Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in tourism & travel but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Balaram Thapa, Director & Travel Advisor of Nepal Hiking Team, located in Bāgmatī, Nepal.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business is Nepal Hiking Team, a trekking and travel agency based in Kathmandu, Nepal. Our customers are typically people who are looking for an adventure experience in the Himalayas. We organize and guide trips to some of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal – Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, Mustang, Kanchenjunga, Rolwaling, Dolpo, etc.

Tell us about yourself

I've been involved in the tourism industry for more than two decades now. What first got me started was my love for the outdoors and adventure. I have always wanted to explore different cultures and places, even from a young age. After completing my Bachelor's in Travel and Tourism from Tribhuvan University in 2000, I worked as an assistant with trekking groups, which gave me enough experience to know how to run a successful travel venture. This motivated me, along with my elder brother, to start our own business – Nepal Hiking Team, in 2009. What motivates me each day is the thought of providing a safe and memorable journey to my clients, which is why I try my best to ensure that all trips are carefully planned with a focus on quality services and customer satisfaction.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment would definitely be seeing Nepal Hiking Team grow from a small startup into one of the most successful trekking agencies in Nepal. We have catered successfully to thousands of customers over the years, and this has been very gratifying for me as a business owner.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things about being a business owner is keeping up with market trends and competing against other businesses. The tourism industry is dynamic, and customer needs are constantly changing, which means that as a business owner, I have to stay on top of changes in order to remain competitive.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Have complete knowledge about your industry: Be sure to do thorough research before starting any kind of venture – know your product/service inside out, and understand customer needs and current trends in the market so that you can make informed decisions while running your business.
  2. Build relationships: Building strong relationships both within the organization and with customers is key to a successful venture. Networking, engaging with customers, and forming partnerships can help you gain recognition and new opportunities.
  3. Have patience: Running a business takes hard work and dedication – don't expect the results overnight but stay focused and consistent in your efforts, and you will eventually reach your goals.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.nepalhikingteam.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nepalhikingteam
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nepalhikingteam/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nepalhikingteam
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/balaramthapa/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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