On the couch: Karki Sherpa, female trekking guide in Nepal

Guiding has long been a predominantly male career that has in more recent times seen more females take the path less travelled. 

Female outdoor adventure guides now make up 37% of the outdoor guide community in Australia, however the change is much slower in countries like Nepal, where culturally it is not encouraged.

Meet Dawa Yangjin Sherpa, or Karki to her friends, who is breaking the mould and pioneering a path for female trekking guides in Nepal.

What or who inspired you to become a trekking guide?

I am Sherpa. Sherpa and tourism are inter-related. 

My grandfather was the first trekking guide in Khumbu region. Connections and interactions to the people of different countries glorifies our nation. This is my inspiration.

What was the ratio of female/male guides when you started guiding and what is it now?

I was only one female guide when there were 35 male guides as I started working in this company. Now, we are three female guides. 

What changes in attitude of guests and guides have you experienced as a result?

In the beginning, I felt a bit uncomfortable being a female myself. Now, I am fully confident. My clients have always accepted me as a leader. So far, I do not have a bad experience. 

Clients are rather happy to get me instead. Female trekkers love seeking for female guide.

What do females bring to a guiding role that are unique?

In my opinion, becoming a female guide is itself a unique role. However, male and female guides have the same duties. Naturally, females are more caring and dutiful.

What is the most challenging part of guiding for you personally?

Obviously, there are some challenges to become a female guide in context of conservative Nepalese society. Females are supposed to be involved in motherhood towards family and compelled to stay home for taking care for their children.

What is the most rewarding element of guiding for you?

After completion of the trek, as our clients are fully satisfied, they appreciate our job and promise to come back again. This is the most rewarding element for me.

What steps do you need to take to become a trekking guide - for those women wanting to follow in your footsteps?

For me and other upcoming female leaders, these are the following elements to bear:

• First of all, they should have strong determination and dedication for the job they are willing to do.
• Must have a legal “Guide License ” provided by Nepal Government.
• Must have good language skills.
• Must acquire medical training certificate provided by the respective company.
• They must have physical fitness.
• They must have knowledge and information about trekking routes, flora fauna, and the ability to adapt with the guests, local people and trekking staffs as well.
• Co-operation, direction and friendly behavior are much more valued.