LaMa Walks: From Passion to Purpose

“I was a science student,” Lama begins, “But later, whether by destiny or sheer interest, I found myself immersed in the world of adventure.” Despite never having studied adventure formally, Lama’s hands-on experiences have served him well. He embodies the adage, “Either a person can study and learn, or suffer through a situation and learn,” having gained his knowledge by navigating challenges that now inform his guidance and expertise.

LaMa Walks was initiated in 2013, initially as a simple Facebook page where Lama documented his travels and connected with fellow adventurers. “It was essentially a travel network,” he explains. The page quickly gained popularity as friends trusted his insights and began recommending him to others. This grassroots support encouraged Lama to transform his passion into a registered company by 2015.

Central to LaMa Walks is a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Lama encourages clients to minimise their footprint while visiting Nepal, a country where recycling practices are limited and products made from recycled materials can be costly. “I always ask clients to think about how they can reduce their impact,” Lama says. This philosophy extends to practical measures: clients receive reusable water bottles to discourage single-use plastics and bamboo toothbrushes at the end of their trips, promoting eco-friendly practices.

Lama’s dedication to client safety is evident in his meticulous preparation. “We begin by understanding our clients’ health, trekking and adventure histories,” he explains, adding, “This information helps us tailor each trip to individual needs.” Communication in remote areas can be challenging, so Lama ensures there is always a satellite phone available, and staff are trained to handle emergencies. “Our staff must meet specific standards,” he emphasises, including certification in wilderness first aid.

As a certified wilderness first responder himself, Lama understands the importance of these skills. “In remote areas, immediate medical assistance is often unavailable, so preparation is crucial. Safety is our top priority,” Lama asserts, proudly noting that despite the potential for emergencies in Nepal’s rugged terrain, in their nine years of operation, they have had zero rescue incidents. He attributes this achievement to rigorous preparation and the expertise of his team.

Despite its small size, LaMa Walks offers exclusive, custom-built trips designed with meticulous attention to detail. “Our trips are crafted to consider every aspect of the client’s needs,” Lama explains. This personalised approach comes at a higher price, but it ensures that guides are well-compensated and motivated. By hiring local guides from the regions they visit, LaMa Walks supports local economies and provides an authentic travel experience. “If I go to Rasuwa, I try to source guides from there,” Lama says. This approach benefits the community and enriches the travel experience. This financial resilience also proved crucial during the Covid 19 pandemic, allowing LaMa Walks to continue supporting its staff and operations. “Thanks to the loyalty and support of our clients,” he adds.

Reflecting on the early challenges faced by LaMa Walks, he recalls a time when the company’s seasonal nature posed significant financial pressures. “Like they say, when you start as a small company, challenges grow with time,” he remarks. The business operated primarily during Nepal’s trekking seasons of March to May and September to November, leaving extended periods without income. “Those months without work brought financial strain,” he admits. To mitigate these pressures, Lama focused on personal development, investing heavily in skills training and building a strong professional reputation through climbing and mountaineering. These efforts not only stabilised the business but also positioned LaMa Walks as a trusted name in personalised adventure tourism across Nepal.

“The company does not engage in direct marketing or open dates trekking. Instead, it invests in local events and social media to promote and share insider content on trekking essentials, such as what trekkers should carry and the recommended gear,” Lama explains. “Instead of focusing on partnerships, we concentrate on our own practices and their effects,” he adds.

His passion for exploring remote, challenging areas like Kangchenjunga and Dolpa, as well as his journey from Kathmandu to the summit of Mount Everest on foot, underscores his love for adventure and the unique experiences these places offer. “The best thing I can offer clients is the chance to push their limits in these incredible locations,” he says.

Additionally, LaMa Walks is dedicated to fostering personal development among its guides and supporting local communities. The company’s ‘Making a Difference’ initiative highlights these efforts, including support for local athletes like Swastika Chaudhary and ongoing investments in first aid training for guides. “We believe in empowering our team members,” Lama emphasises, highlighting their commitment to enhancing both professional skills and personal growth. Core values such as safety, environmental stewardship, and community support form the foundation of LaMa Walks’ mission. By prioritising these principles, the company not only ensures exceptional trekking experiences but also contributes positively to Nepal’s tourism industry and local communities

He acknowledges that LaMa Walks is not fundamentally different from other trekking companies. “We still sell the same things,” he admits. While not claiming uniqueness among trekking companies, he believes clients discern the difference through their journey with LaMa Walks, marked by top-notch service, environmental consciousness, and a commitment to community and client satisfaction.

Thinking into the future, Lama remains committed to maintaining LaMa Walks’ core values while continuously seeking feedback to improve. “Clients can always expect top-notch services from us,” he mentions. With a dedication to safety, the environment, and personal growth, Lama and LaMa Walks continue to inspire in the world of adventure travel.