Arjun Rijal

Founder/Managing Director
Arjun Rijal

About Arjun Rijal 

Information Details
Full Name Arjun Rijal
Position Founder & Managing Director, Outfitter Himalaya Holidays Pvt. Ltd.
Based in Kathmandu, Nepal
Nationality Nepali
Hometown Dhading, Nepal
Tourism Experience 25+ years in Nepal's tourism and trekking industry
Started in Tourism 2001
First Role in Tourism Trekking Porter
Professional Trekking Guide Since 2004
Trekking Guide Training Professional trekking guide training at Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM) in 2004
Tourist Guide Training Professional Tourist guide training at Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM) in 2011
Professional Experience Trekking in Everest, Annapurna, Langtang and Manaslu and tours in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini and many other areas in Nepal.
Previous Business Experience Co-founded and worked in a trekking and tour business with fellow guides from 2008 to 2021.
Outfitter Himalaya Founded 2022
Current Role Leads the company's management, travel planning and overall operations.
Areas of Expertise Nepal trekking, Himalayan travel, itinerary planning and personalized travel experiences.
Travel Destinations Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet
Professional Focus Safe, personalized, professional and value-for-money Himalayan travel.
Industry Associations Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), Village Tourism Promotion Forum (VITOF NEPAL)

Arjun Rijal, Managing Director of Outfitter Himalaya Holidays Pvt. Ltd., is a seasoned tourism professional whose own career began not in boardrooms, but on trails. When it comes to providing an authentic first-hand experience of the rugged trails in Nepal, Arjun has over two decades of experiences. 

From his humble beginnings to leading foreign adventurers, Arjun brings a rare mix of grassroots knowledge, leadership skills, and genuine affection for Nepal’s mountains. His dedication to providing quality and meaningful travel experiences is what has been propelling the company into acquiring a reputable brand in Nepal in expanding tourism sector.

From Hills to Himalayas: The Early Days

Arjun Rijal was born and raised in the quiet hills of the Dhading district of Nepal, northwest of Kathmandu, which is surrounded by mountains.

Arjun-trekking porter in 2003
Arjun with his clients- when he was working as a trekking porter- 2003

In 2001, he moved to Kathmandu to pursue a university degree and was drawn to the tourism industry. That same year, he ventured into the industry as a trekking porter and gained first-hand and very raw experience in the wild terrains of Nepal.

Grit Meets Growth: A Guide in the Making

Guide certificate
Arjun's Trekking Guide Certificate, 2004

Soon enough, Arjun realized his deep affection for mountains and his fascination with trekkers who came to visit Nepal's Himalayas. Later, he completed professional training at the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM) and became a professional and licensed trekking guide in 2004.

Since then, he has led numerous trekking adventures across the breathtaking landscapes of Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, and Manaslu. He has shared countless stories, laughter, and summit dreams with trekkers from all walks of life.

A Decade of Dedication: Laying the Foundation

By 2008, Arjun's love of travel and experience within the trekking community grew, and he co-founded a trekking business with fellow guides. For 14 years, he worked as a travel consultant, planner, and guide - helping thousands of tourists discover the magic of Nepal. This journey gave him a deep understanding of what travelers want and what the industry sometimes lacks.

Arjun with his clients on Annapurna Circuit
Arjun With his clients on the way to Thorong La Pass, 2006

A Solo Step Forward: The Beginning of Outfitter Himalaya Holidays Pvt. Ltd.

In 2022, with two decades of experience under his belt and an aspiration for something new, Arjun felt it was time to make a bold, adventurous shift. He founded Outfitter Himalaya Holidays Pvt. Ltd. - A company grounded in integrity, heart, and superior travel experiences at an affordable cost.

His mission? To deliver personalized, professional, and value-for-money trekking and tour services that differed greatly from others.

Growing Every Step of the Way

Outfitter Himalaya has grown immensely since its launch, welcoming more than 2,000 visitors excited to take part in their adventures in just a few years! Today, Outfitter Himalaya is more than just a business. We are a passion project powered by local knowledge, love for the Himalayas, and a mission to make every journey unforgettable.

Commitment

We at Outfitter Himalaya Holidays are all about giving you great experiences for affordable prices. Whether you're trekking the rugged terrains of Nepal, exploring the charming realm of Bhutan, or diving into the spiritual wonders of Tibet, we've got you covered! Our team gives you first-hand experience, from hiking and trekking in Nepal, mountain climbing and expeditions to jungle safaris, cultural tours, and quick day trips for your holidays.

But beyond the trips, we're passionate about doing tourism the right way. We aim to create lasting memories for you while benefiting local communities, such as supporting local employment, celebrating culture, and helping to protect these treasured destinations for the future.

So, whenever you're ready to explore the Himalayas, we'll be here with a warm welcome and a big smile!