Calgary, Alberta
Canada
2001
I trekked the Annapurna Circuit with two friends in the fall of 2001. Based on an excellent recommendation from another person, we contacted the Kandel's for guide services. Ram Hari proved to be a phenomenal trekking guide. He continuously strived to ensure that we were healthy, happy, and safe every step of the way. His many years of experience definitely showed as other guides along the trek looked up to him for mentorship and advice. He was willing to be completely flexible along the trek, spending more time in an area if we wanted to, or if we wanted to make a side trip. He even recommended spending an extra couple of days on a side trip through Ghandruk - we accepted, and weren't disappointed!
Along the trek I had told Ram Hari that I wished to travel to Tibet after the trek. The very next town we stopped in, Ram Hari called Ram Ji back in Kathmandu and started the arrangements! By the time we returned to Kathmandu, Ram Ji had everything already organized for me! This is just one example out of many on how the Kandel's went out of their way to make sure that we got the most out of our vacation! I can't give a higher recommendation to the Kandel's. They represent the kindness and friendliness for which Nepal is known!
E-MAIL derekflavell@hotmail.com
Derek's pictures can be seen HERE
Montreal, PQ. CA.
October 2000
"Our trek around Annapurna was the best adventure of our lives. Apart from the constant sun and extraordinary scenery, Ram was one of the reasons why we enjoyed the trip so much. He was always smiling and looking out for us. He made sure we rested enough, walked in safe spots, stayed over in the best lodges and ate the right food. Ram was knowledgeable and we felt safe with him. We feel very lucky to have had him as our guide and highly recommend him to anyone". Anyone wanting to know more can contact me at frolland@videotron.ca
Sylvie has sent us some wonderful panoramic shots of the Thorung La
Sylvie's pictures can be seen HERE
Mary Leigh Henneberry - USA
Ram Hari and his brother Ramji are great guides! I was fortunate to have them as guides in 1995. It is true what you said about the other guides looking to Ram Hari as an "expert". I remember one village on the Annapurna Circuit was FULL of tourists - man could not find a vacancy. Because of Ram Hari's excellent reputation we had no problem finding a place to stay. Your stay in Nepal will not be half as fulfilling without this valuable link to the Nepalese culture and country."
Sincerely,
José Miguel Molina López
"Since I came back from Nepal, I'm missing Ramji and his family like ones of my closest friends. They touched my soul and became part of it. For me, Ramji is that kind of real people out of the topic about nepalis; he's strugeling betwing tradicion and modern changes, with energy, compromised with his country, people, culture and time. getting involve in things deeply. Kandel family are real, friendly, honest and ready to open their hearts to you, ready to show you the heart of Nepal."
Jose's pictures can be seen HERE.