Jennifer Chappell

My partner and I met KV Rai (owner and operator of Mountain Planner) in April of 2017 when he guided us on a 7 day trek in the Langtang Valley of the Himalayas. KV did everything to ensure that our trek was memorable. He was professional, knowledgeable, fun, and full of energy. My partner and I are highly athletic and he ensured that our pace and activities were consistent with our abilities and interests. KV also went out of his way to make our experience authentic, allowing us to interact with the villagers and owners of the teahouses in ways that we did not see others doing. We had an opportunity to cook with a family and share a meal and spent time with the villagers when other trekkers stayed with their groups. These were precious moments that left lasting impressions. Further, KV’s knowledge of geography, culture, politics, etc. made our trip a tremendous learning experience. We absolutely adored KV and trek. By the end of the trip, we had developed such a strong bond with KV and were so enamored with the Nepal he had shown us that we were determined to return the following year to do the Everest Base Camp trek.

We stayed in touch with KV via Facebook messenger and email throughout the next break we had from our work as international teachers and began to plan our next trip to Nepal. As we got closer to the trip we said that we would not go with another guide other than KV. We made this a reality, returning to do the Everest Base Camp trek in December of 2017.

Our trip completing the Everest Base Camp trek was spectacular. On this trip, KV was managing two additional clients. The first trek we were his only clients. Despite this, and the fact that the clients were not equip in many ways for such an undertaking, KV did a miraculous job of balancing all of our needs and varying physical capabilities. Again, he was professional, thoughtful, and knowledge. We watched him navigate some difficult choices to accommodate the limitations of his other clients, and balance giving us the time and attention as if we were family. Everest Base Camp was the single most amazing trekking experience I have ever had and may have in my life. An essential part of that was KV and the relationship that we had developed. KV ensures that you are informed, safe, comfortable (or as comfortable as you can be at 17,000 ft in December), and happy. His energy is infectious; his smile is joyous; his attention to detail fantastic.

The Everest Base Camp trek was a year and a half ago. I communicate with KV at least once a month. I am as close to him as many family members. He even offered to host our wedding at his family home. I cannot speak more highly of him and his business. If you want an authentic, memorable, once in a lifetime experience, trek with KV and Mountain Planner.