Phuri, Rinji, and our guide Sonam were incredible, all the things you'd want in a trekking company: responsive, caring, and kind. We had to change plans many times before and during the trek due to weather and family emergencies. Phuri and his team responded to our changes quickly and with more kindness than I've ever experienced with any type of customer service relationship. We trekked the Everest region during a very wet October when more than 2000 other travelers got stuck in Ramechapp with no flights to Lukla. Phuri could see what was happening, pivoted quickly, and got us a successful helicopter flight to start our trek. One thing to keep in mind is that the KTM airport does not allow flights to Lukla during October and the jeep ride to Ramechapp (where you're allowed to fly to Lukla) are long, anywhere from 4-7 hours.
I have travelled around the world for hiking and backcountry skiinig. My trekking to Everest BC and Kalapathar is the best trip of all my trips. My guide Dendi Sherpa was fantastic as was the porter. The trip was well organized and all the details taken care of. I can highly recommend this company and their guides and staff.
Phuri knew that some day I would return to Nepal, where we lived 2014-2017, so I could explore the Everest region with his team. We spoke about it. I dreamed about it. We made it happen. In August 2022, I was fortunate to jump on a plane to Lukla, arrive in Khumbu and spend 12 extraordinary days of wonder and discovery as we traveled up to Everest Base Camp and over to the pristine Gokyo lakes, completing two high mountain passes: Chola and Renjo La. Phuri, Rinji and Ang Kaila have a way of working together that is unique and unparalleled in the region. They allow you a window into Sherpa culture based on their strong connections and carefully cultivated trekking relationships. Many local leaders became our tea stops and I was able to gain insight into the sociopolitical push/pull factors of the region. I got to stay my last night in their family home and witness potato harvest season. My guide was pure gold! Not only did Ang Kaila stay in tune with my goals, he pushed me even further than I believed was possible when I let him know I was in marathon training mode. He watched my body, mind, spirit and ensured I was eating/hydrating ever step of the way. We did this adventure together, putting safely first, and checking in all along the way. My porter, Jeevan, was kind and knew the terrain. Arriving home I look back at this solo trek experience with new appreciation for Sherpas, for the region, and for the close support from Phuri’s wonderful family. You can trek in Nepal with many outfits, and will ultimately have a grand experience, but if you are looking for a way to get out there with a company that cares about you to make the trek truly unforgettable and life changing, I recommend you go with Himalayan Friends!