Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek 10 Days

Ama Dablam Base Camp (ADBC: 4600 m) Trek is another 10 Days moderately challenging trip into the Everest region of Nepal. Also known as the ‘Matterhorn’ of the Himalayas, Ama Dablam peaks at 6812 m. Being known by its local name, Ama Dablam, its literal meaning is referred to as Mother’s Necklace. The long ridges on each side like the arms of a mother (ama) protecting her child. And the hanging glacier thought of as the Dablam, the traditional double-pendant containing pictures of the gods, worn by Sherpa women.

Difficulty of Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

ADBC Trek has been proven to be suitable for adventurers of all age groups without any prior trekking experience. The trip has thus been meticulously planned so the travelers need not fear any altitude sickness. The highest elevation one reaches during the trip will be at the Ama Dablam Base Camp itself. Moreover, the highest altitude for night halt will be at 3985 m in Pangboche. Additionally, the trip follows trails that have been completed by children under age of 10 and seniors over age 80.

First ascent of Ama Dablam

Ama Dablam was first climbed on 13 March 1961 by Mike Gill (NZ), Barry Bishop (US), Mike Ward (UK) and Wally Romanes (NZ) via the Southwest Ridge. They were well-acclimated to altitude, having wintered over at 5800 m near the base of the peak as part of the 1960–61 Silver Hut expedition. It was led by Sir Edmund Hillary himself.

Everest Region

The trip begins with a thrilling 30 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Also known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, it is one of the most challenging airports in the world with a runway spanning mere 527 m. Visitors then begin their journey with a hike down towards Phakding and then the famous Namche Bazar. Namche, also known as the gateway to Everest, serves as a halt for acclimatization for many trekkers in the region.

Moreover, Namche Bazar is the main trading center and hub for the Khumbu region. The town has a number of lodgings and stores catering to the needs of visitors as well as a number of internet cafés. Additionally, there are German bakeries, little cafes and many restaurants in the town as well. Moreover, there is also an Irish pub, said to be the highest and most remote Irish pub in the world. A popular local meal is yak steak. On Saturday mornings, a weekly market is held in the center of the village.

Recommended seasons for Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Situated at a distance of 152 km northeast to Kathmandu, Ama Dablam is the third most popular Himalayan peak for permitted expeditions and trekking. As with Mount Everest, the best trekking months are March, April and May (before the monsoon) and September, October, November & December.

Sherpa and the majestic Himalayas

The scenery on the way is awe-inspiring, as the Khumbu region boasts 4 of the world’s 6 tallest peaks. It includes Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Cho Oyu. Trekking in the Himalayan region gives its travelers a first-hand experience into the life of world’s most famous climbers, the Sherpas. Experience life in the highest Buddhist monasteries in the world and explore the World Heritage site, the Sagarmatha National Park and its unique variety of Himalayan flora and fauna.

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Map

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Additional Information on Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek:

Booking Your Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek:

We are now offering maximum flexibility for our guests’ convenience to book their trips into the Everest region for 2024 and 2025. You may thus choose a date that best suits your schedule. Regarding your booking, please select one of the two available options. You may either pay USD 100 per person as a deposit amount to confirm your trip or pay the full amount of USD 1195 per person upfront. Moreover, if you opt for the deposit, the remaining is payable via Online / Card Swipe / Cash. We also accept all of the convertible currencies including USD, AUD, CAD, EURO, GBP, SGD, etc. when you arrive in Kathmandu.

Booking Your International Flight:

For your 10 Days ADBC Trek, you should plan to arrive in Kathmandu on Day 1 and depart on Day 10. However, the Lukla flights can be canceled due to adverse weather, so having some extra one or two buffer days can prevent any issues with your return tickets.

Packing for the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek:

Please click here for a complete checklist of your ADBC Trek. Be sure to read it carefully and pack accordingly as per your personal preferences.

Arrival Information:

Once you’ve booked your flight tickets, please share the details with us. Our airport representatives will then be waiting for you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, holding our official name ‘Cordial Trek’ and your nameplate as you exit the airport terminal. Additionally, if you’re arriving earlier, we can arrange accommodation for extra nights and add-on tours as well for additional cost and provide complimentary airport pickup.

Flight to Lukla and Return:

During the peak season, typically from mid-March to mid-May in spring and late September to late November in autumn, flights to Lukla and back operate from Ramechhap airport. At other times of the year, they depart from Kathmandu. We will however arrange the approximately 4-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap Airport at no additional cost. Optionally you may as well book a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport with additional costs (USD 400).

Trek Starting and Ending Days:

The actual trekking days are from Day 2 to Day 8. You’ll fly to Lukla on Day 2 to commence the trek and return to Lukla on Day 8. On Day 9, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu and be transferred to your hotel. Expect to spend 7 nights and 7 days completing the ADBC trek. You’ll begin your trek from Lukla to Ama Dablam Base Camp and back with overnight stays in villages like Phakding, Namche, Khumjung, Pangboche and Lukla. Each day’s trek will begin around 07:30 AM and conclude in the late afternoon, with frequent breaks to catch your breath. You’ll have numerous photo opportunities along the way and enjoy breakfast and dinner at the same place, while lunch is en route.

Additionally, your guide will provide you with regular briefings about timing and stops every morning before the trek begins.

Accommodation in Kathmandu:

In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in 3 Star Hotels with twin/double sharing beds.

Accommodation in the Mountains:

During the trek, your accommodation options are teahouses. Although basic, these teahouses are clean and provide a comfortable place for a good night’s rest.

Food:

In Kathmandu, your package includes breakfast only, typically served buffet-style. Except on Day 2 of your Lukla flight, you’ll receive a packed breakfast. During the trek, you will be provided with full board meals and may choose from a menu offering local and international cuisines.

Note: It is highly advisable to stick to vegetarian food from your arrival in Kathmandu until the end of your trek. It is because proper toilet facilities are not available everywhere along the trail.

Baggage and Weight Limit:

On your flight to Lukla, the total baggage weight allowance is 15 kgs, combining both checked and carry-on baggage. Ensure you pack approximately 10/11 kilos in your checked bag and 5/4 kilos in your carry-on to stay within the 15-kilo limit. If you have items you don’t need on the trek, you can leave them at the Kathmandu hotel for storage at no cost. Remember to take a photo of your bag-tag and keep it for easy identification in case the original tag is lost.

Drinking Water on the Trek:

Bottled water is available along the trail, but we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottles and treat tap water to reduce single-use plastic bottle waste. Be sure to bring water treatment pills and flavorings to enhance the taste. Staying hydrated is essential, so aim to drink more than 4 liters of water every day while trekking.

Electricity, Charging and Wi-Fi:

Please keep in mind that you’re embarking on a trek to Everest region, not exploring urban areas. While some facilities like charging and Wi-Fi are available at an extra cost, they are not guaranteed. We also recommend against planning to work or conduct online meetings during the trek, allowing you to fully enjoy the mountain experience.

Cash for Extras and Tipping:

You should have Nepali rupees for expenses such as tea, coffee, bottled drinks and Wi-Fi. Plan to carry about USD 150 to 200 equivalent Nepali rupees. Additionally, set aside 100-150 USD for tipping your guide and porter. The amount can vary based on the level of service provided by the field staff members.

Availability of Guide & Porter:

Every two travelers will be provided with a single porter and an experienced guide. The baggage however must be divided between 12.5 kgs each as every porter carries a maximum of 25 kgs.

Note: Both guide and porter will be insured and well equipped with necessary items and first aid kit.

Highlights of Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek:

1. Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp (4600 m)

2. A thrilling flight to and from Lukla Airport

3. Trek inside Sagarmatha National Park

4. Explore Namche Bazar

5. Experience Sherpa culture and traditions

6. Chance to unravel the mysteries of abominable Yeti

7. Explore Tengboche Monastery, the oldest in the region