The 8Mountains Family

My name is Shambhavi Chapagain, although most people now know me as Vivi. The name was given to me by one of my first clients. Somehow, it stayed and before long, I began responding to it as though it had always been mine.

Before all of this, I was simply a girl from the city who had never really been close to the mountains but had always been fascinated by them. They felt distant and mysterious, yet something about them kept pulling me closer.

When I finally reached the trails, I found much more than the landscapes I had imagined. I found mornings that began with tea beside a wood fire, long paths connecting one village to another, and families who welcomed strangers into their homes. I met guides, porters, teahouse owners and people whose lives had been shaped by these mountains for generations. I listened to their stories, learned from their experiences and slowly found a place where my own passion began to feel like devotion.

The more time I spent there, the more I wanted to continue. I began walking more trails and leading more journeys. But I also started noticing the things that tourism often overlooks. I saw the pressure it could place on the environment, the waste left beside beautiful paths and how little of a traveller’s money sometimes remained within the communities they passed through. I heard about the hardships faced by guides and porters, especially women trying to find their place in the trekking industry.

I began connecting with passionate female guides who shared the same love for the mountains and the same hope for the future of tourism in Nepal. We came from different places and carried different stories, but many of our struggles felt familiar. We had the passion and ability to lead, yet finding opportunities, training and a community of support was not always easy.

That shared understanding became the beginning of 8Mountains.

We created a community where women could learn, lead and grow together. We share opportunities, strengthen our skills and train in communication, first aid and mountain safety. We support one another while working towards the highest standards of care for every person who travels with us.

As we walked more trails, our purpose continued to grow. The relationships with local people we always had later grew into environmental cleanups, free health camps, educational programmes, clothing support and a community library. These are things none of us could have achieved alone, but together, they became possible.

The mountains first gave me a place to follow my passion. Through 8Mountains, I hope that passion can create space for more women to lead, more communities to grow and more people to discover Nepal with genuine care and connection.

I was born and raised in the Everest region of Nepal, surrounded by the rich culture of the Sherpa community and the beauty of the Himalaya. Trekking and mountain life were a natural part of my everyday life.

My family has a background in trekking and mountaineering, so I was inspired from an early age to follow the same path. Watching them work in the mountains sparked my passion, and I always dreamed of becoming a trekking guide.

I enjoy guiding all treks, because each one has its own beauty and character. Every trail offers different landscapes, cultures and experiences, which makes every journey special.

One of my most memorable experiences was helping a client reach their destination after they had almost given up because of exhaustion and self-doubt. I encouraged them to take it one step at a time and reminded them that the journey was just as important as the destination. Seeing their smile at the viewpoint was incredibly rewarding. Guiding is about supporting people through challenges, not just showing the way.

I hope visitors understand the importance of respecting local customs and the natural environment. Travelling responsibly and with an open mind makes for a more meaningful experience, and it helps preserve Nepal for future generations.

I am the eldest of three siblings, raised by a resilient single mother in a lower-middle-class family. Growing up with financial struggles taught me from a young age to be responsible, strong, and deeply curious about the world around me.

My love for the outdoors began during a hike to my home village as a child. That was the first time I truly felt connected to the natural world. From that moment on, nature became my healer, my teacher, and my greatest source of comfort.

My path to becoming a guide opened up when I learned about a training programme run by an organisation called Right4Children. I was working in marketing and promotions at the time, but my friend and I were so excited by the prospect of working outdoors that we joined immediately. During that course everything fell into place — I found my true calling. Guiding let me merge my passion for nature with the ability to support my family.

If I have to choose a trek it is the Manaslu Circuit, for its raw trail and its culture, the amazing views and some challenges. It gives me life.

Nepal has so much value, culture and nature. I really want to promote it as the land of love, life and emotional intelligence — a place where people can heal and learn about life.

I am a travel content writer turned professional trekking guide. My degree is in Food Science and Technology, but my passion has always been adventurous and outdoorsy.

Born and raised in Kathmandu, I often wondered what mountains were really like beyond the skylines of Chandragiri or Nagarkot. That curiosity eventually took me onto the trails. I wanted to experience them, meet the people in remote villages, and understand the stories I had always been intrigued by. What started as a personal journey became a passion, and finally a career.

Manaslu Circuit is my favourite to guide. Every day brings something new, from riverside trails and traditional villages to wide alpine valleys, and I love the genuine hospitality of the people there.

One of my most memorable experiences was when a guest developed serious symptoms of AMS. It reminded me how important it is to stay calm, make careful decisions and put safety first. We followed the procedures, descended, and made sure she got the care she needed. She recovered well. Reaching the destination is never as important as bringing everyone back safely.

I wish every visitor knew that Nepal is more than the Himalaya. Every region has its own story, and taking time to explore beyond the peaks gives you a much deeper connection to the country.

I was born and raised in Phakding, the first stop for many travellers heading into the Everest region. Trekking was part of everyday life growing up, as almost everyone in my community was connected to the mountains in one way or another.

What first inspired me wasn't the mountains themselves, but the conversations. While helping at my family's teahouse, I could speak English, so I often found myself bridging the communication between local guides and their clients. I genuinely enjoyed that role. Looking back, I think that was where my journey as a guide really began.

After leading my first trek I realised that 'guide' is only a title. I may know the trail, but the role is often shared. My guests bring a lifetime of experiences and stories that continue to shape the way I see the world.

My first summit of Kala Patthar began at 4 a.m. in the biting cold, the trail lined with headlamps stretching uphill. Before leaving I had filled a Nalgene bottle with hot water and wrapped it in my fleece jacket; every time we stopped to catch our breath I'd take it out so we could warm our hands, because our gloves simply weren't enough. When we finally reached the summit, the first rays touched the top of Everest before spilling across the Khumbu Glacier. I felt incredibly small in the best possible way.

Nepal offers a wide range of adventures, but the true essence of it is the hospitality that comes so naturally to its people. I wish more visitors could discover the unadvertised, raw and authentic side of Nepal.

I was born and brought up in Kathmandu. I first got into the trekking field because of my love for travel, but as I began trekking I fell in love with the mountains, the nature, the culture, the thrills, the serenity — everything that a trek offers. Since I love travelling myself, it gives me true joy to help others fulfil their dreams of travelling.

My father had also been a trekking and mountaineering guide, having started from a porter. Me being a guide made me understand his struggle, strength, bravery and patience, and made me respect him and everyone working in this field more.

If I have to choose one trek it would be Langtang. It is short and sweet with easy road access, and you can get really close to the mountains, experience the nature and culture, and see mountain animals, all within a week. Although it is popular, the authenticity is still alive — the local people, especially the women, are still in traditional attire, and still so humble and grounded. I also like how the porters are treated with kindness and respect by the hotel owners in this region, unlike in some other regions where the guests don't even get to know their porters because they always stay separately.

The story of how Langtang rose back after the massive earthquake reminds me to be hopeful and resilient every time I am there, and at the same time reminds me of the uncertainty of life and its value. Guests who visit also feel a sense of satisfaction from being able to contribute to this phoenix of a village.

One memory I would share is a client celebrating Dashain. In Ghandruk village, during a Poon Hill trek, I simply asked a local Gurung family to welcome us to their home and let us be part of the tika festival. The local lady put tika on all of us, so lovingly, giving her blessings just as she would to her own family. One of my guests was in tears — she said that although she couldn't understand a thing the lady was saying, she could feel the essence of the words and the loving kindness. Our porter was also very happy that his forehead wasn't empty on tika day, as he shared that his grandmother used to put a tika on him every Dashain.

Nepal is not just about mountains and hills. There is history, culture, emotion, stories and so much more. You will certainly return as a different version of yourself, but for that you must be open, aware and present enough.

I was born and raised in Kathmandu. My passion for the mountains began through my brother, who was actively involved in trekking and mountaineering.

Inspired by his adventures, I became a licensed trekking guide, and later I pursued a Bachelor's degree in Travel and Tourism Management. Today I enjoy sharing Nepal's mountains, culture and traditions while creating safe and memorable experiences for travellers.

The Annapurna Circuit is my favourite. It is one of Nepal's most complete trekking experiences, with Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, and a route that runs from lush valleys to the arid landscapes of Mustang. It also connects with Tilicho Lake and Nar Phu Valley, which makes it ideal for anyone wanting both adventure and flexibility.

Every trek has been memorable, because no two journeys are ever the same. Different people, changing weather and unique challenges make each one a new learning experience.

Nepal is much more than Everest and the other commercial routes. Beyond the popular trails lies a country rich in cultures, traditions, landscapes and many untouched destinations waiting to be explored.

I was born and raised in Surkhet, in the mid-western region of Nepal. As a child I often walked for hours to reach my village home without realising I was actually trekking. Looking back, I think that is where my connection with the mountains began.

Whenever I looked at a hill I would wonder what was on the other side. When I saw a river I would ask myself where it began. Those simple childhood questions slowly turned into a passion.

Becoming a guide was never part of the plan. It happened unexpectedly when a friend asked me to guide one of his clients. On that trek I saw a place I had visited before, but in a completely different season, and it felt like an entirely new world. That sparked my curiosity to keep returning to the same places through the year and watch how nature transforms.

I don't just admire the big mountain views — I enjoy the small details too: the changing colours of the forest, the sound of rivers, the wildflowers, the peaceful silence of the trails. Walking in the mountains feels like meditation to me.

I wish every visitor knew that Nepal is much more than the famous destinations on Google. Eastern and western Nepal are still relatively untouched. Sometimes the most unforgettable experiences are in the places that are not the most popular.

I was born in Pokhara, the gateway to the Himalaya, and I understood nature from childhood.

I used to walk alone, and feel myself change — physically, emotionally, mentally. People started suggesting I get a guiding licence. Once my job at the mobile shop left me the time, I took the training, sat the exam at NATHM, and passed.

I love the ABC trek — it has so many different natural beauties. My heart wants to go to the mountains automatically, about once a month.

Once I worked as an assistant guide with five men all over fifty. I learned a lot on that trek, and it is the one I remember.

What I wish visitors knew about Nepal: the good hearts of its people.

I was born in Godawari, a village in Lalitpur district known for its wildlife, forests and hiking trails. I finished a Masters in business studies and started my career as an accountant and finance officer.

My first trek was Ghandruk–Landruk–Dhampus, back in 2015, and that is when I realised how much I loved trekking. In 2023, while I was working at an NGO, I took time off to get a guiding licence so I could guide whenever I could. My first clients were friendly and understanding and they were happy with me, which gave me the confidence to keep going. Eventually I quit the job and became a full-time guide.

I love guiding the Langtang Valley trek most. It is the closest trek to Kathmandu, the trail is easy to moderate, and it is a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and Tibetan Sherpa and Tamang culture.

My most memorable trek was guiding five Spanish people to Annapurna Base Camp in November 2025. Over those fifteen days they appreciated the smallest beauties of the trip and stayed together despite their differences. Trekking is not just about reaching the destination — it is about everything that happens on the way.

I wish visitors knew that Nepal is not just about mountains. There is so much to experience here.

I was born in the Manaslu region and moved to Kathmandu for school.

Later I worked as a research assistant, studying the mountain environments and talking to local villagers. That work made me fall in love with the local culture and nature, and it inspired me to become a trekking guide. Today my job allows me to protect our mountain heritage and share the wilderness with others.

Manaslu Circuit is my favourite, since it is also my birth home.

Seeing the pure awe on my clients' faces when they first glimpse the mountains and village life is incredibly rewarding. It makes all the hard trekking worth it.

One thing I wish every visitor knew about Nepal is that its true beauty is its people and culture, not just its high mountains.

I belong to the Everest region of Nepal. I was born and raised there.

My father has worked as a trekking guide for the last thirty-five years, and his dedication is what inspired me to become one too. I later graduated in Travel and Tourism.

I enjoy every trek in Nepal, but if I had to choose one it would be Everest Base Camp. As a Sherpa guide I take pride in sharing my homeland and making that journey safe and meaningful.

The most memorable part of guiding is the joy on a trekker's face when they finally reach their destination after days of determination. Helping people turn their dream of the Himalaya into reality is what I treasure most.

I wish every visitor knew that Nepal is much more than its mountains. Come with an open heart and respect for local customs, and the greatest memories often come from the people you meet as much as the places you see.

I was born in the Langtang region of Rasuwa district, where I spent my early childhood until I was eight years old. After that I moved to Kathmandu, where I completed my schooling and college.

Before becoming a trekking guide I worked as a Guest Relations Officer. Although I gained valuable experience, I realised that office work wasn't the right fit for me. My uncle and aunt were both trekking guides, and hearing their stories about the mountains, the people they met and the adventures they had inspired me to pursue the same path.

I enjoy guiding both the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit. Everest offers stunning Himalayan views and a strong sense of achievement, while Annapurna gives you diverse landscapes and rich culture.

One of my most memorable experiences was guiding guests to Everest Base Camp. The altitude pushed them to their limits and there were moments when they felt mentally exhausted and wanted to give up, but they kept believing in themselves. Witnessing their resilience and celebrating their success together reminded me why I love being a trekking guide.

I wish every visitor knew that Nepal is much more than just the Himalaya. I also hope every visitor travels responsibly — respecting local customs, minimising their environmental impact and supporting local communities. That is what preserves Nepal's beauty and heritage for future generations.

I was born in Jethal, in Sindhupalchok district. During a high school vacation I did a trek, and it was one of the most memorable journeys I have ever had.

So I kept up my learning about mountain tourism by joining a college related to mountaineering studies. The interest in becoming a trekking guide came from wanting to share those beautiful journeys with people from around the world.

Mardi Himal Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit are my favourites — Mardi because it was my first ever trek, and the Circuit because it has the most beautiful mountain views.

My most memorable moments are seeing guests so happy at the sight of the mountains, with tears in their eyes, and the laughter we share in a teahouse playing Uno.

Two things I wish visitors knew. First, Nepali people's sentimental values — for example, mountains are considered gods and goddesses. Second, avoid a saviour complex.

I was born in east Nepal, in Jhapa, at an altitude of only 170 metres, but I have been into various sports since I was a kid.

At the age of twenty-one I got a chance to work at an outdoor gear store in Jhapa, and I still work there. Through that work I learned much more about the outdoors and trekking, and I got my trekking licence in 2023. I am a proud trekking guide, because I am not the only one exploring my own country — I am showing it to my guests too.

Last year I did the Annapurna Circuit with my clients and that was the best experience I have ever had. This trek has culture, history, local people, gorgeous mountain views, the river, and very great hospitality.

Last year I was with an Iranian girl who was very nice and intelligent. Because of cultural differences it was sometimes hard for me, but I knew it was a culture thing, and I'm glad I'm not only showing my culture and country but learning theirs at the same time. We had so many conversations about life, death, passion, marriage and business. Coming back, we swam in every lake.

Nepal has everything, not just mountains.

I started travelling at the age of fourteen, and during those journeys I got to know that guiding was actually a profession — a way to travel, help others explore, and earn at the same time.

That inspired me to learn more about this field. After that I joined guiding classes and began my journey as a trekking guide.

I don't have one specific favourite trek. I love trekking and I love guiding.

Every time I go, it feels like my first time all over again. Along with my guests I feel the same excitement, the same curiosity and the same joy in every journey. Each trip becomes a new experience, even on the same trails.

Nepal is not just a place you visit, it's a place you feel. It has a way of changing you without you even realising it.