Renowned as the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas," Mt. Ama Dablam is widely hailed as one of the most visually striking mountains globally. Its soaring ridges and steep faces create a dramatic silhouette against the sky. The peak leaves an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to witness its grandeur. This iconic mountain reaches an elevation of 6,812 meters (22,349 feet). It lies in the Mahalangur range of mountains in Nepal. The name Ama Dablam itself carries cultural significance. It translates to "Mother's necklace" in the local language. The long ridges on the sides of the mountain represent the protective arms of a mother (ama). The hanging glaciers are considered Dablam, which is a traditional double pendant. The pendant has a god’s picture imprinted on it, worn by the Sherpa women in Nepal. Mt.Ama Dablam stands as the third most popular Himalayan peak for permitted expeditions. The primary favored route is the path along the Southwest Ridge. The climb follows a standard pattern with three camps situated along the ridge.
Our Ama Dablam Expedition package is a 27-day adventure in the heart of the Everest region. Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you'll be warmly welcomed. You will then be transferred to our hotel at Thamel for a relaxing stay. The following day involves a briefing in Kathmandu. The excitement escalates as you board a thrilling flight to Lukla, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape. A trek to Phakding follows, offering glimpses of Kusum Kangraru and the Dudh Koshi River. The route then leads to Namche Bazaar, where you acclimatize for a day. The trek advances to Tengboche, showcasing the stunning Ama Dablam and Everest panoramas. As you cross suspension bridges and traverse through lush woods, the journey to Pangboche unfolds. You get the opportunity to revel in the majestic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, and Amadablam. A pivotal point of the expedition arrives as you trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp, encountering thinning air and preparing for the climbing phase. Over the next 10 days, strategic camps are established at varying altitudes, leading to the summit ascent. The descent from Ama Dablam Base Camp to Tengboche is marked by a sense of accomplishment, and Pangboche offers a serene interlude before heading back to Lukla. Your return journey to Kathmandu includes a leisure day for relaxation or optional exploration of UNESCO historical sites. The expedition concludes with fond farewells at the airport, leaving you with indelible memories of the Ama Dablam Expedition.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our airport representative will receive you. Once you are in our care, we will ensure all your travel requirements. The representative will be holding a pamphlet with your name and our company’s tag. In our culture, we welcome our guests with a marigold garland and a khada. We will then transport you to our hotel in Thamel. We will cater to your accommodations. You may rest in the hotel or explore the Thamel area.
Today is our briefing day. We will provide crucial information for the expedition. You can buy the required gear and equipment for the expedition at Thamel. We will perform a thorough gear check and cover essential official formalities. Our team leader and guides will ensure that you are well-prepared and equipped. This comprehensive initiation process sets the tone for a seamless and organized expedition.
Starting our day early in Kathmandu, we indulge in a satisfying breakfast. We set on an extraordinary journey to the airport, followed by a thrilling flight to Lukla. The flight itself is an unforgettable adventure. The airport is at a remarkable altitude and unique geographical location. Upon arrival in Lukla, our porters will be waiting to assist with our luggage.
From Lukla, our trek starts as we make our way towards Phakding. We will have a glance at the awe-inspiring views of Kusum Kangraru. Along the way, we pass through the National Luminary Pasang Lhamu Memorial Gate. The authorities there register our information. We will cross through several suspension bridges. Most of the way we will trek alongside the Dudh Koshi River. The name, Dudh Koshi translates to "Milk Water". You will find out why. Along the way, we will take short breaks for refreshments. We will reach Phakding in about 4 hrs. We will have dinner at a local lodge and stay there overnight.
Note: During the peak seasons, the flight to Lukla may be overcrowded. We have the option to drive to Rammechhap and fly to Lukla from there as well.
We kickstart our day in Phakding with an early wake-up call. After a delicious breakfast, we hand over our luggage to our dedicated porters. Then we will set out on the trail to the famous town of Namche Bazaar. We will trek through the beautiful Sagarmatha National Park. We will make a stop at Monjo for the necessary permits to enter the park.
The initial leg of our journey consists of a gentle downhill descent. The path leads us through a landscape full of blooming rhododendrons. (It depends on the season you decide to trek). After reaching Jorshalle, we pause for a well-deserved lunch. Then we will start our ascent through the lush woods of Himalayan pine and cedar.
As we cross a prominent suspension bridge, we may catch our first glimpse of the majestic Mt. Everest. We will continue onward to Namche where we will encounter more suspension bridges. The Hillary Bridge there is one of the highest and largest bridges in the entire Khumbu region. Our path follows the gentle flow of the Dudh Koshi River. The river will guide us to the renowned settlement of Namche Bazaar. The whole journey today will take about 6-7 hrs.
After arriving at Namche Bazaar, we will head to our lodge. We will have dinner and head to bed afterward.
During our stay in Namche, we have the opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude, explore the bustling local markets, and bond with our fellow colleagues. As we venture out for short hikes, we are treated to tantalizing glimpses of Everest and other awe-inspiring peaks, a testament to the indescribable beauty of this region.
Throughout our stay at the guesthouse in Namche, we are provided with hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and nourishing suppers, ensuring that we have the sustenance we need to fuel our adventure and make the most of our time in this enchanting place.
Following a satisfying breakfast, we'll prepare ourselves for the day's adventure. Our journey promises delightful moments as we navigate through gentle slopes. We will enjoy the stunning vistas of Ama Dablam. Also, we will see some glimpses of the majestic Everest. We'll come across a striking suspension bridge, marking the entrance to Phunki Thangka. We'll pause there for a well-deserved lunch. During this phase of our trek, we'll encounter notable stupas of significant importance. After some time, we'll reach a place called Kyangjuma. It is a crucial junction where the paths to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Ri diverge. We will then follow a consistent and straightforward trail. The path descends into the Dudh Koshi Valley at Pungki Thanka. From there, we'll ascend the right slope of the Dudh Kosi Valley. After 5 hours of trekking downhill and uphill, we will reach Tengboche. As evening approaches, the Tengboche Monastery will open. We will get a chance to witness a captivating ritual. We'll head to our lodge for dinner and a well-deserved night's rest.
We will start our journey to Pangboche after having breakfast. We will trek for 2-3 hours until we reach the beautiful Pangboche Village. We can enjoy beautiful views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, and Amadablam. We will rest for the day and prepare for our trek to the base camp tomorrow. We will stay overnight at a lodge.
Today we head on our journey to Ama Dablam Base Camp. The trail is about 4.7 km and will roughly take us about 3 hours. We will be trekking uphill and will start to experience thinning air. Ama Dablam is one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Today onwards we will be staying overnight in tents. For the rest of the day, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We will also prepare for our journey ahead. Our guides will provide training on fixed lines and traversing. They will also explain the different techniques we will use in our climbing.
We will reserve a period of 10 days for climbing Ama Dablam. We will use the standard climbing course: Southwest edge with average plans of 3 high camps: Camp one (5600m), Camp two (5900m), and Camp three (6200m). Our team leader will take key decisions on whether to ascend on a particular day or not. We will set up camps and enjoy packaged meals throughout the climbing days. The climb from the base camp to the camp 1 involves navigating moraines. We will also ascend a rocky boulder slope. The installation of the fixed line usually begins after reaching Camp 1. After Camp 1, the climb is more technical. We will then ascend to Camp 2, situated atop the Yellow Tower. The first obstacle is a vertical granite climb of 60-70 feet at an elevation of 20,000 feet. The mushroom ridge extending from Camp 2 to Camp 3 is considered quite difficult. We will only establish Camp 3 after the guide leader ensures it is safe to do so. From Camp 3, we will head to the summit, which involves an exposed climb on 55-65 degree slopes. After we summit we will gradually descend, taking several days. The descent is difficult, especially on tired legs, and requires careful focus. After we reach base camp, we will take a day to rest and recuperate for our journey back.
As we complete our summit expedition, it's time to head back. We will descend towards Pangboche after having breakfast. We will take a final look at the beautiful Khumbu village and head towards Tengboche. We will reach Tengboche in about 6 hours from the base camp. At Tengboche, we can choose to indulge in various dishes and celebrate our journey.
After breakfast in Tengboche, we'll return to Namche Bazaar for lunch and any last-minute shopping. Then we will hike down to Monjo. We will be walking steeply down along the Dudh Kosi River. We will cross the river and follow it to Jorsale, and then continue crossing the river a few more times to Monjo. We will have dinner and stay there overnight.
We will start the concluding day of the trek after having breakfast in Monjo. We will follow the course along the Dudh Kosi river towards Lukla. The trek ends at the Pasang Lhamu Memorial Gate, marking the conclusion of the expedition. The majority of the route is a gentle downhill slope. But, the final stretch of the trail involves an uphill climb. Upon reaching Lukla, we can explore the array of shops, bars, and cafes. We will have ample opportunities to reflect on our expedition. In the evening, we savor a delicious dinner in the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas alongside our supportive and hardworking crew. A restful overnight stay awaits us in Lukla.
With the rising sun, a sense of happiness and fulfillment takes over as we begin our journey from Lukla to Kathmandu. However, we are mindful of the fact that flights from Lukla are often delayed or canceled due to unpredictable weather conditions. Therefore, we must set off early in the morning, as flights usually depart in the morning to avoid inclement weather in the afternoon.
Once we arrive in Kathmandu and settle into our accommodation, we have the rest of the day to ourselves. We could choose to head on a short excursion to explore UNESCO historical sites. Alternatively, we could opt for a leisurely day of relaxation at our hotel. At night, we retire to our hotel in Kathmandu, reflecting on the incredible journey we have undertaken and cherishing the memories we have made.
After a strenuous period of climbing and trekking, it's important to take a break and give your body some much-needed rest. This is where a rest day comes in, allowing you to recuperate before continuing your journey. If you find yourself in need of some pampering, why not indulge in a relaxing massage to help soothe your aching muscles? Alternatively, you could take a leisurely stroll around Thamel, which is known for its bustling markets and array of shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and other local treasures.
Another benefit of having a rest day is that it can also serve as a contingency day in case of any unforeseen circumstances, such as flight cancellations or delays due to inclement weather. This can be especially important if you're planning to catch a flight back to Kathmandu, as it can help you avoid any unnecessary stress or complications.
It's time to say farewell to Nepal after completing the Ama Dablam Expedition. You'll be driven to the international airport three hours before your planned international flight to your next location. We hope that we have provided you with unforgettable adventures in the Everest Himalayas. If you so wish you can extend your stay in Nepal as well to tour the numerous interesting locations that Nepal has to offer. We hope you keep the time we spent together cherished in your memory and suggest it to your friends and family for their Nepal trekking vacation.
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During your expedition, our team of exceptional guides and Sherpas will accompany you, ensuring your journey is not only joyful but also memorable. These guides are not only well-trained and licensed, but they have also spent years trekking and climbing peaks, honing their expertise and knowledge of the terrain. To lighten your load and enhance your trekking and climbing experience, our dedicated porters will carry the majority of your luggage. We maintain a porter-to-guest ratio of two people per porter, ensuring that combined luggage does not exceed 18 kg. If desired, we can also arrange for one porter per person, providing you with maximum comfort and convenience.
Our crew members hail from the high Himalayas, and their deep connection to the region equips them with exceptional endurance and adaptability to high altitudes. We prioritize the well-being of our staff, and as such, they are well-paid and receive comprehensive benefits including insurance, appropriate clothing, nutritious meals, and comfortable lodging throughout the expedition or trek.
Ama Dablam expedition is graded at TD / 5 in difficulty. This expedition involves steep vertical mixed climbing on rock, ice, and snow. You must be in excellent physical and mental condition to tackle this climb. With proper preparation and guidance from our team, you can achieve your dream of climbing Ama Dablam. The vertical ascent of this mountain will be one of the toughest climbs you have ever attempted. However, the beauty and experience of reaching the summit make it all worth it.
The journey from Camp 1 to Camp 2 poses some of the most demanding technical sections of the expedition. Climbing to the peak of Yellow Tower requires a vertical ascent at a 90-degree angle. This portion of the route is graded between 4.11 to 5.7 - 5.10 in rock climbing terms.
This segment of the route is not suitable for those with a faint heart, as it necessitates a careful climb and scramble on the steep rocky surface of the mountain before reaching an exposed knife-edge ridge. Traverse the ridge cautiously, as it features 600-meter drops on both sides, before continuing your ascent towards Camp 3.
Every day promises a new trekking adventure, allowing you to enjoy stunning scenery and local villages. Our experienced Sherpas and dedicated porters ensure your comfort throughout the expedition.
The day starts with breakfast around 7 AM to 8 AM, followed by a journey into picturesque landscapes lasting three to four hours. After a delicious lunch and an hour of rest, the afternoon walk is shorter, about two to three hours. Upon reaching your accommodation, settle in, enjoy snacks, and explore the surroundings.
Dinner is served between 6 PM to 7 PM, providing a chance for satisfying meals and conversations with fellow trekkers. Our guide briefs you on the next day's plan. In the evening, engage in onboard games, watch documentaries, or relax with some quiet reading, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Throughout the challenging climbing days, our team goes the extra mile to ensure your well-being and nourishment. A chef is part of our expedition, meticulously preparing three packaged meals for you—covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These meals are designed to provide the energy and nutrients essential for the demands of climbing. As the day concludes, our team takes care of the tent setup, ensuring a comfortable and secure place for you to rest. The nights are spent under the stars, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the climbing terrain.
For Ama Dablam, climbers must be well-versed in high-altitude and alpine-style climbing techniques. They should be proficient in scrambling, traversing, and navigating steep icy terrain. You must be comfortable using ropes, ice axes, crampons, and jumars. Although ropes are fixed to the summit, you need to be able to climb steep rock and hard water ice, carrying a big pack. Previous high-altitude mountaineering experience is a must and you must be capable of climbing alpine AD routes.
Climbing Ama Dablam requires a fitness level of 5. One should have the capacity to adapt to and acclimate in a high-altitude environment. Also, high endurance, strength, and mental resilience are necessary. Throughout the expedition, you have to endure prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Participants must also be ready for the high level of physical strain. They should train by carrying loads ranging from 8 to 12 kilograms over several days. Also, you should train for a high level of endurance and strength before the expedition. Running, lifting weights and HIIT(High Intensity Interval Training) should be incorporated into your routine.
Before leaving for the Base Camp, we will be a part of a Buddhist Puja Ceremony. The ceremony is for the safety and success of the climbing team. We will pray to the gods and the mountains for the safe passage up to the mountain. The local lama and Sherpas will hang Buddhist prayer flags and offer food. They also light sweet incense as per customs.
The altitude of Mt.Ama Dablam is 6,812m; thus, acclimatization is a crucial part of the journey. We will be ascending from the base camp to Camp 1 (5800m) and descending back to the base camp for a couple of days. This helps a great deal for our body’s acclimatization to the altitude. Our guides and team leader will monitor every aspect of our health and determine that we are ready for the next step, we will climb to Camp 1 and set our tents there. We will use the same process for our ascent up to Camp 2 (6200M). We will climb to Camp 2 and descend back to Camp 1 on our first day. We may even descend to Ama Dablam base camp if our team leader considers it necessary. Then we head back to Camp 1 and climb to Camp 2 and set our tents there after a couple of days of ascending and descending. Our journey from Camp 2 to the Summit of Ama Dablam can be covered in one day, or we may have to set Camp 3 depending on the weather and health conditions. We will keep a contingency day on Camp 2. With favorable conditions, our goal is to ascend to the Summit from Camp 2 and descend back to Camp 2. The next day we will head to Camp 1 and finally back to Ama Dablam base camp. This kind of ascending and descending will be crucial for our acclimatization needs.
We will successfully climb to the summit of Ama Dablam after days of ascending and descending from Camp 1, Camp 2, and Base Camp. The Summit of Ama Dablam is a broad plateau. It's an amazing feat to undertake and the achievement of a lifetime. On a clear day Mt. Everest, Lhotse Shar, Baruntse, Makalu, Cholatse, Taboche, and surrounding Himalayan peaks are visible.
For the Ama Dablam Expedition, we suggest you only bring the necessary items. We will have a porter for every two people and the luggage weight limit is 9 kg. However, if your weight exceeds the limit we can assign one more porter for an extra charge. You will have to carry all the required climbing gear, sleeping bags, upper and lower bodywear, personal accessories, medical needs, and important documents. Our team will carry the tents and cooking equipment. They will also carry medical gadgets and communication devices.
Insurance and helicopter evacuation are crucial considerations for participants in the Ama Dablam expedition. Despite thorough preparation, unforeseen circumstances can arise, such as sudden illness or unexpected incidents. While we do not wish for such events, being adequately insured is a prudent measure. It is strongly recommended to obtain insurance coverage. We will help you for your insurance accordingly.
In the Everest region, helicopter evacuation serves as the ultimate emergency option. Including this in your insurance is vital, as it is the sole mode of transportation available in the area. Our experienced guides will assess your condition and determine the severity of the situation. If it is manageable, they will use their expertise to motivate and support you throughout the expedition. However, in case of a serious emergency, helicopter evacuation may become necessary.
Tipping is a gesture of appreciation and gratitude for the good service provided during your trek with us. At Accessible Adventure, we leave the decision of tipping entirely to your discretion, as we believe it should be based on your evaluation of the service quality received.
In Nepali culture, tipping is considered a respected and honored way to say thank you (Dhanyabad) for exceptional service. It is customary for most of our guests to offer tips on the last day of the trek as a token of their appreciation. However, the amount you choose to tip is entirely up to you and should reflect your perception of the service quality, the length of the trip, your budget, and your overall satisfaction with the work of our team.
Upon finishing the expedition, you might consider extending your stay by a few days to explore the captivating and thrilling destinations Nepal has to offer. There is an abundance of scenic and adventurous places waiting to be discovered. You can utilize your extra time in a variety of ways, including engaging in sightseeing activities in Kathmandu, embarking on a Nagarkot View Trip, experiencing the excitement of a Chitwan Jungle safari, indulging in thrilling paragliding adventures, and enjoying the exhilaration of rafting and canoeing before your return flight.
Ama Dablam is most suitable for climbing during three distinct seasons.
Spring (Mid-April to May): During this season, there are minimal climbers, mainly because major expedition companies are primarily focused on the Everest expedition. For climbers seeking a less crowded route, spring is recommended.
Autumn (September to November): This season attracts a considerable number of climbers, particularly from mid-October to the end of November, making it a popular time for ascents.
Early Winter (December to January): Winter climbs are ideal for those seeking an extra challenging experience. This period offers fewer climbers and quieter trails compared to the bustling Everest routes. As winter officially begins on December 21st, climbers should be prepared for crisp cold conditions and unexpected gusts of wind.
The permits required for the Ama Dablam Expedition are as follows:
Climbing Permit: A climbing permit from the Nepalese government is a primary requirement for attempting Ama Dablam. This permit is usually obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
Foreigners (USD): Spring:400, Autumn: 400, Winter/Summer: 200
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: Ama Dablam is located within the Sagarmatha National Park, and thus, climbers need to obtain a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. This permit can be obtained in Kathmandu or Monjo, the entrance gate of the park.
Khumbu Rural Municipality Fee: Climbers may be required to pay a fee to the Khumbu Rural Municipality, which manages the local area around Ama Dablam.
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): While not always required for climbing permits, a TIMS card may be necessary depending on the route taken and the local regulations in place.
Check the list below for the full equipment and gear needed for the trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp and Summit Climbing:
Climbing and Safety Gear: Helmet, Alpine Ice Axe: 65-70cm, Mountaineering Harness with Adjustable leg loops, Carabiners: 3 locking and 6 regular, Rappel Device: ATC or Figure 8, Trekking Poles: 1 or 2, Ascenders.
Footwear: Mountaineering Boots (Suitable for above 6000m), Hiking Shoes with ankle protection, Gaiters, Thermal Mountaineering Socks (6 pairs), Liner Socks (3 pairs), Flip Flops/Slippers
Body Layers: Merino Base Layers (2 sets - top/bottom), Mid-Layer Top (Breathable underwear), Lightweight Nylon Pants (1 pair), Hooded Soft Shell Jacket, Soft Shell Guide Pants (Gore-tex and breathable), Hooded Hard Shell (Gore-tex and breathable), Hard Shell Pants (Gore-tex and breathable), Insulated Down Jacket with Hood (North Face Himalayan parka or equivalent), Insulated Synthetic Pants (For climbing below Camp 2), Long Johns (2 pairs), Hiking Shorts
Headgear and Handwear: Wool Hat (Ski Hat), Sunhat, Buff, Under Helmet Balaclava, Glacier Glasses (Full protection), Ski Goggles (For summit day), Lightweight Synthetic Liner Gloves (2 pairs), Softshell Gloves, Shell Gloves with Insulated Liner, Expedition Mitts
Equipment & Personal Gear: Expedition Backpack (65L), Trekking Backpack (25-35L), Sleeping Bag (Rated -20 to -40°F), Compression Stuff Sacks (3 large), High-Quality Sleeping Pad (1 for base camp, 1 for high camps), Closed-Cell Foam Pad, Trekking Poles with Snow Baskets, Cup, Bowl, Spoon, Head Torch (1 normal, 1 with remote battery for climbing at night), Multisport Watch with Altimeter & GPS Navigation, Sunscreen (SPF 50 or above), Lip Balm with Sunblock, Water Bottles (2 wide-mouth bottles - 1L each), Water Bottle Parkas (2 fully insulated), Thermos (1 liter), Pee Bottle (1-liter minimum), Toiletry Bag (Includes toilet paper, hand sanitizer, small towel), Hand Warmers & Toe Warmers, Penknife or Multi-Tool (Optional), Camera (Extra batteries and memory cards), Personal Solar Charging System (Optional), Travel Clothes, Duffel Bags (2 with locks), Base Camp Extras (Kindle, iPad, smartphone, etc.), Snack Food (Climbing snacks - bars, gels, nuts, jerky), Small Personal First Aid Kit, Medications and Prescriptions (Antibiotics, altitude medicine - Diamox, dexamethasone).
Communication is essential during the trek, and at Accessible Adventure, we ensure that you stay connected and feel supported throughout your journey. Here's how we facilitate communication:
Trek Leader Communication: The dedicated team at the Accessible Adventure office will maintain regular communication with all our valuable clients. Our experienced trek leader will connect with the office at least once a day using platforms such as Signal, WhatsApp, phone calls, Messenger, and more. This ensures that we can keep track of your well-being, safety, and overall experience. Feel free to share any concerns or questions with our trek leader, who will promptly address them.
Phone Communication: As you ascend to higher altitudes, communication primarily relies on phone networks. While the signals may not be very strong at high altitudes, our trek leader will use their phone to maintain contact with the Accessible Adventure office and relay important information. Our team is committed to ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the trek.
Local SIM Cards: To enhance communication capabilities, you have the option to purchase a local SIM card in Kathmandu. This enables you to have a reliable mobile network connection during your trek, provided there is coverage in the areas you pass through. Our team can assist you in obtaining a local SIM card and guide you on the best options available.
Wi-Fi Connection at Lodges: Generally, Wi-Fi connections are available at the lodges or hotels where you will be staying along the trekking route. Please note that these services may come at an extra cost. Wi-Fi accessibility can vary, and the strength of the connection may be limited at higher altitudes. However, in most cases, you will have the opportunity to connect and communicate with your loved ones.
Accessible Adventure understands the importance of staying connected and feeling supported during your trek. We strive to provide reliable communication options, enabling you to share your experiences, seek assistance if needed, and ensure your peace of mind throughout this incredible journey.
Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, you can get a Nepalese visa. You'll need a passport valid for at least six months and a passport-sized photo. The current fee for a 30-day visa is USD 50. You have to pay the visa fees in cash. Individuals from China and SAARC countries are exempt from visa fees.
Note:: It is best if you complete the online application form before you travel to Nepal. After you print it, you will also receive the exact documents. You will submit those documents for the Visa On Arrival application. You can visit http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np for the online application.
The Ama Dablam Expedition is a surreal experience. You will be climbing one of the most beautiful shaped mountains in the entire world. The journey up to the base camp itself is full of rich cultural experiences. The views of the mountains throughout the trek and the 360 panoramic views from the summit are extraordinary. The expedition is a physical and mental challenge for high-caliber climbers. It's an all-in-one rich experience package. You will have memories lasting your lifetime on this journey.
Climbing Ama Dablam is more technical than Everest. It involves steep vertical mixed climbing on rock, ice, and snow. You will need seasoned climbing experience and equipment proficiency. However, the altitude of the Ama Dablam is significantly lower than that of Everest. So acclimatization demands are lower compared to Everest. In terms of beauty, one is considered one of the most beautiful among the Asian mountains and another is the highest mountain in the world.
Spring (Mid-April-May) and Autumn(September - November) are the best times to climb Mt.Ama Dablam. The weather during this time is quite stable and the views are extraordinary due to clear skies. The temperature is warm as well. During spring trekking companies put a lot of emphasis on Everest treks. So the base camp trails are quite crowded but the climbing trails are quieter. Meanwhile, Autumn attracts a lot of climbers. You can expect a lot of teams climbing from mid-October - November end.
If you are someone who likes a daring adventure and quiet trail, winter(December - January) can be an option as well.
According to the Alpine Grading system, Ama Dablam is TD(Very Difficult). TD mountains are very technical and involve long distances and remote locations. They have hard multi-pitch climbing sections. Also, we have to take into account hazards like bad weather. Extreme cold weather and strong winds are on the menu. The routes have no protection at all.
Also, Ama Dablam is graded 5 on the fitness scale. Climbers are required to have exceptional levels of fitness with the ability to cope and resist at higher altitudes. Endurance, strength, Cardiovascular Fitness, and Mental toughness must be high. Also previous climbing experience is a must.
We will have a porter for every two people on the expedition. The luggage weight limit is 9 kg. Our porter will carry your trekking and duffle bags. You will only carry a backpack for your items.
For climbing we will need the following gear:
During the climb, you will need high-quality trekking boots( Eg: Kailas Everest 8000M, La Sportiva Olympus Mons Cube, Scarpa 8000 phantom, Millet Everest summit GTX) with crampons. You will also need well-insulated socks and gaiters as well.
The weather during the Ama Dablam Climb will depend on the time of the year. In spring and autumn, the weather is usually great but we can never be so sure. The weather in the mountains keeps changing and we have to move accordingly. Our trusted guides will be monitoring the changes and patterns in the weather for a successful climb.
In Kathmandu, you can buy all the equipment you need for the expedition in Thamel. You also have the option to rent them as well.
Our climbing journey will take about 2 weeks and the trekking journey will take a week. Also, we have to travel back and forth to Kathmandu.
The age limit for Ama Dablam is a minimum of 16. The upper age limit is not specified.
For Ama Dablam Expedition, you need to have the following permits;
You will require money for meals in Kathmandu, travel insurance, visa process, tips (trekking crew), gifts, and souvenirs. We highly suggest you exchange the money to Nepali Rupees. You may need 10-20 USD per day during the trek.
You may need to take anti-altitude sickness pills( Diamox or Acetazolamide) during the climb. Yes, a first aid kit is very much required. We never know what medical situations may arise, so we must always be prepared.
For the Ama Dablam Expedition, you need to have a high level of physical fitness and technical climbing skills.
Experience- Completed a minimum of 3 Day Mount Rainier or Mount Baker Climb and should have climbed peaks below 6400m before.
Climbing gears- Proper knowledge of using climbing gears like crampons, ice axes, etc. before going for a climb.
Mental Ability- Must be mentally prepared to deal with strenuous situations at high altitudes.
No, Oxygen will not be required unless in some emergency cases. Bottled oxygen is only used over 8000m.
A private trip for Ama Dablam is possible. You can contact our team at Accessible Adventure and we can tailor the trip accordingly.
Most teahouses in the lower altitude regions will have WIFI service for a certain cost. However, as we start moving up we will have to rely on mobile data. You can buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu.
Ama Dablam is graded TD/5 so it is a difficult mountain. With its relatively low altitude for the Himalayas, some people underestimate the difficulty. However, the challenges presented by the rock and ice climbing plus the altitude creates a serious challenge
We have experience of 10 years in the field of trekking and expeditions. We have a highly connected network so we can minimize the cost.
The lodges are cozy, basic shelters that provide food and a warm bed. They are usually family-run and offer a unique cultural experience. They are a safe, friendly space for trekkers to rest, eat, and interact with other travelers.
Climbing Ama Dablam is more technical than Everest. However, the altitude of Ama Dablam is significantly less than that of Everest.
There are eight different routes that lead up to the summit of Ama Dablam. However, the Southwest Ridge Route is the most popular and easiest one. The rest of the routes are generally taken only by professional mountaineers.
