Ama Dablam Expedition
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Ama Dablam Expedition

Trip Fact

Destination
Nepal
Max Altitude
6,812m
Duration
30 days
Difficulty
extreme
Group Size
Private or Small
Best Season
September to November

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Trip Description

The Ama Dablam Expedition is widely regarded as one of the finest and most beautiful mountaineering objectives in the world. Rising above the Khumbu Valley in a sweeping arc of rock, ice, and snow, Ama Dablam (6,812 m) is arguably the most visually striking peak in the entire Himalayas - and climbing it is an experience that defines a mountaineer's career.

The approach follows the legendary Everest trail through Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, where Ama Dablam dominates the skyline with breathtaking presence. Base Camp is established below the southwest ridge, and the technical route above climbs through a series of demanding sections - steep rock ridges, exposed traverses, and the famous hanging glacier known as the Dablam - that demand confident and well-practiced technical climbing skills at every stage.

Unlike many Himalayan peaks, Ama Dablam is a true technical climb from bottom to top. The three high camps are positioned on narrow ridges and exposed ledges, and the final summit push requires commitment, focus, and a high level of technical competence. The reward - a summit perch above the entire Khumbu with Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu filling the horizon - is among the most extraordinary experiences available in high-altitude mountaineering.

With Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition, you climb Ama Dablam with a highly experienced Sherpa team that knows this mountain intimately, supported by a professional logistics framework designed to give every climber the best possible chance of a safe and successful summit.

Culture of the Everest Region

The approach to Ama Dablam Base Camp passes through the spiritual heartland of the Khumbu, with Tengboche Monastery - set directly below the peak - serving as one of the most iconic and moving landmarks on the entire route. The deep Buddhist traditions of the Sherpa community, visible in every monastery, mani wall, and prayer flag along the trail, add a profound cultural dimension to an already extraordinary mountaineering expedition.

Best Season

Autumn (September to November)

The primary and most popular season for Ama Dablam, offering the most stable weather windows, well-established fixed lines, and the best overall conditions for a summit attempt.

Spring (April to May)

A secondary season with viable conditions for experienced and well-prepared teams, though autumn remains the preferred choice for this peak.

Contact our team for pricing, preparation guidance, and a custom expedition plan for Ama Dablam.

highlights

Climb Ama Dablam at 6,812 meters, one of the world's most iconic Himalayan peaks.
Tackle a highly technical route featuring steep rock, ice, exposed ridges, and fixed ropes.
Experience challenging high camps positioned along narrow ridges and exposed ledges.
Trek through the legendary Khumbu Valley via Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
Enjoy spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the surrounding Himalayas.
Experience authentic Sherpa culture, Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, and mani walls.
Receive expert guidance and strong technical support from an experienced Sherpa climbing team.
Best seasons: Autumn (September–November) and Spring (April–May).

Day by day Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to relax and refresh, you will join your expedition leader for a welcome dinner and a full pre-expedition briefing in the evening.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Dinner

After breakfast, the team conducts a thorough equipment check covering your sleeping bag, down suit, climbing hardware, and trekking boots. Any missing or unsuitable items can be sourced from Kathmandu's well-stocked trekking and climbing shops. The remainder of the day is free for final personal preparations or sightseeing in Thamel.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Flight Duration: Approximately 40 minutes

Trek Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours

An early morning flight to Lukla (2,800 m) offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan ranges, landing at the famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport on a hillside surrounded by high peaks. Upon arrival, the team assembles and completes final preparations before beginning the trek through Lukla village and descending gently to Phakding. Today's walk is intentionally short to assist with initial acclimatization.

 

Max Altitude

2,652 m / 8,701 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through beautiful pine forests, crossing several suspension bridges including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. The route passes through the villages of Monjo and Jorsale before entering Sagarmatha National Park at the official checkpoint. A steep two-hour climb leads to Namche Bazaar, the main trading center of the Khumbu region. Just before reaching Namche, there is a first rewarding glimpse of Everest appearing above the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge.

 

Max Altitude

3,440 m / 11,286 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This essential rest day is dedicated to acclimatization. Rather than remaining idle, a short hike to a higher elevation during the day is strongly recommended. Options include a hike toward Thame, a visit to Khunde, or an excursion to the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center, which offers informative displays on Everest's history, Sherpa culture, and the region's flora and fauna. The afternoon is free to explore Namche's shops, restaurants, and bakeries.

 

Max Altitude

3,440 m / 11,286 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

Departing Namche, the trail offers superb views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku throughout the day. The route passes through the trail junction at Sansa and continues through pine forests to Phunki Thenga for a lunch stop beside the river. A steady climb through the forest brings you to Tengboche, home to the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu. From Tengboche, Ama Dablam rises directly ahead in its full, dramatic profile - the first truly close view of your summit objective.

 

Max Altitude

3,870 m / 12,697 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours

Tengboche is especially beautiful in the early morning, with the monastery perfectly framed by Ama Dablam and Everest. The trail climbs through rhododendron forest and passes several chortens and mani walls before reaching the large Sherpa village of Pangboche. The route offers an outstanding close-up view of Ama Dablam's southwest ridge - the line your expedition will follow. The afternoon is free to explore the village and its ancient monastery.

 

Max Altitude

3,985 m / 13,074 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours

Moving above the treeline, the trail climbs steadily through open terrain above Pangboche, following the Imja River valley toward the base of Ama Dablam. The mountain grows increasingly imposing as the route approaches Base Camp, where the full scale and technical nature of the southwest ridge become clearly visible. Camp is established and the team settles in for the first night on the mountain.

 

Max Altitude

4,570 m / 14,993 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A rest and preparation day at Base Camp. Equipment is organized and sorted, the climbing team is briefed in detail on the route, safety procedures, and the acclimatization rotation plan. Time is also set aside to allow the body to begin adjusting to the altitude of Base Camp before the technical climbing begins.

 

Max Altitude

4,570 m / 14,993 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Duration: Approximately 9 days | Camps: Base Camp (4,570 m), Camp 1 (5,486 m), Camp 2 (6,066 m), Camp 3 (6,400 m)

This multi-day block covers the full climbing rotation on Ama Dablam, beginning with the ascent to Camp 1. The trail from Base Camp follows the Cholungche valley with outstanding views of Kantega and Thamserku before the route gains the southwest ridge and the technical climbing begins in earnest. Camp 1 is positioned on a broad ledge on the lower ridge. Above Camp 1, fixed ropes secure the exposed and technically demanding rocky ridge leading to Camp 2 - perched dramatically on the Yellow Tower, a rocky outcrop with space for only a few tents and one of the most extraordinary campsites anywhere in the Himalayas. Camp 3, established higher on the ridge, serves as the launch point for the summit push. Summit day begins before dawn. Mixed technical terrain leads to steep snow slopes rising toward the plateau below the famous Dablam glacier. The route bypasses the hanging glacier and makes the final steep push to the summit. The panorama from the summit - Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga visible across the full Himalayan horizon - is among the most extraordinary views in mountaineering. Note: Out of respect for the sacred significance of the very summit point, climbers stop just short of the absolute top, as is the traditional practice on Ama Dablam. After the summit, the team descends through the high camps and returns to Base Camp to rest before beginning the trek out.

 

Max Altitude

4,570 m – 6,812 m

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A full rest day at Base Camp following the summit push and descent from the high camps. The team recovers, equipment is packed and organized, and the descent route back to Pangboche is planned in preparation for the trek out the following day.

 

Max Altitude

4,570 m / 14,993 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours

Breaking camp at Ama Dablam Base Camp, the trail descends back through the open terrain above Pangboche and returns to the village below the treeline. The descent is largely straightforward and offers a final close look at the southwest ridge of Ama Dablam from below. Overnight in Pangboche.

 

Max Altitude

3,985 m / 13,074 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

The trail retraces the approach route back through Tengboche and down through the pine and rhododendron forests toward the Dudh Koshi Valley. After crossing the river at Phunki Thenga, a steady climb returns to the familiar surroundings of Namche Bazaar. The lower altitude is immediately noticeable and the warm comforts of Namche are a very welcome return.

 

Max Altitude

3,440 m / 11,286 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours

The trail descends from Namche through forested slopes toward the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges and passing through familiar villages on the way to Monjo. Upon exiting through the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint, the route arrives at the quiet village of Monjo for the night - a more relaxed and restful stop than Namche.

 

Max Altitude

2,840 m / 9,318 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours

The final day of trekking follows the trail back up through familiar terrain to Lukla. Upon arriving in Lukla, the evening is a time to celebrate the successful completion of the Ama Dablam Expedition with the full climbing and trekking crew - a warm and memorable farewell to the mountain.

 

Max Altitude

2,865 m / 9,400 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

An early morning flight returns you from Lukla to Kathmandu. After hotel check-in, the remainder of the day is free for rest, sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, or last-minute shopping in Thamel. In the evening, a farewell dinner hosted by Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition celebrates the successful completion of your Ama Dablam Expedition.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Duration: 5 days

These buffer days are built into the itinerary to account for weather delays on Lukla flights, additional rest days required after the expedition, or any adjustments needed to the summit rotation above. If not needed for operational reasons, these days may be used freely for rest, cultural sightseeing around the Kathmandu Valley, or exploring the city at your own pace.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m/4,593 ft

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Breakfast

Your Nepal mountaineering adventure comes to a close today. Depending on your international flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before your departure. We hope the iconic ridgelines of Ama Dablam, the warmth of the Sherpa people, and the extraordinary view from the summit have left a lasting impression - and we look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal.

 

Max Altitude

1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Meals

Breakfast

Route map

Ama Dablam Expedition Route Map

Inclusion & Exclusion

Inclusion
  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Domestic flights as per itinerary
  • Ama Dablam climbing permit and government fees
  • Sagarmatha National Park permit and local fees
  • Experienced expedition leader and Sherpa climbing team
  • Base Camp tents, dining tent, kitchen, and staff
  • Full board meals at Base Camp
  • Tea house accommodation and meals during trek approach
  • Group climbing gear and fixed rope logistics
  • Basic medical kit and emergency coordination
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Exclusion
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Personal travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal climbing and trekking gear
  • Extra hotel nights due to delays
  • Personal snacks, beverages, and laundry
  • Tips for guides and crew
  • Any personal expenses not listed above

Gallery Highlights

Amadablam Expedition Tabuche view
Amadablam Expedition Camp 1 Peak Visor

Expedition preparation

Essential Gear

Clothing: High altitude down suit, base layers, insulated jacket, waterproof shell jacket and pants, expedition gloves and liners, warm hat, sun cap, thermal socks

Footwear: Double mountaineering boots, trekking shoes, camp shoes, gaiters

Climbing Equipment: Harness, crampons, ice axe, helmet, ascender, descender, carabiners, rock climbing gear, headlamp with spare batteries

Personal Items: UV sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, water bottles, sleeping bag (-20°C), trekking poles, personal medication, toiletries

Preparation Advice

Physical: Begin training at least 4 to 6 months before departure. Ama Dablam demands sustained technical effort at altitude — exceptional cardiovascular fitness, upper body strength, and loaded pack endurance are all essential.

Technical: Prior experience on technical alpine routes above 5,500 m is strongly recommended. Confident rock climbing, ice climbing, and fixed rope technique are essential prerequisites for this expedition.

Altitude: The climb reaches 6,812 m across multiple exposed high camps. Follow the acclimatisation rotation schedule without compromise and always communicate openly with your team about how you are feeling.

Mental: Ama Dablam is a serious and committing climb. Exposure, technical difficulty, and rapidly changing weather demand composure, sharp decision-making, and complete trust in your climbing team.

Insurance: Choose a policy that covers technical high-altitude climbing and helicopter evacuation at full expedition altitudes.

Gear: A sleeping bag rated to -20°C, a full rack of rock climbing hardware, and a well-tested down suit are among the most critical items for this expedition. Leave nothing untested before departure.

Terms & Conditions

Booking and Payment: A deposit is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance must be paid in full before the start of the expedition. Please contact our team for specific deposit amounts and payment schedule details.

Travel Insurance: All participants must carry valid travel insurance covering technical high-altitude mountaineering and emergency helicopter evacuation in Nepal. Coverage must extend to at least 7,000 meters given the summit altitude of Ama Dablam.

Flight Delays and Itinerary Changes: Domestic flights in the Everest region are weather dependent. Delays or itinerary changes caused by weather or unforeseen circumstances are beyond our control, and any additional expenses incurred as a result are the responsibility of the client.

Health and Safety: All clients must follow the instructions of the expedition leader and climbing guides at all times. Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition reserves the right to modify or cancel the climb if safety conditions become unsuitable or if a participant's health poses a risk to themselves or the team.

Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email or through our official communication channels. Refund eligibility and the amount refunded will depend on how far in advance the cancellation request is received before the scheduled trip, service, or booking date. Cancellations made well in advance may qualify for a partial or full refund, while late cancellations may incur cancellation charges due to operational and administrative costs. Failure to attend without prior notice may result in the booking being treated as non-refundable.In the event that Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition must cancel or reschedule a trip or service, guests will be offered an alternative departure date, travel credit, or refund where applicable. Refund processing times may vary depending on the payment method and financial institution. Certain deposits, permit fees, or third-party service charges may be non-refundable. Please contact our team directly for complete cancellation terms, refund details, and policy information related to your booking.

Customer Reviews

Lilly Doe
Lilly Doe

USA

"Truly Memorable"

I had a wonderful experience! Everything was excellent from start to finish. The service was friendly, professional, and smooth, and I truly appreciated the attention to detail. I would definitely recommend this experience to others and would be happy to return again.

July 2026
Henrey Sterling
Henrey Sterling

Melbourne, Australia

"Beyond Expectations"

Great experience!

July 2026
Write a Review

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Pasang Lee Sherpa
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Pasang Lee Sherpa

CEO/Founder

Pasang Sherpa is the Managing Director and one of the principal trekking and mountaineering guides behind Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., a government-approved outdoor adventure company based in Kathmandu. Known for his dedication to client safety, cultural sensitivity, and deep knowledge of Nepal’s terrain, Pasang has played a central role in shaping the company’s guiding philosophy rooted in professionalism and authentic Himalayan experiences.Travelers frequently highlight Pasang’s language skills, leadership, and mountain expertise, noting his ability to create comfortable, informative, and memorable journeys across a variety of terrains — from classic treks like Everest Base Camp to more challenging expeditions.“He speaks fluent English and Chinese and was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and a great guide.” — from a traveler review.

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