at the farmhouse!

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Mar 26, 2024

Hi Sandy and Joe.

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. It is indeed our pleasure to host you both. I also enjoyed hiking with you guys. Gyaljan is super happy ! We look forward to arrange your next adventure in Nepal. Hiking to Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek.

https://www.kimkim.com/c/kathmandu-ama-dablam-base-camp-trek-10-days

Best Wishes,

Chhewang & Team

Very professional guide company, beautiful trip
Nepal | Dec 16 - Dec 30, 2023

Kyle
Kyle H.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2024

We had an incredible experience in Nepal. It was obvious that all details were considered thoughtfully - the meals, hotels itinerary, local connections. We especially enjoyed our local guides Ric and Boss, also Chewwan and others, who went out of the way to ensure we had what we needed and enjoyed the adventures. Everyone we interacted with was professional, personable, and genuinely invested in the tour. We had a very positive experience and would do this and many other trips with Responsible Treks in the future.

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Jan 09, 2024

Hi Kyle and Sun Shine

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. It is indeed our pleasure to host you both. I also enjoyed catching up with you in Badal Danda. Thanks for Wine treat !

Rest assured we are very much looking forward to greeting you again and host you to Nepal trip in near future.

Best wishes


Chhewang

What a great trip! Chhewang took care of eve...
Nepal | Oct 18 - Oct 25, 2023

Susan
Susan T.
Newburgh, NY | Reviewed on Oct 26, 2023
What a great trip! Chhewang took care of every detail and made good suggestions. When there was an issue with a hotel, he rectified it immediately. I highly recommend using Chhewang to help plan your Nepal trip. Read more

What a great trip! Chhewang took care of every detail and made good suggestions. When there was an issue with a hotel, he rectified it immediately. I highly recommend using Chhewang to help plan your Nepal trip.

Hotel Reviews
The Old Inn Bandipur
Bandipur

Charming old world get away from it all type place in a Shangri-La setting. This place was a welcome surprise. Beautiful views of the Himalayan range.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
It's a very basic accommodation with low ceilings, no TV, Etc but tons of charm
Hotel Barahi Pokhara
Pokhara
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Sushana was wonderful!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Oct 31, 2023

Hi Susan,

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. It is indeed our pleasure to host you. Although it was short but Amazing you saw Everest and good mountain views from Pokhara. I know you love Nepal but glad that your Husband also loves it now.

Rest assured we are very much looking forward to greeting you again and host you to Nepal or Bhutan trip in near future.

Best wishes

Chhewang

easy/efficient planning for great trip
Nepal | Apr 25 - Apr 30, 2023

julie
julie c.
Encinitas, CA | Reviewed on May 15, 2023
Chewang was easy and efficient to work with. He listened to what we wanted and booked exactly the type of trip and experiences we were looking for - a mix of city/culture, trekking, nature, and some down time. He is the coordinator who meets/greets you throughout the trip to ensure everything is going great. He set us up with 2 excellent guides - one for the city tours who was an expert in the history, culture, etc., and one for the light trekking. If we return to Nepal to do more trekking, I... Read more

Chewang was easy and efficient to work with. He listened to what we wanted and booked exactly the type of trip and experiences we were looking for - a mix of city/culture, trekking, nature, and some down time. He is the coordinator who meets/greets you throughout the trip to ensure everything is going great. He set us up with 2 excellent guides - one for the city tours who was an expert in the history, culture, etc., and one for the light trekking. If we return to Nepal to do more trekking, I would definitely use Chewang and request the same guides. He kept our schedule flexible so we only booked the helicopter to Everest the night before to ensure the weather would be ok. In speaking to several others who were recently in Nepal - their tours were very fixed and they spent the money on the helicopter without ever seeing Everest. Would definitely recommend Chewang and his guides.

Hotel Review
Aloft Kathmandu
Kathmandu

excellent location - walking distance to everything in Thamel so you're not stuck when the guide drops you at the hotel. Friendly staff, Nice gym, indoor pool, decent breakfast buffet and cocktail lounge. Roof deck was closed when we were there. Would highly recommend. We also stayed at the Hyatt Regency our last night (closer to airport) but the Aloft was far superior. Only odd thing was the bathroom setup - no door to the sink area so if sharing a room it's impossible to get up and get ready without disturbing your travel companion.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on May 22, 2023

Many Thanks Julie. Looking forward to arrange your another adventure soon.

Awesome trip. Great staff!
Nepal | Apr 6 - Apr 14, 2023

Jeff
Jeff C.
Lexington-Fayette, KY | Reviewed on Apr 22, 2023

Chhewang and CT were the best companions and guides you could ask for.

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Apr 27, 2023

Many Thanks Boss. Looking forward to arrange your another adventure soon.

Once in a Life-Time Trip
Nepal | Apr 6 - Apr 14, 2023

Kim
Kim U.
Indian Trail, NC | Reviewed on Apr 21, 2023
This was an incredible, once in a life time trip. We took a 7 day Everest trek, with our last day being Ama Dablam base camp and then a helicopter ride over Everest basecamp. This enabled us to get a closer view of Everest. The views were amazing and the food was great. The trekking was difficult at times, but they did a good job balancing the level of difficulty. The places we stayed were definitely above average for the area. I am 59 years old and in moderately good shape. I had no... Read more

This was an incredible, once in a life time trip. We took a 7 day Everest trek, with our last day being Ama Dablam base camp and then a helicopter ride over Everest basecamp. This enabled us to get a closer view of Everest. The views were amazing and the food was great. The trekking was difficult at times, but they did a good job balancing the level of difficulty. The places we stayed were definitely above average for the area.

I am 59 years old and in moderately good shape. I had no training for the trip and it was still very doable. We truly enjoyed our guides Chhewang and CT. They were accommodating and knowledgeable about the culture and area. They were with us from beginning to end.

The trip was easy to plan. We didn't know exactly where we wanted to go, but from our conversation, Chhweng was able to put a wonderful experience together. They did an amazing job of cultivating a personable experience. I would definitely do another trip without hesitation with them!

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Apr 25, 2023

Hi Kim and Jeff

Thank you very much. It was indeed great fun trekking with you both. We had a wonderful time and good weather.

CT and I- we are very much looking forward to greeting you again and host you to Annapurna and Chitwan Trip soon.

Best wishes

Chhewang

My trip was amazing!
Nepal | Mar 31 - Apr 3, 2023

H
Halima Q.
Kuwait | Reviewed on Apr 04, 2023

My trip was amazing! Chhiring greeted me at the airport and we had tea on a rooftop with Chhewang. From there I started my short hiking trip and Chhiring was an amazing guide! I stayed in beautiful hotel selections thanks to their planning and they were both very helpful. I’m forever grateful to them for the amazing trip they planned and the beautiful spots and culture in Nepal they showed me! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Apr 05, 2023

Hi Halima

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. It is indeed our pleasure to host you. Although it was short but Amazing you saw Everest so Close !

Rest assured we are very much looking forward to greeting you again and host you to Nepal or Bhutan trip in near future.

Best wishes

Chhewang

Trekking and tiger safari
Nepal | Mar 12 - Mar 22, 2020

C
Christopher D.
East Moline, IL | Reviewed on Mar 28, 2020
We did a semi custom trip (11 day) for three with some moderate trekking in Annapurna region, tiger safari in Bardia NP, with some cultural activities in Kathmandu. The trip was well organized and flexible. I only provided some general guidance on my desires and Chhewang made suggestions and tied it all together after some feedback from me. We all enjoyed the trekking and the tiger safari, where we we able to see 4 tigers in the wild over 2 days.
Our trip was interrupted by the covid-19 virus...
Read more

We did a semi custom trip (11 day) for three with some moderate trekking in Annapurna region, tiger safari in Bardia NP, with some cultural activities in Kathmandu. The trip was well organized and flexible. I only provided some general guidance on my desires and Chhewang made suggestions and tied it all together after some feedback from me. We all enjoyed the trekking and the tiger safari, where we we able to see 4 tigers in the wild over 2 days.
Our trip was interrupted by the covid-19 virus with us being one of the last tour groups. Luckily it was near the end of trip, but there were several scares that the airport would be shutdown to international flights. Chhewang and others were very supportive and helpful in altering the last few days of our trip to try to leave early. We ended up making it out about 36 hrs before the airport closed.
We will consider using the company again for a future trip to Bhutan.

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Aug 13, 2020

Hi Christopher

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. It is indeed our pleasure to host you and your daughters to Nepal. Amazing you saw Tiger! Thanks for sharing those pic. And videos. Those were awesome. it was sad during the end of your trip due to covid-19. However, we are happy that you made it safe Home.
Rest assured we are very much looking forward to greeting you again and host you to Nepal or Bhutan trip in near future.

Best wishes 


Chhewang

Fantastic experience with kimkim's team in Nepal
Nepal | Jan 20 - Jan 24, 2020

A
Adithep V.
Mountain View, CA | Reviewed on Feb 20, 2020
Our party of 4 adults from Thailand were in Nepal for our first time for 4 nights and we all had a safe and wonderful time thanks to kimkim and the team. As the organizer, it wasn't easy to choose a local tour company because there are so many to screen, but I was very happy to have chosen kimkim and this team. Pre-trip, the entire coordination process such as emails back and forth, queries, payment etc was very smooth. I love kimkim's email communication system which basically makes life... Read more

Our party of 4 adults from Thailand were in Nepal for our first time for 4 nights and we all had a safe and wonderful time thanks to kimkim and the team. As the organizer, it wasn't easy to choose a local tour company because there are so many to screen, but I was very happy to have chosen kimkim and this team. Pre-trip, the entire coordination process such as emails back and forth, queries, payment etc was very smooth. I love kimkim's email communication system which basically makes life so much easier than going through regular email chains. Also appreciated the fast response times to queries and for this we have to thank our point man, Chhewang, who met us several times during the trip. Our local guide Gyaljan and trek captain Sonam were both excellent as well, very knowledgeable and highly flexible to accommodate our needs (and we were at times very demanding!) which is exactly what we were looking for in a customized tour. We chose accommodation (btw the Mariott Kathmandu is the best at the moment) but transport, restaurants etc which were pre-arranged were all very good quality. The historical sites in the capital are not to be missed, and we also loved the Chandragiri cable car. However, the highlight of the trip was no doubt our 14km trek (easy one for Nepal) to Nagarkot - the weather was perfect and the views of the Himalayan ranges simply amazing. 5 days and 4 nights was too short. We'd love to go back and if we do, we'll use kimkim and team again.

Local specialist: Chhewang Lama
Chhewang
Chhewang Lama
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Aug 13, 2020

Dear Adithep

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. It is indeed our pleasure to host you, your wife and friends to Nepal. Happy to know that you had a wonderful time and that our service reach your expectations: D

Rest assured that your kind words have been relayed to Sonam and Gyaljen - all our staff and we are very much looking forward to greeting you again and host you to Nepal for a longer trip in near future.

Best wishes 


Chhewang