In 2009, a young Phurba, navigating his early career in Nepal’s trekking industry, met with Mrs. Natalia Govorova (Natasha Mam) and her friends, along with the team of Oleg Sir, Ivanov Sir, and Sergey Sir. Though Phurba couldn’t guide them personally, he organized the trek and ensured that they received the best possible experience by arranging. Before their departure to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Phurba personally spent time briefing the Nepali team about the importance of respectful service and genuine care, values that remain at the core of our company till today.
Natasha Mam’s warmth stood out immediately. She embraced Phurba’s family with genuine affection, often arriving in Nepal with gifts—clothes, chocolates, and heartfelt souvenirs—that symbolized her deep connection to the family and the country. Her husband, Vsevolod Sir, soon joined her adventures, trekking Nepal’s trails with the same curiosity and respect. Alongside Oleg, Ivanov, and Pashko Sir, she also helped to create our first website (phurbas.narod.ru), which remains a nostalgic reminder of their early adventures.
But perhaps the most transformative aspect of this friendship was yet to come. “Thanks to Natasha, I experienced my first international flight and visited my first international country, i.e., Russia,” says Phurba with gratitude. “Natasha and Vsevolod didn’t just invite me – they welcomed me as family. During my entire stay in Russia, they ensured I never felt alone in a foreign land. Their kindness continues to inspire me to show the same level of respect and loyalty to all our guests when they come to Nepal.”
“As someone who grew up in the Himalayas, traveling abroad seemed like a distant dream,” Phurba reflects. “Natasha Mam and Vsevolod Sir didn’t just help fulfill this dream – they also showed me a world beyond my imagination. My family and I will forever be grateful for their kindness in accepting us as part of their family.”
Their story exemplifies how tourism can create bonds that transcend borders and cultures. Through their friendship, we learned valuable lessons about hospitality, cultural exchange, and the importance of treating every guest like family – principles that continue to guide our company’s approach to service.
