David and Paul Colkin

Kathmandu – Everest Hotel April 2016
Kamal, The first thing we have to say is what a great business website you have set up! We were very lucky to choose you when we arrived in Kathmandu in April 2016. Knowing nothing about trekking, both Ram (Sherpa porter) and you guided and cared for us during our trek to Namche Bazaar and the Everest Hotel. All of the teahouses that we stayed in were great! Though cold at night, you were always there to give us extra blankets. Your knowledge of the area and information on the various mountains would be second to none.
On our recommendation, our father, Stuart, trekked with you in 2023; we knew that with him being in his mid-70s that you would look after him from start to finish, which you did; he has raved so much about you and his trek that both he and Dave will be heading up to Gokyo Ri during March 2026 with you and hopefully Ram.
Again, many thanks, and good luck with your business/website.
Paul and David Colkin

P
Paul

Stuart, Perth Australia

I was lucky to have Kamal on the Everest View Trek November/December 2023 and what a guide he was!! I am in my mid 70s and had never been on a trek before and he looked after my welfare totally, taking our time to avoid any acclimatization/Altitude sickness problems etc. his knowledge of the area is outstanding and he appears to know everyone on the trek😊 Whether it be a short or long trek I would  not hesitate to recommend Kamal!!! first class guide. I am hoping to do the trek to Gokyo Ri in 2025/26! fingers crossed😊

Ian Thwaity with hothouse group Australia

Testimonial Overview: Ian Thwaity, Australia

This testimonial is provided by Ian Thwaity from Australia, who has worked closely with Dammaru Prasad Niraula, a freelance trekking guide and trip leader from Nepal, over a period of three years. Through multiple treks and a major humanitarian project in the Solu Khumbu region, Ian experienced Dammaru’s leadership, professionalism, and personal integrity firsthand.

Long-Term Association with Dammaru Niraula

I have had an association with Dammaru Niraula over the last three years, during which time I completed two significant trekking journeys under his guidance. From the very beginning, it was clear that Dammaru was not only an experienced trekking guide but also someone deeply committed to responsible trekking, safety, and community welfare.

Our relationship developed through shared challenges in remote Himalayan terrain and through collaboration on a long-term community project. Over time, trust and respect naturally grew, based on his consistent performance and genuine character.

First Trek Experience: Gokyo–Phortse–Everest Base Camp

My first trek with Dammaru Niraula was in the Solu Khumbu region, following a thoughtfully designed route through Gokyo, Phortse, and Everest Base Camp. This area is known for its rugged landscapes, traditional Sherpa settlements, and dramatic high-mountain scenery. From the outset, our group requested an itinerary that avoided the main tourist trails wherever possible and included more remote and less-traveled sections of the region.

Dammaru carefully tailored the trek to meet these expectations. His planning reflected a deep understanding of local geography, seasonal weather patterns, altitude considerations, and logistical challenges. The chosen route allowed us to cross quieter trails and experience a more authentic side of the Himalayas, while still reaching iconic destinations such as Gokyo and Everest Base Camp.

Throughout the journey, his knowledge of the region was evident in every decision. The balance between adventure, safety, and cultural exposure was handled with great care. By keeping us away from crowded trekking corridors whenever possible, Dammaru delivered a trekking experience that felt personal, peaceful, and deeply connected to the landscape and communities of the Solu Khumbu.

Knowledge, Planning, and Safety Management

Throughout the first trek, Dammaru’s knowledge of the area was extremely impressive. He was always aware of trail conditions, weather changes, altitude considerations, and potential risks. Safety was never treated casually. It was always his highest priority.

He monitored our health daily, adjusted walking pace when necessary, and made decisions that balanced adventure with responsibility. His calm and confident leadership created a strong sense of trust within the group. At no point did we feel rushed or exposed to unnecessary risk.

Second Trek: A Humanitarian Hothouse Project

The second trek I undertook with Dammaru took place two years later and was far more complex in nature. This journey marked the culmination of a long-term humanitarian project aimed at building hothouses in a village deep in the Solu Khumbu region, specifically in Phortse. The project is associated with www.himalyanhothouse.org.

This trek was not only about reaching a destination. It involved transporting materials, coordinating people, and working closely with a local community to ensure the success of the project.

Pivotal Role in Project Development

Dammaru played a pivotal role in every stage of the hothouse project. He assisted in developing local contacts, sourcing construction materials, and helping to manage project finances. His local knowledge and trusted relationships were essential to moving the project forward.

During the preparation phase, we found Dammaru to be honest, prompt, and extremely hardworking. He understood our goals clearly and showed flexibility and problem-solving skills whenever challenges arose. His commitment to the project went well beyond his duties as a trekking guide.

Coordination and Leadership During the Trek

During the trek itself, Dammaru coordinated seven group members, six porters, and an additional climbing guide. Managing such a team in remote mountain conditions requires strong organizational skills, patience, and clear communication.

He handled logistics smoothly, ensured fair treatment of porters, and maintained group morale throughout the journey. His leadership ensured that both trekking objectives and project responsibilities were completed efficiently and safely.

Interpreter and Community Liaison in Phortse

One of Dammaru’s most valuable contributions was his role as an interpreter and liaison with the people of Phortse village. Communication with local residents was essential for the success of the hothouse project.

Dammaru bridged cultural and language gaps with sensitivity and respect. He ensured that the villagers fully understood the project and that our group respected local customs and traditions. This cooperation created trust and long-term value for the community.

Personal Character and Humanitarian Values

On a personal level, Dammaru is one of the most genuine individuals I have met. He is a man with a big heart and a sincere commitment to helping others. He shared our passion for the hothouse project and fully embraced its humanitarian ideals.

His motivation was not financial or personal recognition. Instead, it was driven by service, responsibility, and care for both clients and local communities. These qualities are rare and deeply admirable.

Consistent Focus on Safety and Care

Once again, throughout the entire trek, our safety was Dammaru’s primary concern. Whether dealing with weather changes, physical fatigue, or logistical challenges, he always placed the well-being of the group first.

This consistent focus on safety, combined with his calm demeanor, created an environment where we could fully trust his decisions and enjoy the experience.

Professional Philosophy: “Service Is Most Important”

A phrase often used by Dammaru perfectly summarizes his professional ethic:
“Service is most important.”

This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of his work. From trek planning and execution to community engagement and client care, his actions consistently align with this belief.

Final Recommendation

I would not hesitate to strongly recommend the services of Dammaru Prasad Niraula to anyone planning a trek or similar activity in Nepal. Whether your goal is adventure, exploration, or humanitarian work, Dammaru offers professionalism, integrity, and heartfelt commitment.

Working with him is not just about trekking in the Himalayas. It is about shared values, mutual respect, and meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact.

Hajime / Tokyo. Japan

Dear Dammaru I have been trekking to Ghorepani poon hill on Jan 07 for 6 days with Mr. Dammaru. Poonhill is so beautiful, so all I can do is just taking pictures on poon hill. If you were planning to trek in Nepal, I would recommend you as one choice. His personality and professional guide skill makes me fun of Trekking and Nepal. so I am planning to go to Nepal again this August. He may meet all demand of you request on your trekking trip even though you join in the big group.  Because he has more over 10 years experience of  trekking guide for Many English and Japanese speaker. Actually, I have never met such a good Japanese speaker guide and I had no chance to speak in English with him. I can recommend him to all people who need great experience guide with English or Japanese. so you can get satisfaction for a great guide. Very Thanks,

Bell Howse with hothouse group Australia

Testimonial from Bell Howse with the Hothouse Group Australia

Dammaru Niraula was our guide and confidant for our recent visit to Nepal. We went on a humanitarian visit to build a hothouse in the village of Phortse in the Khumbu region of Nepal but also included some trekking on a personal level before and after our project. Dammaru was a vital link in getting the project off the ground and then as a support person in Nepal before, during, and after. He completed the following tasks with the utmost professionalism and patience.

Arranged the transfer of a large number of funds from an Australian bank account to a Nepalese bank account.

Communications with the village before we arrived to ensure the walls were built.

Organized our itinerary and necessary bookings for the trekking part of our journey for 8 adults.

Once we arrived in Nepal, he then assisted us in purchasing all the gear we needed for the finishing of the hothouse. e.g., polycarbonate roof sheeting and the many other bits of hardware necessary.

Transport of the roofing, etc., to Phortse village via helicopter, plane, yak, and porter.
As well as being a part of the project, Dammaru also was our trekking guide for the duration of our trip of 5 weeks. He organized everything for us from the hotel in Kathmandu and everything in between our trek to base camp.

He is honest and reliable and always puts the customer first. I would have no hesitation in recommending Dammaru to anyone who is considering a trip to Nepal.

Philip Pomeroy Holcot, Northamptonshire, UK.

I was a member of a group of nine friends from Northamptonshire in 204 from the UK, on a trek of the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. Apart from one member, we were all approaching or over the age of 60 and were all well aware of the difficulties we could encounter at Thorong La which sits at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Our group was led by Dammaru Niraula and we were most impressed by his leadership qualities. He introduced us gently to the lower altitudes and gradually encouraged us on longer and more arduous days of trekking. At Manang, he encouraged us to take a day trek up the lower slopes of Gangapurna and Annapurna III (see my photo below) and afterward to attend an altitude safety lecture in Manang. We are all convinced that, without his careful attention to altitude safety, we would not all have completed the trek over Thorong La and some of us at least would have joined the many trekkers who are forced to descend suffering from altitude sickness. We will always be eternally grateful to Dammaru and his team of Sherpas. Like many Nepalese, Dammaru has a very quiet and gentle nature with a keen sense of humor and fun. At first, he appears to be shy and reserved but is constantly attending to the needs of his guests, assessing their temperaments and abilities and adjusting the itinerary accordingly. After a few days in his care, you come to realize that you are in the hands of an experienced, competent and understanding mountain guide. I can recommend him too highly and know that he will continue to offer excellent trekking facilities in the Himalayas.