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Ama Dablam Expedition (6,812M)
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Ama Dablam Expedition (6,812M)

Ama Dablam Expedition (6,812M)

Country

Nepal

Duration

28 days

Max Altitude

6,812 m

Group Size

2 - 15 Person

Difficulty

moderate

Best Seasons

Spring and Autumn

Description

Ama Dablam (6,812m/22,334ft) is one of the most iconic peaks in the Himalayas. Known for its beautiful, jagged summit, it is often referred to as the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas." This mountaineering expedition is perfect for experienced climbers seeking to summit this majestic peak. The 28-day adventure includes trekking through Sherpa villages, exploring Gokyo Lake, and crossing high-altitude passes like Chola Pass before reaching the Ama Dablam Base Camp.

The journey is a blend of high-altitude trekking and technical climbing, offering trekkers incredible views of the Himalayan range, including Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, and Kongde. The trekking route is carefully designed to include acclimatization days, ensuring climbers are prepared for the summit push while minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Sherpas provide invaluable support, guiding climbers through challenging sections such as ice climbing, glacier travel, and navigating icefalls.

The expedition includes setting up multiple camps along the summit ridge, with careful attention to weather conditions and camp setup. The peak ascent of Ama Dablam is a highlight of adventure tourism in the Nepal Himalayas, offering a thrilling and rewarding experience in the Everest region.

Trip Notes

Best Time to Trek & Climb

  • Spring (April-May): Clear skies and stable weather, ideal for climbing.

  • Autumn (September-October): Dry conditions with excellent visibility for mountain views.

Permits Required:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

  • Ama Dablam Climbing Permit (Issued by Nepal Mountaineering Association)

Experience Needed:

  • Advanced mountaineering skills (using ice axes, crampons, ropes, and technical climbing techniques).

  • High-altitude trekking and climbing experience are necessary.

  • Fitness and mental endurance are crucial for the summit attempt.

Acclimatization & Altitude Sickness:

  • Rest days and gradual ascent to acclimate to the high altitude.

  • Hydration and proper nutrition are key to preventing altitude sickness.

Route Overview:

The trek begins with a drive to Manthali and a flight to Lukla. From there, the expedition takes trekkers through the Khumbu Valley via Namche Bazaar and Gokyo Lake before crossing the Chola Pass to Ama Dablam Base Camp. The climbing period includes 14 days at Base Camp, with a summit attempt on Ama Dablam (6,812m). After the summit, trekkers return to Lukla for the flight back to Kathmandu.

Accommodation:

  • Tea Houses in lower altitudes (Kathmandu, Lukla, Namche, etc.).

  • Tented camps during the climbing period and high-altitude stops.

Duration & Camps:

  • 28 days including trekking, acclimatization, and summit.

  • Tent camps at Ama Dablam Base Camp and during higher-altitude trekking.

Safety Tips:

  • Acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness and ensure success.

  • Experienced guides and climbers should always be employed for high-altitude expeditions.

  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions and technical climbing challenges.

Cultural & Natural Highlights:

  • Explore the rich Sherpa culture in Namche Bazaar, Phakding, and other villages.

  • Visit Gokyo Lake, one of the most beautiful glacial lakes in the region.

  • Incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, Kongde, and other surrounding peaks.

 

Itineraries

Arrive in the bustling capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, where a staff member will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, there will be an official briefing and expedition discussion with the team. This is also a good time to review gear and meet your guides. You may rest or take a short walk around Thamel. Overnight at the hotel.

 

After breakfast, begin a scenic drive eastward to Manthali, which takes around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Manthali is where most Lukla-bound flights operate during trekking seasons. Settle into a local guesthouse and prepare for an early morning departure. Enjoy a quiet evening in the riverside town. Overnight in Manthali.

 

Take an early morning 20-minute flight to the famous mountain airstrip at Lukla. Upon arrival, meet your porters and begin the trek towards Phakding, which takes about 3–4 hours along the Dudh Koshi River. Pass mani walls and small Sherpa settlements en route. This day helps you gently ease into altitude. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Trek for about 6 hours through pine forests and several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge. After a steep final ascent, arrive at Namche Bazaar, the economic and cultural hub of the Khumbu region. Here you'll find bakeries, gear shops, and panoramic views of Kongde Ri. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Climb out of Namche along a high trail with sweeping views of Ama Dablam and Thamserku. The route takes about 6 hours, ascending gradually past Mong La and dropping to Phortse Tenga before rising again to Dole. You'll pass through rhododendron and birch forests as altitude begins to increase. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Trek for 5 to 6 hours above the tree line through high yak pastures and rocky terrain. Views open up dramatically as you ascend toward Machhermo and then Gokyo Lake. The pristine turquoise lakes sit below towering Cho Oyu and offer a peaceful setting. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Start early with a 2–3 hour hike to Gokyo Ri, which offers incredible panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Descend back to Gokyo, then continue trekking for another 2–3 hours to Thaknag, crossing glaciers and rocky flats. This prepares you for the Chola Pass the next day. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Begin before sunrise to cross the icy and challenging Chola Pass. The ascent and descent take around 7 to 8 hours in total. The trail involves scrambling over boulders and may require crampons in icy conditions. Descend carefully to Zhongla and rest. Overnight in a lodge.

 

A relatively easy trekking day of about 4–5 hours as you descend and reconnect with the main Everest Base Camp trail. Pass through yak herding areas with views of Ama Dablam and Lhotse. Arrive in Dingboche, a windswept high-altitude settlement. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Trek for about 4 to 5 hours as you leave the main trail and ascend gradually towards the base camp of Ama Dablam. The trail traverses alpine ridges with spectacular views of the mountain. Upon arrival, set up your tented camp and begin acclimatization. Overnight in a tented camp.

 

Over the next 13 days, you’ll establish Camp I and Camp II, undergo high-altitude rotations, and wait for a summit weather window. The climb includes steep rock and ice sections, particularly between Camps II and III. The summit push typically takes 8–12 hours round trip. All nights are spent in tented high camps.

 

After packing up Base Camp, begin your descent along the familiar trails. The trek to Namche takes 6–7 hours, offering a long but satisfying day through changing alpine scenery. Celebrate your successful expedition back in civilization. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Descend steeply through pine forests, crossing several bridges and Sherpa villages. The day takes 6 to 7 hours, returning you to Lukla where the journey began. In the evening, enjoy a celebratory meal with your porters and guides. Overnight in a lodge.

 

Take an early morning flight from Lukla to Manthali (approximately 20 minutes), then begin the 4 to 5-hour drive back to Kathmandu. Check back into your hotel and enjoy a warm shower and real bed after weeks in the mountains. Overnight at the hotel.

 

Spend your day at leisure, exploring cultural sights such as Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, or simply relaxing. In the evening, join the team for a farewell dinner with traditional Nepali music and food. Overnight at the hotel.

 

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Say goodbye to Nepal with unforgettable memories of your Ama Dablam expedition, carrying the pride of a Himalayan summit with you.

 

Cost Includes

  • Accommodation & Permits

    • 4-night stay at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu

    • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

    • Ama Dablam Climbing Permit

    Transportation

    • Domestic flights (Manthali - Lukla - Manthali) for both clients and staff

    • Ground transportation for expedition logistics (Kathmandu - Manthali - Kathmandu)

    • Airport transfers (International & domestic)

    Expedition Logistics & Personnel

    • Government Liaison Officer charges

    • Expedition Guide

    • Cook & kitchen staff

    • Assistant Climbing Guide (1 per client)

    • Porters to carry loads & baggage

    • Porter’s equipment & insurance

    • Insurance (medical & rescue) for all staff & porters

    • Salaries, lodging, food, and wages for staff & porters

    Accommodation & Tents

    • Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek

    • Individual tent (with mattress & pillow)

    • Dining tent, kitchen tent, store tent, toilet & shower tent

    • High-altitude tents for camps

    Food & Supplies

    • All meals for members & staff during the expedition & trekking

    • Quality high-altitude dried food & individual packet food

    • EPI gas with burner for high camps

    • Oxygen cylinder & mask regulator for emergencies

    • Duffel bag for packing climbing/trekking gear

    Climbing & Safety Equipment

    • All necessary group climbing gear (excluding personal climbing gear)

    • First Aid Kit for all

    Communication & Power Supply

    • Walkie-talkie set

    • Satellite phone (pay call basis)

    • Solar panel for charging (camera, sat phone, dining tent lighting)

Cost Excludes

  • Accommodation & Meals

    • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)

    • Additional food & drinks beyond standard meals, including snacks, packed food, energy drinks, aerated drinks, mineral water, alcohol, cigarettes, and chocolates.

    Personal Equipment & Gear

    • Clothing, packing bags, and personal trekking/climbing gear

    • Personal medical kit

    Communication & Technology

    • Costs related to landlines, mobile phones, satellite phones, internet, walkie-talkies, and filming permits (if using special cameras).

    Insurance & Medical Costs

    • Rescue, repatriation, hospitalization, medical tests & medicines

    • Travel insurance, medical insurance & emergency rescue evacuation

    • Helicopter rescue services

    Additional Transportation & Services

    • Only transportation listed in the itinerary is covered

    • Extra travel distances will be charged

    • Any additional staff not mentioned in the package

    Climbing Guide Summit Bonus

    • Summit bonus for Sherpa guide ($800 USD minimum per guide)

    • Nepal customs duty for the import of expedition equipment

    • Nepal entry visa fee (easily available on arrival)

    Miscellaneous Expenses

    • Laundry services

    • Gifts, souvenirs, and tips

    • Airfare for international flights

    • Any extra services, products, or activities not mentioned in the itinerary

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