The Ama Dablam Expedition offers climbers a thrilling ascent of one of the most iconic peaks in the Himalayas. Known as the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas," Ama Dablam (6,812m/22,349ft) is renowned for its distinctive shape and technical challenges. This 25-day expedition not only takes climbers on an exhilarating climb but also immerses them in the rich culture of the Khumbu region.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
- Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Meet the team and transfer to your 5-star hotel in Thamel.
- Explore Thamel, a lively tourist hub filled with trekking shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Overnight at a 5-star hotel in twin-sharing accommodation.
Day 2: Kathmandu – Cultural Exploration & Preparation
- Guided sightseeing tour to key sites: Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square, showcasing Nepal’s rich history and culture.
- Afternoon briefing to review the expedition itinerary, safety guidelines, and equipment.
- Overnight in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,840m / 9,318ft) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m / 8,563ft)
- Early morning scenic flight to Lukla, known as the gateway to the Everest region.
- Begin trekking, passing Sherpa villages and lush forests, crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
- Overnight in a tea house in Phakding.
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft)
- Ascend through pine forests, crossing the Hillary Suspension Bridge.
- Arrive at Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa town, with views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.
- Overnight in a tea house in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
- Acclimatization hike to the Everest View Hotel or visit the Sherpa Culture Museum.
- Explore Namche Bazaar’s shops, cafes, and local markets.
- Overnight in a tea house in Namche Bazaar.
Day 6: Trek to Debuche (3,700m / 12,139ft) via Tengboche Monastery
- Trek through forests to Tengboche, known for its famous monastery and views of Ama Dablam.
- After exploring Tengboche Monastery, descend slightly to Debuche.
- Overnight in a tea house in Debuche.
Day 7: Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,570m / 14,993ft)
- Continue through the Khumbu Valley, passing through Pangboche village.
- Reach Ama Dablam Base Camp and settle into your tent, surrounded by stunning views of the Southwest Ridge.
- Overnight in expedition tents at Base Camp.
Day 8: Rest and Acclimatization at Base Camp
- Acclimatization hikes and rest to allow for adjustment to the altitude.
- Equipment checks and discussions on climbing techniques and safety procedures.
- Overnight in expedition tents at Base Camp.
Day 9: Training Day at Base Camp
- Practice essential climbing skills: ascending and descending fixed ropes, using ice axes, crampons, and ropes.
- Review technical skills with Sherpa guides to prepare for the upcoming ascent.
- Overnight in expedition tents at Base Camp.
Day 10: Climb to Camp 1 (5,700m / 18,701ft)
- Start the climb up Ama Dablam’s Southwest Ridge, navigating rocky and snowy terrain.
- Use fixed ropes to reach Camp 1, located on a rocky outcrop with spectacular views.
- Overnight in mountaineering tents at Camp 1.
Day 11: Climb to Camp 2 (5,950m / 19,521ft) and Return to Camp 1
- Climb through steep sections, including the Yellow Tower, to reach Camp 2.
- After reaching Camp 2, descend to Camp 1 to aid acclimatization.
- Overnight in mountaineering tents at Camp 1.
Day 12: Descend to Base Camp
- Carefully descend back to Base Camp to rest and recover.
- Time for relaxation, rehydration, and review of the climb with the team.
- Overnight in expedition tents at Base Camp.
Days 13-14: Rest Days at Base Camp
- Rest days allow for physical recovery and mental preparation for the summit push.
- Enjoy Base Camp’s scenic surroundings and camaraderie with the team.
- Overnight in expedition tents at Base Camp.
Day 15: Climb to Camp 2
- Ascend to Camp 2, this time staying overnight to further acclimate for the summit.
- Review final preparations and gear with Sherpa guides.
- Overnight in mountaineering tents at Camp 2.
Day 16: Summit Day – Ama Dablam (6,812m / 22,349ft) and Return to Camp 1
- Early morning summit push, navigating sections like the Grey Tower and Dablam Glacier.
- Reach the summit, enjoying panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks.
- After summit success, descend carefully back to Camp 1.
- Overnight in mountaineering tents at Camp 1.
Day 17: Descend to Base Camp
- Return to Base Camp, where you’ll celebrate your achievement with the team.
- Time to rest, reflect, and share stories of the summit.
- Overnight in expedition tents at Base Camp.
Days 18-20: Contingency Days
- Extra days for potential delays due to weather or acclimatization needs.
- Use any remaining time to rest and explore Base Camp surroundings.
Day 21: Trek to Namche Bazaar
- Begin your descent through familiar landscapes, returning to Namche Bazaar.
- Overnight in a tea house in Namche Bazaar.
Day 22: Trek to Lukla
- Continue trekking down to Lukla, enjoying the final views of the Khumbu region.
- Farewell celebration with the team.
- Overnight in a tea house in Lukla.
Day 23: Fly Back to Kathmandu
- Early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
- Transfer to your 5-star hotel, where you can unwind after the adventure.
- Enjoy an optional celebratory dinner with the team.
- Overnight at a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 24: Rest Day in Kathmandu
- Free day to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore Kathmandu’s markets and historic sites.
- Overnight in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 25: Departure from Kathmandu
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of Ama Dablam and the Himalayas.