Ines & Gokarna Rai-Bijay Founder
Nepal Himalaya Reisen was born from a personal journey that began on the Himalayan trails between 2008 and 2012. While working as a trekking guide, Bijay met Ines, a traveler from Germany, during a three-week trek. Their shared love for Nepal, deep conversations, and mutual respect grew into a lasting bond. Ines returned multiple times, living in Nepal for a year in 2011, and together they envisioned a travel company offering authentic, responsible journeys. They married in 2013 and founded Nepal Himalaya Reisen, initially focusing on German-speaking travelers. Over 11 years, the company expanded, leading to the launch of Travel Footsteps, an English-language global platform. Today, the venture is a family effort, with Pratima Rai driving international promotion and brothers Gyanendra and Umesh supporting operations, uniting their expertise to share Nepal’s beauty with the world.
Gokarna Rai-Bijay (From Porter to Pioneer in Himalayan Tourism)
My journey in Nepal’s tourism began in 1998 as a porter, carrying up to 30 kilos over high mountain passes above 5,000 meters. Those early years (1998–2002) were tough but fueled by my love for the Himalayas and curiosity about the world. From 2003 to 2007, I worked as a trekking guide assistant and expedition cook, supporting remote treks and high-altitude climbs. This hands-on experience, combined with my studies in Travel and Tourism, gave me a deep understanding of meaningful travel. In 2008, I became a certified trekking guide, leading expeditions across Nepal and climbing many 6,000–7,000m peaks such as Island Peak, Lobuche, Mera, Pokalde, and Chulu Far East, as well as joining Ama Dablam and Himlung expeditions. I have explored every major trekking region of Nepal more than 20 times, building connections with travelers worldwide and forming strong bonds with local communities. In 2013, my wife Ines and I founded Nepal Himalaya Reisen, a fully Nepali-owned travel company offering authentic, responsible journeys. Today, through Travel-Footsteps, I continue to share my love for Nepal managing operations, creating tailor-made itineraries, and still guiding in the mountains. For me, this is not just a profession, it’s a lifelong passion.
Pratima Rai
Namaste! I’m Pratima Rai originally from the serene hills of Khotang in eastern Nepal. Surrounded by nature and tradition, I grew up with a deep appreciation for the beauty and culture of the Himalayas. My journey in tourism began during high school, helping in Nepal Himalaya Reisen, our family-run travel company founded by my brother and sister-in-law. I assisted in welcoming guests, organizing tours, and even joined treks as an assistant guide, exploring Nepal’s landscapes and connecting with travelers from around the world. After high school, I moved to India for my Bachelor’s degree, traveling across India and visiting Bhutan, where I discovered the country’s calm beauty and cultural richness. These experiences deepened my passion for South Asian heritage. Now based in Australia and working as a registered nurse, I remain dedicated to sharing the Himalayas with the world. Through Travel-Footsteps, I help create authentic, responsible journeys in Nepal, India, Bhutan not just trips, but meaningful connections that celebrate culture, respect traditions, and leave lasting memories.
Umesh Rai
Namaste! I’m Umesh Rai born and raised in the lower Solu of Nepal’s Everest region. Growing up in the heart of the Himalayas, I watched trekkers pass through our village, welcomed with warm hospitality and leaving with joyful smiles. This inspired me from a young age to join the hospitality and tourism industry. To follow my dream, I moved to Kathmandu and completed a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. During my studies, I went abroad for an internship, gaining hands-on experience in hospitality and customer service while meeting people from around the world. Many expressed curiosity and love for Nepal’s trekking and adventure, further fueling my passion. Now based in Australia, I have several years of professional experience in customer service, allowing me to connect with travelers from diverse backgrounds many eager to visit Nepal. For me, Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) is more than a mountain; it’s a part of my identity. Through Travel-Footsteps, I combine my love for the Himalayas with my hospitality skills to create meaningful and unforgettable journeys in Nepal, Bhutan, and India.
Gyanendra Rai
Namaste! I’m Gyanendra Rai, a tourism professional with over a decade of experience designing unforgettable journeys in Nepal’s Himalayas. Born in Khotang and shaped by Kathmandu’s vibrant culture, I began my career as a porter, gaining valuable firsthand experience on the trails. Gradually, I grew within our family business, Nepal Himalaya Reisen, founded by my brother and sister-in-law. I advanced to trekking guide, cultural tour guide, and later took on responsibilities in organizing and managing tours and travel packages. Over the years, I’ve handled every part of the guest experience from trip planning and correspondence to personally welcoming guests and ensuring smooth departures. I’ve also climbed several Himalayan peaks, deepening my appreciation of Nepal’s adventurous landscapes. Now based in Australia, I am proud to be a co-founder of Travel-Footsteps, our platform to share Nepal’s beauty with the world. Combining my Bachelor’s in Business Studies with practical tourism expertise, I aim to deliver authentic, well-organized, and meaningful travel experiences.
“Walk with us. Explore with heart.”
Pranita Rai
Namaste! My name is Pranita Rai, and I was born in Khotang, Nepal. Since 2020, I have been working with Nepal Himalaya Reisen, where I handle office management, guest reception, and the preparation of travel documents for tours and trekking in Nepal.
I am passionate about the tourism industry and take pride in providing warm hospitality and smooth travel experiences for guests. Now, I am excited to expand my experience by joining the Travel Footstep family business and continue contributing to Nepal’s growing travel and tourism sector.