Surya Lama
Founder & Managing Director · Dhading Native • Igloo Himalaya Treks Nepal
"I want people from around the world to discover Nepal and experience how it feels to be in the Himalayas."
Surya Lama is the Founder and Managing Director of Igloo Himalaya Treks, originating from Dhading, Nepal. His journey in Himalayan tourism is one of true grit, dedication, and deep respect for the mountains. In 2004, Surya took his very first steps on the trails not as an executive or a guide, but as a hardworking mountain porter carrying loads for international trekking groups.
Over the next two decades, Surya systematically developed his professional credentials. He completed rigorous formal training at the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM), earned his official TGAN (Trekking Guide Association of Nepal) certification, and mastered specialized high-altitude safety and trekking leader courses, alongside completing his Intermediate of Arts (IA) academic education.
With more than 380 completed expeditions to his credit across Nepal's premier trekking regions—including Everest (100+ trips), Annapurna (90+ trips), Manaslu (70+ trips), Langtang (70+ trips), and Upper Mustang (50+ trips)—Surya founded Igloo Himalaya Treks to redefine how expeditions are run. After completing an unforgettable Everest Base Camp trek with Emelita Sindac Dalangin, her belief and encouragement inspired him to launch his own company. Having experienced every tier of the trekking industry firsthand, he is a passionate advocate for ethical porter welfare, transparent pricing, and personalized client care.
Fluent in English, Hindi, and Nepali, Surya oversees route planning, emergency protocols, and guide mentoring, ensuring that every traveller exploring Nepal with Igloo Himalaya Treks feels completely safe, valued, and treated like family.
I want people from around the world to discover Nepal and experience how it feels to be in the Himalayas. When you walk among these giant mountains, you realize how powerful nature is and how warm human hospitality can be. My promise as founder is that our team will always look after you with true dedication, honesty, and warmth from the moment you land in Kathmandu until you return home safely.
— Surya Lama, Founder & Managing Director380+ Completed Expeditions Across 5 Major Regions
EBC, Gokyo Ri, Cho La & Three Passes
Annapurna Circuit, ABC Sanctuary & Mardi Himal
Manaslu Circuit, Larkya La Pass & Tsum Valley
Langtang Valley, Kyanjin Gompa & Gosaikunda
Walled Kingdom of Lo Manthang & Sky Caves
Leadership Specialities & Operational Focus
Designs tailored acclimatization profiles, teahouse booking contingencies, and seamless airport-to-mountain logistics for private groups and solo travellers.
Coordinates 24/7 Kathmandu operations, pulse oximeter monitoring standards, mountain weather tracking, and emergency helicopter rescue dispatch.
Having started as a porter himself, Surya personally enforces strict porter load limits (20kg max), living wages, insurance, and warm high-altitude gear.
Verified Traveller Stories & Client Reviews
5.0 Google Review"In her five-star Google review, Elise praised Surya’s local knowledge, attention to detail and professionalism. She said she felt safe, comfortable and well looked after throughout the entire trek."
Verified Certifications & Experience
Plan Your Himalayan Expedition with Founder Surya Lama
Speak directly with Surya Lama or request tailored route itineraries crafted with over two decades of mountain experience.