Welcome to Himalayan Hidden Trails, your gateway to the world of trekking and adventure. We are a team of passionate, energetic individuals born and raised in the breathtaking remote mountain regions of Nepal. Driven by a shared love for outdoor adventures and a vision to preserve local culture, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of Himalayan communities, we aim to promote sustainable tourism that benefits both our guests and the local population.

Based in Swoyambhu, Kathmandu, our team brings years of expertise and in-depth knowledge of Nepal’s trekking trails. Whether you’re seeking a serene cultural journey or an adrenaline-filled mountain adventure, we’re here to make your experience unforgettable.

The roots of Himalayan Hidden Trails trace back to the picturesque Tsum Valley in the Gorkha district of Nepal, where our founder, Namgyal Ngodup, was born into a humble Buddhist farming family. His childhood revolved around nature—herding yaks, working in the fields, and fetching water and firewood from the forest. Growing up in a village where the nearest market was a 9-day walk away, life was simple yet deeply connected to the mountains, rivers, and traditions.

Namgyal’s education began in a government school, a 45-minute walk from home, where he developed a deep appreciation for classical education and moral values. Thanks to the generosity of his uncle and aunt in Taiwan, he was able to continue his studies in Kathmandu. These formative years planted the seeds of his mission to uplift his community.

The Vision Behind Himalayan Hidden Trails

During his frequent visits to Tsum Valley while pursuing his education, Namgyal Ngodup witnessed the challenges faced by his family and community. Determined to make a difference, he completed a government-certified trekking guide training program and began working as a freelance trekking guide. In the off-season, he served as a social mobilizer, bridging the gap between government initiatives and local communities.

From 2011 to 2015, Namgyal spearheaded numerous awareness campaigns in Tsum Valley, focusing on health, hygiene, education, women empowerment, and eradicating harmful superstitions. However, as globalization began to touch the region, many youths left for better opportunities, leaving the villages increasingly depopulated. Recognizing the need to create sustainable job opportunities within the community, Namgyal decided to act.

Founding Himalayan Hidden Trails

Through his freelance trekking work, Namgyal Ngodup mobilized local youth, offering them career guidance and practical training in trekking and tourism. Over the years, he empowered over 20 young individuals to pursue careers as trekking guides and arranged leadership and risk management training for them. Additionally, he provided employment opportunities for over 30 others as trekking porters, assistant guides, and cooks, ensuring they could earn a livelihood without leaving their homeland.

After years of freelancing as a trekking guide, Namgyal envisioned creating a company that could embody his values of community empowerment and sustainable tourism. With the support of his dedicated partners, Himalayan Hidden Trails was born. Its mission is to deliver exceptional trekking experiences while mobilizing and empowering local youth for self-sustainable development.