How difficult is the Ama Dablam Expedition?

The Ama Dablam Expedition is considered a technically challenging climb that requires prior mountaineering experience. Climbers should be familiar with ice, rock, and mixed climbing and have strong physical fitness and endurance. It’s ideal for experienced climbers aiming to test their skills on a 6,000m+ peak.

What is the best time for the Ama Dablam Expedition?

The best seasons to climb Ama Dablam are spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and excellent visibility, providing the best climbing conditions and panoramic Himalayan views.

How long does the Ama Dablam Expedition take?

The expedition typically lasts 25 to 30 days, including acclimatization, trekking to base camp, and summit attempts. The exact duration may vary depending on weather conditions, acclimatization needs, and group pace.

Do I need prior climbing experience for Ama Dablam?

Yes. Previous high-altitude and technical climbing experience is essential. Climbers should have experience using crampons, fixed ropes, and ice axes, and be comfortable on steep ice and rock terrains above 6,000 meters.

What permits are required for the Ama Dablam Expedition?

You’ll need a climbing permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), along with a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and a local area permit. These are arranged by your registered trekking or expedition company before departure.

Ama Dablam Expedition

The Ama Dablam Expedition is one of the most awe-inspiring mountaineering adventures in Nepal. Rising elegantly at 6,812 meters, Ama Dablam is often regarded as the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas” for its striking beauty and unique pyramid shape. Its name, Ama Dablam, means “Mother’s Necklace”—the long ridges on each side resemble a mother’s outstretched arms protecting her child, while the hanging glacier represents the Dablam, a traditional Sherpa pendant.

This expedition combines the thrill of technical alpine climbing with the cultural richness of the Khumbu Valley, home to the legendary Sherpa community. The journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by a trek through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and other traditional villages, offering a glimpse into Sherpa hospitality, Buddhist traditions, and Himalayan lifestyle.

Climbing Ama Dablam requires prior high-altitude experience and strong mountaineering skills. The ascent involves steep ice, rock, and snow sections, making it an ideal challenge for experienced climbers seeking an iconic 6,000-meter peak.

Reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, making this not just an expedition, but a spiritual and emotional journey through Nepal’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Keywords: Ama Dablam Expedition, Ama Dablam Climb, Mount Ama Dablam Nepal, Khumbu Valley trekking, Sherpa culture, 6000m Himalayan peak, Nepal mountaineering expedition.

Accomodation
Hotel/Tea houses.
Best Season
April to May & Sep to Oct
Maximum Altitude
6812m
Transportation
Fly/Car/Jeep/ Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Ama Dablam Expedition with Everest Alpine Trekking is an extraordinary mountaineering adventure that captures the pure essence of Himalayan exploration. Known as the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas”, Ama Dablam (6,812 m) stands as one of the most iconic and visually stunning peaks in the world, admired for its perfect pyramid shape and breathtaking beauty.

This challenging expedition tests your technical climbing skills, physical endurance, and mental strength, offering an unmatched experience for serious mountaineers. The climb begins from the Base Camp (≈4,600 m), set in a picturesque valley under the shadow of Ama Dablam. From here, climbers gradually ascend through a series of high camps, gaining both altitude and confidence as they approach the summit.

The Advanced Base Camp (ABC), located at around 5,639 meters, serves as the strategic launching point for the upper sections of the climb. Each step forward brings awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, along with the thrill of navigating ice, rock, and snow.

Guided by experienced Sherpa climbers and supported by Everest Alpine Trekking’s dedicated team, this expedition promises not just the triumph of summiting one of Nepal’s most beautiful peaks but also a deep cultural connection to the Khumbu region and its warm Sherpa heritage.

If you’re ready to challenge yourself on one of the world’s most iconic 6,000-meter peaks, the Ama Dablam Expedition is your ultimate Himalayan quest!

Keywords: Ama Dablam Expedition, Everest Alpine Trekking, Ama Dablam Climb Nepal, Matterhorn of the Himalayas, 6000m peak climbing, Khumbu Valley trekking, Sherpa mountaineering adventure.

Trip Highlights

Climbing the 6,812-meter Ama Dablam, known as the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas," is a prestigious achievement.
The journey offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Trekkers pass through traditional Sherpa villages, experiencing their rich culture.
Reaching base camp is an adventure, with beautiful valleys, diverse landscapes, and local wildlife.
The climb is challenging, with rock and ice sections, crevasse crossings, and steep slopes, testing one's skills.
Acclimatization is crucial for high altitude adjustment and allows for side excursions and cultural exploration.
The trip begins in Kathmandu, Nepal's lively capital, with its historical sites and bustling markets.
A scenic flight to Lukla offers breathtaking Himalayan views. The trek includes the awe-inspiring Khumbu Glacier.
Completing the Ama Dablam expedition grants you a sense of victory and a moment of pride that will be treasured in your memory for life.

Day 01 :

Arrive in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Everest Alpine Trekking will warmly greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city. Take the rest of the day to relax, recover from your journey, and explore the lively streets of Thamel, known for its colorful shops, cafes, and cultural charm. In the evening, you’ll attend a trip briefing conducted by your expedition leader, who will provide important information about the Ama Dablam Expedition and finalize gear and preparation checklists.

Your adventure in the heart of the Himalayas officially begins here!

Day 02 :

Climbing Preparation and Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Today is dedicated to both expedition preparation and cultural exploration in the historic city of Kathmandu. After breakfast, you’ll meet your climbing guide and team members for a detailed Ama Dablam Expedition briefing covering route plans, safety measures, gear checks, and permit arrangements. Any missing climbing equipment can be purchased or rented from well-stocked stores in Thamel.
Later, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These sites showcase Nepal’s deep spiritual and architectural heritage, offering insight into local traditions and culture.
In the evening, return to your hotel to rest and make final preparations for the upcoming Himalayan adventure.

Day 03 :

Fly to Lukla (2,840m) and Trek to Phakding (2,651m) – 3 to 4 Hours

After an early morning breakfast, you’ll take a scenic 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, one of the most thrilling air routes in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. Upon landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, you’ll meet your trekking crew and begin your Ama Dablam Expedition journey on foot.

The trail descends gradually through Chaurikharka village, passing mani walls, prayer wheels, and suspension bridges draped with colorful prayer flags. You’ll walk along the Dudh Koshi River, surrounded by pine forests and charming Sherpa settlements.

After about 3 to 4 hours of easy trekking, you’ll reach Phakding (2,651m), a peaceful riverside village where you’ll spend the night. This day is perfect for acclimatization and soaking in the first glimpses of the Everest region’s natural and cultural beauty.

Day 04 :

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438m) – 5 to 6 Hours

After breakfast, the trail continues along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags. You’ll pass through picturesque Sherpa villages such as Toktok, Benkar, and Monjo, before entering Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The trek gradually ascends through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, with occasional glimpses of Mount Thamserku (6,623m). The final stretch involves a steep climb up to Namche Bazaar, a vibrant Sherpa town often called the Gateway to Everest.

Namche Bazaar is the main trading and cultural hub of the Khumbu region, filled with cozy lodges, shops, and bakeries. From here, you can enjoy stunning first views of Everest (8,848m) and Ama Dablam (6,812m). Spend the evening exploring the bustling town and relaxing after a rewarding day’s trek.

Day 05 :

Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Today is reserved for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude before continuing toward Ama Dablam Base Camp. Although it’s a rest day, staying active is key to better acclimatization.

You can take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), one of the highest hotels in the world, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse. On the way, you’ll pass through Khunde and Khumjung villages, where you can visit the Hillary School and a monastery that houses a purported Yeti scalp.

Spend the afternoon exploring Namche Bazaar, visiting the Sherpa Museum or relaxing in a local café. This day helps you rejuvenate while preparing your body for the upcoming higher-altitude climbs.

Day 06 :

Namche Bazaar to Tengboche to Debuche (3,700m) – 6 to 7 Hours

After breakfast, the trail begins with a gentle ascent, offering magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, and Thamserku. The route winds along the hillside above the Dudh Koshi River before descending through pine and rhododendron forests to Phunki Thanga, a small village ideal for a short tea break.

From here, a steep climb leads up to Tengboche (3,867m) — home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. This sacred site offers a peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, making it a spiritual and scenic highlight of the trek.

After exploring the monastery and soaking in the views, the trail gently descends through a forested path to reach Debuche, where you’ll stay overnight.

🗻 Highlights: Majestic Himalayan views, visit to Tengboche Monastery, rhododendron forests, and cultural encounters with local Sherpa communities.

Day 07 :

Debuche to Ama Dablam Base Camp (3,700m) – 4 to 5 Hours

Today’s journey takes you closer to the heart of your adventure — the Ama Dablam Base Camp. The trail begins with a pleasant walk through lush rhododendron and birch forests, accompanied by the soothing sound of the Imja Khola River. You’ll cross a suspension bridge and gradually ascend toward Pangboche village, one of the oldest Sherpa settlements in the Khumbu region, known for its ancient monastery and warm hospitality.

From Pangboche, the path gently climbs over grassy ridges with breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, and Thamserku. After a steady trek, you finally reach the Ama Dablam Base Camp (3,700m), a serene and scenic site surrounded by majestic peaks. This will be your home for the next several days as you prepare for the ascent.

🏔️ Highlights: Peaceful trails, Sherpa culture in Pangboche, stunning Himalayan views, and arrival at the iconic Ama Dablam Base Camp.

Day 08 :

to Day 21 - At Base camp Climbing Period Rest day – Puja – climbing training Rotation:

Climb to camp I (spend overnight)
Touch Camp II or the Yellow Tower and descend to camp I
Descend back to the Base camp
Rest and prepare for the summit push
Reserve day at the base camp
Summit push
Climb to camp I (overnight) – start at
Climb to Camp II (overnight) – start at
Climb to Camp III – start at 4 am – reach by 1 pm – rest for 6 hours – start for summit at 8 pm
Climb overnight at reach summit around 6-7 am and descend to Camp II
Descend to base camp
Packing and clearing the Base camp after the summit
Note - Be advised that the mentioned activities during the climbing period are a tentative plan. The actual planning of the summit is made at the base camp by your climbing guide. The activities may change because of the unstable weather conditions in the Himalayas and also your level of fitness. We advise you to book a Flexi flight and allow extra days in case if you need for the summit push.

Day 09 :

:22 to Day 23 - Trek from Base camp to Lukla:

ack to Namche Bazaar is mainly downhill from Base camp, with a small uphill stretch.

From Namche, we’ll get up early and descend back to Lukla. We will pass Monjo after a short walk and then to Phakding. We stay on the same trail and advance towards Cheplung and further to Lukla

Day 10 :

:24 - Early morning flight to Kathmandu:

We will enjoy our last views mountains while flying back to the Kathmandu from Lukla. After 25 minutes of flight, our representative will be waiting for you at the domestic airport to take you back to the hotel where you can enjoy your chilled beer and warm shower.

Day 11 :

:25 - Free day in Kathmandu for official documentation and collect the summit certificates:

Free day in Kathmandu for official documentation, closing briefing by the government and collecting certificate if successfully reached in the summit. Farewell dinner and celebration at Piano Piano restaurant at Nomad Hotel.

Day 12 :

:26Final Departure

After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Please ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight for check-in and security procedures.

If your flight departs later in the day, you can request a half-day hotel stay (additional charge applies) or spend some time exploring the nearby markets for souvenirs.

Your Ama Dablam Expedition journey ends here, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas and the Sherpa culture. We wish you a safe flight and hope to welcome you back to Nepal for another adventure soon.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Kathmandu Service includes arrival & departure transfers, domestic airport transfers, and four nights in a Kathmandu hotel with breakfast and a welcome dinner.
Government fee climbing royalty/permit. Includes all the permits charges required to climb Ama Dablam, including the garbage deposit fee, government liaison officer charges and wages and insurance for at least 1 Climbing Sherpa as required by the Government of Nepal for permit & other miscellaneous costs
Trekking service includes all the necessary arrangements required during the Trek: i.e. domestic flight/transfers including a helicopter from base camp to Lukla, accommodation and three meals a day in local lodges, a trekking guide and portage of personal trekking & climbing gear.
Basecamp Service includes three-course meals a day and unlimited hot drinks while at basecamp, a required number of kitchen crew with their wages, transfers and insurance, a personal tent, and a standard dining tent with a heating system and generator /solar battery charging facilities, toilet tent, shower tent and human waste disposal fees.
Higher camp Service (C1, C2 & C3), higher camp service beyond the base camp; it includes the necessary number of tents, high altitude food, cooking pots, epi gas, gas stove, walkie-talkie, satellite phone and weather forecast.
High Altitude Climbing Sherpa, a personal climbing Sherpa with his equipment, daily wages, load ferry charge, meals, accommodation, flight/transfers and insurance for the expedition duration.

Cost Excludes

Lunch and Dinner during your stay in Kathmandu (except for the farewell dinner)
Any packed food/snacks, aerated drinks, energy drinks, mineral water, alcohol, cigarettes, chocolates, nutria-bars during the trekking.
Items of personal nature, Laundry Expenses, Tips.
Any extra expenses arising out of various/unforeseen situations like natural calamities, landslides, political disturbances, strikes, changes in Government regulations, etc.
Extra transportation then display in itinerary program.
Any additional staff other than specified.
Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests and Hospitalization expenses.
Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation if required.
Travel Insurance and helicopter rescue.
Filming permit (if special camera).
Personal climbing gears
Expenses incurred towards usage of landlines, mobiles, walkie-talkies or satellite phone And Internet expenses
Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Camera/Video Fees or Trekking Gears
Nepal custom duty for import of expedition goods
Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa Guides as per Mountaineering Association rules. Minimum US$ 500.00 per climbing Sherpa guide.
Tips and gifts for base camp and high altitude trekking and climbing staff.
Airfare of international flights
Nepal entry visa fee (Visa issuance on arrival in Kathmandu)
Any extra services or products or offers or activities which are not mentioned in the itinerary.
Any other item not included in “COST INCLUDES” section.

Ama Dablam Expedition

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs