Client review
On the 14th October 2019 I achieved a lifelong ambition. I arrived at Everest Base Camp. The only way I managed to achieve this was with the help of Dhan Kumar Rai - Padam. Despite vigorous training leading up to my trip I suffered from altitude sickness. Padam checked my blood oxygen levels every evening. When it dropped to 78% I was convinced I would be sent home. Padam comforted me, encouraged me to eat and kept my spirts up with his infectious laugh and expansive knowledge. Over the course of the trip we became good friends. I was so proud to reach Everest Base Camp; I couldn't have done it without him.
I wanted to go back to Nepal in 2020, but Covid and Lockdown hit. Padam and I stayed in touch, Facetiming each other and always checking in. I returned to Nepal with friends in October 2022 to hike to Everest Base Camp. Unfortunately (for me), Padam had moved to another company. However, he took time out to meet me at my hotel and presented me with a beautiful bag of gifts. I aced the hike the second time round, with no altitude sickness, and was relied on by other hikers for my previous knowledge (primarily learned from Padam). When I told the guides that I was friends with Padam, they were impressed and told me how well he is regarded in the hiking community.
In October 2023 I returned to Nepal with my son - with Padam as my guide. It was a mother and son trip, to celebrate my son's graduation. As we headed to Everest Base Camp I became ill. Padam ensured I stayed at a lodge owned and run by his friend. I have never felt so well looked after. They ensured I was warm, that I ate, and entertained me in the evenings. In the meantime, Padam and my son continued to Namche Bazaar. My son sprained his ankle and ultimately had to turn back. He could not praise Padam enough - looking after him and providing first aid. We all flew back to Katmandu together and Padam arranged a different visit - we toured the monasteries and temples in the Katmandu Valley. Padam's knowledge is amazing - culture, traditions, history, nature. We soaked it all in with his expert experience. We truly had a wonderful adventure. Upon leaving, Padam presented me with a painting of my favourite mountain - Ama Dablam. He had carefully selected it in Namche, and explained the reasoning behind his choice - he knows me too well. It hangs in my home office to this day.I'm glancing up at it as I type this.
I returned to Nepal in November 2024. Padam met me at the airport with a Dhaka scarf and a bunch of flowers. He had arranged the same driver from 2023 - Deependra. The two waited hours whilst my plane tried to land owing to the weather, and then when it took some time to get my suitcase. They were so patient, and just happy to see me. We had a wonderful time in the Langtang Valley, and then tours of historic sites and nature. Padam, with his local contacts, ensured I had an en-suite room almost every night, delicious food and such good company. I actually shed a tear leaving - he and Deependra took me to the airport and helped me with my luggage. Padam presented me with a locally made beautiful rug - that also sits in my office.
Would I recommend Padam? Oh yes! You will be treated like a VIP and he will do everything to guarantee you have a delightful trip to Nepal. He will go the extra mile, always. His attention to detail and safety is second to none. Namaste Padam - thank you for all the wonderful memories, and here is to future trips with you.