Traveller reviews

“My friends and I (group of 5) recently completed EBC trek in late November/early December. After doing a few quick searches we decided to go with HSJ as our touring company. This decision did not disappoint at all. It was the trip of a lifetime, and certainly helps that you have a touring company that delivers on what they advertise. We would not have had this experience if it wasnt for our guide, Mingmar Sherpa. Not only was he very knowledgeable, but one of the nicest and pleasant people i have ever met in my whole life. The same can be said for the assistant guide, Mingma Sherpa. Both were very helpful and understood our concerns and needs. What i was most impressed about was that they were willing to accommodate to any changes or suggestions that we bought up. For example one day we felt it would be best if we walked 5-6 hrs straight, as it was pretty flat and not steep at all, to our destination instead of having lunch as our day would've dragged on longer. Even though it would not or may not have been something they normally do, they were willing to change their agendas to suit the needs of the group. The only disappointment of the trip was one of our members of our group did not make it to EBC due to all manner of illnesses. I can not praise Mingmar and Mingma enough on how they handled this situation with not only safety as the paramount factor but they also did so with sensitivity and respect for our friend's own desire/choice which he had to make. Thank you again, i may not ever get up to 8848m, however it is definitely on my bucket list to go back and do another trek/hike/one of the 6000m peaks! PS - the stay at the resort after the trek is perfect and definitely worth it!!”

“We went on a trek in December 2016 to Everest Base Camp with Himalayan Social Journey and had an awesome time. Ram was very helpful in answering any questions we had in the lead up, and any changes to our itinerary we requested were handled with aplomb. Our lead guide, Binod Dhakal was very professional, personable, friendly, funny and tireless. Our support guide, Binod Gharti was also extremely funny, friendly and very professional. These guys (B1 and B2) absolutely made our trip a pleasure. It is quite a hard trek and our guides were always encouraging us, supporting us and assisting us whenever they could to get us through each day. On one day my daughter became quite sick with gastro. She was very weak, but determined to complete the day's trekking, as we had a rest day the next day. Binod Dhakal walked with her all day, sometimes holding her hand to support her on steep sections. He showed true empathy, giving her multiple doses of medicine, encouraging her and having a joke to take her mind off her illness. He was a true friend. The Binods' super work didn't just stop when we got to each night's accommodation, either. They would organise drinks for us, take meal orders and serve our meals to us. They would carry our heavy bags to our rooms and always with a smile on their faces. Even when their duties were done for the day, the Binods would sit with us and play cards, chat and have a laugh. Our trek with HSJ was fantastic and I recommend this company to anyone who is wishing to trek in Nepal.”

“We went to Everest base camp at an extremely cold time of the year, but it was worth it for the benefit of clear skies. Bishnu was our main guide throughout the trip, and brought his trusty henchman, Lakba. They were fantastic and looked after us every step of the way. They took it extremely slowly which no doubt helped warding off altitude sickness. The food and accommodation was fairly standard along the entire trail, with an assortment of mo mo, hash browns, fried rice and pizzas. Himalayan social journey were extremely helpful when our plans changed and Ram accommodated us without hesitation. Himalayan social journey came highly recommended to us and we would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone else.”

“What a great experience! The guides, Bishnu and Lhakpa, were amazing and caring throughout the journey. When I became unwell on the trek down, they held my hand for support until I admitted to myself that I needed evacuating (turns out I had kidney stones). The company, HSJ, are very well versed in sorting out the helicopter/insurers and were great. This trip isn't for the faint hearted - above ~4500m the trek gets very hard, physically (altitude rather than fitness) and mentally. Plus, the accommodation becomes very basic, there are no home comforts. I did travel in December, which is the winter for Nepal, so it was very cold. I found the sleeping bags provided by HSJ not sufficient so I recommend in the colder months to take your own. As a solo traveller, I found this trip great - you bond with your group/guides in the evenings and during the days. Although, do be aware that on the website it is implied the 'single supplement' is optional but it is not. TOP TIPS: -fill your hydration bladder/water bottle at night with boiling water and take it to bed -bring cards (our game was UNO) -if you do not own nor need to own a down jacket, you can rent them in Kathmandu (and anything you need/forget) -buy strepsils /throat lozengers for the trip, keep your throat moist to avoid a cough/chest infection -take a buff/chute, there is a lot of dust on this trek so protect your orifices! -garlic soup and ginger tea are the natural local remedy to altitude sickness -don't have a big lunch on trekking days, the walks after lunch aren't easy and being full makes it worse... -if no price is listed on a menu, ask before you purchase as they will overcharge for soft drinks but you can negotiate to a reasonable price -take more clean underwear than you need, it makes you feel 'clean' for those 7 days of no-showers (after Namche, hot showers were available but generally the pipes had frozen OR it was even too cold to undress to go the shower room) -tip your guides/porters/yak guy separately -if you own heavy trekking clothing you won't use again, donate it to the locals on your return (i.e. the yak guy or a guide) -HSJ book your accommodation without asking you first, so if you do not want to stay at their preferred hotels then let them know straight away (I found some better and similar priced hotels nearby)”

“I won't go into all the tiny details -as you can read that on everyone's about how unforgettable a journey it will be for you What I would love to say is that the 3 guides were excellent at looking after everyone , including when the group required changes for a range of reasons .They were very particular at ensuring everyone was traveling at the right pace for each individual whilst keeping the group together as a team whether it was raining , snowing , hot or being windblasted over those long long steep hills and big days . Unfortunately 6 had to fly out ill and the team were on to it straight away whilst ensuring the rest continued on their journey safely. The earlycommunicating before the trip also very good. Don't come unprepared fitness wise or you will dampen your experience ..... enjoy the journey Thank-you for a trip of a life time”

“We just completed the Everest Base Camp trek with HSJ and they were amazing. Our guides Ganga, Bishnu, Dipak and yak driver Khaji, were fantastic. Most of our group were pretty new to trekking let alone in such high altitude and during winter but our guides were so professional and really took care of us. They'd give us a post dinner pep talk outlining what to expect the next day and what to make sure we had in our day pack. They kept on top of everyone's illnesses and ensured we all knew the signs and symptoms of AMS. Without their help I'm sure most of us wouldn't have made it. HSJ are a really well organised company who were always quick to reply to emails leading up to our trek as well. Nothing was ever too hard for them. 5 star service!”

“Incredible experience with Himalayan Social Journey. Our guides were great - especially Bishnu who was helpful, knowledgeable and great company. The scenery was so beautiful it more than made up for the tough climbs and the effects of the altitude - couldn't have picked a better bucket list holiday! Well worth the challenge.”

“A winter trek to Everest Base Camp, sounded like a great idea while sitting at home in Australia in a warm summer. My 2 Older boys at 18 and 15 were keen, so we committed. I had heard of Himalayan Social Journeys via Luxury Escapes as I had been booked to trek in April 2015, that was cancelled due to the earthquakes. My work commitments made co-ordinating the trek a little difficult. Ram and his team were very accommodating with my changes and requests. The trekking guides, Bishnu, Ganga and Dpak were exemplary. They were both knowledgeable and assistive. Virtually all of our trekking group had some difficulties along the way. Altitude, the cold, or long slogs uphill. The guys were great, aiding and assisting where needed to ensure everyone got to Base Camp and back, SAFELY. I am very happy to recommend Himalayan Social Journeys as a trekking company of choice. Thank you Ram and team.”

“My wife and I trekked to EBC with Himalayan Social Journey in October 2014 and found the entire trip to be a magnificent experience. In November 2016 I returned and did the trek (again) with my adult son. I can not recommend the entire experience highly enough.”

“My wife and I completed the Everest Base Camp trek with HSJ and could not have had a better experience. Our guide Bishnu and his helpers looked after our every need and were always on the lookout for any issues relating to altitude sickness or other illnesses. All of our tour group were successful in reaching Base Camp and this was due to the relaxed pace and acclimatisation rest days allowed for in the itinerary. Bishnu is very knowledgeable about the mountain ranges and was able to answer all our questions about Nepali way of life and culture. Highly recommend these guys.”

“I would definitely recommend Himalayan Social Journeys as a trekking company, very well organised and professional. The trip itself was definitely a trip of a lifetime, a really amazing experience trekking himalayas, making it to base camp and meeting lovely Nepali people along the way. The trek wasn't easy, you need to watch hygiene to make sure you don't get sick. The cold weather and high altitude also makes it difficult. Fortunately our guide Bishnu set a gentle relaxed pace for us to help with altitude and we had lots of rests and meals along the way. He was also very informative and fun - loved learning Nepali card games! We ended our trek at Gokarna resort - a bit of luxury after long trek was perfect!!”

“HSJ are truly top of the pops!! Myself, my husband and two teens aged 16 and 13 have just completed a 14 day trek to EBC with HSJ. I can't speak highly enough of the care we received from our wonderful guides Ganga, Bishnu and Deepak!!! Unless you are a very seasoned trekker and are very familiar with the environment of the Himalayas and the like, I would HIGHLY recommend doing your trek with a professional establishment and HSJ are number one! From the initial communication to the last minute of our trip was first class in every way. Our beautiful guides took care of us (there were 14 in our group) as if we were their own kith and kin. We were in absolute safe hands. We as a family had never done anything like this before and we were all a bit apprehensive of what was in store but we needn't have worried. Ganga, Bishnu and Deepak are such incredible human beings and we are so blessed and grateful they were our guides. The experience was phenomenal!! Thank you HSJ.”

“Everest Base Camp 16 day trek. From the get go the tour was well organised and all of the staff involved were extremely helpful. It is a truely amazing experience. The entirety of our group got to base camp. Big thanks to Bishnu and Tensing our guides. Highly reccomend”

“I did this trek starting on 4th January. The information prior to arrival was comprehensive and helpful and Ram was polite and helpful in providing any further information I requested. The trek, whilst beautiful, was far from easy due to the very low temperatures at that time of year and any normal struggles that come with altitude sickness. The guides Bishnu, Ganga and Deepak were helpful and caring in making sure that I was feeling ok and trekking at the pace that I was comfortable with. They were attentive with of the group ensuring that we were safe and as comfortable as we could be. Every night they held a briefing meeting so we knew what to expect the next day. They kept spirits up! During a bout of sickness when I coudn't leave my room they made sure I was ok throughout the evening. They were also fun to trek with...very kind natured gentlemen! I wouldn't hesitate to book with this company again...it would be great to trek with Bishnu, Ganga and Deepak in the future. Thank you!”

“A friend and myself completed the EBC trek with HSJ and neither of us could find a single fault. The service provided by the staff was brilliant - from the moment we booked it in the UK, to the moment we departed Kathmandu. We were guided by Tsanka and Dipak, and both were extremely knowledgeable and went above and beyond to make us happy and comfortable on the trek. I felt very safe under their guidance! The accommodation in both Kathmandu and on the trek was the best available, always clean and with friendly staff. If I was to go back to Nepal I would definitely look to use this company again. Excellent all round from HSJ!”

“Our booking through the Himalayan social Journey Group went smoothly with a good line of communication from the start. Our trip though India with our tour guide Tanveer was helpful, pleasant, and very knowledgeable with the culture and history of India. Over all made our tour extremely memorable. Flying to Kathmandu, Nepal to start our 5 day trek to Australian Base Camp with our guide Mììngmar Sherpa and his fantastic porters made our trip enjoyable, fun as they went above and beyond to accommodate us though the whole trek. I would recommend Mììngmars and his team 100% to anyone wanting to visit Nepal and trek the Himalayan mountains. I look forward to coming back to do Everest Base Camp with Mììngmar and team.”

“My fiancé and I are travelling for 6 months and this is so far, the most memorable and wonderful things we have done. Bishnu and Pasang, our guides were knowledgable, super friendly and made the whole trek comfortable for us. We saw other groups and guides and they were not comparable to our excellent experience. Make sure you ask for them. One of the small villages after Lukla has a hotel called 'Sherpa Shangri -La'. Make sure to stay here on the way up and back for a little bit of luxury (including heated blankets and hot showers)! If you go in winter, pack very warmly as temperatures are way below freezing, even inside.”

“This company did a fantastic job from the first email through to catching our final flight. They had transfers, accommodation, guides, sights, food and equipment all finely organised. Bishnu and Pasang were easy to travel with and full of knowledge and laughs. They were able to accommodate a range of ages in one group and were constantly checking on our health for altitude sickness. I went with my 18 year old daughter, a great experience. Make sure you have enough warm clothes, and some days are harder than others so when training prior to going, work on legs, legs and more legs. I wouldn't change a thing and cannot recommend Himalayan Social Journey high enough.”

“Great holiday, the views of Everest were amazing. It was a wonderful experience and the dynamic team of Ganga, Deepak and Dorje helped us achieve this special trip. The service and support was great and there advice, care and encouragement made it all the more enjoyable (thank you team for getting us there and back). The visit to the base camp on the glacier and leaving a prayer flag was a magic moment, as was the climb up Kala Patthar. Memories to last a lifetime.”

“My husband and I have recently done the 14 day EBC Trek, followed by 2 days at the Gokarna Forest Resort. It was an amazing experience! The experience began in Kathmandu, where we stayed at the Hotel Holy Himalaya. We went on a day tour of Kathmandu, visiting sites such the Swayambhanath (Monkey Temple) and the Boudhanath Stupa. The tour was fantastic, the guide was great and very informative, and we were extra lucky as this day was also the day of the Holi Festival making for a very colourful and extra special experience. While our 14 days of trekking to and from EBC is one of the most challenging things I have ever done, it was well worth it. I have never done anything like this before, and to say that I was a little nervous is an understatement, but our guides were amazing, ensuring that we were well prepared, feeling safe and positive. Our first guide Shankar was fantastic, and was literally there to hold my hand while getting through some tricky parts of the trek. Our second guide Binod ('Biny'), set the perfect pace, and provided us with everything that we needed. Unfortunately due to altitude sickness only half of our group were able to make it to Base Camp, with those who couldn't requiring Helicopter rescue. This was all organized with ease by Shankar and Biny meaning that the rest of us could continue with confidence that our friends were in good hands. The trek was completed with a well earned break at the Gokarna Forest Resort, and we couldn't have asked for a better location to wind down. The group was reunited with a Buffet dinner, where we all agreed that the trek had been an amazing experience.”

“I booked this trek with a couple of my best friends. We'd been looking around for a tour company for our Nepal adventure and found a great deal with Himalayan Social Journey. Because I booked the trek solo, I paid the supplementary fee which wasn't too much considering that I got to have my own room every day on the trek even if the lodges were full. I had arrived a few days earlier and from day one, they had everything sorted from picking me up from the airport to my hotel. I'm a stress-head and like to have everything organised and HSL responded promptly to my emails and answered all of my queries before I had arrived. We got a tour of Kathmandu before the trek, because our group had arrived a couple of days before, which was a perfect way to get accustomed to the city and culture.. having never been and only read about Nepal. We finished the city tour with a beautiful dinner which included traditional dances and costumes from all over Nepal. The trek itself was incredible. Everything from the people, to the food, and to the places that we stayed at were beyond expectation. Our guides, Shankar and Binod, were both so helpful as well as entertaining. They answered all of questions and were always pointing out peaks or interesting areas that we might have missed while we were walking. They were always looking out for us and sometimes literally held our hands through the icy bits. They set the perfect pace and ensured that we got to our destination to the best of their ability. We watched as other inexperienced guides let their groups get stuck in the middle of yak traffic on suspension bridges while our group waited patiently for them to pass as it was obviously safer to do so. I'm so grateful to Shankar and Binod, they really made this a great experience for me and I'm sure the rest of the group would agree. We were told that it was colder than normal for this time of year (mid-March) but we were provided extra blankets if we needed them at the lodge and we brought appropriate clothing because of the list that was provided to us. I did end up buying a thick polar fleece jacket in Namche Bazar along the way just so that I would be more comfortable lounging around at night. As far as food goes, I initially thought that being vegan might prove difficult for me on the trek but, I was so wrong. Every lodge that we stayed at had multiple options and were so accommodating. During the trek, our guides were on top of it and made sure that I always got the right meal and enough to drink. I want to say thank you to everyone at HSL including Ram, Shankar, Binod, our yak man (sorry, can't remember his name), the hotel staff and drivers for their hospitality. It was a wonderful experience and given the chance, I would do it all over again.”

“Having just completed the Everest Base Canp trek I can't speak highly enough of HSJ. Ganga & Binod were incredible guides (10/10) who always had our health as their number one priority. They were extremely knowledgable and always helpful and polite. The accomodation was above expectations with warm showers and electric sockets in room at some of the stops. Breakfast fine and a great last meal together with the group, guides and chopke driver in Lukla. If I was to change a couple of things it would be to have the guides eat with us regularly rather than serve us. I classed them as friends and enjoyed chatting to them. I'd also add an extra day on the descent as often people are carrying colds or feel unwell so doing 22km was challenging when sick. I'm already planning my next trip to Nepal with HSJ! Thanks, Chris”

“Collected from the airport upon our arrival, stayed at Holy Himalaya hotel (very nice). Got a tour of three of the major sites in Kathmandu. (Only 3, the traffic is TERRIBLE because the local government is putting in reticulated water all over town... all at once. So roads a ripped up muddy shambles) Flew into Lukla and stomped around the mountains for a few days. Stunning stunning scenery. Words fail when describing the Himalaya. Simply has to be experienced. Our senior guide, Bishnu (Bart) was fabulous. sorted out the mayhem that is flying domestically from Kathmandu to Lukla by twin otter and return. Our accommodation was more than we expected (but you need to have low expectations here, remember, everthing gets bought in on the back of man or beast, no roads here!) and he was very good and dealing with sick trekkers, of which we had three. Big shout out to guide no 2, Ang Dawa Sherpa, top fellow and a real asset to the company as was Pas and of course it couldnt have been done without our Yak driver who we saw every evening and morning. I recommend HSJ. Just make sure you are fit, and consider altitude. This is not an easy trek and only the foolish would attempt it unprepared.”

“Namaste What an amazing trek Everest base camp ! Our Sherpa and guides were so great. Special shout out to Bishnu and Ganesh these 2 were absolutely amazing! I can't speak highly enough of the Nepalese. Kind happy and genuinely loving people. Had a superb trip and would definitely recommend Himalayan social journey to anyone who wishes to go on this majestic journey!”