Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek
Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek
Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek
Quick Overview
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4,570m
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

Highlights of the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

  • Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,600m) and experience one of the most scenic base camps in Nepal. 
  • Get a chance to see Panoramic Himalayan Views and witness Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Thamserku, and Island Peak along the trail. 
  • Explore Namche Bazaar which is the capital of the Sherpa people and is filled with cozy cafes, local bakeries and trekking shops. It is a hub of the Everest region Culture.
  • Visit the largest spiritual monastery in the Khumbu region, i.e., Tengboche Monastery and experience traditional Sherpa rituals and prayers. 
  • Stay in Sherpa villages like Dingboche and Chhukung. These villages are rich in local culture, hospitality, and mountain traditions. 
  • This trek is a quieter alternative to Everest Base Camp. It is a shorter and less crowded trek but still delivers the beautiful Himalayan scenery and authentic Sherpa experiences. 

Overview of Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Everyone wants a glimpse of the most beautiful mountain in the world, and that’s why the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is popular. Ama Dablam, at 6,812 meters, isn’t just a mountain. It is a masterpiece that nature created.  It is often called the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas” because of it’s sharp ridges and pyramid-like shape. Also, the beauty of Ama Dablam makes it a favorite for trekkers and climbers. 

Ama Dablam Base Camp 13 Days Trek is a getaway to a journey that blends adventure, panoramic views, Sherpa culture, and unforgettable sense of achievement. Unlike the crowded trails like the Everest Base Camp Trek, this adventure takes you on a quieter trail with the viewpoints of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. 

Whether you’re a passionate trekker, a photographer, or someone who wants to soak in the Himalayas of Nepal, this trek offers everyone a life-changing adventure. Every moment of the trek feels special, so get ready and pack your bags to explore the mountains with Himalayan Partner.  

Quick facts of the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

  • Trek duration: 13 Days
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,570 (Ama Dablam Base Camp)
  • Trek Grade: Moderate
  • Best Season: Spring & Autumn
  • Accommodation: Tea houses, lodges, or Hotels along the trail
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • Trekking Region: Khumbu, Sagarmatha National Park
  • Permits required: Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Khumbu National Park Permit
  • Transportation: Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and similarly a return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. 
  • Major Highlight: Close View of Ama Dablam, Tengboche Monastery, peaceful trails, Sherpa Culture, and Himalayan views. 

How to reach Ama Dablam Base Camp? 

To reach Ama Dablam Base Camp, you need to follow the itinerary of the Everest Base Camp until you reach Pangboche, which is a major Sherpa village on the Everest Base Camp Trek route. You can enjoy your stay here in a beautiful village by visiting the monastery and spending time with locals. 

The itinerary of Amadablam Base Camp Trek consists of an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar and Chhukung. When you land at Lukla airport, your trek begins through the route of Phakding and Manjo before reaching Namche Bazaar. Between Namche Bazaar and Phakding, you’ll enter the Sagarmatha National Park. 

Similarly, the trek follows the route and ascends from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and finally Ama Dablam Base Camp. This trek is of 13-days with proper acclimatization. After visiting Base Camp, trekkers will return along the same trail to Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu. This journey is both Challenging and rewarding. Since the itinerary is made with less walking hours, everyone can do this trek with proper preparation.

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Trip PlanExpand all

Trekking Distance: 8km, 3-4 hrs

Today you’ll take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Sometimes your Lukla flight might get transfer to Ramechhap Airport. It that happens we need to go a day before to catch the early morning flight. If you don’t want this hassle then you can also hire a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla. It costs around 500 $ for each person when it’s shared with 5 person. When you reach Lukla your journey begins along the Dudh Koshi River. Enjoy your 1st day of trekking with short climb to Phakding. Phakding is the starting point for all Everest region treks.

Max Altitude: 2,610m Meals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House at Phakding

Trekking Distance: 10km, 5-6 hrs

After a warm tea and breakfast we will begin our trek for today. The route is through vibrant prayer flags, suspension bridge, and after a few hours of walking we reach Monjo Village, from where the Sagarmatha National Park starts. We’ll register or permit and then follow the trail through dense jungle. We will continue hiking until we reach Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is also known as gateway of Everest.     

Max Altitude: 3,440m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel at Namche Bazaar

Today is the acclimatization day to get adjusted with the thinner air. Namche Bazaar offers a wide range of facilities. So, today you can explore this village and also do the optional hike to Everest View Hotel for the views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. To conclude a day in a good note, you can try bakery products from Namche Bazaar.

Max Altitude: 3,440m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel at Namche Bazaar

Trekking Distance: 9km, 5hrs

Today we’ll trek to Deboche from Namche Bazaar. The trekking route is through lush rhododendron forests, and you’ll also visit Tengboche Monastery, which is the largest Monastery in the Everest region. We will explore the monastery for a while and then continue the trek to Deboche.

Max Altitude: 3,820m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House at Deboche

Trekking Distance: 11km, 6-7 hrs

Today we will head to Dingboche through different villages, including Pangboche village. We’ll also pass through many stupas, mani walls, and the magical views of the Himalayas. The view of Ama-Dablam is seen close from this path. After a long walk you’ll reach Dingboche village. Dingboche is also known as the summer valley of Khumbu. 

Max Altitude: 4,410m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House at Dingboche

Trekking Distance: 11km, 7-8 hrs

We’ll start this day early. Today’s trail is a little difficult, but it should not be tough. As you trek to Chhukung, you’ll pass by several Buddhist stupas with prayer flags. After some time with a comfortable walk, we will reach Chhukung.

Max Altitude: 4,730m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house at Chhukung

This is another Acclimatization to adjust to the thin air. Chhukung village provides stunning views of snow-capped mountains, rivers, and glaciers. You can take a short hike to Chukkung Ri to enjoy the views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu and Island Peak.

Max Altitude: 4,730m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house Chhukung

Trekking Distance: 10-11km, 6-7 hrs

Today, we’ll start our trek through one of the most famous passes of this trek, Kongma La Pass. The hike might be challenging this day but the views are equally rewarding. We’ll climb up the moraine and then walk past the Khumbu glacier for an hour to reach Lobuche. The views from Lobuche is magical. The mountains will make you forget the hardships you faced during today’s trek.

Max Altitude: 4,910m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house at Lobuche

Trekking Distance: 13km, 6-7 hrs

When you get closer to the destination, the excitement increases. Today’s walk is comfortable compared to the previous day. After some time, we’ll reach Pangboche and prepare for our final ascent to the base of Ama Dablam. 

Max Altitude: 3,985 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house at Pangboche

Trekking Distance: 15km, 6-7 hrs

Today is one of the most important days from the trek. The trail gradually ascends through alpine meadows and rocky paths towards Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,570m). When you reach the base camp, you’ll be rewarded with close-up views of Ama Dablam. The surroundings are so peaceful with the giant snow-capped mountains. Everything feels like a dream here. After spending some time at the base camp, you head back to Pangboche for overnight stay.

Max Altitude: 4,570m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House at Pangboche

Trekking Distance: 13km, 6-7 hours

The trail from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar is mostly downhill. It follows the Imja Khola River passing through the rhododendron forest. You’ll also cross the suspension bridges, Sherpa villages, and enjoy the views of Everest, Lhotse, and of course, Ama Dablam. By the afternoon, you’ll reach Namche Bazaar where modern comforts like bakeries, cafes, and small shops feel like a luxury after many days in the higher Himalayas. 

Max Altitude: 3,440m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel at Namche Bazaar

Trek duration: 18km, 6-7 hrs

It’s your final trekking day. It begins with an early breakfast in Namche Bazaar. From here, the trail descends and heads toward Lukla. In Lukla your trek officially comes to an end. This trek ended but the memories will remain with you for a lifetime. 

Max Altitude: 2,860m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel at Lukla

Flight time: 30-35 min

Today, you’ll wake up early to catch the flight back to Kathmandu. You’ll enjoy the scenic flight for 30-35 minutes and then land in the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. Then you’ll be dropped in your hotel room then you can rest for the day. 

Max Altitude: 1,400m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
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Cost Details

Includes

Transportation

  • Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu
  • Airport pickup and drop service

Accommodation

  • Best available hotels, lodges or tea houses in the trekking route.
  • Clean rooms with basic facilities 

Meals

  • 12-Breakfast, 12-Lunch, and 12-Dinner during the trek 
  • Tea and Coffee are provided
  • Seasonal fruit

Guide and Porters

  • Experienced English-speaking guide
  • Porter service 

Permits & Fees

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Safety and Equipment

  • Basic First aid and kit for emergencies

Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • Nepal visa
  • Tips for the guide and porter
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional sightseeing or cultural activities

Essential Information

Foods and Accommodations during Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

During your Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek you’ll stay in locally runned lodges or teahouses. They are cozy and Comfortable. You’ll also be served with warm meals that gives you energy for trekking. Your stay and all the meals are included in the package, so you don’t need to worry about it. 

Accommodation during the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

  • Rooms are usually twin-sharing with basic beds, blankets, and pillows.
  • Hot showers, Wi-fi, and mobile charging is available in most of places but an extra charge may apply.   
  • When you get higher, the lodges may become simple but the hospitality of the Sherpa people makes up for it. 

Foods during the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

  • You’ll get your foods in the dining rooms of tea houses, which is served warm and freshly cooked. 
  • The menus include the typical Dal, Baht, Tarkari (rice, lentils, and curry), noodles, pasta, soups, potatoes, and momos. 
  • Western options like pancakes, omelets, fried rice, and even pizza are available in bigger villages. 
  • Hot tea and coffee are also available to keep you warm and energetic. 

Permits required during the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience, every trekker going to Ama Dablam Base Camp must obtain the following permits. 

  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: This permit is required to enter the Khumbu region and costs around $20. 
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit is required for trekking inside Sagarmatha National Park, where Ama Dablam and Everest lie. It costs around $25. 

As your trusted travel agency, we will take care of all these permits on your behalf so you won’t have to worry about the paperwork. All you need to do is pack your bags, and we’ll handle the rest. 

Best Time to Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp?

If you’re not a beginner while trekking in Nepal, then you might already know that the best time to trek in Nepal is during the Spring and Autumn Seasons. Same applies to Ama Dablam too. The best time to trek here is also during Autumn (Sep-Nov) and Spring (March-May). 

Autumn Season brings the best weather, clear skies and mountain views. Nights might be little cold during these seasons. While, spring brings the warmer temperature with the flowers and rhododendrons blooming all over the trekking route of Ama Dablam Base Camp. Winter brings cold weather but the trekking trails are quiet and peaceful. So, for the experienced trekkers, winter can be a good option too. Monsoon brings rain with slippery trails so this season is less recommended for the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek. 

Trek Difficulty and Preparation for Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek 

Ama Dablam Trek is considered a Moderate Trek. It covers around 75 to 80 km round-trip from Lukla. It goes from 2,860m at Lukla to 4,570m at Ama Dablam Base Camp. Terrain is a mix of forests, suspension bridges, rocky trails, and glacial areas. The main challenges you might face during Ama Dablam trek are altitude sickness, steep ascent, especially from Namche Bazaar to Lobuche, and changing weather. 

The tips for preparation are:

  • Start your training early: Focus on cardio like jogging, stair climbing, or hiking with a heavy backpack will help you prepare.
  • Strengthen your legs and core: Squats, lunges, and core exercises will help you with those long uphill climbs.
  • Acclimatization: Our 13-day itinerary is designed for safe altitude gain, but listen to your body.
  • Practice hiking: Go on short weekend treks with your loaded backpack.
  • Think about the mental aspect:Trekking to Ama Dablam Base Camp is as much a mental exercise as a physical one. You might face challenges. So, it is important to stay positive and patient.

Packing List for the 13-days Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Packing smart makes your 13 Days Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek more comfortable and safe. The trail takes you from valleys to snowy mountains, so layering is the most essential thing. 

Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Fleece or light down jacket
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket
  • Trekking pants + thermal pants
  • Warm hat, gloves, and trekking boots

Trekking Gear

  • 40–50L backpack with rain cover
  • Sleeping bag 
  • Trekking poles & headlamp
  • Water bottles + purification tablets

Personal Items

  • Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer
  • Toiletries & quick-dry towel
  • First-aid kit and Diamox
  • Snacks for energy

Extras

  • Power bank, camera/phone
  • Passport, permits & insurance
  • Cash because there are no ATMs on the trail

Flight Delays during the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

If theflight to Luklais delayed while going to or returning from Lukla, then your flight will be rescheduled. Sometimes it may get transferred to Ramechhap. In this case, we will pick you up from your Hotel and drive you to Ramechhap airport. If you have limited time, then you can book a helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Lukla. This adds 500$ to your price.

Travel Essentials during the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

  • Visa: All foreigners except Indians require a visa to enter Nepal. You can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or immigration checkpoints along Nepal’s border. For visa, you’ll need a passport with at least six months of validity, a passport-size photo, and a visa fee.  
  • Travel insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory while trekking in Nepal. Your insurance must include all health care and emergency helicopter evaluation.  
  • Currency exchange: The legal currency in Nepal is Nepalese Rupees (NPR). You can exchange major currencies like USD, EUR, GBP in a legal money exchange in Kathmandu. You can also use ATMs for Nepalese rupees. It’s better to keep extra cash because some places might not accept online payments. 
  • Extra expenses: Our trekking package covers the major expenses but it doesn’t cover all the costs. Personal expenses like shopping, extra meals, snacks, tips, additional drinks, etc. You need to pay yourself for these expenses. So, we suggest you to keep some extra cash for extra expenses.

Why should you book Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek with Himalayan Partner?

While you’re booking a trek in Nepal, choosing a right trekking agency is as important as choosing the trek itself. Here are some reasons to trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp with us:

  • We always choose your safety first. We plan proper acclimatization, carry a medical kit and always look after your health on the trek.
  • We’ll provide you an experienced Sherpa Guide who knows the trail, culture, and mountains better than anyone. 
  • Our packages are flexible and customizable. Whether you are solo, a couple or a group, we will adjust the itinerary that match your time and fitness level. 
  • You’ll get to stay in local Sherpa villages, taste authentic Nepali foods, and connect with Sherpa traditions. 
  • There is no hidden cost in our packages. All permits, meals, and stays are included, so you can enjoy without any tension in your head. 

When you book with us, you don’t just trek to Ama Dablam, you create memories with a team that truly cares for you. 

Conclusion

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is more than just a journey. It is an adventure that touches your soul. This trek is perfect for those who want a mixture of cultural immersion, high-altitude adventure, and close encounters with some of the world’s most iconic peaks. When you complete this journey and return to Kathmandu, you’ll carry a heart full of stories, friendships, and a deep connection with Himalayas. So, get ready to make your heart heavy with Himalayan Partner.