Everest Base Camp Trek: 7th / 8th December – An unforgettable journey in 2024! 5 space left

Ama Dablam Expedition

Trip Info

Duration

31 Days

Trek Region

Everest

Destination

Nepal

Max. Altitude

6856m

Group Size

2 - 8

Grade

Challening

Activity Per Day

5 - 7 hours

Best Season

Spring (March, April, May, June) Autumn (September, October, November).

Activity

Climbing and Expedition

Start/End Point

Kathmandu / Kathmandu

Ama Dablam 6,856 meters (22,494ft) is one of the most stunning peaks in the Himalaya and one of the most impressive mountains in the world.

It is located the heart of Everest’s Khumbu region, it lies directly above Tengboche Monastery on the well-worn path to Everest Base Camp and is admired by thousands of trekkers and climbers every year. Ama Dablam Expedition offers a superb, technical climbing experience in a magnificent setting, with numerous cultural and scenic diversions.

Like the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps, Ama Dablam epitomizes all that is grand about the mountains. It’s striking features have become a familiar figure to the public through its adoption as the logo of ‘Perpetual’, an international assurance company, and numerous posters and books throughout the world.

Such impressive beauty has made Ama Dablam a highly coveted prize for climbers. Since its first ascent in 1961 by an Anglo-American-New Zealand team, it has been climbed frequently and by many different routes.

Our route for Ama Dablam Expedition will be by the original line of ascent, the South West Ridge. This gives a fine and varied climb, sustained at a reasonable level of difficulty and with good camp platforms at strategic points. The climbing provides interest on rock, snow and ice and although of a fairly technical nature, in normal conditions it is never very difficult. Apart from one short section, the climb is objectively very safe.

If you have the necessary experience and wish to participate fully as a team member of an expertly led expedition to one of the world’s most impressive mountains, this could be the trip for you.

Experience Required for Ama Dablam Expedition 

  • With some experience on snow and ice, you must be experienced in climbing in all weather conditions.
  • You have to be able to climb on your back with an alpine bag.
  • Experience with conditions of high altitude and camping is ideal.
  • Past climbing experience of 7000-meter peak climbing highly recommended.
  • You must be in excellent physical health and have trained for this trip with a rigorous training program for at least half a year before the expedition.

For more information about fitness levels, please contact us for further discussion. This is the most important thing you can do to prepare for your expedition.

Note

The above itinerary is not a fixed program but is intended to give an indication of the likely events during the expedition. Please note that because of climbing High Mountain, it will be necessary to have a flexible plan in order to take the best advantage of situations as they present themselves. Any changes to the itinerary will be made with a view to maximizing the benefit to the team members and of ensuring their eventual success on the mountain.

Normally climbers will change their departure flights from Kathmandu when they know exactly when the expedition is going to end. We plan to stay at Base Camp for climbing as long as it takes for us to be successful.

Our Philosophy

Our aim is to safely help as many team members as possible reach their goal, and we invest in the people and equipment that will make this happen. We value our reputation as the premiere  climbing company in Himalayas and we only put programs in place that measure up to our own high standards. If you would like to join an excellent team on Ama Dablam, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your goals and qualifications and secure an exciting role for yourself on our team!

Medical Cover

All of our local leaders are trained in first aid and have a good knowledge of high altitude medical problems. The expedition will be equipped with the following:

  • A well stocked first aid and medical kit sufficient to counter any possible mountaineering ailments, from headache to serious injury.
  • Oxygen equipment for medical and emergency use only.
  • A portable hyperbaric chamber (Gamow bag)
  • Emergency communications on the mountain and satellite communications link for helicopter evacuation.

Communications

Experience has shown how important it is on mountaineering to be able to talk to every team member, at all times. If you join Himalaya Discovery for Ama Dablam expedition you will have a dedicated radio. Each Sherpa will also have his own radio, so that at all times we can keep in touch with everyone, and everyone can keep in touch with each other.

We have an extremely good working relationship with the Helicopter Rescue Service, which means that an aircraft can be in the air immediately. Base Camp is equipped with a lap top and high speed satellite connection. The satellite communications are also used to send back regular reports, every couple of days, to Himalaya Discovery office. Expedition updates are then posted on the web and / or are sent to family and friends via email.

Oxygen & Regulators

Normally climbers summit Ama Dablam without use of oxygen but we still supply them for emergency use. If you wish to use oxygen for summit day, please let us know in advance.

We will be using lightweight oxygen bottles, manufactured by Poisk. The Poisk bottles are without doubt the best available for mountaineering, as they have a proven track-record and are relatively light. The regulators are also manufactured by Poisk

Marketing

While the official name of the expedition will remain the “Himalaya Discovery Ama Dablam Expedition “, you can use another name for personal marketing purposes if it will assist you in any way. You will also be completely free to enter into personal agreements with sponsors or supporters if you choose.

Passport Photographs

Expedition members will need to provide 6 passport-size photographs for various climbing and trekking permits.

Sherpas

Sherpas are the indigenous people who were born in the Himalayas, reared in the Himalayas, involved in the occupation like climbing and mountaineering. Our Sherpa team has dozens of 8000meters summits between them. We have a legendary group of Climbing Sherpas who operate the expedition and its members in a harmonious atmosphere of cooperation and commitment. Our group of climbing Sherpas is enthusiastic, motivated and regarded as the strongest and most cohesive group of Sherpas in the Himalayas. It is indicative of the reputation that our Sherpa team has earned – that Sherpas from other expeditions enthusiastically pursue a future position with the A Himalaya Discovery Team.

Our cooking staffs are very well known for the quality of the cuisine they produce and as a consequence are coveted by other team leaders due to the reputation they have established.

Website Updates

We provide updates using our own website so regardless of whether you have your own or not your family and friends will know what is happening.

Environment

We remove all garbage from each camps, and this includes toilet waste.

Recommended tipping and Sherpa bonuses are as follow:

Allow $50-100 for general non-sherpa crew who stay at base camp.
Allow $100-200 for sherpas who go up to the base camp.
Summit climbing Sherpa US$ 200 – 500 per Sherpa.

Itinerary

Day 01- Arrive in Kathmandu.

Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport after completing your custom formalities Visa, etc. pick up your luggage and look for our airport representative from Himalaya Discovery Adventures, who will display your name on the board at the arrival gate.

You will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02- Free in Kathmandu for sightseeing and pre trip briefing and gear check.

Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport after completing your custom formalities Visa, etc. pick up your luggage and look for our airport representative from Himalaya Discovery Adventures, who will display your name on the board at the arrival gate.

You will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 03- Official formalities in Kathmandu and Final Preparation day.

Formal briefing in the Ministry of Tourism. Today, the expedition leader will also check everyone’s equipment. The last opportunity to buy anything missing, overnight at hotel.

Day 04- Flight to Tenzing and Hillary Airport in Lukla and trek to Phakding.

An early morning start takes us to (TIA) Airport in Kathmandu for the 35 minute scenic flight to Tenzing and Hillary Airport at Lukla at 2804 meters. On arrival at the airport guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakding.

After landing we have time to discover the village while our staff sort and load our trekking equipment. Then we begin our trek by descending towards the Dudh Kosi River where we join the main trail to Namche Bazaar, located just above Chaurikharka (2713 meters).

The walking is easy and after passing through the small village of Ghat (2550 meters) it is a short walk to Phakding, It is important to take these first few days slowly to enable your body to acclimatize and to enjoy the passing scenery and culture. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 05- Trek to Namche Bazaar.

We continue trekking along the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing this majestic river many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views.

Namche Bazaar known as the Gateway to Everest which is home to many quality restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, Money exchange, internet cafe and a bakery. Namche is one of the biggest villages along the whole Everest trail.

Accomodations: : Guest house

Day 06- Namche Bazaar Acclimatization day.

We will spend a day here in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning of the air. As well as a short trek where a museum is celebrating the traditional customs of the Sherpa people.

Today, we hike up the Syangboche Airport around Everest View Hotel. From this point, we can see rewarding views of the Himalayas with a stunning sunrise and sunset over the panorama of Khumbu peak.

Accomodations: : Guest house

Day 07- Trek to Tengboche.

The trek continues along the rushing glacial waters of the Dudh Kosi with magnificent views of the mountains. We trek to an altitude of 3860meters today.

On reaching Tengboche you will see the local monastery. Inside the monastery are incredibly ornate wall hangings, a 20-foot sculpture of Buddha, and the musical instruments and robes of the Lamas.

The group will be taken to observe a prayer ceremony either in the evening or morning depending on how the days trekking went.

Accomodations: : Guest house

Day 08- Trek to Pangboche.

From Tengboche, the trail drops to Debuche, crosses another exciting suspension bridge on the Imja Khola, and climbs to Pangboche amongst thousands of mani stones.

Our uphill trek continues, taking us to the quaint traditional Sherpa village of Pangboche with its exquisite views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. We take our time so we avoid getting affected by the altitude.

Accomodations: : Guest house

Day 09- Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp.

Base camp is located in an idyllic spot from which the majority of the route is visible. At an altitude of about 4,600 m, it provides a comfortable escape from the rigors of the climb. Our porters deposit their loads and leave us here for the next three weeks, with only our Sirdar, Sherpas and culinary staff remaining.

Accomodations: : Tented Camp

Day 10- Today is a rest day and acclimatization.

Training Day – Fixed Lines / Traverse / Summarizing the techniques

Accomodations: : Tented camp

Day 12-26- Climbing period of Ama Dablam.

We do not provide a prescriptive day-to-day itinerary for the climb, as this will be decided by the expedition leader and member. They will take a flexible approach based on their own experience.

Typically, the team will spend a few days at base camp organizing food, practicing rope skills and acclimatizing before moving above base camp. It is normal to ‘tag’ or spend at least one night in camp 1 (5,700 meters) as part of any acclimatization schedule, before returning to base camp, resting and preparing for a summit push.

Ama Dablam Climb via South West Ridge

After base camp 4,600meters old grassy moraine ridges are followed roughly eastwards to a broad saddle 5,150meters from where we can see the Mingbo La. From the saddle we ascend easily northwards until the ground steepens at the start of a large boulder field. It is possible to place an Advanced Base Camp at 5,400meters below the boulder field. The route continues in a northwards direction around the base of the boulder field, and then follow cairns upwards towards the toe of the SW ridge. Camp 1 should now be visible just below Pt. 5,705meters. At the end of the boulder field, slabs are crossed and then a short gully ascended, which allows access to the ridge proper in a very exposed position. Easy scrambling on the east side of the ridge leads quickly to Camp. There are four or five tent platforms.

From Camp 1 we continue our round the snowy bowl (possible alternative site for Camp 1) until below two rock fingers. The east side of the ridge is followed, climbing easy mixed ground until a short pitch of severe standard leads to the ridge proper. The ridge is narrow in places, turning difficulties on the east side, until the second tension traverse leads to two pitches of Very Severe standard. The route continues on the crest of the ridge for a short distance until we are forced via an awkward step onto the west side of the ridge. The crest of the ridge is regained and easy ground followed to the start of a traverse on the east face, which leads to the Yellow Tower. This 15meter pitch, which is just below Camp 2, is one of the hardest pitches on the climb at HVS (5.8) standard. A short section of ridge now leads to Camp Two 5,900meters. Camp Two has very limited tent space (3 or 4 tents platforms) and is extremely exposed. It is sometimes only used as an equipment dump with expeditions choosing to go from Camp I to Camp III in a single push.

From Camp Two, the climb skirts a red rock bluff on the east and after a step down, follows the snow ridge direct to an awkward traverse eastwards which leads to a gully between the Grey Tower and the lower rock buttress. We climb the gully until a very exposed traverse line is reached on the west side of the ridge. A short snow slope is ascended to the start of the Mushroom Ridge. This is followed and typically involves negotiating some steep snow sections, until Camp III 6,300meters is reached .

The route climbs the snow and ice slope directly above Camp III and to the right hand side of the Dablam. We continue to skirt the Dablam on the right side and then move westwards to gain a small snowfield below the Burgschrund. The Burgschrund is crossed and then the climb heads directly to the obvious ice crest. This is followed in a magnificent position to the summit.

Day 12- Trek back to Namche Bazar.

We descend to Namche bazar. If we are lucky, it will be market time in Namche. Regardless, there is always fabulous food to be found, including real espresso, yak steaks and chocolate cake with frosting!

This market is where lowland porters bearing supplies meet the highland Sherpa and Tibetan people who have journeyed over high passes from many miles away to trade food and supplies for their home or village. Enjoy and celebrate your expedition.

Accomodations: : Guest house

Day 13- Trek to Lukla.

Finally, we return to Lukla where the trek began, which will seem like a lifetime ago. Enjoying time to reflect on the trek as a group and the personal achievement of all those who took part. Also giving you time to explore the town.

Accomodations: : Guest house

Day 14- Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu in the morning.

Enjoying your last glimpse of the mountains you have recently visited for one last time on the 35 minute Scenic flight back to Kathmandu.

On arrival in Kathmandu we are met and transferred back to hotel.

Accomodations: : Hotel

Day 15- Free day in Kathmandu. We will arrange farewell dinner for the team.

This is also a buffer day in case our Lukla flight is delayed. If we fly out of Lukla on time we have a full day to relax and enjoy the various delights of Kathmandu.

In the evening celebrate the expedition and as a farewell party to thank the Sherpas and the team member for their support and friendship during the expedition with the hope of seeing you all again for next expedition!.

Accomodations: : Hotel

Day 16- Fly home.

This is also a buffer day in case our Lukla flight is delayed. If we fly out of Lukla on time we have a full day to relax and enjoy the various delights of Kathmandu.

In the evening celebrate the expedition and as a farewell party to thank the Sherpas and the team member for their support and friendship during the expedition with the hope of seeing you all again for next expedition!.

Day 17- Fly to home.

Today is rest and relax throughout the day or say goodbye to Nepal. Enjoy your final moments in Kathmandu with a city stroll or souvenir shopping.

Enjoy your last moments in Kathmandu with breakfast in a café, a city stroll, and/or souvenir shopping.

A representative will meet you at your hotel and drive you to the airport for your return flight home. It’s good to be at the airport at least 2 and half hours prior to departure.

Not Satisfied with the Itinerary? We can customize a personalized itinerary to suit your preferences and requirements, ensuring your trip is exactly how you envision it.

Price Includes

 

  • Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
  • 2-nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private car/van/bus.
  • Full board meal during the trek and camping at base camp, prepared by our cook with hot tea & coffee, hot milk, hot chocolate.
  • All base camp and Aavance base camp camping gears (We will provide fully water proof dining tents, kitchen gears, dining table, chairs, toilet tents, shower tent at the base camp and advance base camp)
  • High quality tents for all camps.
  • Insurance for all Nepali staff and porters including helicopter rescue provision.
  • Boiled and purify drinking water for the trek and at base camp.
  • Expedition permits
  • Liaison officer and his round trip flight, insurance, wages, expedition equipments etc.
  • High altitude climbing food, fuel, Gas above base camp (you are also advised to bring some high altitude food yourselves)
  • Guide, cook, porters, helpers up to base camp
  • Climbing Sherpas (2 member = 1 Sherpa Ratio on climbing day)
  • A well stocked first aid and medical kit sufficient to counter any possible mountaineering ailments, from headache to serious injury.
  • Oxygen equipment for medical use only.
  • A portable hyperbaric chamber (Gamow bag)
  • Emergency communications on the mountain and satellite communications link for helicopter evacuation.
  • Sightseeing / Monument entrance fees in Kathmandu.
  • Welcome and farewell dinner for members in Kathmandu.
  • Power supply at Base Camp for charging electronics (solar and generator backup)
  • Airfare both ways Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu including airport departure tax at both airport.
  • All the transportation from / to Kathmandu.
  • All our government taxes and vat.

Price Excludes

 

  • International airfare and Nepal visa.
  • Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
  • Personal trekking and climbing equipment.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on service Include section.
  • Garbage Deposit USD 2000.00 (sharing from climbing group). It is refundable; however, it will not be refundable if the climbers fail to take back their garbage to Namche Bazar and Kathmandu.
  • Excess baggage charges.
  • Sherpa tip pool (see below).
  • Internet and sat phone.
  • Costs incurred as a result of delays or events beyond the control of Himalaya Discovery Adventures.
  • Single Supplementary USD 300 per person (Includes single hotel room in Kathmandu, single room / tent on trek, single tent at Base Camp).

Join our Fixed Departure Group Trips

Our fixed group tours are thoughtfully scheduled and offer specific departure dates, providing a fantastic opportunity for both solo traveler and groups to come together. Join other guests on a memorable journey and share in the adventure of a lifetime!

Have a big group? We’re here to assist! Contact us to discuss availability and group pricing options.

Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.

rated 5/5 and trusted by 900+ Travellers

Real ‍Peo️ple, Real Stories

travel designer

chhiring sherpa

Your Dream Itinerary, Crafted With You

I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby the Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now.

Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.

I started Himalaya Discovery because I was ready to see a new kind of travel brand, one built on the simple idea of feeling good and doing good.

Since its start, Himalaya Discovery has been super-powered by you, our community; when you “travel” it, we create it. We’re on a mission to make travel better with clean, award-winning adventures that are sustainable and conscious of the planet we share.

Thank you so much for joining me on this journey!