About Us

About Us

“Responsible Treks” is a proudly local travel company established in Boudha in December 2009 by a passionate team from the remote Simikot–Humla region of Nepal. Built on deep roots in the Himalayas, we are committed to authenticity, sustainability, and creating meaningful travel experiences that honor both people and place.

With over 22 years of combined industry expertise, we specialize in crafting carefully designed trekking and cultural journeys that reflect true Himalayan life. Our strength lies in our local insight, responsible tourism practices, and commitment to community development.

Every trip we organize supports local livelihoods while offering travelers genuine adventure. At Responsible Treks, we don’t just guide journeys—we create lasting connections with nature, culture, and people.

Namaste & Tashi Delek!

Area:Our Destinations

Nepal is widely recognized for Mount Everest and Annapurna; however, Responsible Treks specializes in guiding global clients to less-explored regions where beauty, diversity, and tranquility still thrive. Adventure awaits in these remote areas—far off the beaten path, hidden within the Himalayas.

Explore the pristine landscapes of Karnali, Limi, Mt. Kailash, Dolpo, Rara, Api, Saipal, the Tibetan Plateau, and the jungles of Bardia. Discover what lies beyond the familiar trails.

Our Foundation & Ethos

Growing up, we listened with admiration to stories of our ancestors who journeyed by foot and horseback along ancient salt trading routes across the Himalayan subcontinent. This spirit of discovery inspired the founding of Responsible Treks.

With passion, field expertise, and intimate local knowledge, we are dedicated to responsible and sustainable travel in Nepal's remote regions. We believe tourism should benefit local communities—not extract from them. According to SNV (a Dutch International Development Organization), less than 1% of tourism revenues reach Nepal's most in-need rural areas. We are committed to changing this.

Our mission is to promote sustainable travel that honors the local environment, supports cultural preservation, and ensures host communities genuinely benefit from tourism.

Our Commitment to Excellence

Sustainability & Industry Partnership

As a certified Travelife partner, Responsible Treks adheres to the highest international sustainability standards. Our commitment to responsible tourism was further validated through participation in the CBI Export Coaching Program (2014–2018), supported by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This rigorous training enhanced our operational efficiency, professional standards, and service quality, positioning us as a leader in ethical adventure travel.

Global Recognition & Awards

Responsible Treks is actively engaged with the international tourism community, regularly participating in premier industry events including ITB Berlin, WTM London, and Adventure Elevate (USA). Our dedication to excellence has been recognized through a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, while our consistently strong reviews and ratings on kimkim—a USA-based online travel platform—reflect our commitment to guest satisfaction and quality service.

Safety & Leadership

Your health and safety are our top priority. Successful operations depend on meticulous preparation, proper training, and a positive mindset—because with the right approach, no trek or summit is out of reach.

Our Team:

All trek leaders are qualified mountain guides with extensive field experience
Staff are trained in first aid and fully insured
We maintain constant communication via mobile and satellite phones
Your Responsibility: We require all clients to carry comprehensive travel insurance covering cancellations, accidents, health emergencies, COVID-19, evacuation, and loss or damage to personal belongings.

High Standards

Exceptional Service with a Personal Touch

We believe that meaningful travel comes from genuine connections, attentive service, and the flexibility to adapt to your needs. We understand that comfort matters—which is why we partner with the finest hotels available while preserving the authentic local character that makes Nepal special. In remote areas where options are limited, we handpick accommodations based on location, cleanliness, and environmental responsibility.

Creating Impact

Tourism is powerful. We see it as an opportunity to celebrate, preserve, and strengthen Nepal's rich cultural heritage. At Responsible Treks, we're passionate about sharing our deep knowledge and love for this extraordinary country. We work tirelessly to create travel experiences that matter—enriching the lives of our guests while supporting and respecting the communities that welcome you home.

Meet Our Team

Chhewang Lama
Chhewang Lama

Founder Director

Rikjin Lama
Rikjin Lama

Co-Founder & Senior Trek Leader

Sonam N. Lama
Sonam N. Lama

Director & Trek Leader

I’m Chhewang Lama, a tourism pioneer from the remote Nyinba Valley in Simikot-Humla, West Nepal—a region of rich Tibetan heritage. My deep connection to the mountains and indigenous communities has shaped both my career and my values.

With over two decades in the tourism industry, I’ve traveled extensively across Asia, Europe, and the USA. This experience has reinforced my commitment to responsible, community-centered travel. At Responsible Treks, I’ve built something unique: tourism that honors the people and cultures at its heart.

Beyond trekking, I’m deeply involved in social enterprise and community development:

  • Founder of Boudha Residency
  • Advisor at Karnali Tourism Entrepreneurs Society, Karnali Direct, and Women Light the World
  • Tourism Think Tank Member for Visit Nepal Year (Nepal Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation)

The mountains continue to inspire me daily. I’m passionate about sharing the transformative experiences of Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan—and about building tourism that truly benefits the communities we visit.

 

Rikjin was born & raised on the Tibetan Border deep within the hidden Himalayas-Humla. After high school Rikjin moved to Kathmandu to further his studies and it was here that he obtained his first job as a Sherpa. After a year of carrying & fixing tents on long mountain treks Rikjin seized the opportunity to progress onto becoming a guide.Knowing the importance of English Rikjin studied hard in both Kathmandu and out in the field with the help of his international clients. Today Rikjin is not only an incredible speaker of the English language but he is also widely recognized as being one of Nepal’s premium Trek Leaders; visiting Mt Kailash in Tibet some 50 times. Rikjin is passionate about his work & strives to ensure every aspect of the trekking/mountaineering experience is enjoyable & runs smoothly. Now he is more in the office working on Sales and Operation. He has very deep knowledge about Himalayas and will definitely customize you a dream trip.

Sonam N. Lama was Born in Bargaun-Humla, amidst the majestic Himalayas. He is one of the most passionate and qualified young tourism professionals. With an extensive knowledge of the mountains, he has trekked across nearly every region in Nepal, including the western section of the  Great Himalaya trails  (Simikot-Rara-Dolpo-Mustang). Sonam has completed advance mountaineering and ice climbing training at Khumbu Climbing Center. He is also one of the first guides in Nepal to have completed (ATTA)  guide training in Nepal.

Responsible Treks Guide Everest

Sonam has climbed both  Mera Peak and Island peak within a week’s time. Since 2013, he has been at the helm of Responsible Treks. In addition to his work in Nepal, Sonam has traveled extensively across Europe and Asia.

06 Request A Quote

For Queries & Reservations

Travelling with us is flexible, freedom and fun.
We deliver exceptional products at a very good price for you, but not at the cost of the environment or our social responsibilities “travel Responsibly”

Chhewang N.Lama
+977-9801046333 / +977-1-4813166
[email protected]