The Ama Dablam expedition is a great adventure that is recommended for participants with some experience in trekking and climbing. With a 6812 m elevation, Ama Dablam is one of the most recognizable peaks in the world and the cherished dream of many climbers.
It is located in the eastern Himalayas in the Khumbu region of Nepal, just 20 km from Everest. The term Ama Dablam refers to the mother’s necklace, and it got its name from the Sherpa language because of the glacier hanging in the middle part with rocky outcrops resembling outstretched hands.
The summit of Ama Dablam offers some unbeatable views of Nuptse, Chamlang, Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Kanchenjunga, Baruntse and many other snowy peaks.
A group of British and Italians tried to conquer the peak in 1958 but without success. Three years later, Mike Gill, Barry Bishop, Mike Ward, and Wally Romanes were the first to successfully climb the mountain in 1961 via the southwest ridge, the usual route today.
Regarding our Ama Dablam expedition, the program lasts 25 days and is divided into two parts: trekking and climbing. The first part of the journey follows the route of the iconic trek to the Everest base camp, which the group will also visit as part of acclimatization. In just three weeks, you will climb as many as 3 peaks – Kala Patthar (5545 m), Lobuche (6119 m) and Ama Dablam (6812 m).
Although challenging, we promise the Ama Dablam expedition will be an incredible journey that allows us to enjoy diverse landscapes, unique Sherpa culture, and hospitality.
We will start our Ama Dablam expedition in Lukla, from where we will go to the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar. From here, we will follow the classic route to reach Everest base Camp and climb Kala Patthar. Then, we head to Lobuche High Camp to climb the Lobuche peak, allowing us to acclimate well before the action on Ama Dablam.
In the second part of our activity, we will go to the main base at Ama Dablam, and from here, we will go to Camp I at 5,700 m. At this stage, rock predominates; further on, we can expect a mixed terrain. The route to the second Camp also leads through steep slopes and a wonderful, precipitous ridge. The Camp itself is located on a ridge (6,000 m) and resembles a real eagle’s nest.
Finally, we will reach the third Camp at 6,277 m. This is where we will set off for the summit. After overcoming the summit, we will return to Kathmandu via Namche and Lukla.
Namaste, we are glad to welcome you to Kathmandu. Our correspondent will meet you at the International Airport in Kathmandu and take you to a pre-booked hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is simply an arrival day, so you have no organized activity. You can take free time to relax or just walk leisurely.
our team leader will finalize the process of obtaining permits in the Kathmandu office. After completing the tour, our guide will brief you about the Ama Dablam expedition. He will also check all your equipment and see if anything is missing. You can purchase or rent any equipment that is missing in Kathmandu.
The official trek begins from today after we board a short flight to Lukla. Our overnight destination for today is the small Sherpa village of Phakding. The trail from Lukla to Phakding consists of a relatively easy downhill hike.
But first, we will fly from TIA to Lukla early in the morning. Enjoy the beautiful spectacle of Mount Kongde Ri (6187 m) from the Hilary airport of Lukla. We will be greeted by our local crew members,we will then unload the luggage, and rest for breakfast. Then we will begin our walking along the picturesque town of Lukla. We will obtain the permit for Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality.
After obtaining the permits, we will resume our walking along the Dudh Koshi River and pass the picturesque villages of Chheplung, Chaurikharka, and Thadokoshi. From here, the grandeur of Mount Kusum Kangaru (6367m) will open up in front of us.
Heading forward, we will past the village of Ghat enjoying the remarkable view of Mount Khumbila (5761 m) and reach Phakding where we will rest for the night.
After breakfast, we will begin our hike again along the Dudh Koshi River bank. We will first pass the Monjo Village and enter Sagarmartha National Park. Then, we will climb gently to reach Jorsalle village where we will stop for lunch. After lunch, we will resume our walking towards Hilary Suspension bridge.
After about 30 to 40 minutes, we will reach the famous bridge from where we can admire the beautiful view of Mount Taboche (6495 m). This mountain is regarded as the Holi mountain by the Tibetan believers.
After crossing the bridge, we will hike for about an hour more to reach Top Danda at 3140 m. this Viewpoint is also famous by the name of Everest View Point and known to trekkers for the incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and many more.
After enjoying the views, we will continue with our uphill hike to reach Namche Bazaar- the largest and most famous city along the Everest trail.
Today, we have an exclusive acclimatization day to the altitude of more than 3000 m. We will use this day to hike to Everest View Hotel- the highest and luxurious hotel in the world at 3880 m altitude.
Our hike will be mostly uphill rewarded with the magical views of Kongde ri, Khangtega, Pachermo Peak, Tangerito peak, Samdur peak along the way.
After reaching the Hotel, we will enjoy our hot cup of tea or coffee surrounded by the massive mountains of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Taboche, Cholatse and many more.
After spending some time here, we will descend to Namche explore its vibrant bustling market and return to our hotel for overnight rest.
Leaving Namche, we will now head towards our overnight destination of Phortse. We will walk along the Dudh Koshi River along an easy trail to reach Sanasa. From here, we will have to overcome a steep climb for about an hour and forty minutes to reach Mongla Danda at 3973 m. it is an excellent View point from where we can witness the remarkable views of Cholatse, Taboche and the entire Khumjung village.
With these incredible views, we will stop here for lunch then descend for 35 minutes to reach Phortse Thanga.
Moving forwards, we will cross the Dudh Koshi river over a bridge and ascend for about 2 hours to reach Phortse village where we will retire for the night.
Early in the morning, after breakfast, we will hike uphill for three hours to reach Upper Pangboche where we will visit the oldest monastery of Khumbu region of more than 400 years. Upon request, we can see the Yeti scalp kept in the monastery. After a short tour of the monastery, we move forward and enter the Imja Khola Valley. Along the way, we will take a lunch break at Shamare. From here, the trail is quite easy till we reach Dingboche, where the view of Ama Dablam is prominent.
Another rest day at Dingboche to adapt to the high altitude thin air. We will not sit ideal but ascend to Nangkartshang Hill also known as Nagarjun view point.
A three to four uphill hike will take us to the Viewpoint from where we can enjoy the magnificent panorama of Makalu, Baruntse, Island Peak, Chopola, Ama Dablam, Ambigetshen, Thamserku, Khankaru, Taboche, Cholatse, Lobuche peak, Nirukhang, and Amphu Laptse. As we return to our lodge, we will take an opportunity to visit the Nangkartshang monastery.
Leaving Dingboche, we will walk uphill along the upper glacial path and reach the village of Dughla. Enjoy the breathtaking spectacle of Taboche (6367 m.) and Cholatse (6335 m.) with delicious lunch.
From here, we now ascend steeply and reach the Thukla Pass at 4800 m, which commemorates the memory of deceased climbers. From here, Ama Dablam, Lobuche, and Lobuche Peak Base Camp bestow their incredible views.
In a few hours, we will arrive at Lobuche, where we will stay for the dinner and the night.
Early at around 7 am, we will move to our overnight stay at Gorakshep. It is the last town before reaching Evrest Base Camp. Our route runs along the Khumbu glacier. The magnificent Pumori (7161 m) will gradually open to our eyes. Arriving at Gorakshep, we will leave our luggage in the rooms and go to the Everest Base Camp.
We can see the great Everest from the ridge that leads to Base Camp. We will have impressive views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Kumbutse, and Pumori from here.
After enjoying the view, we will descend to our lodge in Gorakshep for overnight rest.
Even before dark, we will climb to Kalapatthar to meet the sunrise over Everest at its top. We will also be able to see how the rays of the rising sun beautifully illuminate the top of Pumori, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche, Lingtren and most of the other mountains of Everest region.
Enjoying some time on the top, we now climb down to Gorakshep or breakfast. Then, we will head down to Lobuche, where we will stay for the night.
Today, we will be ascending to the Lobuche High Camp. We will walk on an icy, rugged terrain and reach the Lobuche glacier. We will have a remarkable spectacle of Ama Dablam, Kantega, and Cholatse from here.
Soon, we will set foot on Lobuche Base Camp. We will not stop here but ascend more to High Camp. If there is snow, the trail leading to the High Camp may need the use of an ice axe, ropes, and crampons. However, if the path is clear of snow, the use of these equipment may not be needed at all. Please follow the instructions of our guide and pay special attention.
Our crew will set up individual tents at the High Camp for sleeping, cooking, and restroom facilities. We need to rest as much as possible for the crucial day ahead of us tomorrow.
In the dark, with headlamps over our heads, we now head to conquer Lobuche Peak today. The ascent is on steeply inclined slabs, and there may be some scum ice. Then, we will reach Rocky Ridge and move towards the Snow-ice slope, which is 400 m long and has a steepness of 45 degrees.
Along the fixed railings, on crampons and ropes, we will reach the summit of Lobuche within 5 to 7 hours. Please pay extra attention when climbing the summit and follow our guide’s instructions properly when crossing the icy section.
A panoramic view opens from the top: Nuptse, Everest, Makalu, Cholatse, Pumori, Taboche, Ama Dablam, and many more.
After the magical moment on the top, we now descend along the steep path to the High Camp, where we will have a hot breakfast. Then, we will descend to Pheriche or Pangboche for overnight rest.
We will determine our overnight destination based on our energy level and time availability. After conquering the summit, if all our group members are fit enough, we will descend to Pangboche else we will shorten our trek and rest at Pheriche.
After breakfast, we will commence our trek from Pangboche to Ama Dablam Base Camp. The trail is narrower and rockier than the main EBC route but fairly easy. The first section of the climb is steeper and seems like it doesn’t end, but then it softens gradually, and the views make the climb more pleasant.
After 3 hours of moderate hiking, we will reach the Base Camp, which is a large and spacious grassland at the foot of Mount Ama Dablam. Our porters will keep their loads at base camp and leave us for the next few days. Only our Sherpas and kitchen staff will stay here to accompany us on the expedition.
We will dedicate this day to rest in the Ama Dablam base camp. We can either relax in the Camp with a beautiful view of Ama Dablam, or we can explore around the Camp, ascend towards the advanced Base Camp, and return to the base camp after a while.
After breakfast, our guides will give us training on summit climbing techniques and the best ways to use climbing equipment such as crampons, ice axes, climbing boots, harnesses. The training also includes using ropes and these gears for both the climb and the descent.
This special session will increase our confidence level and climbing skills, thereby increasing our chances of achieving a successful summit on Mount Ama Dablam. We will spend the night at Ama Dablam base camp.
From base camp, each day of ascent lasts four to eight hours. Today, we will gain an elevation of 1100 m, which we will attain in about 4 to 5 hours. Along the rocky terrain and slope, we will pass Yak Camp at 5100 m altitude and Advanced Camp. We will then cross the final section along fixed railings to reach Camp I.
We will spend the days transferring from Camp I to Camp II and III and finally conquering Ama Dablam Peak. Our days will be on the rocks. From here on, the most interesting technical part of the route and active work with equipment begins. We will overcome the trail using fixed railings. The final part of the climb will take place along vertical rocks using a jumar.
When transferring to Camp II on day 18, we will gain only 300 m in about 2 to 5 hours. On day 19, we will transfer to Camp III (6277 m), which will take approximately 3 to 6 hours.
From Camp III, we will ascend the Ama Dablam, which will take us 5 to 6 hours. The climbing is challenging, but the reward is exceptional with the extraordinary views of Lhotse, Everest, Makalu, and the immense landscape.
After conquering the summit, we will descend to the Ama Dablam Base Camp for a well-earned rest with a great sense of achievement and accomplishment.
From here on, our descending journey begins to civilization. We will go down steeply to Imja Khola River from the base camp. Crossing the river, we will return to the green forest again. We will arrive at Pangboche first, where we will explore its monastery for a while.
Then, we descend to Tengboche monastery, where we will observe the monk ritual for some time. Continuing our journey, we climb down to Namche and enter the valley of the Dudh Koshi River.
After breakfast, we will leave Namche and continue our downhill trek towards Lukla. Walking along the Dudh Koshi River, we will go down sharply through a dense forest of pine, fir, and rhododendrons to the town of Lukla.
Here, we will rest for a while in a local lodge and stretch our tired legs. Then, we will enjoy our last mountain dinner among the massive Himalayas for one last time.
Saying goodbye to the Khumbu region, we will take an early morning flight to Kathmandu. Once in comfort, you can rest in your room, take a hot shower, enjoy some therapeutic massage, and dine in the finest cafe in Kathmandu.
Depending on your scheduled return flight, you can take a short walk around the capital’s street after breakfast. About 3 hours before your flight time, we will drive you to the Kathmandu airport to fly back home.
Attention :
Due to the high air traffic load in spring and autumn, the direct Lukla flight will be redirected towards Ramechhap airport. In such an event, we will first move to the Ramechhap airport (4-hour trip) by jeep or car and take a flight to Lukla 20 minutes, This kind of happen will be in peak season
Date | Duration | Price | Availability | Join |
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Oct 05, 2024 - Oct 30, 2024 | 26 Days | US$ 4500 | 4 seat | Book Now |
We also operated private trips.
Like in other mountain climbing expeditions in Nepal, Autumn (late September to November) and spring (late March to May) are the favorable times for the Ama Dablam expedition.
But we recommend you participate in this journey in the autumn season as the temperature slowly increases, snow will melt, and the sky will become clearer. In spring, it will still be colder, and there can be more snow, which can make the climbing part more difficult.
We don’t advise you to engage in climbing sessions in the summer/rainy and winter seasons until and unless you are very experienced, well – trained and well-prepared.
Located 152 km northeast of Nepal’s capital, Am Dablam mountain is elevated at 6812 m above sea level. Approximately a month is needed to accomplish the Ama Dablam expedition. The journey involves both trekking and climbing sessions. During trekking, we will reach the maximum altitude of 6277 m at Camp III when heading to conquer the summit.
Undoubtedly, it is a high-altitude trek, and we will be at an altitude of more than 5000 m on most of the trekking days. For better acclimatization and to ensure the highest success rate to summit the peak, we will also climb Lobuche Peak- another six thousand-meter high mountain in the Khumbu region.
On our 25-day Ama Dablam expedition, there are two stages: first, the trekking stage includes hiking through several villages of the classic Everest Base Camp trail. The second stage, which is 10 to 15 days, is dedicated to acclimatization and ascension of the Ama Dablam summit. During this period, we will also climb Lobuche Peak.
During the trek, we will walk 5 to 7 hours daily, depending on the scheduled overnight destination. The minimum duration we will be involved in walking is 2 to 3 hours as we hike from Lobuche to Lobuche High Camp.
The second stage then begins when most of the days we spend ascending and climbing the Base Camp, Camp I, II, and III, and finally reaching the Ama Dablam Summit. These days will be especially tough and challenging, which require 9 to 10 hours of ascending and descending.
Climbing Ama Dablam is moderately difficult from a technical point of view, as it involves mountaineering sections on Camp II and Camp III, with an inclination of 45 to 70 degrees. Therefore, this expedition is recommended only for experienced mountaineers and not for beginners.
You must have good physical fitness and endurance to overcome rocky, ice, and mixed climbing sections. You must have experience climbing and descending a fixed rope, good use of crampons and ice axes, and previous experience climbing on rocks and walking on a glacier.
Therefore, we have planned many rest days at Namche, Dingboche, and Ama Dablam Base Camp. According to our designed program, we will gradually gain height with a trek to Everest Base Camp, ascending to Lobuche Peak, and a technical training day dedicated to climbing the summit.
Ama Dablam is considered the most beautiful Himalayas, and it is quite complex to climb. Therefore, we advise you to physically and mentally prepare for the climb.
As for the physical preparation, trekking to EBC or Annapurna first and gaining the trekking experience is a must. Then, gradually increase your strength and undertake the climbing expedition to Mera Peak. Then, you can go for the more difficult Lobuche or Island Peak. This will prepare you for high-altitude mountain climbing.
Regarding mental preparation, watch the videos and read everything you find. You must know the mountain and the route; you must absorb all the information, and then it will be easier on the mountain. Climb the mountain first in your imagination, so it will be easier to do in reality.
Our expert and experienced team has designed the Ama Dablam expedition program with a focus on helping you to adjust well in a high-altitude environment before summiting the Peak. However, you will still experience mild symptoms before fully adapting to the altitude and its conditions.
Some mild symptoms include headache, nausea, balance disorder, loss of appetite, tingling of the fingers and toes, and swelling of the feet, ankles, and face. Most of these symptoms are not severe and are often short-lived.
However, in severity, please inform our guides. They are all very experienced and know how to deal with altitude sickness. If it is necessary to descend to a lower level to reduce symptoms or cancel the trek altogether, our guide will decide for you.
We can approach the Ama Dablam mountain from various routes. First attempted in 1979, the northern approach to the mountain offers some spectacular panorama. However, this route is not advisable because of the risk of avalanche.
Another option is towards the eastern ridge of the peak, which is the most challenging of all. The lower ridge is another approachable route from where we will reach the mountain’s south face.
Compared to all the routes, the southwest ridge route we will be taking is the best one to climb, the Ama Dablam, for an easy trail and sufficient acclimatization.
We propose to include all the services (meals, transportation, accommodation) during the Ama Dablam expedition. We offer airport pick-up and drop-off at and from the Kathmandu hotel. We will also prepare for your Kathmandu Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu flight.
During the trek, we cater three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea or coffee and fresh fruit after dinner. We only offer breakfast when you stay in Kathmandu.
When camping at the base camps, our climbing crew will set up the tents separately for cooking, sleeping, and restrooms. They will also prepare hot meals and drinks during the entire climbing period.
Communication along the Ama Dablam trail is possible through the NCELL or NTC networks. These networks also offer several data packages that you can use on the Internet.
It is also possible to charge the devices at the tea houses along the route, but this usually involves a charge that starts at 200 NPR (2 USD) at lower altitudes and goes up to 600 NPR (6 USD) further up the trail. Some tea houses charge more to charge a power bank or camera. Some cafes along the way will let you charge a device for free if you purchase a meal or drink.
At the base camp, charging devices are available, and the cost is included in our service.
Wifi is available in many towns along the way. However, these are some of the most remote villages, so the connection is often interrupted or slow. Again, wifi costs increase as you go up.
For the Ama Dablam expedition, we need the Trekkers’ information management system (TIMS) card, Sagarmatha National Park permit, and climbing permit for Lobuche and Ama Dablam. We will process these permits when in Kathmandu. The fee for the permits is included in our tour.
On your expedition to Ama Dablam, you will walk along the classic trail to the Everest Base Camp and climb Kala Patthar. You will also climb the mighty Lobuche Peak. These two stages will not only allow you to adapt well to the high altitude, but they will also offer the remarkable opportunity to view the massive Himalayas in their full beauty.
Then you will climb Ama Dablam- the gorgeous, characteristic, majestic, and spectacular mountain. You can see why it is rightfully called Ama Dablam. Its outline looks like the figure of a woman with outstretched arms – the Sherpas consider it the mother of the mountains.
Once you are at the summit, enjoy the all-around panorama of Nuptse, Chamlang, Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Kanchenjunga, and Baruntse.
Apart from the mountain view, you will also experience the life of daredevil climbers who set out to climb the highest mountain in the world. You will spend days and nights in the snowy wonderland of the base camps and High Camps amid the massive Himalayas.
What more can you expect: nature, mountains, dense forests, alpine terrains, snowy slopes, rare wildlife, and cultural richness?
Climbing Ama Dablam is moderately challenging and has a high success rate. Technically, climbing this mountain is not that difficult, but the major risk is that of unpredictable weather and altitude sickness. However, fear not; our team of experienced and registered guides will accompany you during the trek and climb sessions. They will guide you and help to minimize the risk of encountering avalanche and altitude sickness.
Around 60 to 70 % of Ama Dablam’s expedition has successfully climbed the summit. With proper preparation, skill, and equipment, the success of reaching the summit is 100 %. Lack of well-designed programs, preparation, right equipment, and wrong seasons are some of the factors contributing to the failure.
A very extensive insurance package that includes medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, mountaineering activities, and coverage of more than 6000 m altitude is needed for this expedition.
Yes, if you think you will not be able to climb the summit but still want to be in proximity to the peak, you can trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp only.
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