Traveller reviews

“Himalayan Social Journey were helpful, friendly and experienced in organising our trek. I recommend them.”

“Had a wonderful experience with the trekking group and the two wonderful guides, Binod Dhaka and his colleague. The guides were very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly throughout the trip. They organised and served our meals as well as looking after our belongings in all of the hotels during our trek. Moreover, their experience in navigating our flights into and out of Lukla was invaluable given some of the stories we heard. I would like to express my disappointment in the quality of the accommodation along the way, given that this trek was booked via Luxury Escapes and one would expect higher quality rooms given the advertised cost. Moreover, the last minute change from the Gokarna Forest Resort to the Yak & Yeti Hotel in Kathmandu at the end of the trek was very disappointing. I don't know if this is a regular occurrence, ie, a last minute change, but I'd like to hear from others if this is in fact the case. The support staff throughout the trek were on time, efficient and very supportive and these people are the foundation to the trek. The less said about the meal options, the better, other than to advise that there is an expectation that the trekkers would eat all meals at the hotel we were staying in. The toilet facilities bordered on acceptable to disgusting the higher up the mountain we travelled, with the Himalayan Guest House in Gorak Shep taking out the award (understandably given its location at 5160M). Overall, a great trek but to others that follow, be prepared to experience some very trying conditions set to a backdrop of one of nature's wonders.”

“I did the Everest Base Camp Trek (with family members) with Himalayan Social Journey in May 2017. This was my third EBC trek over 35 years. We were picked up promptly from the airport and taken to Holy Himalaya Hotel. Hotel had clean rooms and ensuite and a buffet breakfast, and complimentary coffee. Our trek had two guides, and 2 porter/yak men. Guides had good english and very friendly and professional. Each day the lead guide would review the day and brief us on the day ahead. In particular our guide gave us detailed info regarding Altitude Sickness issues: its symptoms and ways to mitigate its effects. The pace of the trek was accordingly slow to ensure that no -one was stressed, with rest stops to ensure that everyone remained together. On 'rest' days the guides provided options of walks - 'climb up, rest low' that were very beneficial to our resilience on subsequent days. Our team made it successfully to EBC, and I also climbed Kala Patar on the next day. The accomodation on the trek was superior to other lodges (one even had an ensuite) The Restaurants provided diverse menu and good quality food at reasonable prices. Our guides provided insights into the cultural and social aspects of Nepal as we walked along. I walked in hiking shoes (rather than hiking boots) with thick merino hiking socks which were extremely comfortable, and used walking sticks (as i have arthritis in my knees). Whilst it is important to have some preliminary fitness prior to coming, the fitter you are the better your enjoyment will be. Doing some additional hiking up on the rest days is extremely beneficial to dealing with Altitude Sickness Issues Peter (66 years)”

“Our trip started with booking this a year ago. Via emails Himalayan social journey were very responsive and quick at getting back to us. They give us relevant information and were organised in relation to flights. We arrived in Kathmandu- Dillip the driver met us from the plane and took us to our hostel (not Holy Himalaya Hotel). Dillip was welcoming and friendly driver and even managed to remember our names. We spent some time in Kathmandu and met the rest of the group and guides. Prakesh was so chilled out and reassuring from day 1! He organised our things and explained necessary arrangements. After a safe flight from Kathmandu to Lukla we started trekking- both guides were friendly and integrating well with us all. We would talk and get to know one another. They would explain our surroundings and keep us safe from unknown risks such as yaks potentially pushing us off the hill. The guides would monitor the mood of the group well- listening to what the vibes were, stopping for breaks and motivating us to continue. We would stop for lunch and they would help us out so much with ordering food and drinks and were very hospitable. Every evening prakesh would do a speech explaining the next days' plans. He has a great positive and genuine vibe and you can't help but be drawn to his lovely character. All throughout the trek the guides would look after us and explain how we may be feeling in terms of altitude. They would reassure us and not let us become too worried. Prakesh was very knowledgeable when it came to the surroundings and altitude related illnesses. I would use this company again and would recommend them for future customers xxx”

“I joined Himalayan Social as a trekker for a 14 day adventure to Everest Base Camp. Our guides were amazing with great knowledge of the area. They were encouraging and approachable. They really looked after us and made sure that our dream of reaching Everest Base Camp would happen. I would definitely recommend using this company for anyone wanting great service and experienced guides.”

“Having just completed the Everest Base camp Trek with this company, I cannot praise them enough for the excellent organisation and care throughout the whole journey. Our two guides, Ganga and Binod, where fantastic, taking care of everyone and ensuring we were well, healthy and happy the entire time. They were also shared great knowledge of Nepal, it's culture and history, the flora and fauna. I cannot fault this company and highly recommend them to anyone considering visiting Nepal.”

“This 14 day trek lived up to my expectations & I highly recommend HSJ & their operation. Our guides were attentive, knowledgeable & always had our physical & mental well-being foremost in decisions. i always felt confident in their ability to negotiate the 'hustle & bustle' of the airports & to ensure our group had the best chance of safely achieving our goals. Thanks Ganga & Binod.”

“One of the most amazing experiences I have had in my travels so far. Exhausting but so exhilarating at the same time. if you're lucky you will get Mingmar Sherpa as your guide, this gentleman was an amazing guide. His attention to detail and oversight of the group was what made the trip so successful. His knowledge of the region and past mountaineering experience was what made the journey so interesting.If you get Mingmar Sherpa you'll have a wonderful experience.”

“Our trip to EBC was a life changing experience! We left on the 6th June (beginning of Monsoon), but we were lucky enough to get good weather the entire way. I would recommend being organised with snack foods, bring packs with your oen snacks, muesli bars, chocolate, lollies, dried fruit and nuts etc, but generally the meals available were great. Our Sherpa Mingmar was amazing, there's no doubt that his knowledge, guidance, humour and awesome sense of adventure is what got our entire group successfuly up to base camp. I would definitely recommend requesting Mingmar Sherper #1 for your trip. Awesome trip!!!”

“Absolutely nothing to complain about! The trip went very smoothly. Met some great people on the trek. Memory that will last forever. Ram and his staff organized the trip beautifully and Mingmar our tour guide was exceptional! Mingmar's energy was unlike any. Amazing guide, Cook, waiter and went out of his way to please us at any opportunity given. It was also my birthday on the Trek and Mingmar went out of his, already busy way to get me a memorable and suitable gift. Thanks to all involved!!”

“What an amazing adventure. Just returned from trekking to EBC with Himalayan Social journey and can't believe how brilliant it was. Mingmar, our sherpa guide went over and above for us every day to ensure everything went smoothly making it an unforgettable, life changing experience for everyone. Nothing was too much trouble for him and I would recommend Mingmar and HSJ for any treks in Nepal. So very thankful for the professionalism and the genuine care he showed us all.”

“I was apart of the HSJ trek team to EBC earlier this month. It was a challenging trek and without the amazing skills and abilities of our guide Mingmar I don't think we would've had as much fun as we did. Our pace was good and if anyone was ill or slow he would do all that he could to assist. Our trip was during the monsoon season where some places would be closed along the trail but it didn't stop you from having a quality meal each night and a place to relax. Mingmar Sherpa is a guide who can bring the best out in people as well as provide great advice about the trail, the food, the culture on the mountain and the lifestyle of the local people. From our entire trekking team, we cannot rate this tour enough, just make sure you have mingmar with you.”

“Just came back from the Himalayan Social Journey EBC hike and what a fantastic trip! Even taking the trip during the monsoon season our guide Mingmar was there with all the info you could want to prepare for each day, he was proactive in finding the best places to eat and get wifi (surprisingly difficult in off season) and best of all he would talk to each of us every day to see if we were feeling okay. When one of the team was sick he gave them everything he could need but also didn't make the rest help so we could still max out our enjoyment. Everything about the trip was well planned out and organized and Mingmar would have to be the best tour guide I have ever had for any tour ever. He always had a smile on his face and jumped in to help at every opportunity. Thanks HSJ for a great holiday!”

“I have flown back to Kathmandu from Luckla this morning. Our group have just finished the above trek. It has been the most exhilarating, challenging and rewarding holiday I've ever had. The Himalayan Social staff looked after us in many ways and did it superbly. They kept us organised to enable us to reach our goal. They adapted to changing circumstances as they arose: weather delayed flights, trekkers with mild ailments, trekkers who required helicopter evacuation due to respiratory or altitude induced ailments. All handled with professionalism and expediency. I would like to thank Sàroj Nepal, Milan and Kai for everything they did for us during our trip. In finishing, our guide Sàroj was the leader, advisor, and organiser in regard to the trek. He was also an encyclopedic of spiritual, cultural and geograghic knowledge. In Saroj' own words "No problem, we are extended family" Sàroj, Namaste and thank you my friend”

“100% recommend HSJ. We did the EBC tour at the end of May and had a fantastic time. Ram, the company owner was very helpful with any enquiries we had before our trip as well as when we were over there. Our tour guides were both excellent. Very knowledgeable and fun. They went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed and had a great time. Would thoroughly recommend Himalayan Social Journey”

“This tour is definitely an adventure! The manager, Ram, met us on the first day, answered all of our questions & went through the updated itinerary due to the recent flooding. The Kathmandu city tour guide was extremely knowledgeable & friendly. We learned a great deal more about Nepalese history & culture from him. One of my favourite parts of this tour was the food! Momos & Dal Bhat were delicious. The guest houses were clean & comfortable, most had bathrooms attached. Our guide throughout the trek, Shankar, was incredibly helpful, friendly, organised & made us feel very safe throughout the whole trek. Thank you also to Binod who carried our packs for us- we really appreciated it! You need to be moderately fit or enjoy walking to do this trek. The views are definitely worth it! I will definitely be back to do EBC with this tour company! Probably not during Monsoon season again though- especially since I am not too fond of leeches. Overall, a wonderful welcome for our first time travelling to Nepal! Thank you for a highly adventurous experience :)”

“We ( two of us) took Himalyan Social Journey's services for EBC trek, the owner Mr. Ram Sapkota was kind enough to modify the itinerary on eleventh hour request from our side when flights weren't operating to Lukla from Kathmandu due to bad weather. We took an additional four days from Paphlu to Phading. The guide Mr. Bindo Gharti Magar is exceptionally talented guide and had guided and supported us throughout the journey, he knows every single peak that you would see in Kumbu region :) he has added a personal touch to our entire experience and was (and shall remain) like a family member to us. Our porter , Mr. Pradeep ( Prodeep) wouldn't cease to amaze us , despite of his small size he could not easily carry 20 Kgs and hop like a rabbit through the Khumbu trails. We are carrying back pleasant memories of the trip and would definitely take Himalyan Social Journey's services again. Thanks Mr. Ram Sapkota, Mr. Binod Gharti Magar and Mr. Prodeep :)”

“Mayank(my friend) and me booked Himalyan Social Journey's(HSJ services for EBC trek in Feb'17, and our trek was to start on 2nd Sep'17. After waiting 1 day at the airport, and checking the weather forecasts for the week, we requested Mr.Ram Sapkota(Owner), to modify the itinerary, and helped us with a Jeep to Phaplu which added 4 days to our trek. We were accompanied by our guide Binod and by our porter Prodeep, and both were highly experienced, cordial and helped us every step along the way. They wouldn't cease to amaze us with their knowledge of the mountain trails, and perhaps they knew every rock along the way. We reached EBC on 13th Sep'17. Their honesty and humility has left us with fond memories of Nepal. I plan on coming back next season and would request Mr. Sapkota, to assign them for my next adventure. I would highly recommend HSJ, and especially Binod and Prodeep. Thank you and Kind Regards Jacob P.Mani”

“I did the 16 day Everest Base Camp Trek and it was extraordinary! HSJ are just the best! Our guide, Ganga was amazing - the perfect mix of leadership, sense of humour, knowledge, practical advice and just a great guy - he guided us through every step of the journey. I was a solo traveller so a little nervous but was placed with a group of 10 people who I now consider family. Do not hesitate, just book it! It will change your life <3”

“In a group of 8 with 2 guides and a yak handler led by Bishnu Bhattarai. A tiring walk for a novice trekker who was slack with preparation but i made it there and back. The accomodation was better than the bare basic i expected in a remote area and the food was great always. The knowledge and organisational expertise of all involved made it a pleasure and i would not hesitate to reccomend this trip to anyone.”

“My second trek with Himalayan Social Journey and again what a great experience with our guide Binod Dhakal and his assistant Ganesh Devkota attending to all our needs. Our trek was 16 days and what a personal challenge it was, base camp was fantastic but our good weather and shear determination to get to Kalapathar and the sunrise alignment with Mount Everest was breathtaking. Thank you to all our team for a great lifelong memory I will treasure.”

“Brilliant experience and so fortunate to have Binod and Ganesh as our guides. I will never forget their encouragement and assistance. I completed the trek and feel very accomplished. The support by our guides was phenomenal. Exhausting, gruelling but Oh so worth it. Truly magnificent vista - how many times did I say WOW ?!! Thank you Himalayan Social Journey”

“My partner and I booked a trek through Luxury Escapes and were blessed to spend 16 days with the team at Himalayan Social Journeys. From the moment we booked, the admin staff were more than helpful and super responsive in providing information and answering questions. The information provided was excellent - there was nothing unexpected, in fact, everything was so much better than advised. When we arrived in Kathmandu, we were met by our guide and driver and taken to our hotel, we were given time to settle in prior to our "meet the team" briefing and a great meal & cultural night at a nearby local restaurant. We were in a group of 8 trekkers, led by an incredible guide and human being in Bishnu Bhattarai. Bish was assisted by his right hand man Lakpa and our very capable and friendly yak handler. From the get go Bish was outstanding. His many years of experience made this reasonably tough trek so much easier - his sense of humour, local knowledge, technical expertise, compassion and humility is simply incredible. Bish went out of his way to enhance this incredible journey, sharing his experience and knowledge to ensure we experienced the very best of the trek in every way. The best thing about our trek was the environment that Bish created in which solid teamwork and friendships were formed - his positive attitude to life is so infectious. There were some tough days along the way with a few of our group suffering some aches, pains and altitude illnesses - Bish did everything possible to mitigate any potential issues, and when they did arise, kept us pepped up, motivated and provided all of the appropriate treatment, care and compassion to get us through. It was source of great pride to Bish to ensure we all got to Everest Base Camp safely and happily. Every evening after a long day, Bish would not sit still until we were all briefed on the following day's plan, well fed and settled in with everything we needed. He would then have us enthralled with his stories, give us great insights to the various cultures in Nepal and have us in stitches with his jokes, card tricks and games. We were also treated to his rather unique twerking skills!!! Our mornings started with fabulous breakfasts and yoga, Bish style. Nothing like a great laugh to get you going in the morning. Throughout the trek, Bish and his team took us only to the best accommodation and food options available, again, their local knowledge was first class. Bish is a real credit to himself and his family - Himalayan Social Journeys are indeed blessed to have him on the team. Thanks again to all of the incredible team at HSJ for providing us with a lifetime of incredible memories- my strongest recommendation is to not bother with any other company - HSJ is number 1 with daylight second!”

“From the very beginning, this trek offered exactly what it promised. We were met at the airport and taken to a hotel where we met our trek leader, Bishnu Bhattarai and Lakpa (assistant). The trek was thoroughly explained and gear was handed out. We were then taken to a cultural dinner which included traditional Nepalese food and dancing. The food and accommodation was of a lot higher standard than I expected. We each had our own rooms which were clean and (although not particularly spacious) were fitted out with doonas, pillows and clean sheets. Some rooms had outside toilets and showers and hot water not always available. Electricity for charging of electronic advices was also quite sparse and unreliable due to the reliance upon solar electricity. In saying that, we were not perturbed by such matters as we still had roofs over our head which didn't leak and great food that that was surprisingly well above what I had expected. My advice would be to take powerful power packs and get used to taking 'dry showers' when needs be. Our trip leader and support staff were excellent. Bish provided us with a great deal of knowledge about the history of Everest and showed a great deal of excitement when we were first able to view the summit - his enthusiasm for the trek was infectious. As we climbed higher, a few of us started to feel the effects of altitude sickness. Bish couldn't have been more helpful or caring. He was fantastic with advice and providing relevant medications where required. Both Bish and Lakpa ensured that our meals were provided on time and at a high standard. The group as a whole were surprised by the high quality of the food on offer. We had an amazing journey without any significant issues, due mainly because of our porters. The information given to us prior to embarking on our trek by the Himalayan Social Journey company was absolutely spot on with what to expect. From the list of equipment required, to accommodation, food, travel and weather - there were no nasty surprises. One of the highlights was definitely Bish, Lakma and the Yak Porter in our group. The only negatives I could point out was that the little extras such as buying water, food, showers, and electricity can all add up so take extra cash for these incidentals. These prices are of course out of control of the trekking group. The tipping at the end can also be expensive. It is recommended to give a minimum of $50 US for each porter for their services throughout the trek. Obviously they earn their money however if there are five or six porters, it can be very expensive. Just something to keep in mind. We were more than happy to pay above the average however we only had three porters. This would be my only criticism because the tips are based on a 'per person' basis even if you are in a couple which can work out to be very expensive. Again however, we were more than happy to pay because our porters were excellent - especially Bish - who made the trip a once in a lifetime (truly enjoyable) trek. I would recommend this trekking company to anyone.”