We have just returned from Nepal this weekend and I wanted to do a write-up for Binod’s website – just haven’t found the time yet!

Binod’s assistance, from meeting us at the airport in Kathmandu to taking us up to Pokhara, on the trek and back down to KTM, has been absolutely invaluable. Starting from Katmandu where, if you don’t have an appointed minder you have hordes of people pestering you. You don’t quite know where you will land – KTM is very dodgy and not easily enjoyed if you end up in the wrong hotel or don’t have reliable transport organized.

The sheer pleasure of being able to follow someone around without having to organize things oneself is not to be underestimated and takes the stress out of finding the correct trekking route, getting to your accommodation, finding that ATM that works. We arrived in Pokhara and one person in our group had luggage that was not suitable for porters to carry. Binod supplied two rucksacks for this person top borrow, no charge. Ditto walking sticks. In one village the teahouse could not give us the rooms we had booked because visitors already there had extended their stay. Binod organized a very viable alternative in no time at all. We also changed our itinerary on the day of departure to have one extra day in Pokhara – all flights, hotel accommodation etc were amended without us having to make a single phone call. Binod did it all and with a smile. He has great powers of observation, asks the right questions and can judge what it is that will make his clients happy. Some folks are OK with basic accommodation & food, others need 5 star everything – Binod listens and ensures you get what it is that you’re asking for. From previous travels I have found that guide books cannot replace the human touch of someone local who can make it all happen.

Binod and the two porters we had, Chandra and Jitendra (who have been working with Binod for 11 years) were the most kind hearted, gentle, polite and pleasant company throughout the trip. Binod’s knowledge of Nepal, trekking, nature, the people, is unsurpassed. He has a wealth of information to share, his English is superb and he is really just one of life’s good guys. He delivered exactly what we wanted and nothing was ever too much for him. We asked for additional maps – they appeared as if by magic. If we wanted to get going early in the mornings he would chivvy on the teahouse owner to get our breakfast. It was also sooooo nice not to have to carry your own luggage!

In short, Binod, Chandra and Jitendra’s presence added 100% to our enjoyment of the trip. I would really recommend Hike Nepal’s service. Worth every penny, and more!
Ria
Doha, Qatar