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Himalayan Outdoor Project

Meet The Team

Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.

Meet The Team

Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.

Ignite Your Adventure Spirit

Himalayan Outdoor Project, a place where adventure meets inspiration in the heart of Nepal! I’m Anup Gurung, an avid world-class kayaker, IRF instructor, solo paraglider and enduro rider. It’s an absolute honor to be your companion on this exhilarating journey!

 

With a legacy of awe-inspiring achievements as a world-class kayaker, including my ventures with Viking Rafting in Iceland, our team and I are dedicated to redefining outdoor adventure in Nepal through the Himalayan Outdoor Project.

 

Our mission is to empower athletes from all corners, providing them with transformative education and training to become world-class adventure sports professionals. As we traverse the majestic Himalayas, we showcase their breathtaking beauty through heart-pounding extreme multi-adventure races. Together, adventurers from around the globe join us on this daring quest!

 

Being trailblazers at heart, we embrace our role as responsible stewards of nature, promoting sustainable tourism and uplifting underprivileged communities. Our aim is to preserve the untamed beauty and rich heritage of the Himalayan region, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations. From adrenaline-pumping escapades to carefully crafted journeys, we offer something for enthusiasts of every level. Whether you seek the ultimate challenge or wish to explore the wonders of the Himalayas with curiosity, get ready for an adventure like no other!

 

Let your adventurous spirit soar, and embark on this thrilling journey with us. Together, we’ll set new benchmarks in the realm of outdoor and adventure!

 

Anup Gurung – Founder/Guide

“The mountains call, the rivers surge, and the skies reverberate with audacity. Having conquered the world’s most extreme waters and peaks over the Himalayas, I invite you to create extraordinary tales with us in Nepal. Himalayan Outdoor Project – where daring dreams come true. Let’s carve a remarkable history in the world of outdoor and adventure!”

Ignite Your Adventure Spirit!

Himalayan Outdoor Project, a place where adventure meets inspiration in the heart of Nepal! I’m Anup Gurung, an avid world-class kayaker, IRF instructor, solo paraglider, and enduro rider. It’s an absolute honor to be your companion on this exhilarating journey!

With a legacy of awe-inspiring achievements as a world-class kayaker, including my ventures with Viking Rafting in Iceland, our team and I are dedicated to redefining outdoor adventure in Nepal through the Himalayan Outdoor Project.

Our mission is to empower athletes from all corners, providing them with transformative education and training to become world-class adventure sports professionals. As we traverse the majestic Himalayas, we showcase their breathtaking beauty through heart-pounding extreme multi-adventure races. Together, adventurers from around the globe join us on this daring quest!

Being trailblazers at heart, we embrace our role as responsible stewards of nature, promoting sustainable tourism and uplifting underprivileged communities. Our aim is to preserve the untamed beauty and rich heritage of the Himalayan region, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.

From adrenaline-pumping escapades to carefully crafted journeys, we offer something for enthusiasts of every level. Whether you seek the ultimate challenge or wish to explore the wonders of the Himalayas with curiosity, get ready for an adventure like no other! Let your adventurous spirit soar, and embark on this thrilling journey with us. Together, we’ll set new benchmarks in the realm of outdoor and adventure!

Anup Gurung – Founder/Guide

“The mountains call, the rivers surge, and the skies reverberate with audacity. Having conquered the world’s most extreme waters and peaks over the Himalayas, I invite you to create extraordinary tales with us in Nepal. Himalayan Outdoor Project – where daring dreams come true. Let’s carve a remarkable history in the world of outdoor and adventure!”

Ignite Your HUNGer with

Maj. Rajiv Chand (Ex-Special Forces, Nepali Army)
Co-Founder & Expedition Operations Head

Lead with Purpose. Operate with Precision.

Maj. Rajiv Chand is a leader forged through 20 years in the Nepali Army Special Forces and over 16 years in adventure sports, racing, and expedition leadership.

From elite military operations to extreme adventure environments, his career has been built on one principle:

Lead from the front. Plan with precision. Never compromise on safety.

He pioneered the Nepali Army Adventure Sports Wing, training elite teams in rafting, mountain biking, triathlon, and multi-adventure racing. His experience includes high-risk international deployments in Iraq (2012) and Sudan (2016) where discipline, strategy, and decision-making under pressure are critical.

Beyond the military, he is an adventure racer, expedition leader and race director, known for introducing multi-adventure racing in Nepal, designing high-altitude endurance events. 

At Himalayan Outdoor Project (HOP)

At HOP, every expedition is treated like a mission
planned with military precision, executed professionally, and led with zero compromise on safety.

He brings together:

  • Elite military discipline
  • Real-world expedition and racing experience
  • International exposure
  • Hands-on leadership in the field

Because in extreme environments, there is no room for guesswork.
Adventure is only meaningful when it is controlled, calculated, and prepared.

4E Philosophy

Education | Experience | Expertise | Excellence

This principle defines every expedition, every training and every decision. 

Vision: Nepal is built for endurance. Its mountains create strength, resilience and individuals capable of performing in the world’s toughest environments.

The vision is clear:
Nepal will not only be known for adventure but for how professionally and safely it is done. Nepal will set the global standard.

Mission

  • Build a strong and respected adventure culture in Nepal
  • Lead every expedition with discipline, structure and precision
  • Prepare teams through education, fitness and mindset
  • Empower not just support Nepali athletes to rise as global leaders

Because true empowerment creates leaders, not followers.

Approach

At HOP, operations are guided by a clear system:

  • Military-level planning
  • Zero-compromise safety
  • Proven expedition experience
  • Direct leadership in the field

Every detail matters. Every decision counts.

My Belief

“Adventure rewards the prepared.
 Courage, strategy and flawless execution win every mission.”

At Himalayan Outdoor Project, adventure is not chased
it is mastered through preparation, discipline, and experience.

Education. Experience. Expertise. Excellence.

Call to Action

Train with us.
Join an expedition.
Experience adventure with purpose.

Ignite Your Adventure Spirit!

Himalayan Outdoor Project, a place where adventure meets inspiration in the heart of Nepal! I’m Anup Gurung, an avid world-class kayaker, IRF instructor, solo paraglider, and enduro rider. It’s an absolute honor to be your companion on this exhilarating journey!

With a legacy of awe-inspiring achievements as a world-class kayaker, including my ventures with Viking Rafting in Iceland, our team and I are dedicated to redefining outdoor adventure in Nepal through the Himalayan Outdoor Project.

Our mission is to empower athletes from all corners, providing them with transformative education and training to become world-class adventure sports professionals. As we traverse the majestic Himalayas, we showcase their breathtaking beauty through heart-pounding extreme multi-adventure races. Together, adventurers from around the globe join us on this daring quest!

Being trailblazers at heart, we embrace our role as responsible stewards of nature, promoting sustainable tourism and uplifting underprivileged communities. Our aim is to preserve the untamed beauty and rich heritage of the Himalayan region, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations.

From adrenaline-pumping escapades to carefully crafted journeys, we offer something for enthusiasts of every level. Whether you seek the ultimate challenge or wish to explore the wonders of the Himalayas with curiosity, get ready for an adventure like no other!

Let your adventurous spirit soar, and embark on this thrilling journey with us. Together, we’ll set new benchmarks in the realm of outdoor and adventure!

Anup Gurung – Founder/Guide

“The mountains call, the rivers surge, and the skies reverberate with audacity. Having conquered the world’s most extreme waters and peaks over the Himalayas, I invite you to create extraordinary tales with us in Nepal. Himalayan Outdoor Project – where daring dreams come true. Let’s carve a remarkable history in the world of outdoor and adventure!”

Ignite Your HUNGer with

Rajiv Chand

Co-Founder & Expedition Operations Head | Himalayan Outdoor Project (HOP)
Retired Major -Nepali Army Special Forces

 

I’m Rajiv Chand someone who has spent his entire life walking the edge, leading from the front, and turning extreme challenges into safe, well-executed adventures.

 

I served 20 years in the Nepali Army Special Forces, where leadership, discipline, and planning weren’t optional they were survival skills. During my service, I pioneered adventure sports in the Nepali Army, establishing its first Adventure Sports Wing and training elite army athletes in rafting, mountain biking, triathlon, and adventure racing. My goal was simple and remains the same today: build strong teams, plan every detail, and perform flawlessly under pressure. My journey took me far beyond Nepal. International deployments in Iraq (2012) and Sudan (2016) taught me how to lead teams in unpredictable, high-risk environments where mistakes are not forgiven. These experiences shaped me into what I am today a meticulous planner, risk-management expert, and safety-first expedition leader. Every route, every move, every backup plan matters. But I’m not just a planner I’m a doer.

 

I’m a lifelong adventure racer, mountain biker, expedition leader, and race director. I’ve raced in extreme multi-adventure events, and I’ve also designed and directed some of Nepal’s toughest multi-adventure extreme races. I introduced multi-adventure sprint racing to Nepal, created high-altitude endurance races for the army, and led joint Nepal–India Army rafting expeditions. I had the honor of representing Nepal as Physical Head of Team Nepal at the 2017 World Rafting Championship, and I’m certified as a Triathlon Level-2 Coach (South Korea) and a National MTB Commissaire.

 

At Himalayan Outdoor Project (HOP), I bring everything together military discipline, real racing experience, international exposure, and hands-on leadership. Every expedition we run is treated like a mission: carefully planned, professionally executed, and never compromising on safety.

 

Adventure is exciting but only when it’s controlled, calculated, and prepared.

Our guiding philosophy is simple and powerful:

 

4E – Education | Experience | Excellence | Expertise

 

Vision:

Nepal is born for endurance.

Our mountains shape strong lungs, our altitude builds quiet strength, and our raw terrain creates people who don’t give up. These landscapes don’t just produce adventurers they create leaders for the world’s toughest environments. After more than 16 years of racing, coaching, and leading expeditions, and a lifetime of making decisions where safety truly matters, my vision is clear and personal:

Nepal will not be known only for adventure but for how professionally, responsibly and safely that adventure is done.
Nepal will set the standard.

 

Mission

At Himalayan Outdoor Project (HOP), every expedition is personally designed, planned, and led by me. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is left to chance. Safety, structure, and international standards guide every step.

 

My mission is simple and honest:

  • To build a strong, respected adventure and expedition culture in Nepal
  • To lead every expedition with military-level planning and zero compromise on safety
  • To prepare teams through education, fitness, and discipline before the journey even begins
  • To create expeditions that challenge the body, strengthen the mind, and protect every life involved

At HOP, adventure is never reckless. It is earned through preparation, guided by experience, and mastered with care. Just as African nations dominate distance running, Nepal is built to lead the world in adventure sports. Our altitude, terrain and mindset create athletes ready to rise in mountain biking, adventure racing, rafting & kayaking, triathlons, trail running, and paragliding.

This belief is not a dream.
It is built from years of sweat, failure, success, and real moments in extreme environments where discipline decides everything. I have walked the edge. Now I lead with vision, heart, and responsibility.

 

My Belief

“Adventure rewards the prepared courage, strategy, and flawless execution win every mission.

From elite army training to high-altitude expeditions, I lead with precision, courage, and deep respect for safety. At HOP, we don’t just chase adventure we turn it into mastery.

 

Education. Experience. Excellence. Expertise.

The Team

Tashi Chhumbel Sherpa - EXPEDITION LEADER

Tashi Chhumbel Sherpa hails from the eastern part of Nepal, where he was born and raised in a small mountain village along the trail used by trekkers journeying toward the iconic
Kanchenjunga region. Growing up in a community shaped by the rhythm of trekking and exploration, Tashi was exposed to mountain life from an early age. His father operated a
modest tea house, welcoming trekkers and mountaineers from around the world, and it was here that Tashi first developed a deep respect for hospitality, resilience, and the spirit of adventure. Over the course of his career, Tashi has achieved exceptional high-altitude accomplishments. He has summited Mount Everest seven times, Manaslu four times, Lhotse three times and Makalu twice. In addition, he has climbed Himlung Himal five times and successfully ascended many 7,000-meter and 6,000-meter peaks, particularly throughout the Khumbu region and other parts of Nepal.

Tashi Chhumbel Sherpa

Meet Phu Chhettar Sherpa

Meet Phu Chhettar Sherpa - Expedition leader

His unmatched expertise and inspiring spirit ensure every expedition is legendary. Phu Chhettar Sherpa embodies the true essence of the Himalayas, conquering peaks with unparalleled skill and dedication. As a master of the Himalayas, he is your ultimate guide for unforgettable summits and breathtaking captures. Based in Nepal, Phu Chhettar infuses every expedition with the spirit of adventure, ensuring they are safe, exhilarating, and truly unforgettable with his incredible personality and exceptional abilities.

Shradha K C (Aka - Shraduuuuu) - Trekking Guide

When STEM subjects became boring, and 9-5 started suffocating inner her, she decided to travel solo. Traveling started as a hobby and therapy, she started discovering more about herself that where she belongs – Outdoor. Shraduuuuu may not have impressive height but has many years of experience leading trips in the Himalayas of not only Nepal but also in India. Trekking chose her, and mountain is where she feels home.

Shradha K C (Aka - Shraduuuuu)

Helga María Heiðarsdóttir

Helga María Heiðarsdóttir - Trip Leader

A true adventurer at heart! She’s been rocking the geo- and glaciology scene since ’08 and is your go-to guru for all things adventure. Whether it’s exploring Iceland’s wild wonders or venturing to far-flung lands, Helga’s got it covered. Now, she’s off to Nepal with the Himalayan Outdoor Project, and you can bet your backpack that every expedition with her is a whirlwind of adventure and excitement like no other!

Hunter Gurung - Multiadvenutre Guide

Hunter Gurung’s journey from aspiring to be in the army to becoming an adventurer and earning kayak and raft national champion titles is truly remarkable. It’s evident that his passion for adventure and the river played a significant role in shaping his life’s path. Spending time with someone like Hunter, who is adventurous and accomplished, would undoubtedly create lasting memories for anyone fortunate enough to share those experiences.

Hunter Gurung

Tarjan Gurung

Tarjan Gurung - River Guide

With almost 20 years of river experience, Tarjan is the heart and soul of our river expeditions. He’s an IRF-certified guide who splits his time between Europe in the summer and Nepal in the autumn and winter, always chasing the adrenaline rush that fuels his passion. His extensive experience ensures you have the safest and most exhilarating time on the water. Whether navigating challenging rapids or simply sharing his love for adventure, Tarjan’s dedication to making your river journey unforgettable is unmatched!

Paras Thapa - Expedition Leader ( Australia)

Adventure guru and Expedition Leader with almost two decades of thrilling adventures. He served for seven action-packed years in the Australian Army, including deployments in Iraq.

His military experience brings an exceptional edge to our team.

With Paras in charge, you’re in safe hands – he knows how to handle challenges and keep you secure. His commitment to your safety, dedication to environmental conservation, and genuine love for the Himalayas make him the ultimate choice for your unforgettable adventure.

Paras Thapa

Sagar Gurung

Sagar Gurung - River Guide

Sagar’s warm and lovable personality, much like a teddy bear, makes him instantly likable by everyone around him. His genuine passion for the river, alongside his caring nature toward both guests and coworkers, shines through in his work. His contributions have quickly made him a valuable asset to the company, reflecting his commitment and dedication to the team.

Abhinav Deep - Multiadventure Guide

Abhinav’s journey alongside the team, from the very beginning of HOP, showcases his resilience and dedication. With his expertise in adventure skills and event organization, Abhinav’s versatility shines through. He is a Level 2 Canyon Guide and a skilled photographer. However, his heart always finds its true calling on the trails of towering mountains, where he draws peace and strength. Whether it’s organizing or guiding, Avinav remains committed, always ready for the next adventure.

Abhinav Deep

Rajip Tripathi

Rajip Tripathi - Multiadventure Guide

Rajip’s upbringing by the riverside has clearly instilled in him a deep bond with nature, fostering a lifelong connection to the environment. Growing up surrounded by the rhythms of water and wildlife may have nurtured his sensitivity to the natural world, shaping his identity and values. Following his father’s path as a busker has given Rajip both musical skills and a creative outlet, likely influencing his ability to connect with people through art and expression. This artistic side of him might reflect a broader understanding of how music, storytelling, and community engagement can bridge gaps and inspire others.

The Team

Tashi Chhumbel Sherpa - Expedition Leader

Tashi Chhumbel Sherpa

Tashi Chhumbel Sherpa hails from the eastern part of Nepal, where he was born and raised in a small mountain village along the trail used by trekkers journeying toward the iconic Kanchenjunga region. Growing up in a community shaped by the rhythm of trekking and
exploration, Tashi was exposed to mountain life from an early age. His father operated a modest tea house, welcoming trekkers and mountaineers from around the world, and it was here that Tashi first developed a deep respect for hospitality, resilience, and the spirit of adventure.

Phu Chhettar Sherpa - Expedition Leader

Phu Chhettar Sherpa

His unmatched expertise and inspiring spirit ensure every expedition is legendary. Phu Chhettar Sherpa embodies the true essence of the Himalayas, conquering peaks with unparalleled skill and dedication. As a master of the Himalayas, he is your ultimate guide for unforgettable summits and breathtaking captures. Based in Nepal, Phu Chhettar infuses every expedition with the spirit of adventure, ensuring they are safe, exhilarating, and truly unforgettable with his incredible personality and exceptional abilities.

Shradha K C - Trekking Guide

Shradha K C (Aka - Shraduuuuu)

When STEM subjects became boring, and 9-5 started suffocating inner her, she decided to travel solo. Traveling started as a hobby and therapy, she started discovering more about herself that where she belongs – Outdoor.

Shraduuuuu may not have impressive height but has many years of experience leading trips in the Himalayas of not only Nepal but also in India. Trekking chose her, and mountain is where she feels home.

Helga María Heiðarsdóttir - Trip Leader

Helga María Heiðarsdóttir

A true adventurer at heart! She’s been rocking the geo- and glaciology scene since ’08 and is your go-to guru for all things adventure. Whether it’s exploring Iceland’s wild wonders or venturing to far-flung lands, Helga’s got it covered.

Now, she’s off to Nepal with the Himalayan Outdoor Project, and you can bet your backpack that every expedition with her is a whirlwind of adventure and excitement like no other!

Hunter Gurung - Multiadvenutre Guide

Hunter Gurung

Hunter Gurung’s journey from aspiring to be in the army to becoming an adventurer and earning kayak and raft national champion titles is truly remarkable. It’s evident that his passion for adventure and the river played a significant role in shaping his life’s path.

Spending time with someone like Hunter, who is adventurous and accomplished, would undoubtedly create lasting memories for anyone fortunate enough to share those experiences.

Tarjan Gurung - River Guide

Tarjan Gurung

With almost 20 years of river experience, Tarjan is the heart and soul of our river expeditions. He’s an IRF-certified guide who splits his time between Europe in the summer and Nepal in the autumn and winter, always chasing the adrenaline rush that fuels his passion. His extensive experience ensures you have the safest and most exhilarating time on the water.

Whether navigating challenging rapids or simply sharing his love for adventure, Tarjan’s dedication to making your river journey unforgettable is unmatched!

Paras Thapa - Expedition Leader

Paras Thapa

Adventure guru and Expedition Leader with almost two decades of thrilling adventures. He served for seven action-packed years in the Australian Army, including deployments in Iraq.

His military experience brings an exceptional edge to our team.

With Paras in charge, you’re in safe hands – he knows how to handle challenges and keep you secure. His commitment to your safety, dedication to environmental conservation, and genuine love for the Himalayas make him the ultimate choice for your unforgettable adventure.

Sagar Gurung - River Guide

Sagar Gurung

Sagar’s warm and lovable personality, much like a teddy bear, makes him instantly likable by everyone around him. His genuine passion for the river, alongside his caring nature toward both guests and coworkers, shines through in his work. His contributions have quickly made him a valuable asset to the company, reflecting his commitment and dedication to the team.

Abhinav Deep - Multiadventure Guide

Abhinav Deep

Abhinav’s journey alongside the team, from the very beginning of HOP, showcases his resilience and dedication. With his expertise in adventure skills and event organization, Abhinav’s versatility shines through.

He is a Level 2 Canyon Guide and a skilled photographer. However, his heart always finds its true calling on the trails of towering mountains, where he draws peace and strength. Whether it’s organizing or guiding, Avinav remains committed, always ready for the next adventure.

Rajip Tripathi - Multiadventure Guide

Rajip Tripathi

Rajip’s upbringing by the riverside has clearly instilled in him a deep bond with nature, fostering a lifelong connection to the environment. Growing up surrounded by the rhythms of water and wildlife may have nurtured his sensitivity to the natural world, shaping his identity and values.

Following his father’s path as a busker has given Rajip both musical skills and a creative outlet, likely influencing his ability to connect with people through art and expression. This artistic side of him might reflect a broader understanding of how music, storytelling, and community engagement can bridge gaps and inspire others.