Group Size
Min 1 Max 10
Duration
30 Days
Grade
For seasoned adventurers, these trips are physically demanding and require excellent fitness, endurance, and prior trekking or climbing experience. They involve high altitudes (above 6000m), glacier crossings, and technical elements like using ropes or crampons.
Max. Altitude
6,812m/22,343ft
Activity
High Altitude Expeditions
Meals Included
In Kathmandu, breakfast is included at the hotel, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided
Accomodation
Experience a mix of accommodations—hotels in the city, lodges on the trek, and tents at higher altitudes or remote climbing areas.
Best Season
Oct-Nov
- Climb Ama Dablam and Lobuche East together
- Well-devised approach via Gokyo and Chola Pass
- Fully supported expedition with the experienced guides
- 1:1 sherpa support on Amadablam
At Highland Expeditions, your safety is our highest priority. Please be aware that your guide has the authority to modify or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary for safety reasons. While every effort will be made to follow the planned schedule, the nature of high-altitude expeditions means that flexibility is essential.
Climbing 6000m peaks in remote and mountainous regions brings with it variables that are beyond our control. Weather changes, altitude-related health issues, and unforeseen natural events can all lead to itinerary adjustments. In such cases, your guide will make informed decisions to ensure the well-being of all team members. We ask that all participants approach the expedition with an open mind and a flexible attitude. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances is a key part of any successful Himalayan adventure.
Ama Dablam Expedition Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggage in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Our representative will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard of Highland Expeditions.
Meals:
None
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Gear Check, Briefing and Final Preparation
In Kathmandu for the final preparation of the Climb. Meet other team members, complete official and government formalities, final gear check, and load. Upon your interest, an optional Kathmandu sightseeing can be arranged on these days. We will have a climb orientation and your trip leader will give you a brief about your climb before we head on our journey.
Meals:
B
Accommodation:
Hotel
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
We take the mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla on STOL aircraft. Flight time is about 35 minutes to the airstrip built by Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpas in the mid-1960s. We begin the trek by descending towards the Dudh Kosi River, where we join the main trail to Namche Bazaar, just above Chaurikharka at 2713m. The walking is easy and after passing through the small village of Ghat at 2550m, it’s a short walk to Phakding where we’ll stay overnight.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
O/N Elevation:
2,600m/8,531ft
Trek to Namche Bazar
We will continue our journey along Dudhkoshi River which will take us through pine forest. After crossing suspension bridges at several points and passing through small settlements of Zapute, Toktok, Benkar and Chumoa, we will reach Monjo. This is known as the gateway to the Sagarmatha National Park. After completing all the necessary national park formalities, we will enter Sagarmatha National Park. Lowering down from the park, we will arrive at river. Crossing another suspension bridge, we will proceed towards high Hillary Bridge located at the foot of the hill. Crossing this bridge, we will climb uphill to the Namche Bazaar. We can get view of Thamserku Mountain. If weather is clear, we can also have first view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Kusum Khangru mountains.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Rest and Acclimatization day
We spend the day acclimatizing with a short hike to the Everest View Hotel or nearby viewpoints. This helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
4-5 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Trek to Dole
We continue our trek through the pine forests to Dole (4,038m), gaining altitude gradually.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,200m/13,776ft
Trek to Machermo
The path climbs to Machhermo (4,470m), a small village offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,470m/14,665ft
Trek to Gokyo
We trek to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes (4,750m), a series of turquoise glacial lakes surrounded by towering mountains.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,790m/15,712ft
Hike Gokyo Ri and stay at Gokyo
A morning hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) rewards us with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. We return to Gokyo for the night.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,360m/17,581ft
O/N Elevation:
4,790m/15,712ft
Trek to Dragnag
We trek towards Dragnag (4,700m), the gateway to Cho La Pass and the route toward Lobuche.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
4-5 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,700m/15,416ft
Cross Chola Pass and trek to Dzongla
Crossing Cho La Pass (5,420m), we descend into the Dzongla valley (4,830m), preparing for the upcoming technical climbs.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
8-9 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,420m/17,783ft
O/N Elevation:
4,835m/15,860ft
Rest and Training
A day focused on climbing skills, safety techniques, and familiarization with our equipment. Later, its a free time to rest.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
O/N Elevation:
4,835m/15,860ft
Trek to Lobuche Peak High Camp
We trek towards Lobuche High Camp (5,900m), gaining crucial altitude before the peak attempt.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
Duration:
4 hrs
O/N Elevation:
5,400m/17,712ft
Summit Lobuche Peak and descend to Thugla
We will wake up quite early this day as we aim to reach the summit before 10 am. We head out to the summit during predawn at around 2 am. The exact time of departure from the high camp will be suggested as per your walking pace. From the high camp to the summit, it’s about 6-8 hrs of a climb and descent to the high camp will take around 4 hrs.
The first few hours of a climb don’t involve the use of crampons and the terrain mostly consists of snow and rock. Fixed ropes are usually placed along all the sections of the climb starting from the high camp. After almost 3 hrs, we get to the crampon point of Lobuche Peak, which is just at the base of a 60-degree vertical climb on a fixed rope. From here, the climb begins somewhat technical with climbing on mixed conditions of rock, ice and snow.
After another 3 hrs of mixed climbing on a fixed rope on an average 45-degree incline we get to the summit of Lobuche East (6119m/20,075ft).
The summit allows enticing views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Pumori and other mountains in the Everest region. After spending some quality time at the summit, we will lower down to Lobuche High Camp for lunch and then towards Thugla
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
12-14 hrs
Max Elevation:
6,119m/20,075ft
O/N Elevation:
4,620m/15,155ft
Trek to Pangboche
We will retrace the route through the wide valley of the Khumbu River and walk past pretty tiny Sherpa settlements of Orsho and Shomare to Pangboche. Pangboche is popular for its oldest monastery in the Khumbu region. We can rejoice in the views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtaiga and Kongde ridges and Imja Tse River from Pangboche village.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
O/N Elevation:
3,985m/13,075ft
Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp
Leaving Pangboche, we will head towards Amadablam Base Camp by following the scenic trail that stretches down to the river and take sharp climb to Kharka. The trail offers close-up views of Amadablam, Lhotse, Lobuche, Pumori, Cholatse, Kusum Kangaru, Thamserku, Amphu Gyabjen and others. As we move ahead, view of Amadablam Mountain becomes more vivid. Once we reach the base camp of Amadablam, we can get views of many stunning peaks and hanging glaciers. We will meet our other crew at Base Camp.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
Duration:
3-4 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,600m/15,089ft
Rest, Puja Ceremony & Climbing Clinic
We spend two days at base camp to rest, organize gear, perform a traditional Sherpa puja ceremony, and conduct climbing training.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
O/N Elevation:
4,600m/15,090ft
Climb to Ama Dablam Camp 1
After final checks and packing, we begin the summit push with a climb from Ama Dablam Base Camp to Camp 1. From the Base Camp, we will move through grassy ridges and head east to a broad saddle from where we will get a view of Mingbo La pass. The route follows a well-established trail that ascends gradually over grassy slopes before becoming steeper and more rugged. We pass through boulders and exposed sections before reaching Camp 1, perched on a narrow shelf with dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. The total climb takes around 6 hours, depending on pace and conditions. We overnight at Camp 1.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
Duration:
6-7 hrs
O/N Elevation:
5,600m/18,368ft
Climb to Ama Dablam Camp 2
From Camp 1, the route becomes steeper and more technical. We follow fixed lines along exposed rock ridges and make several traverses, requiring the use of jumars and careful footwork. The climb involves some classic alpine rock climbing, including the Yellow Tower—one of the more iconic sections. Camp 2 is located just below the Grey Tower on a narrow ledge. This is a short but demanding day (4 hours), and we reach Camp 2 by early afternoon to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the summit bid that night.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
Duration:
4-5 hrs
O/N Elevation:
5,900m/19,355ft
Summit Ama Dablam and descend to Camp 2
Summit Push begins! The route above Camp 2 is the most technical and demanding section of the entire climb, involving steep ice slopes, snow ridges, and sections of mixed climbing. We first navigate a short traverse before ascending the icy face to the right of the Dablam (the hanging glacier).
We walk through a crevasse-laced section and climb toward a narrow snowfield below the Bergschrund. After crossing it carefully, we reach the top of the upper glacier, followed by a sharp ice crest that leads us directly to the summit ridge.
The final stretch is steep and exposed but incredibly rewarding. At the summit, we are greeted with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and more—truly one of the finest summit panoramas in the Himalayas.
After a short stay at the summit, we begin our descent, retracing the technical route back down. We descend past Mushroom Ridge and carefully make our way back to Camp 2 for rest. Total time for the round trip can range from 12 to 14 hours, depending on conditions, pace, and traffic.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
Duration:
12-14 hrs
Max Elevation:
6,812m/22,345ft
O/N Elevation:
5,900m/19,355ft
Descend to base camp
We begin the final descent from Camp 2 back to Ama Dablam Base Camp
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
Duration:
5-6 hrs
O/N Elevation:
4,600m/15,090ft
Contingencies Day
Reserved for weather delays, acclimatization, or rest as needed to maximize summit success.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Camp
O/N Elevation:
4,600m/15,090ft
Trek to Namche Bazar
We will follow the return trail along Imja River that takes us through the forest of birch and spruce to Tengboche village. After brief stop in Tengboche, we will follow the trail through forest of blooming rhododendron to the bridge. We will cross the bridge over Dudh Koshi River and move through Dudh Koshi gorge and pine forest to Sansa village and finally to Namche Bazar.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/lodge
O/N Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Trek to Lukla
Our last day of trek following the Dudh Kosi River down to Lukla. It’s only a gradual walk along the Dudhkhosi river after our steep descent from Namche. We’ll have lunch on our way and we make the final climb up to the airstrip at Lukla. Rest of the day is free and you can relax under the warm sun & reflect on the emotional experiences we had during our climb. This is our final day on these fantastic mountains. Later we celebrate our successful completion of climb with our Sherpa guides and porters who we’ve got to know so well & are now good friends.
Meals:
B,L,D
Accommodation:
Teahouse/lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
O/N Elevation:
2,800m/9187ft
Fly back to Kathmandu
We get up early in the morning, enjoy our b/fast and 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 things.
Meals:
B
Accommodation:
Hotel
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
In Kathmandu
Free day at Kathmandu. This also serves as a contingency day if there’s any delay with the Lukla flights.
Meals:
B
Accommodation:
Hotel
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
International departure
Thank you for joining us on this expedition and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. You will be transferred to the airport as per our flight time.
Meals:
B
Itinerary Disclaimer: The detailed itinerary provided above serves as a general guide for the Ama Dablam Expedition, based on our experience and an optimal pacing strategy. However, high altitude expeditions are inherently unpredictable, and several factors may lead to changes in the planned schedule. Each climber acclimatizes at their own pace, and adjustments to the acclimatization plan or summit push may be necessary to ensure individual safety and overall expedition success. Weather conditions, route conditions, team dynamics, health status, and logistical factors can all influence the daily plan. While we aim to follow the outlined schedule as closely as possible, flexibility is essential in the mountains. Our guiding team will make real time decisions based on years of experience and sound judgment, prioritizing safety, acclimatization, and summit success.
We strongly encourage all participants to come prepared physically, mentally, and logistically for a fluid itinerary. Patience, adaptability, and teamwork are vital components of a successful expedition.
Availability
Our trips are available as both group departures and private experiences.
If you’re looking to join a group, simply click the Dates & Prices tab to view available dates, pricing, and current availability. The trip prices may increase or decrease based on availability and demand. All group departures are guaranteed to run once a booking is confirmed. If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, visit the Private Trips tab and fill out the contact form. We’ll tailor the trip to your preferred dates and accommodate any special requests you may have.
Note for solo travelers: Some of our trips (see Group Size details) require a minimum of two participants to confirm the departure. If you’re booking as a solo participant, please contact us before making a booking to check availability for those departures.
DATES
PRICE
DEPOSIT
AVAILABILITY
30 Days
20 Oct, 2026 - 18 Nov, 2026
USD 7,499
20% Deposit
USD 1,499.80
12 in a group
Available
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Cost Inclusion
- Fully supported and guided expedition to Ama Dablam and Lobuche
– 1: 1 Sherpa guide to client ratio on Ama Dablam Summit Push
– 1:3 Sherpa guide to client ratio on Lobuche Peak - Experienced lead guide
– An experienced lead guide with previous leading experience in Ama Dablam Expedition. IFMGA guide will be provided incase of more than 4 climbers in team. Lead guide will assist climbers during approach and additional sherpa guide will be provided based on group size - Oxygen
– Supplementary oxygen for emergency purposes only - Expedition Permit and Fees
– Ama Dablam Climbing Royalty Fees (USD 1000) each climber
– Lobuche Peak Permit Fee
– Trekking Permit
– Local Permit Fee - Other Charges
– Rope fixing charges for each climber
– Garbage management
– Liaison Officer wages and allowances - Climb of 6000m peak for rotation
– Lobuche Peak Climb for rotation
– Guide for the climb (1:3 guide to client ratio)
– Meals and accommodation for Lobuche Peak Climbing - Meals
– All meals (B,L,D) with tea/coffee during the trekking period at teahouse/lodges
– Freshly prepared meals (B,L,D) with tea/coffee at Ama Dablam Base Camp prepared by our chef and kitchen team
– A wide variety of nutritious high-altitude mountain foods for higher camps (Camp 1,2,3,4) - Accommodation
– Accommodation in Kathmandu for four nights with breakfast included
– Accommodation at teahouse/lodges during the trekking period
– Personal Box Tent at Ama Dablam base camp
– High quality mountain tents for higher camps on twin sharing - Fully Established Base Camp
– Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Dining Tent, Shower Tent, Sleeping Tent, Table, Chairs, Heater etc for your comfortable stay
– Generator, Solar Panel for charging your devices - Higher Camps:
– High quality mountain tents
– Cooking stove and utensils - Communications:
– Satellite phone for emergencies / nominal charges for personal use
– Radio Set / Walkie Talkie for communication between camps - Flights
– Kathmandu/Ramechap to Lukla Flight
– Lukla to Kathmandu/Ramechap flight - Staffs:
– Base Camp Kitchen Staff: Cook, Helper and Kitchen Team - Wages & Allowances:
– Wages, allowances, equipment and insurance for all staffs - Gear
– Common climbing equipment such as rope etc
– 2 Waterproof duffel bags for each climber - Porterage of equipment
– 45 kgs of equipment porterage for each climber up to base camp and 30kgs of porterage back after expedition - Transfers:
– All Airport pickup and drop as per your flight time - Weather Forecast Service
– Weather forecast for monitoring weather during the expedition period - Climbing Clinic
– Training at base camp by our guides before the actual climb - Emergency Medical and Rescue
– Comprehensive medical first kit at base camp
– Assistance with rescue incase of emergencies (Client should obtain personal travel insurance) - Climbing Certificate
– Ama Dablam Summit certificate from the Department of Tourism, Nepal
– Courier service
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Custom for bringing any expedition goods
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Personal clothing and equipment
- Insurance (Mandatory)
- Summit bonus (USD 500)
- Tips for base camp staff (USD 200)
- Personal expenses
Ama Dablam Expedition FAQs
Difficulty
Prerequisite
Guides
Meals
Accommodation
Approach
Group Size
Insurance
Communication
Weather
Other Information
Equipment list for Ama Dablam & Lobuche Expedition
The gear listed below is required for the Ama Dablam Expedition. We encourage you to get all equipment listed below and kindly ensure you check and try every piece of equipment. You can also buy or hire the same in Kathmandu as they are available in the many trekking shops from branded to local manufacturers in Kathmandu.
Head gears:
- Sunhat X 1
- Warm hat (should cover head & ear comfortably) X 2
- Buffs X 2
- Sunglasses/Glacier Glasses (High-quality, UV-blocking sunglasses with good all-around protection) X 1
- Ski Googles (Anti Fog and Good Ventilation)
- Headlamp with spare batteries (200-300 lumens output) X 2
Upper Body:
- Thermal or fleece base layer top X 3
- Trekking shirts / t-shirts (Breathable & quick-dry materials) X 3
- Mid weight top X 2
- Soft-shell jacket / fleece jacket X 2
- Prima-loft or light down jacket X 1
- Waterproof jacket X 1
- Hardshell Gore Tex jacket with hood X 1
- Insulated Down Jacket with hood X 1
- Expedition Down Suit X 1
Lower Body:
- Thermal or fleece base layer bottom X 3
- Trekking trousers/pants X 3
- Mid weight trousers/pants X 2
- Waterproof pant X 1
- Hardshell GoreTex pant X 1 (Non-insulated and waterproof)
- Insulated down pant X 1
Underwear:
- 5 pairs of synthetic or wool fabrics only
Foot Wear:
- Hiking Boots X 1
- Camp shoes X 1
- 8000m Mountaineering Boot X 1
- Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy (synthetic and wool)
- Liner socks X 2
- Summit socks X 2
- Flip flops X 1
Hand Wear:
- Liner Gloves X 2
- Midweight gloves X 1
- Heavy weight gloves( Leather Palm) X 1
- Down Mittens / Summit gloves X 1
Gears / Personal equipment:
- Daypack 45-55 liters (To carry water and personal items that you may require while trekking and climbing)
- Duffel bag (provided by us at request)
- Down Sleeping bag (-20 C rated) for Base Camp
- Down Sleeping bag (-30 C rated) for higher camps
- Thermarest mattress
- Garmin InReach
- One liter capacity water bottle X 2 (Nalgene)
- Insulated Cover for Water bottle X 1
- Trekking poles X 1
- Camera with charger or spare batteries
- Personal snacks and energy bars
- Laundry bag to keep the dirty clothes
- Padlock
- Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
- Extra clothes to wear in Kathmandu
- Umbrella / Poncho
Toiletries and hygiene
- Quick drying towel
- Small face towel
- Toothbrush &Toothpaste
- Face mask
- Water treatment tools
- Soap and Shampoo (Smaller bottle)
- Face and body moisturizer
- Sun screen SPF50+ and Lip balm SPF 30+
- Hand sanitizer/Antiseptic wipes
- Hygiene products
- Basic first aid kit
Climbing Gears:
- Helmet
- Ice Axe
- Crampons
- Harness
- Carabiners (3 X Screw Gate and 3 X Snap Gate)
- Descender (ATC Guide/Figure of 8)
- Ascender/Jumar (Large Handle)
- Prussik Cord X 2
- 8mm climbing cord of 3 meters
Documents:
- Passport with validity of 6 months.
- Credit cards in case of emergencies
- Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport
- Travel Insurance (Please refer to the general information page for more detail about it)
- Flight tickets
Which boot is best for peak climbing in Nepal? https://highlandexpeditions.com/best-boots-for-nepal-peak-climbing/
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Top-Notch Comfort and Safety on Our Trek
Top-Notch Comfort and Safety on Our Trek
What an outstanding company. Not paying through the nose, I was a little unsure what to expect but these guys were amazing. The comfort, professionalism and safety were second to none. And their schedule was so smart, it did everything to get us to the summit. Well done guys, see you again soon
