Ama dablam peak
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Ama Dablam Expedition

PRIVATE TRIP

28 Days

Price Start from USD 500
USD 640 pp

We Offer Group Discount

No. of PersonsPrice per Person
Destination icon

Start/End

Everest Region

Accommodation icon

Accommodation

Hotel and Teahouse/Camping

Type icon

Trail Type

Forest and Mountain Trail

Season icon

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Grade icon

Grade

D to D+ (Challenging)

Duration icon

Duration

28 Days

Elevation icon

Activity per day

6-7 hrs

Distance icon

Total Distance

n/a


Chulu Far East Peak (6,059m) lies in the Annapurna Region of Nepal, surrounded by iconic mountains like Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. This trekking peak is regarded as the most approachable among the Chulu range, making it a great choice for climbers with limited experience. The 19-day itinerary combines highlights of the Annapurna Circuit—crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m), exploring villages like Ngawal and Manang, and acclimatizing at Base Camp (5,000m)—with the thrill of a Himalayan summit. Along the route, trekkers witness diverse landscapes, Gurung and Thakali culture, and breathtaking high-altitude panoramas.

Day

Itinerary Details

Trek Distance (km)

Altitude (m)

Elevation

Gain/Loss (m)

1

Arrival at Kathmandu, transfer to hotel

0

1,324

-

2

Preparation, shopping, briefing day

0

1,324

-

3

Kathmandu to Lukla flight, trek to Phakding

8

2,650

+1,326

4

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

11

3,440

+790

5

Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar

0

3,440

-

6

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

9

3,850

+410

7

Trek from Tengboche to Ama Dablam Base Camp

5

4,600

+750

8-23

Climbing period (includes preparation, rest, and summit)

Varies

up to 6,812

See note below*

24

Trek from Base Camp to Namche Bazaar

14

3,860

-740

25

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

11

2,840

-1,020

26

Fly to Lukla to Kathmandu

0

1,324

-1,516

27

Rest day at Kathmandu

0

1,324

-

28

Departure from Kathmandu

0

1,324

-

Classified as a Group “B” peak by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). The climb is rated F to PD (Fairly Easy to Peu Difficile) on the Alpine Grading System, involving glacier travel, crampons, ice axe use, and basic rope techniques, but no extreme technical walls. Though beginner-friendly, the altitude above 6,000m poses real challenges. With proper acclimatization and guidance, the ascent rewards climbers with a safe and unforgettable adventure, blending trekking and mountaineering in one of Nepal’s most scenic regions.

Highlights

  • At 6,812 meters, it offers a true high-altitude challenge with world-famous views
  • Features sections like the Yellow Tower and Mushroom Ridge, considered to be the most difficult part of the climb
  • Offers panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the entire Khumbu region
  • Pass various Sherpa community villages and learn about the mountaineering history from them
  • Various wildlife, vegetation, and Rhododendron blooms along the way
  • One of the most technical non-8000m peaks
  • Unforgettable sunrises and sunsets from camp

Overview

Ama Dablam, often hailed as the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas" due to its distinctive pyramid shape, is one of the most beautiful and iconic peaks in the world. In the Sherpa language, its name translates to "Mother's Necklace," with its long ridges resembling a mother's arms and a hanging glacier on its face, thought to be a traditional pendant. Although its height of 6,812 meters (22,334 feet) is less than that of the highest mountains in the world, the Ama Dablam climbing difficulty is extreme, making it one of the most technically challenging non-8000m peaks to climb. This climbing expedition is a serious mountaineering endeavor, requiring a high level of technical skill and physical fitness, and is not an easy peak climb in Nepal for beginners.

The standard Ama Dablam climbing route follows the Southwest Ridge, a path that was first used for its successful ascent in 1961. This is a proper Himalayan climbing experience that involves continuous steep rock wall climbing, often on fixed ropes, as climbers make their way through a series of camps to the summit. The journey is a significant test of a climber's physical strength and mental resilience, particularly on notorious sections like the "Yellow Tower" and "Mushroom Ridge." The Ama Dablam expedition guide is designed to be a comprehensive 28-day journey, providing ample time for a gradual and safe ascent, with multiple rest and acclimatization days built into the itinerary.  

While the trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp follows the popular Everest Base Camp trek route, the climb itself is a world apart, requiring a specific skill set and extensive prior experience. From the breathtaking summit of Ama Dablam, climbers are rewarded with an unrivaled panoramic view of the entire Khumbu region, including the legendary Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The expedition is a true outdoor adventure that pushes the boundaries of human endurance and skill, culminating in a profound sense of mountain summit success.  

Note

This forest and mountain trail has a d to d+ (challenging) difficulty rating. Proper preparation and fitness are essential.

Best season for this adventure is Spring and Autumn. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.

Online Trip Briefing

We'll conduct a pre-trip briefing to discuss the Ama Dablam Expedition route, safety guidelines, equipment requirements, and what to expect during your 28 Days adventure.

Map and Chart

Ama Dablam Expedition Route Map

What's Included

What's Included

    • Schedule flight tickets for the Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight
    • Domestic airport transfers and taxes.
    • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (Climbing Permit, Sagarmatha National Park permit, Local Area Permit, and TIMS)
    • All government and local taxes
    • An experienced English-speaking Trekking/expedition Guide (Govt. registered), Cook, and Assistant Climbing Guide (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide).
    • Porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter)
    • High-quality North Face or Mountain Hardware, or similar sleeping tent, kitchen, dining, toilet
    • Tents, mattresses, and kitchen equipment during the climb
    • Full meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) followed by a cup of Tea/Coffee during the trek and climb.
    • Safe Drinking water
    • One-hour Trekker's Massage upon completion of the trek
    • All mountain accommodation (Last night private room with independent bathroom/hot showers in Kathmandu.)
    • A comprehensive medical kit
    • Company T-Shirt and Brochure
    • Trekking equipment, such as a down-filled sleeping bag and duffel bag
    • Farewell dinner in an authentic Nepali Restaurant
    • Offred price includes our official service charges, government charges, and all taxes and VAT. Except for the above amount, there are no hidden costs charged by us.

What's Excluded

What's Excluded

    • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
    • $500 deposit for Garbage to NMA (Fully refunded in condition)
    • Expenses arising out of various/unforeseen situations like natural disasters, political disturbance, strikes, and changes in government regulations
    • Personal Climbing Gear ( like Climbing Boot, Crampons, Ice Axe, Jummer, Harness set, Carabiner, Figure 8, Tap Sling )
    • Personal climbing guide, if requested
    • Deserts (cakes, bakes, and pies)
    • Any packed food and snacks
    • Additional Hot Drinks/Bottled drinks
    • Boiled/mineral water
    • Electronic device recharge/Hot shower/Wi-Fi
    • Personal nature & Laundry expenses
    • Travel insurance and evacuation insurance (strongly recommended)
    • Tips and Gratitude to the trekking crew
    • Anything that is not mentioned in the 'Cost Included' section

Gears and Accessories

The main concept of fastpacking is to carry lighter bag will help you travel further distance in lesser time. Fastpacking gears helps trekkers to run and walk cover multiple days. By fitting all necessary supplies into a lightweight backpack, you can travel faster and cover greater distances, enabling you to explore more without needing to return to a fixed base each night.

Clothing Top

  • Sunglasses
  • Beanie
  • Sunhat
  • Sunscreen
  • Bandana
  • Headlamp or Flashlight

Clothing Bottom

  • Long & short sleeve shirts (merino or synthetic)
  • Light puffy jacket + down jacket
  • Rain shell & wind shell jackets
  • Running shorts, tech pants, puffy pants
  • Sleeping bag
  • Many pairs of underwear

Feet

  • Trail running shoes
  • 2–3 pairs of socks + thicker camp socks
  • Chemical warmers for high passes
  • Crampons or microspikes

Sleeping

  • Sleeping bag rated to –20 °C
  • Sleeping liners
  • No tent needed (tea-house stays)

Miscellaneous

  • 30 L lightweight pack
  • Water bottles & bladder
  • Travel medicines
  • Personal hygiene kit
  • Nepali cash
  • Passport or copy
  • Emergency contact sheet
  • Compass with sighting mirror

Package Information

Forest and Mountain Trail Details

  • Duration: 28 Days
  • Max Altitude: 6,812 mm
  • Grade: D to D+ (Challenging)
  • Group Size: 2-12 Pax
  • Activity: Peak Climbing

Logistics

  • Transport: Jeep/EV
  • Accommodation: Hotel and Teahouse/Camping
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Activities: 6-7 hrs

Additional Information

Understanding the Ama Dablam Climbing Difficulty

The difficulty of climbing a mountain is defined by a number of factors, including its technicality, altitude, and objective dangers. On the Alpine Grade system, Ama Dablam is rated as D to D+ (Difficile), which is a classification for a truly challenging climb and a significant undertaking.  

Why Ama Dablam is a "Difficult" Climb

The D grade signifies a climb that involves sustained hard rock or ice climbing, steep paths, and dangerous ridges. Unlike an easy peak climb in Nepal like Yala Peak (rated F), or a moderately difficult one like Lobuche East (rated PD), Ama Dablam is a full-fledged mountaineering challenge. The standard Southwest Ridge route is not a trek; it is a technical climb with virtually no room for error.

The route's sheer exposure, especially on the Mushroom Ridge, demands complete precision and unwavering focus, as a single misstep could be fatal. The climb to Camp II requires navigating the Yellow Tower, a vertical rock section with an angle of 75-90 degrees, a true test of a climber's technical skill at an altitude of 6,000 meters.  

Is Ama Dablam Harder Than Everest?

While this may seem like an unusual question, Ama Dablam is considered by many to be the most technical non-8000m peak to climb. Its technical challenges, including the steep rock and ice sections, are more demanding than those on the standard route of Mount Everest. To climb Ama Dablam, you need solid experience in both rock and ice climbing, whereas the standard Everest route, while a feat of endurance and logistics, requires less advanced rock climbing skill. Ama Dablam is a perfect proving ground for climbers with a solid Himalayan climbing background, but it is not a mountain to be underestimated or attempted without the proper skills and experience.  

Climbing Skills and Preparation

To successfully complete the Ama Dablam expedition guide, climbers must have an extensive background in mountaineering. This is not a climb for novice trekkers, and prior high-altitude experience is essential to ensure a safe and successful journey.  

Essential Climbing Techniques

The climb on Ama Dablam requires a variety of advanced climbing techniques and skills. This is not a mountain that can be summited without a strong foundation in both rock and ice climbing.  

  • Fixed Ropes and Anchors: The standard route is largely equipped with fixed ropes, and climbers must be highly skilled in using them for both ascending and descending. The ability to manage complex rope attachments and safely pass anchors is paramount, especially on exposed ridgelines.  
  • Vertical Climbing: Certain sections of the route, such as the Yellow Tower, are nearly vertical and require experience with vertical rock climbing using ropes. A climber must be able to pull themselves up on a fixed rope using ascenders.  
  • Ice and Snow Travel: The climb requires proficiency in using crampons and an ice axe on steep snow and ice slopes. The ability to safely navigate glacier terrain and perform a self-arrest in the event of a fall is a mandatory skill set.  

Physical and Mental Readiness

The Ama Dablam peak climbing preparation should be rigorous and thorough. A climber needs outstanding cardiovascular fitness and physical strength to handle the relentless demands of the climb and the extreme cold at higher altitudes. The long hours of trekking and climbing, combined with the technicality of the route, are a true test of a climber's physical and mental toughness. The ability to make good decisions under extreme stress and to persevere through physically and mentally draining conditions is the mark of a successful mountaineer.  

Logistics: Permits, Costs, and Accommodation

Permits and Regulations

The Ama Dablam expedition requires a specific set of permits to ensure a legal and safe journey. The expedition team will handle all of the necessary permits on your behalf. The required documents include:  

  • Ama Dablam climbing permits: As a highly technical and iconic peak, a specific climbing permit is required from the Nepal Mountaineering Association.  
  • Trekking Permits: The trek to the base camp follows the Everest region trail, which requires other permits like the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the local area permit. The fees for these permits are a significant part of the overall Ama Dablam expedition costs and are typically included in an all-inclusive package.  

The Ama Dablam Expedition Costs

The cost of an Ama Dablam expedition is a substantial investment that reflects the high level of professional support and logistical complexity involved. While prices can vary based on factors like  

group size and services, the average cost ranges from $6,000 to $8,000 per person. This all-inclusive price covers a wide range of essential services, including :  

  • All mandatory permits and fees
  • All transportation, including the crucial flights to Lukla
  • All accommodations and meals (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek and climb
  • The support of highly experienced guides and porters
  • The provision of tents and camping equipment for the high camps

Additional costs not typically included in the package are international airfare, mandatory travel insurance, personal climbing gear rental, and tips for the support staff.  

Accommodation: Teahouses and Camping

The Ama Dablam expedition offers a unique blend of accommodation styles. The initial trekking portion of the journey along the  

The Everest region trail is a teahouse trek, where you stay in comfortable lodges, enjoy warm meals, and have the opportunity to interact with the local Sherpa communities. This provides a sense of comfort and cultural immersion before the climbing phase begins.  

The journey transitions to a full camping setup once the team reaches the Ama Dablam Base Camp and the subsequent high camps. This tent camping approach is necessary as the route is too remote for permanent teahouse infrastructure. High-quality tents and warm Sleeping bags are essential for a safe and comfortable night's rest in the extreme cold of the high camps. 

The Best Time to Climb Ama Dablam

The timing of an Ama Dablam expedition is a critical factor for success and safety. The best time to climb Ama Dablam is during the spring and autumn seasons, which offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking and climbing.  

  • Spring (April - May): This season is known for its mild weather, clear skies, and spectacular scenery. The rhododendron forests along the trek are in full bloom, painting the hillsides with vibrant colors.  
  • Autumn (September - October): Widely considered the most popular season for climbing, autumn follows the monsoon, leaving the air fresh, the skies crisp and clear, and the visibility for the panoramic views from the summit of Ama Dablam exceptional.  

While it is possible to attempt the climb in other seasons, it is not recommended due to the increased risks of extreme cold, heavy snow, and avalanches. The stable weather and favorable conditions of the spring and autumn seasons significantly increase the chances of a successful and safe mountain summit success.  

The Ama Dablam Experience: Culture and Nature

The Ama Dablam expedition is not just a climb; it is a profound cultural and natural odyssey. The journey takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region, offering a deep connection to its unique landscapes and people.  

A Glimpse into Sherpa Culture

The trek to Ama Dablam provides an intimate look into the rich culture of the Sherpa people, whose lives are deeply intertwined with the mountains. The Sherpa community is renowned for its hospitality, resilience, and unparalleled mountaineering experience. The culture is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, which is evident in the many monasteries, prayer flags, and stupas you will see along the way. The trekking routes and villages are filled with opportunities to learn about their history and traditions, making the journey an immersive cultural experience.  

The Natural Beauty of the Everest Region

The expedition unfolds in one of the most stunning landscapes on earth, a paradise for nature lovers. The Everest region of Nepal is home to a wide variety of wildlife, from Himalayan thar to musk deer. The trail traverses a series of distinct ecological zones, from lush forests of rhododendron and pine at lower elevations to the rugged, high-alpine environments near the base camp. The constant presence of the towering Himalayan giants, including the legendary Mount Everest itself, is a constant reward for the efforts of this demanding High-altitude trekking journey, making every step of the way a truly unforgettable outdoor adventure.

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