Nirajan Chaulagain is a visionary in the Nepali tourism industry and the founder of Rugged Trails Nepal, where he transcends the traditional role of a company owner. A journalism graduate of Tribhuvan University, he approaches travel with an investigative eye and a storyteller’s heart. Unlike many who sell itineraries from behind a desk, Nirajan is a relentless explorer who personally scouts the locations he offers. His extensive field experience covers the most iconic and remote corners of Nepal, including the Everest region, Langtang, Upper Mustang, Annapurna, Rolwaling, the Manaslu Circuit, and the untouched wilderness of Far West Nepal. His passion for "finding places and faces" allows him to create unique, soul-stirring trips rooted in authentic human connection.
Nirajan’s expertise is significantly enriched by his extensive international travel and hiking history. He has successfully navigated the Adirondack Mountains and the challenging Breakneck Ridge trails in New York, USA. His global footprint covers a diverse array of major destinations, including Vietnam, Dubai, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand. By experiencing the world-class hospitality of these hubs and the ruggedness of international trails, Nirajan benchmarks Nepali tourism against global standards. He continues to look toward new horizons, with Tibet and Bhutan remaining on his personal bucket list.
At the core of Nirajan’s work is a steadfast commitment to socially and environmentally conscious tourism. He believes that travel should be a force for good, benefiting both local communities and the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. As a passionate photographer, he documents the natural beauty of his homeland and his global travels, sharing his work through the Rugged Trails Nepal Instagram and Facebook pages. Whether he is sharing a story over a campfire or planning a remote expedition, Nirajan acts as more than just a guide—he is a dedicated "Friend in Nepal." For direct advice or to plan your next adventure, he can be reached via WhatsApp at +977 9813952417.
