Ashok Khanal
Professional Overview
Age: 27
Total Years of Experience: 8+ years of experience as a professional trekking guide in Nepal
Birthplace: Gorkha District, Manaslu Region
Primary Regions: Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley (local expert), Everest, Gokyo Valley, Annapurna, Langtang, Tamang Heritage Trail, Mardi.
Languages Spoken: Nepali, English, Hindi
Meet Ashok Khanal: The Journey
Ashok Khanal is a highly dedicated and professional trekking guide with a strong passion for the Himalayas and over a decade of experience leading treks across Nepal's remote and classic trails. Born and raised in the hilly landscapes of Gorkha, Ashok grew up with the mountains in his heart and the spirit of adventure in his soul.
Ashok has guided trekkers from around the world through a wide range of trekking routes, from the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley to iconic trails like the Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp, Upper Mustang, and Langtang Valley. He is well-versed in both popular and hidden trekking regions, offering deep cultural insight, trail expertise, and safety-focused leadership on every trip.
Fluent in Nepali, English, and Hindi, Ashok is known for his calm nature, clear communication, and friendly attitude. He is also first-aid trained and licensed by the Government of Nepal, ensuring every trekker’s journey is both safe and enjoyable.
Whether you're a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, Ashok is the perfect companion for an authentic, responsible, and unforgettable Himalayan experience. Clients often describe him as reliable, knowledgeable, and deeply connected to nature, a true asset to our Hidden Trek Nepal team.
Certifications & Training
- Licensed Trekking Guide: Certified by Nepal Government & TAAN
- First Aid and High-Altitude Sickness Response
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Expertise & Specialties
- Technical Skills: Wilderness navigation, altitude management, trekking logistics, basic mountaineering support.
- Special Interests: Local culture and traditions, Himalayan storytelling, village interaction, nature exploration.
- Best For: Cultural treks, classic Himalayan routes, and local experiences.
Expedition History
- Langtang Valley Trek: 20+ times
- Manaslu Circuit Trek: 15+ times
- Annapurna Circuit Trek: 10+ times
- Everest Base Camp Trek: 10+ times
FAQs
Q: Does Ashok have experience with remote and restricted-area treks?
A: Yes, Ashok has spent years guiding trekkers through remote Himalayan regions like Manaslu and Tsum Valley, where he feels completely at home. He loves quieter trails where travelers can truly connect with nature and local life.
Q: How does Ashok help with altitude sickness and safety?
A: Ashok is very attentive on the trail and always keeps an eye on how everyone is feeling. He carefully manages the pace, acclimatization, and rest stops so trekkers feel safe, comfortable, and confident throughout the journey.
Q: Can I hire Ashok specifically for my trek?
A: Absolutely. Many trekkers specifically request Ashok because of his calm personality, caring nature, and positive energy during the trek.
Q: Can Ashok customize the itinerary based on my interests?
A: Yes, Ashok enjoys making each trek feel personal. Whether you want slower trekking days, cultural experiences, photography stops, or less crowded routes, he’s happy to adjust the plan around your interests.
Q: What safety equipment does Ashok carry during treks?
A: Ashok carries essential safety gear including a first aid kit, oximeter, navigation tools, and emergency supplies to make sure trekkers stay safe in the mountains.
Q: Does Ashok help with photography during treks?
A: Definitely. Ashok enjoys helping trekkers capture special moments along the trail and knows plenty of beautiful viewpoints hidden throughout the Himalayas.
Q: Can beginners trek with Ashok?
A: Yes, very comfortably. Ashok is patient, encouraging, and easy to be around, which makes him especially popular among first-time trekkers and solo travelers.
Q: Can Ashok help travelers understand local culture and traditions?
A: Of course. Growing up in the Manaslu region gave Ashok a deep connection to mountain culture and village life, and he genuinely enjoys sharing local stories and traditions during the trek.
Q: What kind of travelers usually enjoy trekking with Ashok?
A: Travelers who want a relaxed, friendly, and authentic trekking experience usually love trekking with Ashok. Many guests say he feels less like a guide and more like a good friend walking beside them in the mountains.
What's Included?
- Trekking Guide Insurance ( A high leval insurance)
- Accommodation during the Trekking,
- All kind of meals and drinks,
- Trekking Gears,
- First Aid Kits for the group ( besic kits)
Cost Excludes
- All kinds of Transport
- Tips for your Guide,
Review
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek was breathtaking, which let us through remote villages, dense rhododendron forests, and crossing high mountain passes. Hidden Trek Nepal ensured everything was smooth; from our porters to our guide, who was pretty knowledgeable about the places we were curious about. We extended two extra days in their ideal 18-day trip to relax and enjoy more. Highly recommend this trek to the third-highest mountain for seasoned hikers looking for solitude and raw beauty.
I was nervous to go trekking as a solo female traveller but I couldn’t have had a more amazing experience. We had Ashok as our guide and he definitely made the experience! Me and another female solo traveller that went on the trek really, really enjoyed spending time with him and the beautiful views we saw on Mardi Himal!💕
I did the Annapurna trek together with Ashok. It’s our second trek together, last year we did Langtang. It was absolutely amazing again. We had such a good time and I feel so save with Ashok. He knows everything very well and he is always there for you.
Thank you so much! See you next time
I completed the Manaslu circuit with Ashok as my guide. He was so great, he was funny, kind and always made me feel safe and at home on the trek. I couldn’t have asked for more. I thoroughly recommend you book with Ashok for any trekking across Nepal or Tibet.
One of the best experiences of my life made even more special by our fantastic guide Ashok!
The hike was beautiful, passing through charming mountain villages and amazing landscapes and would definitely recommend it to anybody who is looking for a challenge.
We felt so lucky to have Ashok as a guide - he was calm, patient, very knowledgable and passionate about the mountains and we enjoyed getting to know him over the course of the trip.
Thank you for all the great memories!
