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Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Ama Dabam Base Camp & Tengboche Monastery
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars Based on 1 Review

Group Size

Min 1 Max 15

Duration

11 Days

Grade

Moderate

Max. Altitude

4,420m/14,502ft

Activity

Trekking in Nepal

Accomodation

Teahouse/Lodge

Must-See Highlights of Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

  • Magnificent view of the snow-capped peak of Mount Ama Dablam (6,856m) and other eight-thousander peaks, including Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,498m), and Makalu (8,485m).
  • Stand at one of the iconic Base Camps of Ama Dablam (4,600m).
  • Pass through the UNESCO Heritage Site, Sagarmatha National Park, while observing various flora and fauna.
  • Visit the spiritual hub, Tengboche monastery, and understand the unique culture of Sherpas.
  • Witness yak carrying loads to the higher region along with other wildlife sightseeing.
  • Experience the authentic way of living in tea houses along the trek, along with experiencing warm hospitality.
  • Walk through a stunning forested area of rhododendrons and pines.
  • Appeal to your eye with incredible golden hour views over the towering mountain peaks.

Overview of Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

The Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek takes you to the base camp (4,420m/14,502ft) of a highly technical iconic mountain peak named "Amadablam" that goes over 6000m, and from there on, it's all bliss. If you want to experience the Himalayas for a time that suits your executive timelines, then this Ama Dablam Base Camp trek is perfect. 'Ama Dablam' stands for or means' mother & the necklace' because the perpetual glacier that hangs like a 'Dablam' is similar in shape to a piece of conventional jewelry worn by Sherpa women. The Trek serves as a short Everest trek that doesn't exceed the elevation of 4,500m/14,760ft and gives you the feel of mighty Everest and nearby mountains.

Our trail to Ama Dablam base camp swerves into the bustling Khumbu capital village of Namche Bazaar and the Tengboche Monastery, which is the largest in the region, and from both these areas, we get fantastic views of the King Peak of Mt. Everest. We also wade out into far-flung areas that are so wonderful to discover on lesser-known trails that are quiet and desirable compared to the more crowded trekking circuits in the Everest region. A further element of our journey is a stroll into the Sherpa villages of Khunde and Khumjung, where we get to see the late Sir Edmund Hillary's projects of generosity through the Himalayan Trust for the development of Sherpa communities in the Khumbu.

Is Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek for you?

Yes, the Ama Dablam Base Camp is for you, without a doubt. The trek is moderately difficult, suiting trekkers with a general fitness level. The trek is one of the shortest journeys in the Khumbu Valley, taking just 11 days to complete (including arrival and departure), yet offering a surreal trekking experience. The short duration of the trek even makes it ideal for those with limited time. Often referred to as the best alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Ama Dablam Base Camp trek takes you up to a maximum altitude of 4,600m, with a maximum overnight altitude at Pangboche.

Ama Dablam Trek is a perfect introduction to trekking in Nepal. The trek takes you to the base of the most iconic peak in the Everest region. You’ll follow the same trail as the Everest base camp until Pangboche, and from there, you veer right and trek to the Amadablam base camp. The trek includes ups and downs, and each day comprises an average of 6 hours of walking. During Autumn, you will see the base camp filled with tents as climbers mainly attempt to climb Amadablam during October-November.

11 Days Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Day 01-

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggage at the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard for Highland Expeditions at the exit of the arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served, and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street.

Meals:

Welcome Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/44,30ft

Day 02-

Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding

After an early morning b/fast, we take the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla on STOL aircraft. Flight time is about 35 minutes to the airstrip. Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpas built the airport in the mid-1960s. It is a memorable flight with outstanding views of the eastern Himalayas (sit on the plane’s left side for the best views). At Lukla, we are immediately overcome by the scale of the massive peaks surrounding the village, but this only indicates what is to come. After meeting the crew, we head up the Dudh Koshi Valley for the trek to Phakding on a well-marked trail.

Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 1,250m/4,100ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse / Lodge

Duration:

3-4 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,600m/8,531ft

Day 03-

Trek to Namche Bazar

From Phakding, we crisscross the river on high, airy suspension bridges. Ahead of Monjo is the entry to the Sagarmatha National Park, which is planned to look after and preserve the fragile mountain environment. We then do a sharp hike to Namche. If it’s a lovely weather day, we get the first glimpse of Mount Everest along the way. Namche is the main commercial hub in the Khumbu. It has an active Saturday market – a meeting place for the Hindu traders from the lowlands and the Tibetan yak caravans that have come through the glaciated Nangpa La. This is an ideal mountain town to bunk out for the night and for good acclimatization.

Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 850m/2,788ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse / Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,450m/11,319ft

Day 04-

Hike up to Everest view hotel, khumjung and trek to Kyanjuma

Today, we take a morning walk to the Everest View Hotel, where we can enjoy spectacular views of Everest and Ama Dablam. When this is done, we head down to the well-known village of Khumjung, where Sir Edmund Hillary built his “Schoolhouse in the Clouds,” and the famed Khunde hospital is nearby. You will generally be able to visit the hospital and school. We will also be able to visit the monastery at Khumjung, where we may have the opportunity to see the “scalp of a yeti”. After this, we make a beeline downhill as we descend to Kyanjuma, a pretty village where we overnight before heading to Pangboche the next day.

Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 50m/164ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse / Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,500m/11,483ft

Day 05-

Trek to Pangboche

After enjoying a hot breakfast, we start out for Pangboche, enjoying fabulous views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and an upfront view of Thamserku. Our trek gradually trails with ups and downs, overlooking brilliant views of the awesome Himalayas. Along the routes, we come across some wild fauna, including pheasants, musk deer, and sometimes a herd of Himalayan Thar. The stunning views of Ama Dablam are the primary attraction of today’s walk.

Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 485m/1,591ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse / Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,985m/13,075ft

Day 06-

Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp and trek back to Pangboche

Today, we go up to a crest high in a sheltered valley. We may see climbing expeditions on our arrival in the base camp as Ama Dablam is one of the world’s most striking mountains. The long ridges on each side are like the arms of a mother (Ama) protecting her child, and the hanging glacier seems to be the dablam, the traditional double-pendant containing pictures of the gods, worn by Sherpa women. We have lunch in the Base camp and walk back to Pangboche along the main trail in the afternoon. This area has many ups and downs, with another crossing of the Imja Khola on a steel suspension bridge.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse / Lodge

Duration:

7-8 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,420m/14,502ft]

Day 07-

Trek back to Namche

After breakfast, we say our byes to Pangboche and descend steeply through beautiful juniper, rhododendron, and fir forests to Phunkithanga. After a welcome break and perhaps a cup of tea, we cross the Dudh Kosi and ascend to Trashinga. From here, the trail contours high above the valley through Shanasa, and it’s then a gradual walk to Namche Bazaar.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse / Lodge

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,450m/11,319ft

Day 08-

Trek to Lukla

Today marks the journey’s final stretch to Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, so make sure to enjoy the day fully. After finishing a warm morning meal at Namche, you’ll descend towards Lukla. Today’s trek will be quite long and mostly downhill via the trail you hit earlier while making your way towards Ama Dablam Base Camp. Passing through several Sherpa villages and mani walls, you’ll get to the Sagarmatha National Park entrance point, where you’ll check out. A 6-7 hour walk from Namche takes you to Lukla, covering 17.9km. Ovenright and dinner are at Lukla’s tea house.

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Teahouse / Lodge

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,800m/9187ft

Day 09-

Fly back to Kathmandu

We get up early in the morning, enjoy our b/fast & get ready for the arrival of our aircraft for the flight back to Katmandu. On our touchdown at the Kathmandu airport, we will be met by our office reps and transferred to your hotel. The rest of your day is free to do your own thing.

Meals:

Breakfast

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

Day 10-

In Kathmandu

This is your free day in Kathmandu, so you can do it as you please. You could do some last-minute shopping and packing, or send a few postcards home or even go down for a stroll to Thamel, an internationally known hub for Asian tourists. You may also want to do things you may have planned for your last day in Kathmandu, which may be the time to do it.

Please do not hesitate to let us know if you would like to extend your stay. Kindly email us for more details on extensions.

Meals:

Breakfast

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,430ft

Day 11-

International departure

Thank you for joining us on this trek. It has been a pleasure getting to know you. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. Keep in touch, and we hope to hear from you soon. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home.

Meals:

Breakfast

Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. The weather or health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Availability

Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.

If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.

If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.

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.

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Cost Inclusion

  • All meals (B, L, D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on trek with tea & coffee.
  • Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 4 nights with breakfast.
  • Accommodation at clean and cozy teahouses/lodges on trek.
  • All required permits for trek (TIMS Card and National Park fee).
  • Internal flights (KTM-LUA-KTM).
  • Experienced local trek leader with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio.
  • Full support crew with one porter for every two trekkers.
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu, including guide and entrance fees.
  • Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts.
  • Comprehensive first aid kit.
  • Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner, and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of trek).
  • Staff insurances and allowances.
  • Trek completion certificate (Upon request).

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare, Visa, and travel insurance.
  • Meals at Kathmandu.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason).
  • Personal expenses.
  • Gratuities for staff.

FAQs About Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Cost 

The Ama Dablam Base Camp trek costs USD 1,499 per person. This covers most of the expenses required for the trek, making it one of the most budget-friendly packages for the Everest region. The cost covers every logistical detail, including accommodation and meals throughout the trek, Lukla airfare, airport transfers, a guide, and porter service. Likewise, trekkers will also get sleeping bags, jackets, and duffel bags at the same cost, reducing the cost of purchasing equipment.

However, if you are in a large group, feel free to contact us for group discounts and availability. Highland Expedition offers exclusive group discounts for large-group trekkers. Still, we provide a private trip with a fully customizable option as per travellers’ preference, but that would cost more, affecting the overall cost of the trip.

Furthermore, the duration of the trip, chosen accommodation facility, level of preferred luxury, and customization of the trip also affect the cost of the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek. Likewise, the season you travel, whether you hire a guide and porter, and your chosen mode of transportation also vary the overall price of the trek to Ama Dablam.

Sustainable practices on Amadablam Base Camp Trek

Waste Reduction and Management

Trekkers must manage waste to prevent environmental concerns on the Ama Dablam Base Camp journey. One way to do this is to carry a reusable water bottle instead of buying bottled water. Likewise, trekkers are recommended to use eco-friendly items, including biodegradable soap and other toiletries.

Use of Sustainable Energy

Trekkers on the way to the Ama Dablam trek should choose sustainable energy to reduce environmental degradation. This practice includes choosing tea houses with solar power instead of using wood-burning for cooking and heating as much as possible. The practices help to reduce deforestation and harm to natural habitats.

Proper Waste disposal and management

Trekkers should manage and dispose of their waste in an area where the natural environment won’t be harmed. One measure is not to wash hands with soap directly on rivers or water resources but instead use biodegradable soap at least 50 meters away. In addition, trekkers are requested to carry all trash and dispose of it in a designated area.

Conservation of Wildlife

Conserving wildlife is also a method of protecting the environment on the journey to Ama Dablam. To do so, trekkers should maintain a safe distance from wildlife and not disturb them. Likewise, they should keep noise levels low to prevent scaring animals within the conservation area. Additionally, trekkers should not make fires in sensitive areas and should follow the conservation area’s rules.

History and Location of Ama Dablam

Ama Dablam is one of the prominent peaks of the Khumbu Valley, located in the Eastern Himalayas of Koshi Province. The mountain lies within the Sagaramtha National Park at latitude of 27.8615° N and longitude of 86.8619° E. In the Everest region of Nepal, Mount Ama Dablam lies near the iconic peaks of Everest and Lhotse. Similarly, the main peak of Ama Dablam is 6,812m/ 22,349 ft high. In contrast, the lower western peak has a height of 6,170m/ 20,243 ft. Moreover, the peak lies 152 km northeast of Kathmandu and 162 km north of the provincial capital of Biratnagar.

Mount Ama Dablam has a rich history dating back to the 1960s when it was first ascended by Mike Gill (NZ), Barry Bishop (US), Mike Ward (UK), and Wally Romanes (NZ) via the southwest ridge. In addition to its ascend history, the peak has a rich history due to its cultural significance. The mountain’s name symbolizes the mother (Ama) and sacred jewelry worn by Sherpa Women (Dablam), making it revered by Sherpas for a long time.

Ama Dablam Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek

Ama Dablam Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek are both iconic and well-known trekking destinations in Khumbu Valley. Although both locations lie within the Sagarmatha National Park of Solukhumbu district, they offer different levels of challenges, scenery, and overall experience. Here is the comparison table for Ama Dablam vs. Everest Base Camp Trek:

               Feature          Ama Dablam Trek   Everest Base Camp Trek 
Difficulty Level Moderate Challenging
Trip Duration 9-11 days 12-14 days
Maximum Elevation 4,570m at Ama Dablam Base Camp 5,644m at Kalapatthar
Scenery and Views Close-up view of Mount Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak Close-up view of Mount Everest, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu
Crowd Level Less crowded More crowd due to more popularity
Ideal For Those wanting short and less crowded trek Trekkers wishing to get to the base of the world’s highest peak
Altitude sickness risk Lower Higher
Trekking Terrain Forested trails, alpine meadows, rocky ridges Varied landscapes from forest, suspension bridge, glacial moraines, and high-altitude terrain
Level of Adventure Easy to moderate Moderate to High

Starting and ending point of Ama Dablam Trek 

The starting and ending points of the Ama Dablam Trek are Lukla. However, the starting and ending points vary depending on the chosen itinerary and route. The most common path to Ama Dablam Base Camp begins with a 45-minute flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport of Lukla. From Lukla, the trail goes above Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Kyanjuma, and Pangboche to the journey’s ultimate destination, Ama Dablam Base Camp. Then, the trek returns through the same trail and ends with a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla.

However, if trekkers choose an itinerary that passes through Salleri/ Phaplu, the starting and ending points of the Ama Dablam Trek will be Salleri or Phaplu. From Salleri, the trek starts via Thamdanda and Puiyan and gets to Phakding on the third day. The trail from Phakding is the same, passing through Namche, Kyanjuma, Phangboche, and Ama Dablam Base Camp, and it returns through the same trail. Moreover, the route ends with a drive from Salleri to Kathmandu.

Transportation options during the Ama Dablam Trek

Getting to the starting point of the Ama Dablam Trek is essential. So, what are the transportation options during the Ama Dablam Trek? The options include airway and ground transportation. Generally, Lukla is the starting point of the Ama Dablam Trek, which is accessible only by air, making it one of the most common and convenient options. Moreover, the flight to Lukla operates from domestic airports in Kathmandu during the low season and the Manthali airport of Ramechhap during the high season.

Furthermore, trekkers who want to experience more than the usual flight to Lukla can choose ground transportation. However, the option is quite long and involves walking for a longer day. The overland travel includes a drive from Kathmandu to Salleri or Surke, followed by a trek to Lukla. It takes 12-16 hours by jeep, depending on whether you drive to Salleri or Surke. It takes 2 days of driving to get to the walking point and, from there, 1 additional day of walking to connect with the main route to Ama Dablam Base Camp. Moreover, the helicopter option is also available from Kathmandu at the start and the end returning to Kathmandu.

How often do I need to train for the Ama Dablam Trek?

Training is paramount for a high-altitude trek like the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek. But how often do you need to train yourself? You must start your training 3-5 months before the trip. The trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp is a moderately challenging trip with high altitude, steep ascents, and long trekking days, demanding good physical fitness, which is possible only through training beforehand. Here is the general training plan that helps trekkers prepare themselves while going for the Ama Dablam trek:

Cardiosvascular Training

  • Involve in activities like running, hiking, cycling, and stair climbing.
  • Include in 4-5 days per week.
  • The duration should be 50-80 minutes per session.
  • Its benefit is that it helps to build endurance for longer trekking days.

Strength Training

  • Involve activities like squats, lunges, step-ups, planks, sit-ups, and push-ups.
  • Include the activity 3-4 days per week.
  • Its benefit is that it allows you to carry a backpack and maintain stability.

Hiking Practice

  • Do long hikes of 4-6 hours with a weighted backpack.
  • Include it once a week.

When is the Best Season?

Spring, from March to May, and Autumn, from September to November, are the best seasons for the Ama Dablam trek. Spring is the time of nature’s awakening that comes after a harsh winter. The pleasant weather, the blossoming of rhododendrons, clear skies, and cultural celebrations are the highlights of trekking in Spring. Thus, the pleasant weather with mild temperatures and excellent visibility makes it ideal for hiking in Ama Dablam in Spring.

Autumn is another good season for Ama Dablam, which is also known as the peak season. The season has a warm and comfortable temperature with stunning scenery free of dust due to recent rainfall. Likewise, the post-monsoon brings a clear view of the skies, offering an ideal view of the Everest region’s mountain peaks. Moreover, the dry trails during the season make it the perfect time for trekking in Ama Dablam.

What are the food and accommodation arrangements?

Your accommodation throughout the Amadablam Base Camp Trip and meals during the trek are all included. In Kathmandu, your accommodation will be at Kathmandu Guest House located in Thamel, on double/twin sharing, and breakfast will be included in the hotel. Once on the trek, your accommodation will be at teahouses/lodges on twin sharing, and the lodges also cater to your meals. Breakfast and Dinner will be at the lodges you stay at, and lunch will be along the way.

The lodges are clean, cosy, and comfortable. The menus vary, ranging from traditional Nepalese food to Tibetan/Sherpa dishes.

Reviews

See what our travelers are saying! Our reviews highlight the memorable experiences and exceptional service we offer. Read their stories to find out why our adventures are so highly praised. Write a review.

The service I received from Highland Expeditions exceeded my expectations in Everyway. The logistical part of my trek was flawless, allowing me to enjoy the spectacular landscape without having to…

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