Interview with Ram C. Lamichhane, Founder of Dream Tibet Travel & Tours

Snow. Adventure. Mysticism. The Roof of the World. It’s one of the dream trips on everyone’s bucket list, yet to most travelers it seems quite “out there” or “difficult” and they unfortunately miss out on the experience of a lifetime.  

In this edition, we talked to Mr. Ram C. Lamichhane, Founder of Dream Tibet Travel & Tours (with headquarters in Kathmandu, Nepal) and sought his expert advice on trips in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan in the hopes of demystifying this fascinating region. 

The topic is also especially dear to use because we have a sizable Nepalese community in Croatia, where Connecto Transfers is based.  

Can you tell us more about Dream Tibet Travel & Tours and about your beginnings? What led you (personally) to this business? 

Thank you very much for your kind interest in Dream Tibet Travel & Tours and in my personal journey. I truly appreciate your question. 

My story in tourism began in 2003. I started from the very basic level, working as a porter in the mountains. At that time, I carried luggage for trekkers and supported groups in any way I could. It was not easy. The work was physically demanding, and the future was uncertain. But I had a strong belief that tourism could change my life and also to help me connect Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan with the world. 

In the beginning, it was very challenging. There were many struggles — financial difficulties, language barriers, limited opportunities, and many lessons learned through experience. However, I never gave up. Step by step, I worked as a guide, learned operations, handled logistics, built partnerships, and gained deep knowledge of Himalayan travel.  

With dedication, honesty, and hard work, I slowly built strong relationships with clients and partners. Those early years taught me the true meaning of service, responsibility, and trust. 

Today, I am proud to serve as the Managing Director of Dream Tibet Travel & Tours Pvt Ltd. What started as a simple dream has grown into a professional company specializing in Nepal, Tibet, Kailash, and Bhutan tours. Our company focuses on reliable ground handling, spiritual journeys, fixed departures, and customized Himalayan experiences. 

This business is not just work for me — it is my life journey. Having started from the grassroots level, I understand every part of the operation and every challenge our guests may face. That experience helps me lead the company with sincerity and personal commitment. 

Tourism changed my life, and now my goal is to create meaningful travel experiences for others. 

The public perception of the entire region often boils down to "a place where people climb Mt. Everest", but in reality most visitors come for other reasons, often having nothing to do with mountain climbing? 

Indeed, many people around the world simply see our region as, as you put it, “the place where people climb Mt. Everest.” While Mount Everest is truly iconic and brings great pride to all of us, the reality is much more beautiful and diverse. 

Most visitors actually come for many other meaningful reasons — to experience ancient culture, sacred temples and monasteries, peaceful Himalayan villages, spiritual journeys like Kailash Yatra, colorful festivals, wildlife, trekking through scenic valleys, and connecting with warm local communities. 

The Himalayas are not only about climbing the highest peak in the world. They are about culture, faith, nature, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality. It is a land of stories, blessings, and unforgettable human connections. 

Which one of your tours is the most popular and why? 

As a Tour Operator, all our journeys are special for us — from our Mount Kailash Yatra to Bhutan cultural tours and trekking group departures. However, if I speak from my heart, our Tibet Overland Tour from Kathmandu (8 days) is one of the most popular and personally meaningful tours we operate. 

We run this fixed departure every Saturday from Kathmandu, and it is fully organized and operated by our own team. This gives us full control over service quality, safety, and guest satisfaction. 

The reason this tour is so popular is because it offers a complete Himalayan experience. Our guests first experience the rich culture, heritage, and spiritual atmosphere of Nepal. Then, they cross the border by road and continue the adventure into Tibet. 

The overland journey itself is very special. Driving across the high plateau, crossing dramatic landscapes, visiting Everest Base Camp (Rongbuk side), Shigatse, Gyantse, and finally reaching Lhasa — it is not just sightseeing, it is a true cross-country Himalayan road adventure. 

What are some common misconceptions that travelers have about the region? 

That is a very thoughtful question. There are several common misconceptions travelers often have about our region — Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and the greater Himalayan area in general. I would like to share a few important ones in a sincere way. 

1. “It is only about Mount Everest.”

Many people think the region is only about climbing Mount Everest. In reality, most visitors come for culture, spiritual journeys, trekking, wildlife, festivals, monasteries, and meaningful travel experiences — not mountaineering. 

2. “It is too dangerous or unstable.”

Some travelers assume the region is unsafe or politically unstable. In fact, major tourist areas are peaceful and well-managed. With proper planning and experienced operators, travel here is smooth and secure. 

3. “The infrastructure is very poor.”

While this is a developing region, tourism infrastructure has improved greatly. There are good hotels, comfortable transportation with modern highways branching throughout the region, domestic flights, and well-organized logistics — especially for structured tours like Tibet Overland, Kailash Yatra, and Bhutan cultural journeys. 

4. “Altitude makes it impossible for normal travelers.”

Yes, altitude is an important factor, especially in Tibet and Mount Kailash. But with proper acclimatization, gradual travel plans, and professional guidance, most healthy travelers can comfortably enjoy the journey. 

5. “It is only for adventure travelers.”

Many think the Himalayas are only for hardcore trekkers. In reality, we welcome families, senior travelers, spiritual seekers, photographers, and cultural explorers. There are tours suitable for different ages and travel styles. 

6. “Facilities and service are very basic.”

People sometimes expect extremely limited services. However, in cities like Kathmandu, Lhasa, Thimphu, and Paro, travelers can find quality hotels, good restaurants, and professional tourism services.  

In short, the Himalayan region is much more diverse, welcoming, and organized than many people imagine. Once travelers visit, they are often pleasantly surprised by the warmth of the people, the depth of culture, and the beauty of the landscapes. 

Considering there is a lot of competition located in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan, what advantages do you think each country offers as a tour starting point? 

Each of those countries has its own special charm and strength as a tour starting point. Rather than competing, they beautifully complement one another. We have a symbiotic relationship. 

Nepal offers flexibility and warmth. Kathmandu is a vibrant gateway to the Himalayas, with rich culture, UNESCO heritage sites, and easy international flight connections. It is an excellent starting point for Tibet Overland Tours, Mount Kailash Yatra, and Himalayan trekking. Travelers can experience Hindu and Buddhist traditions together before continuing their journey across the border. 

Tibet offers spiritual depth and dramatic landscapes. Starting a tour in Lhasa allows guests to step directly into the heart of Tibetan Buddhism — visiting sacred monasteries, the world-famous Potala Palace, and the vast Tibetan Plateau. It is a powerful beginning for those seeking high-altitude adventure and spiritual reflection. 

Bhutan offers exclusivity and preserved culture. With its controlled tourism policy, Bhutan provides a peaceful and well-preserved environment. Beginning a tour in Paro or Thimphu gives travelers a gentle introduction to Himalayan traditions, stunning valleys, and exposure to the unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness. 

Each country offers a different feeling at the beginning of a journey — Nepal with openness and diversity, Tibet with spirituality and vastness, and Bhutan with harmony and cultural purity. Together, they form a complete and highly meaningful Himalayan experience. 

What is next for Dream Tibet Travel and Tours? Where do you see yourself in five years? 

At Dream Tibet Travel & Tours, our next step is very clear — we want to grow steadily while keeping our core value strong: customer satisfaction is our first priority. We truly believe that “Guest is God”. This is not just a sentence for us; it is the foundation of our service. 

In the coming years, we plan to: 

• Strengthen our fixed departure tours for Tibet Overland, Mount Kailash Yatra, NepalToursand Bhutan 
• Expandthe concept ofsmall groups joining tours with enhanced comfort and a higher level of personalized care 
• Improve service quality through trained guides and professional ground handling
• Build stronger international partnerships
• Focus more on sustainable and responsible tourism

Because I started my journey in tourism from the grassroots level in 2003, I understand very clearly what service truly means. From porter to Managing Director, every step has taught me that long-term success only comes when guests are happy, safe, and satisfied. 

In five years, I see Dream Tibet Travel & Tours becoming one of the most trusted Himalayan tour operators for Nepal, Tibet, Kailash, and Bhutan. Not necessarily the biggest — but the most reliable, honest, and service-oriented company. 

Personally, I see myself continuing to lead with humility, dedication, and passion. My goal is simple: 

To create meaningful journeys, build lasting relationships, and serve every guest with respect — because for us, every traveler is not just a client, but a blessing. 

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With such a caring and thoughtful approach, it is no surprise to see that Dream Tibet Travel & Tours Pvt Ltd enjoys consistently high ratings on TripAdvisor and is included among the highest rated travel agencies in Nepal. Travelers worldwide are starved for human touch and genuine connections both when planning and enjoying their trips, and providing that is a rare and valuable thing. 

Once again, we express our thanks to Mr. Ram for taking his time to discuss the finer points of Himalayan travel with us and wish him and the Dream Tibet Travel & Tours all the best in their endeavors!