Ama Dablam Expedition

Technical Expedition in the Khumbu

26 days

6812m

4–8

Hard

Autumn

Starts in: Kathmandu

Ends in: Lukla

Accommodation: Hotel, Lodges & Expedition Camps

Ama Dablam is one of the most beautiful and iconic mountains in the Himalayas—an elegant spire of rock, ice, and exposed ridges rising in the heart of the Everest region.
This expedition combines a cultural trek through the Khumbu Valley with a serious technical climb, structured around acclimatization rotations, high camps, and a carefully planned summit push.

This is not just about climbing a mountain.
It is about entering true expedition mode: logistics, technique, safety, and sound decision-making in high-altitude terrain.

Highlights

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Climb Ama Dablam (6,812 m) — the most iconic and elegant peak in the Himalayas.
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A technical alpine-style expedition on one of Nepal’s most legendary mountains.
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Experience the heart of the Khumbu region beneath Everest and Lhotse.
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Led by an elite Sherpa climbing team with deep Himalayan experience.
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Spectacular views across the Everest, Lhotse and Makalu ranges.

Itinerary

1
Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at the airport and private transfer to the hotel. Time to rest and recover after the journey.
Accommodation with breakfast.

2
Kathmandu | Expedition Preparation & Welcome Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel. Full equipment check, technical review, and final expedition planning with the mountain team. Possibility to rent trekking and climbing equipment in Kathmandu (at the client’s own cost). In the evening, welcome dinner and official expedition presentation, organized by Crest Summit Treks, including a general safety and logistics briefing before entering the mountains.

3
Flight to Lukla (2,840 m) & Trek to Monjo (~2,840 m)

Scenic flight into the Khumbu and start of the trek through Sherpa villages and suspension bridges.

4
Trek from Monjo to Namche Bazaar

Gradual ascent to Namche, the heart of the Everest region.

3440 m
5
Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization hikes and adaptation to altitude.

6
Trek from Namche to Debuche

Panoramic trail with stunning mountain views.

3710 m
7
Trek from Debuche to Ama Dablam Base Camp

Arrival at Base Camp, camp setup, and first expedition routines.

4600 m
8
Rest Day at Base Camp

Recovery, hydration, and altitude adaptation.

9
Technical Training at Base Camp

Training with fixed ropes, safety systems, and movement techniques.

10
Acclimatization Climb up to 5,800 m (round trip)

Key altitude exposure day, returning to sleep lower.

11
Rest & Final Equipment Preparation
12
Base Camp (4,600 m) → Camp 1 (5,900 m)
13
Camp 1 → Camp 2 (6,100 m) & return to Base Camp
14
Reserve / Rest Days / Weather Window
15
Reserve / Rest Days / Weather Window
16
Base Camp → Camp 1
17
Camp 1 → Camp 2
18
Camp 2 → Camp 3 (6,400 m)
19
Camp 3 → Summit (~6,812 m) & return to Camp 2

Summit day with an early start and sustained technical climbing.

20
Camp 2 → Base Camp
21
Rest & Dismantling of Base Camp
22
Trek from Base Camp to Namche Bazaar
23
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
24
Lukla

Expedition closing dinner, offered by the organization, as a final team gathering to celebrate the safe return, share the experience, and officially close the expedition before flying back to Kathmandu.

25
Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
26
International Departure

Included / Not Included

Not Included

✈️ International Flights
• International flights to and from Kathmandu

🛂 Visa
• Nepal entry visa fees

🍽 Meals in Kathmandu
• Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu (except the two included group dinners)

🛡 Insurance
• Personal travel insurance covering high-altitude rescue and helicopter evacuation (mandatory)

🎒 Personal Equipment
• Personal climbing equipment and trekking gear

💰 Personal Expenses
• Internet, phone calls, laundry, charging batteries, showers and other personal costs

🥤 Drinks
• Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks during the trek and expedition

🚁 Rescue & Medical
• Personal medical expenses
• Helicopter evacuation if required

🎥 Filming Permits
• Camera, filming or drone permit fees

📦 Additional Services
• Any service not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section

Recommended

💰 Sherpa Summit Bonus
• Recommended minimum USD 800 per climber for the climbing Sherpa supporting the summit attempt.

Included

🚐 Transportation & Logistics
• Private airport–hotel–airport transfers in Kathmandu
• Round-trip domestic flights Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu
• Transport of expedition equipment by porters and yaks

🏨 Accommodation
• 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (private single room, breakfast included)
• Individual expedition tent at Base Camp with mattress and pillow
• Fully equipped Base Camp infrastructure: dining tent, kitchen tent, communication tent and toilet facilities

🍽 Meals
• Three meals per day during the trek and expedition
• Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
• Farewell dinner with the expedition team

🧭 Professional Expedition Team
• Experienced government-licensed climbing Sherpa
• Professional route fixing Sherpa team
• Base Camp staff including cook and kitchen team
• Optional 1:1 personal climbing Sherpa available

🧗 Climbing Logistics
• High altitude tents and climbing infrastructure at high camps
• Fixed ropes and route preparation
• Basic technical training at Base Camp

🎟 Permits
• Ama Dablam climbing permit
• Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
• TIMS trekking permit
• All required expedition documentation

🩺 Safety & Communication
• Expedition medical kit and emergency oxygen
• Professional weather forecast service
• Satellite phone and radio communication equipment

👥 Staff & Logistics
• Salaries, insurance and logistics for all Nepali expedition staff

🎁 Extras
• Official Ama Dablam summit certificate
• Crest Summit Treks expedition duffel bag

Trek details & Safety

Essentials

Difficulty level

Ama Dablam (6,812 m) is a highly technical Himalayan climb, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and demanding peaks in the region.

The standard route involves exposed rock ridges, mixed climbing sections of rock and ice, and steep alpine terrain where climbers use crampons, ice axe, harness, and fixed ropes.

This expedition requires strong alpine climbing experience, excellent physical condition, and the ability to move efficiently on exposed technical terrain.

Altitude Awareness

This expedition reaches elevations up to 6,812 m, where reduced oxygen levels can affect physical performance.

The program includes progressive acclimatization during the trek in the Khumbu region and rotations between high camps before the summit attempt.

At altitude, climbers may experience symptoms such as headache, fatigue, increased breathing rate, and heightened sensitivity to cold in the hands and feet.

Our high-altitude Sherpa team and mountain guides closely monitor climbers’ condition throughout the expedition to ensure safe acclimatization and ascent.

Guide & Sherpa support

All treks are led by certified local guides and experienced Sherpa teams who manage the route, daily logistics, and safety throughout the journey. Their deep knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and mountain conditions ensures a safe and authentic Himalayan trekking experience.

Packing list

Recommended Packing List for High Altitude Trekking

Below is a recommended packing list for high altitude trekking in the Himalayas (up to approximately 5,500 m). Temperatures can be very cold, especially in the early morning and at night, so it is important to bring layered clothing suitable for cold, wind, and changing mountain weather conditions.

Clothing

  • Long-sleeve shirts (2–3)
  • Lightweight trekking shirts (1–2) – preferably merino wool or synthetic fabrics
  • Fleece jacket or warm insulating layer
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Trekking pants (2 pairs) – at least one wind-resistant
  • Thermal base layer (top and bottom)
  • Thermal leggings
  • Underwear (3–4 pairs)
  • Warm hat or beanie
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Technical mountain gloves for cold temperatures
  • Buff or neck gaiter

Footwear

  • Hiking boots (already used and comfortable, Gore-Tex recommended)
  • Comfortable shoes or sneakers for the lodge
  • Trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
  • Warm socks (2 pairs)

Trekking Gear

  • Daypack (30–40 L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Sunglasses (UV protection – Category 4 recommended)
  • Water bottles (minimum capacity of 2 liters)
  • Thermal bottle
  • Rain cover for backpack
  • Rain jacket or waterproof shell
  • Dry bags / waterproof bags for protecting clothing and equipment
  • Optional: gaiters (useful in snow or muddy conditions)

Personal Equipment

  • Sleeping bag (minimum rating -15°C recommended, warmer is also fine)
  • Personal basic first aid kit
  • Water purification tablets or portable water filter
  • Sunscreen SPF 50
  • Lip balm with sun protection
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Personal toilet paper
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Small bag for personal waste

Personal First Aid (Recommended)

  • Personal medication
  • Pain relief tablets
  • Blister treatment
  • Diamox (only if prescribed by your doctor)
  • Water purification tablets
  • Rehydration salts

Documents & Money

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Nepal visa
  • Travel insurance covering high altitude trekking and helicopter rescue
  • Copies of passport and insurance documents
  • Cash for the trek (ATMs and card payments are not available in many trekking regions)

Optional Items

  • Mobile phone
  • Camera
  • Power bank / portable charger
  • Earphones / headphones
  • Personal journal or book
  • Snacks or energy bars

Important Notes

  • Each participant should carry a daypack with essential personal items during the trek.
  • The rest of the luggage will be transported by porters or yaks depending on the itinerary.
  • Weather in the Himalayas can change quickly – always keep warm layers and rain protection in your daypack.

Safety Measures

Your safety is our top priority throughout the trek. Our itineraries are designed to allow proper acclimatization, and our certified guides monitor participants daily for altitude-related symptoms.

Oximetry monitoring

First aid kit

Emergency oxigen

Travel insurance requiered

Important travel information

Important travel information

Himalayan travel takes place in a dynamic mountain environment where weather and trail conditions may vary. For safety reasons, minor itinerary adjustments may occasionally be necessary. Crest Summit Treks always prioritizes safety, comfort, and the best possible mountain experience.

More information

Most travelers need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Nepal. This visa can be easily obtained upon arrival in the country.

The tourist visa can be arranged:

  • On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
  • At major land border crossings into Nepal
  • In advance at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country

Travelers may also complete the visa application form online before arrival, which can help speed up the process at the airport.

To obtain a visa on arrival, travelers must complete the immigration form, present a valid passport, and pay the visa fee.

It is recommended to bring US dollars in cash to pay the visa fee.

In some cases, a passport-sized photo may be required, so it is advisable to bring one with you.

Tourist Visa Fees

  • 15 days: $30 USD
  • 30 days: $50 USD
  • 90 days: $125 USD

Tourist visas are generally issued as multiple-entry visas, allowing travelers to leave and re-enter Nepal during the validity period of the visa.

Indian Citizens

Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. However, they must carry a valid passport or an approved identification document when crossing the border.

Adequate travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining our treks and expeditions.

Travel insurance is not included in the trip price, and each participant is responsible for arranging their own policy before traveling to Nepal.

We strongly recommend that your insurance policy covers:

  • Medical expenses abroad
  • Emergency helicopter evacuation
  • Mountain accidents
  • Trip cancellation or interruption
  • Loss or delay of luggage

Helicopter evacuations in the Himalayas can be very expensive, especially in remote areas where road access is limited. For this reason, having proper insurance coverage is essential for your safety and peace of mind.

Altitude Coverage

For most treks in Nepal, we recommend insurance coverage for trekking activities up to at least 4,000–6,000 meters, including emergency helicopter evacuation.

For mountaineering expeditions or peak climbs above 6,000 meters, it is mandatory to have insurance that covers high-altitude mountaineering and rescue operations.

Participants must carefully check that their insurance policy covers the maximum altitude of their chosen trip.

Important Information

Participants should carry a copy of their insurance policy and emergency contact numbers during the trek or expedition.

Having appropriate insurance provides safety and peace of mind for both participants and the mountain team supporting the expedition.

Tipping is not mandatory but is a common practice in Nepal and a way to show appreciation for the local team supporting your trek or expedition.

Guides, Sherpas and porters work hard to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey in the mountains, assisting with logistics, equipment and support throughout the route.

As a general guideline, many trekkers choose to tip approximately:

  • Porters: around $8–10 USD per day
  • Guides / Sherpa Guides: around $10–15 USD per day

Tips are usually given at the end of the trek as a gesture of appreciation for the service provided.

The final amount is always at the discretion of each participant and may vary depending on group size and personal satisfaction with the service.

Each participant should carry a small personal first aid kit with basic medications that may be needed during the trek or expedition.

It is important to bring any personal medication prescribed by your doctor, as well as any specific treatments you normally use.

A personal first aid kit may include, for example:

  • Personal medication
  • Basic pain relief medication
  • Medication for digestive problems
  • Bandages or basic supplies for minor wounds
  • Sunscreen and lip protection

We recommend consulting your doctor before the trip if you require specific medication for high-altitude activities.

Our mountain team carries a group first aid kit and essential safety equipment, but each participant is responsible for their own personal medication.

Ready to experience the Himalayas?

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What Our Adventurers Say

Real stories from the peaks of Nepal

Our past travelers share the highs, challenges, and unforgettable moments that made their Himalayan journey truly extraordinary.

Wayne Storey

Island Peak Climbling

Had a great experience with Pasang on our Everest base camp and Island Peak trek. Very knowledgeable and friendly and great communication skills.

Otávio Marcacini

Everest Base Camp Trekking

Great guide, I strongly recommend! He knows a lot about the culture and knows many people. Also, I had the opportunity to have lunch at the EBC with others sherpas, nice experience… Thanks Pasang for guiding me during the EBC trekking!

Martin legault

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp

Professionnal guide
Big experience
Have a respect every place during the treck
Everything is on control with Pasang.
I recommended a 150%

Stephen Tindall

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp

I can honestly say I cannot recommend Pasang enough, I had the best time ever. Pasang is very knowledgeable and has so much passion about what he does. Throughout my trek I felt safe, and very welcomed. Pasang has become a life long friend, what ever trip you plan with him you will not be disappointed.

Jesen Lodge

Island Peak Climbling

Myself and a pal from Mountain Rescue England and Wales decided to go to Nepal and see the spectacular Himalayan Peaks. They didn’t disappoint. I have done a lot of mountaineering in Europe, Mont Blan, Gran Paradiso Etc. but these are next level…literally. Pasang Tendi was our guy. One of the nicest and hard working blokes you’ll ever meet. Awesome guide! Porters aside!