Ama Dablam Expedition

Ama Dablam Expedition

Ama Dablam is one of the worlds most iconic and stunning peaks, soaring above the Dudh Kosi River Valley en route to Everest Base Camp.

Overview

Ama Dablam is one of the world's most iconic and stunning peaks, soaring above the Dudh Kosi River Valley en route to Everest Base Camp. Known for its striking pyramid shape, the name “Ama Dablam” means “Mother’s Necklace,” symbolizing the ridges as a mother’s arms and the hanging glacier as her sacred ornament. The peak was first climbed on 13 March 1961 by Mike Gill, Barry Bishop, Mike Ward, and Wally Romanes via the South-West Ridge — still the standard and most popular route today.

Ama Dablam is a technical climb that demands experience in steep ice, rock, and mixed alpine terrain. Climbers typically establish three high camps: Camp I (5,700 m), Camp II (6,080 m), and Camp III (6,400 m). The route from Base Camp to Camp I is steep and rocky, requiring navigation across boulders and saddle ridges. From Camp I to Camp II, fixed ropes assist on exposed

Trip Facts

Group Size

1-15 persons

Maximum Elevation

6812 meters

Location

Khumbu Region, Nepal

Route

Southwest Ridge

Grade

Mountaineering VI

Best Season

Spring & Autumn (autumn is the best)

Accommodation

Hotel and Camping

Transportation

flight and trek to base camp

Major Trip Attraction
- Iconic & Beautiful Peak

Ama Dablam (6,812m) is often called the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas" due to its dramatic shape and elegant ridges. A favorite among climbers for its beauty and technical appeal.

- Technical Alpine Climb

Climbing Ama Dablam involves steep rock, ice, and mixed terrain. You'll ascend using fixed ropes, tackle exposed ridgelines, and rappel through vertical sections ideal for experienced climbers seeking a true challenge.

- Classic Southwest Ridge Route

This world-famous route offers sustained technical climbing, with established high camps and fixed lines. Climbing involves Camp I (5,700m), Camp II (6,080m), and summit push from Camp II (Camp III is rarely used now).

- Stunning Panoramic Views

From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Baruntse, and the entire Khumbu range.

- Sherpa Culture & Khumbu Trek

The approach trek passes through legendary Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Pangboche—offering rich cultural experiences and traditional Himalayan hospitality.

- Safe & Supported Expedition

Asian Hiking Team provides full logistical support, experienced Sherpa guides, climbing permits, and safety management at base camp and high camps.

- Ideal Training for 8000m Peaks

The expedition is an excellent stepping stone for climbers preparing for peaks like Everest, Lhotse, or Makalu.

Itinerary
Day1
Arrival in Kathmandu airport, meet our staff then transfer to Hotel.
Day2
Preparation for Expedition, Group Meeting & expedition briefing, Official works for expedition and briefing by officer of Ministry of Tourism, overnight at Hotel.
Day3
Fly to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383ft) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m / 8,563ft): A scenic 35-minute flight to Lukla, followed by a 3–4 hour trek through the Dudh Koshi Valley to Phakding.
Day4
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft): Cross suspension bridges and ascend through pine forests to reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Khumbu region.
Day5
Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar: Explore the vibrant town, visit the Sherpa Museum, and hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic mountain views.
Day6
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m / 12,697ft): Descend to the Dudh Koshi River and then ascend through rhododendron forests to Tengboche, home to the renowned Tengboche Monastery.
Day7
Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m / 14,469ft): Traverse alpine landscapes and pass through Pangboche village before reaching Dingboche.
Day8
Acclimatization Day in Dingboche: Optional hike to Nagarjun Hill for acclimatization and stunning views of Makalu, Lhotse, and other peaks.
Day9
Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m / 16,207ft): Ascend past memorials dedicated to climbers and continue through the Khumbu Glacier moraine to Lobuche.
Day10
Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170m / 16,961ft) and Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft): A challenging day trekking to Gorak Shep, followed by a visit to Everest Base Camp. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Day11
Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m / 18,192ft) and Trek to Pangboche (400m): Early morning ascent to Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest, then descend to Pangboche.
Day12
Pangboche to Ama Dablam Base Camp trekking 2-4 hours, overnight at Camp (B/L/D).
Day13
Day 14 to Day 23 climbing period - rotation - summit.
Day14
Clean the base camp hot breakfast and own way trekking to Pangboche, overnight at hotel (B/L/D).
Day15
Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar: Retrace steps through Pangboche and Tengboche, enjoying different perspectives of the landscape.
Day16
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla: Final trekking day, descending through forests and villages to Lukla.
Day17
Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu: Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and rest, relax.
Day18
Day 28: Departure from Kathmandu
Route map
Inclusion
Land Transport / Domestic Air ticket
  • Pick up/Drop from International Airport to Hotel.
  • Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla both way flight.
Accommodation and Meals
  • Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast (3-star).
  • Lodge accommodation during the trek.
  • Single tent with mattress and pillow at Base Camp.
  • High altitude tents for members and Sherpas.
  • All camping equipment and furniture at Base Camp.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with hot drinks during camping/climbing.
  • High-altitude food and snacks for the climb.
Permits and Entry fees
  • Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park permit.
  • Ama Dablam Expedition Permit /Royalty.
  • Government appointed Liaison Officer expenses.
  • Local entry permits and fees.
Staffs: Guide, Sherpa, Porters
  • One high altitude Sherpa guide per member.
  • Support Sherpas for carrying loads to upper camps.
  • Porters/Yaks for baggage (50-60kg allowance per person).
  • Base Camp Manager, cook, and necessary staff.
  • Wages, meals, accommodation, and insurance for all staff.
Equipment or gear and souvenir
  • Trekking Map and Itinerary.
  • Group climbing equipment (ropes, ice screws, etc.).
  • Emergency Oxygen bottles, mask, and regulator.
  • Solar panel/generator at Base Camp for charging small electronics.
  • Rope fixing fee.
  • Company T-shirt and souvenir.
  • Expedition success certificate.
Additional features
  • Basic first aid kit carried by staff.
  • Satellite phone for emergency communication.
  • Farewell dinner with cultural program.
  • Travel & Rescue arrangement service.
Exclusion
International Air Ticket / Nepal Visa fees
  • International air ticket to/from Nepal.
  • Nepal tourist visa fees.
Additional Accommodation and Meals
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Hot drinks (tea/coffee), hot showers, and bottled water during the trek at lodges.
  • All cold drinks, alcoholic beverages, and beer.
  • Personal snacks for the trekking portion.
Personal Natural Expensive
  • Personal trekking and climbing gear (rentals available).
  • Personal solar chargers for heavy electronics.
  • Internet/Wi-Fi/Telephone costs.
  • Medical evacuation and expenses due to unforeseen circumstances.
Additional Entry fees and tip/donation
  • Entry fees for sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • Tips for guides, porters, and summit bonuses.
Additional porter or Sherpa request
  • Cost for hiring an additional porter if your baggage exceeds the 50-60kg allowance.
  • Cost for a personal Sherpa/guide if requested.
Fixed Dates
Oct 20, 2025
Nov 16, 2025
Open
28 days
Apr 18, 2026
May 15, 2026
Open
28 days
Oct 24, 2026
Nov 20, 2026
Open
28 days
2
Apr 14, 2027
May 11, 2027
N/A
28 days
Oct 12, 2027
Nov 8, 2027
Open
28 days
2
Need a custom date? Enquire us for customized package.
Essential Information
Tailored Add-ons & Options

Tailored add-ons in Nepal trips refer to customizable essentials that enhance and personalize your travel experience. Options include:

  • Customized Accommodations: Upgrade from standard lodging to luxury hotels or homestays.
  • Porter/Sherpa Service: Hire a porter to carry up to 25 kg of gear for US$22/day.
  • Helicopter Flights: Opt for helicopter transport to places like Lukla (from US$500).
  • Adventure Activities: Add paragliding (US$100), bungee jumping (US$100), or rafting (from US$30).
  • Cultural & Spiritual Journeys: Include visits to Lumbini, Pashupatinath, or local festivals.
  • Wildlife Safaris: Extend your trip with a safari in Chitwan (from US$99) or Bardia (US$299).
  • Flexible Scheduling: Adjust dates and durations to fit your needs.
Climbing Guide/Sherpa

Our guides are licensed professionals with extensive experience in mountaineering, local culture, and first aid. High-altitude Sherpas are trained and certified by the NMA, TAAN, and NATHAM. They are proficient in all technical aspects of climbing, including rope fixing, high-altitude logistics, and rescue protocols. We ensure all staff have proper insurance, health protection, and equipment.

Mountaineering Grade

Mountaineering grades classify the difficulty of a climb based on factors like length, altitude, technicality, and commitment. Ama Dablam is graded as Mountaineering VI, indicating a very difficult, long, serious, and highly technical climb over thousands of vertical feet with high commitment and few bivouac sites.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation:

  • Hotel/Lodge (Trekking): Twin-sharing rooms with basic amenities. Shared toilets are common, and hot showers may cost extra.
  • Tented Camping (Climbing): Single or two-person tents are provided at Base Camp and higher camps, along with dining, kitchen, and toilet tents.

Meals: Our cooks prepare a mix of Nepali and international cuisine.

  • Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, pancakes, Tibetan bread, muesli, tea/coffee.
  • Lunch: Dal Bhat, noodles, pasta, momos, sandwiches, soup.
  • Dinner: Dal Bhat, curries, Thukpa, pizza, pasta, fried rice.
  • Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and chocolate are recommended for climbing.
Climate & Trekking Seasons in Nepal

Nepal has five main seasons, but the best times for trekking and climbing are Autumn and Spring.

  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Best season. Clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain views. Warm days and cold nights.
  • Spring (Mar-May): Second best season. Warmer weather, blooming rhododendrons. Can be hazy at lower elevations.
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold and snowy. High passes are often closed. Suitable for lower-altitude treks.
  • Monsoon (Jun-Aug): Rainy and challenging. Best for treks in rain-shadow areas like Upper Mustang.
Mountaineering Royalty & Rules

Climbing in Nepal requires a government-issued permit. The royalty fee for Ama Dablam for foreign climbers is:

  • Spring Season: US$ 1,000
  • Autumn Season: US$ 1,000
  • Winter/Summer Season: US$ 500

Additionally, a rubbish management deposit of US$ 2,000 is required, which is refundable upon proper disposal of waste. All staff must have mandatory insurance coverage for medical emergencies and rescue.

Transportation

We use a combination of transport modes:

  • Air: Domestic flights (e.g., Kathmandu to Lukla) and helicopter services for scenic or emergency transport.
  • Road: Private vehicles (cars, vans, jeeps) and tourist buses for travel between cities and to trek start points.
  • Traditional: Porters and yaks are used to transport gear in mountain regions.
Trekker Health & Safety Guidelines

Health and safety are paramount.

  • Altitude Sickness (AMS): Prevent by ascending slowly, staying hydrated (4-5 liters/day), and acclimatizing properly. Know the symptoms (headache, nausea) and descend if they become severe.
  • Food & Water: Drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water. Eat well-cooked meals.
  • Foot Care: Use well-fitted boots and address hotspots immediately to prevent blisters.
  • First Aid: Our guides carry first aid kits, but you should bring personal medications.
Phone/Internet Service

NTC and Ncell SIM cards offer good coverage in the Khumbu region, though service can be spotty at high altitudes. Everest Link Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses and lodges for a fee. For emergencies, our guides carry a satellite phone.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this expedition. Your policy must cover:

  • Emergency Air Ambulance/Helicopter Rescue
  • Medical Expenses
  • Trip Cancellation and Interruption You must provide proof of insurance before the trip begins.
Responsible Tourism Policy

We are committed to responsible tourism. Our policies include:

  • Environmental: Minimizing waste, using gas for cooking, and leaving no trace.
  • Cultural: Respecting local customs, asking permission for photos, and supporting local economies.
  • Community: Donating a portion of profits to community projects and ensuring fair treatment and wages for all staff and porters.
Checklist

Ice Axe/Ice Hammer : Bring a lightweight axe with a pick that will stick easily in hard glacier ice. Attach a light weight wrist leash that is usable for climbing steeper terrain.

Crampons : These must be sharp and must fit your boot perfectly.

Harness : Make sure the buckle is easy for you to thread in cold conditions! Gear loops will be useful for this trip as well as adjustable leg loops.

Helmet : Be sure you can comfortably fit a warm hat underneath.

Hardware : Bring 3 locking and 4 lightweight regular carabineers. It is helpful if at least one of the locking carabineers has a "key gate", like the Petzl Attaché. Bring one handled ascender and one Petzl Tibloc for ascending the fixed rope. You will need rigging material--two sewn 48" nylon slings and 10' of 8 mm perlon should be sufficient. Also include one small 5 mm prussik loop (about 4 feet of cord tied with a double fisherman's knot) for a rappel backup. For rappelling the Black Diamond ATC Guide is good since it can handle ropes from 7.7mm to 11mm. A Figure 8 is an old standby and works on a variety of ropes and also icy ropes.

Insulated Parka/Expedition Suit : Heavyweight insulated expedition Suit/parka with hood.

Jacket : Lightweight waterproof-breathable construction with a hood.

Pants : Lightweight waterproof-breathable shell pants or bibs with full-length leg zippers. ALSO, very useful are synthetic insulation full-zip pants, for example, Mountain Hardware Compressor Pants--for evenings and cold summit days.

Mid-Layers : Fleece or Soft Shell layering pieces that work well with the rest of your clothing. A Soft Shell jacket and an expedition weight long john top will work well.

Climbing Pants : Look for construction that provides freedom of movement and/or stretch materials. Fabric should be a breathable synthetic that preferably holds up to abrasion.

Base Layers : 2 synthetic tops and 1 bottom. Zip neck tops are the way to go.

Mittens : Fleece mittens with an over mitten. Nothing competes with a mitten for warmth when the going got tough.

Ski Gloves : A warm insulated glove with leather palm will be worn a lot of the time.

Light Gloves : Polypropylene or fleece. Leather palms handle the fixed line better, Leather gloves or good abrasion resistant climbing glove for the rock sections.

Stocking Hat : Wool or fleece stocking hat with ear protection, Neck Gaiter and/or a Buff (highly recommended), Baseball hat and Bandana.

Trekking Poles : Poles come in handy for balance and easing impact to your knees. Get collapsible poles that can attach to your backpack and fit into your Duffel.

Backpack : You may choose to bring a smaller "day pack" for your airline travel carry on, and this can be used on the trek if you want to carry a smaller (35 liter or so), light trekking pack. You need a pack big enough for your clothes, water, camera, food, etc. during the day.

Pack Cover : Waterproof rain cover for your trekking pack.

Trekking Clothes : Light hiking pants and / or hiking shorts for warm weather down low-NOT cotton. Shirts for hiking on nice days (t-shirts OK, quick-drying synthetic fabric is better.) Don't overdo your trekking clothes. A pair of shorts, long pants and a couple of shirts will do. Some pair of Socks, Underpants/panties/Bra, Belt, Skirt, one set sport sandals and Trousers, you can handwash them during the trek as needed.

Lightweight Approach Boots : Find a pair that fits and log some miles in them before your trip. A low cut shoe is adequate, but some hikers will prefer more ankle support.

Sleeping Bag : Bring a sleeping bag comfortable to -20 for trekking, however it is better to bring -30 for climbing. During the trekking in hotel/guest house -20 is fine but on the tented home you need -30. Down is lighter and much more compressible.

Double Climbing Boots : Double Climbing Boots with expedition liners. Make sure your crampons can be adjusted to fit them (La sportiva - Olympus Mons Cube).

Approach boots : Which will work on the trek and approach to Camp 1, and even up to Camp 2 if conditions warrant.

Gaiters : Gaiters and Yaktrax or Kahtoola Micro spikes in case of snow.

Socks : Four/five sets of climbing socks.

Eyewear : Bring good sunglasses with side protection. For contact lens wearers, ski goggles with light color lenses (for use at night) might be useful in windy conditions. The ski goggles are essential for all climbers in really stormy conditions and can serve as an emergency backup for broken or lost sunglasses.

Vision correction : Bring extra prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses if you wear them. Lens solutions are not widely available in Nepal, bring enough for the duration.

Wrist Watch : With alarm and night light. An altimeter watch is useful.

First Aid : Hand sanitizer (Purell), moleskin or Compede, athletic tape, aspirin (some climbers take a baby aspirin every day up high) and/or ibuprofen / acetaminophen, Imodium, Band-Aids, antacid, insect repellant, ear plugs, and two rolls of toilet paper in quart Ziploc bags (we will have a supply at Base Camp), small towel, soap/shampoo.

Prescription Medications : Antibiotic for upper respiratory problems, Antibiotic for GI problems, Diamox for acclimatization (125 mg tabs recommended; enough for a week or more), Tylenol 3 or similar for severe headaches, Asthma medication, if any history.

Skin Care : Sun block lotion (at least #30 protection factor -- have at least one smaller tube (1 oz) that can fit in your pocket) and lip salve. Put your lip protection on a string and hang it from your neck. That way, you'll use it. It also works great for your nose.

Garbage Bags : 2 or 3 large plastic bags make great liners for your pack in wet weather.

Personal Snack Food : The food is great on the trek, but you might enjoy a few snacks (not more than 5 pounds) from home and also some drink mixes if you like these to add to your water bottle (let the iodine have 30 minutes contact time before adding). Summit climbers should bring some high altitude snacks they prefer for hard days.

MP3 Player and Books : As you want to read on the way to trekking. Plan on sharing books on hotel/guest house and on sharing books with the Base Camp.

Headlamp : Bring a good LED headlamp with 2 sets of lithium batteries for cold conditions.

Water Bottles : 2 wide mouth plastic water bottles with insulated covers. A small Thermos bottle is great for cold mornings. Bring a pee bottle too.

Water purification : Iodine tablets (Potable Aqua or similar) or iodine crystals (Polar Pure). One bottle of Potable Aqua (enough to treat 25 liters) should be more than sufficient.

Utensils : Bring an insulated mug with a lid, a decent sized bowl, spoon, pocket knife and lighter.

Climbing Backpack : Medium size internal frame pack (60 liter capacity). Look for a pack which is comfortable to carry, very durable, as light as is reasonable and one which has a minimum number of bells and whistles.

Duffel Bags : We normally pack all our equipment in two large Duffel bags. Make sure they are well labeled with indelible ink as well as a travel tag. The duffels go on the trek/climb with you and will be carried by porters and yaks. Except for them to get wet and muddy, so rugged, waterproof duffels are good. Bags with wheels are nice for the airport, but the porters and yaks don't like to carry them, so don't bring wheeled bags (or at least not two of them). You will also store some travel clothes at the hotel in Kathmandu while trekking, so a small additional bag with a lock might be handy. Bring 5 large plastic garbage bags to pack gear inside duffels to protect gear from rain.

Travel Wallet : Some type of secure travel wallet is a must. Remember a pen for travel documents.

Passport : Passport (valid for at least 6 months): It is easy to get your Nepal visa on arrival in Kathmandu at the airport bring a passport photo. Bring a copy of the information pages and a couple of extra passport photographs. Carry these in a separate location. You'll be glad you did if you ever lose a passport.

Camera : with spare batteries, and film or memory cards, but keep it reasonable and weight. Consider a small USB drive to make it easy to share photos with your teammates.

Bathing Suit : Towel, Toothpaste and brush, floss, mini hairbrush, razor, soap, mini bottle of shampoo, travel mirror, nail clippers, Pie bottle etc.

Frequently Asked Questions
1) How difficult is the Ama Dablam climbing ?
2) What is the weather or best season to climb?
3) Do I need a Climbing/Expedition Permit?
4) What kind of Accommodation is available during the Climbing?
5) Where do we eat our meals and what kind of food is available?
6) What kind of transport do you use?
7) What are the sources of drinking water supply during climbing?
8) What kind of experience is required for climbing?
9) Who is my guide and what is their experience?
10) What kind of climbing equipment do I need?
11) Do I need Insurance?
12) What happens in case of emergency, communication and Rescue?
13) Is my trip departure guaranteed?
14) What is the cancellation policy?
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$6999
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Duration
28 Days
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Write review ?
Joshua Clark2023-05-20
I planned to climb Island Peak in February and Asian Hiking Team helped me a lot - I got a huge guide who has done a striking List of ascents of high mountains even in winter season. He was a real fighter when it came to resist against a hell lot of snow - yet we had to give in before reaching the High Camp. Anyway, this hasn't been the responsibility of anybody involved. I had a good time, felt safe and secure and can recommend Asian Hiking Team to anybody who looks for a adventure in Nepal. It was a long time ago when my wife and I had a lively talk about Nepal Mountains and resulting in decision to go and explore ourselves. Last year, I started to search plane tickets to Kathmandu and a company which could provide all service there. As generally, I asked Maggie for a tour in Nepal, and she found for me the Asian Hiking Team. She did trek long time before with Guide Suman, now the founder and team leader of Asian Hiking Team. Thanks again for your best recommendation. Joshua Clark USA, California

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