RESPONSIBLE TREKKING IN NEPAL

At Himalayan Guiding Australia, responsible trekking in Nepal is not just a phrase — it is the foundation of how we operate. We believe that trekking should benefit both our guests and the local communities and environment in the Himalayas.

OUR APPROACH TO RESPONSIBLE TREKKING

We have deep, long-term connections in the Lower Manaslu region. Unlike many commercial operators, we return to the same villages and trails many times each year. This allows us to build genuine relationships and better understand local needs and challenges.

RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

The Himalayan environment is fragile. As responsible trekkers, we are committed to protecting it through these practices:

➡️ Leaving every campsite better than we found it — we burn and bury all rubbish (including that left by others).

➡️ Minimising packaging and buying locally wherever possible.

➡️ Never littering on trails or in villages.

➡️ Using toilet tents and properly disposing of all human waste.

➡️ Not giving sweets or lollies to children.

FAIR TREATMENT OF OUR STAFF

Our Nepali team members are like family to us. We practice responsible trekking by treating them with fairness and dignity:

➡️ Paying fair wages directly (at or above market rate) with no agency commissions.

➡️ Providing full insurance for all staff, including casual porters.

➡️ Supplying proper gear suited to the conditions and 3 meals a day.

➡️ Distributing tips transparently and equally among all staff.

RESPECT FOR NEPALESE CULTURE & PEOPLE

We are sensitive to local customs, particularly in remote villages:

➡️ We dress and behave respectfully according to local expectations.

➡️ We do not give money to beggars or sweets to children.

➡️ All donations are made collectively through village women’s groups to ensure funds are used effectively.

OUR COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Since the 2015 earthquake, we have actively supported reconstruction and development in the Lower Manaslu region:

➡️ Building a community lodge and multipurpose facility in Dharepani village.

➡️ Supporting redevelopment work in Sirandanda village, the base for many of our treks.

These projects aim to create sustainable income and better infrastructure for the communities we visit on every trek.

OUR PROMISE

When you choose Himalayan Guiding Australia, you are choosing **responsible trekking in Nepal** — an authentic experience that supports local people, protects the environment, and creates meaningful connections.

Thank you for choosing to travel responsibly with us.