Ama Dablam Expedition
From
Booking Tour
Trip Highlights
- City tour in Kathmandu.
- Step inside and experience life as the “mountain people” live, in the heart of Himalaya.
- Visiting Tengboche Monastery.
- Remarkable views of Khumbu Ice fall.
- Everest Base Camp, Kalapattar and walking on the Khumbu glacier.
Trip Summary
Ama Dablam (6,812m) is one of the world’s most attractive mountains. The awe-inspiring ice-coated granite pyramid-like mountain soars above the Dudh Kosi River valley south of Everest and Lhotse in the Khumbu region. Mount Ama Dablam is acknowledged as a jewel of the Himalayas in Nepal. Ama Dablam climbing is relatively safe and anyone can summit it. This unforgettable climb in the Khumbu region of Nepal involves a cultural trek up to Everest base camp along with technical aspect of rock, snow and ice climbing experience. We must allow more time on the mountain to acclimatize properly. The route provides varied and sustained climb with reasonable level of difficulty. From the summit top you, can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu. We fix two to three camps on the route along the beautiful south-west ridge beneath the right side of the hanging glacier. Expedition to Mt. Ama Dablam begins with a 35 minutes mountain flight to Lukla and then trek to Namche Bazaar, Khumjung and Pangboche before setting up base camp. It is just 20 mile walk from Lukla to Ama Dablam base camp. The normal route for Mt. Ama Dablam climbing is via South-West Ridge. The ascent from Ama Dablam Camp I to camp III is considered the most difficult part of the climb.
A THING TO BE NOTED: Before or during the trip, there are certain factors like weather and political situations that are unexpected barriers and out of our control, which will compel us to change your itinerary. In such a case, please try to understand these barriers, but our purpose will always be to follow the itinerary that has been listed in this website that you have gone through before booking the trip.
Mountain Ascend Treks For Social Causes
Mountain Ascend Treks works in cooperation with local porters and tea-houses by giving them jobs and using their services and in this way, it uplifts the economic conditions of the people
Trip Itinerary
Cost Includes
- Pick up and drop off services for both international & domestic flights as per the itinerary
- 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu on Bed & Breakfast Basis
- Both way air tickets for (Ktm – Lukla – Ktm) with Airport tax
- All necessary transportation cost for overall expedition
- Expedition Royalty & all necessary permits charge by Nepal Government for Amadablam expedition
- Summit route fixing, Rope charge, Garbage disposal and management fees
- Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) with Tea/Coffee
- Government Liaison officer with his daily wages, equipment, food, insurance and transportation
- Experienced and well-trained Base camp Cook and Kitchen helpers
- Porters up to the Base Camp and return from the Base camp
- Walkie-talkie per Member and climbing staff as required
- Satellite and cell-phone network available at the Base camp (chargeable as per use)
- Availability of the daily weather forecast during the entire expedition
- EPI gas with Gas burner (MSR Rector)
- In case of emergencies, sufficient Oxygen and Mask regulator available at our Base camp (If used: US $55)
- 1:1 Sherpa per Member with his equipment allowance and daily wages
- Equipment allowance for Base camp Cook and Kitchen helpers
- Helicopter rescue insurance for high altitude climbing Guide, Cook and involved Nepali staff
- Company’s Duffel Bags if required
- Trekking Map
- First Aid medical kit
- Farewell dinner with expedition staff in a Nepali typical restaurant with cultural show in Kathmandu
- Arrival and Departure transfers on both domestic and international flights.
- Standard Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin share bed- and- breakfast basis as per Everest base camp trek itinerary.
- OPEN and CHOICE Full board meals while Everest base camp kalapathr trekking.
- Responsible trekking policy of One trekker : 0ne porter
- Accommodation at clean and comfortable tea house or lodge.
- Welcome dinner with cultural program as listed in the itinerary.
- All Domestic flights and airport tax as listed in the itinerary.
- Private transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek as applicable.
- Professional local trekking group leader well trained in Wilderness First Aid.
- Personal Sherpa Porters to carry all trek personal gear while on base camp trekking.
- Insurance of all staff including porters in base camp Kalapathar hike.
- Warm clothing and required trekking gear for porters like Gortex jacket /trousers, trekking shoes, woolen hat, woolen gloves, woolen shocks, sun glasses etc.
- Complementary Mountain Ascend treks Everest base camp trek T-shirts.
- Comprehensive per-departure information and trip dossiers
- TIMS Trekking permit, Everest national park entry fees for Everest base camp trekking.
Cost Excludes
- International flight Airfare
- Nepali Entry Visa fee
- Lunch & Dinner (except farewell dinner) during your stay in Kathmandu
- Travel and High-Altitude Insurance (trip cancellation, medical emergencies, illness, accidents, death, loss of personal baggage and personal items, emergency evacuation, theft or damage to baggage and personal effects etc.)
- Personal Trekking and Climbing Gears
- Other Expenses: Bar bills, Internet, laundry, Battery Recharge etc.
- Summit Bonus: US $ for your personal Sherpa
- Please calculate some tips for Cook and involved Nepali staffs.
FAQ
Why Choose Mountain Ascends Trek ?
We have an experienced team of guides on the mountain and great ground staff in Kathmandu to make sure you are well taken care of from the moment you arrive. You can always contact us 24/7 on our international helpline and all of our support team rotates through Nepal on a seasonal basis so you can be sure you are getting knowledgeable first hand advice.
All of our guides work for us full time and have on average 8+ year’s experience trekking in the Himalayas. We are one of the few companies in Nepal to get a Wilderness First Aid Certification for all of our trekking guides. Our guides have also attended a special course dealing with acclimatization issues on the mountain . (meet the team)
Where is Annapurna Base Camp located?
Annapurna Base Camp is located in Kaski District of Gandaki Province in Nepal. The Annapurna Base Camp is around 81 kilometers north of Pokhara. You can either take a bus from Pokhara to Kimchi and then start walking to Annapurna Base Camp, or hire a jeep and drive to Ghandruk and begin your Annapurna Base Camp expedition.
Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek open?
Yes! After the Covid-19 pandemic faded throughout Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is finally open to travelers. During Nepal’s lockdown, the trek was closed, leading to a decline in tourism. However, many tourists can now go to Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Is Annapurna Base Camp safe?
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is significantly safer than the Annapurna Mountains, which are quite risky. It is one of the most pleasant and enjoyable journeys that anyone can undertake in terms of altitudes, duration, adventure, and challenges.
How much does it cost to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
Depending on the package, route, operator, and facility you choose, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek might cost anywhere from $400 to $700 per person. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most affordable treks, offering amazing adventure and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
WHO CAN GO? Are there any age limits for Annapurna Base Camp Trekking?
There’s no age limit for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, as long as trekkers are physically fit and determined! We have had families with kids as young as 7 years do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and our eldest trekkers have been in their late 70s as well. However, children under the age of seven and seniors over the age of 70 are not suggested to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek due to the high altitudes and prolonged journey duration.
What permits are required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) cards are the mandatory permits required for trekking in the Annapurna Region. Both of these cards are available through the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These permits can be obtained for less than 50 USD.
PAYMENTS & EXTRA COSTS When I pay the remainder of the money on arrival in Kathmandu, how do you take that money? US cash or credit card?
We accept all major currencies. You can pay the balance in cash or with a credit card. Please note we charge a 13% fee for credit card payments so it’s much better to pay your balance in cash.
Can I use credit cards in the places I visit while trekking?
Generally, most places in Nepal don’t take credit cards so they are of limited use. There are ATMs in Kathmandu and you can get a good exchange rate withdrawing rupees. The ATMS in Kathmandu generally charge a $5 USD service fee in addition to any charges that you might incur from your bank. These ATMs also often have a limit of 25,000 rupees per day (about $215 USD).
What extra costs can I expect?
Our trekking packages are pretty much all inclusive from the time you arrive in Nepal. We generally suggest you plan on about $300 or $400 for extra expenses including tips. Extra expenses include items such as: Your Nepal Visa, sleeping bag or down jacket rental, showers, Wifi, snacks and charging electrical devices at tea houses along the way. We also suggest you plan on having extra funds available in cash or on a credit card in case your flight to Lukla is canceled and you decide to charter a helicopter.
What about extra hotel nights?
We can arrange extra hotel nights for you in Kathmandu before or after the trek at additional cost. Please let us know before you arrive in Nepal so we can make the arrangements as required. (Read our blog post.)
PHYSICAL FITNESS How difficult is trekking?
Trekking in the Everest Region is challenging, but it is a challenge which most people can rise to with some training and determination. The trek consists of 5 to 8 hours of walking a day. In general, we start trekking around 8 am and reach the destination for the day around 4 pm.
How fast do you go on the trek?
We encourage everyone in the group to keep a slow pace at our pre-trek briefings. It’s about enjoying the mountains and not a race to the next tea house. The head guide will normally stay at the back of the group with the slowest trekkers.
What is the Best Fitness Program to Prepare?
In terms of physical conditioning before the trek, it’s best if you can do some cardio related workouts like running and distance walking. It’s ideal if you can take the time to go on a few weekend hikes around your area too. We have a training guide for Everest Base Camp on our website that may have just the information you’re looking for. https://www.mountainascendtreks.com/secure-yourself/
https://www.mountainascendtreks.com/travel-basics/
https://www.mountainascendtreks.com/be-a-pro-traveller/
What physical criteria will ensure I'm fit enough to trek?
Those with acute or chronic health conditions impacting their stamina, range of motion, coordination, or balance may have difficulty completing the trek. If you are in doubt about your own physical readiness, consult a physician well in advance of booking your trip
PREPARATION & PACKING What are the next steps once I pay the deposit?
Once you have paid the deposit the next step is for you to send us a scan or photo of your passport along with arrival flight details. We can’t book your Lukla flight or get your trekking permit until we have the photo or scan of your passport so please send this to us as soon as possible .
What type of insurance should I have? Where can I obtain a policy?
Travel insurance is mandatory and obtaining it for the days you are trekking is your responsibility. Please email us your proof of insurance before arriving for the trek.
Do you rent sleeping bags or down jackets?
We can provide a -20C sleeping bag for a $20 rental fee during the trek and down jackets are $15 USD. These will be available at the briefing the night before your flight to Lukla and you can just let the team know that you need one.
What about the duffel bag for the porters?
We will provide a duffel bag for you in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be carried by the porters on the trek and will be your luggage item on the flight. Often the porters get ahead on the trail and your duffel will not be available until you reach the tea house in the evening so you will need to carry a day pack while hiking with the items you need during the day.
How big should my day pack be?
Generally, we recommend a day pack of about 40 L, or roughly the size of a school backpack to hold your extra layers as well as essentials for the day.
What about weight limits?
The main limitation on the weight is the luggage limit on the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla which is 10kg (22lbs) and another 5kg (11lbs) for a carry-on for a total of 15Kg or 33lbs.
What should I do with passports, medications and valuables?
Make sure to keep all of the items in your carry on during the flight. You don’t want to be without important documents or medication if your luggage is delayed for some reason. You should carry these in your day pack on the trek as well.
Can I leave luggage in Kathmandu during the trek?
Yes, you can leave any luggage at the hotel during the trek.
Is there a possibility of getting separate rooms for the trip? If so, how much extra will this cost?
We can arrange a private room in Kathmandu. In some of the villages on the trek, it may be possible to have a private room (no extra cost) and we will do our best to arrange that. However, during busy times of the year there is a limited amount of lodging available in some of the villages so it’s generally impossible to arrange private rooms. This is the case even if you’re willing to pay extra since the tea house owners will not give out a private room if it means someone else goes without a room.
Where will our drinking water come from?
We provide all the meals on the trek, but don’t provide water. The best option is to treat the local water either with chlorine/iodine tablets or to use a steri pen. The tea houses will give you good quality free water and you can also get along the trail but you will need to treat it. If you are using the tablets make sure they dissolve completely (about 30 mins). On most treks you can buy mineral water along the trail. A liter of mineral water at lower elevation tea houses costs around $1 USD but at higher elevations can cost up to $4 so the cost can add up.
What kind of meals are offered on the trek?
We let trekkers choose a meal and hot drink from the menus at the tea houses. Typical meals include; omelets, toast, boiled eggs, noodle soup, fried rice, macaroni, momo, vegetarian curries, pizza or chow mein. The traditional Nepali Dal Bhat which consists of rice, lentils, and a vegetable is all you can eat and always a good choice. Meat on the mountain is not hygienic and we suggest trekkers stick with vegetarian options.
Can you accommodate vegetarian or other special diets?
This is not a problem and in fact we recommend that everyone stick with a vegetarian diet on the trek as the local meat is not refrigerated properly. If you have special dietary requirements just let us know and we will make sure to assist with the proper menu.
Can I charge electric devices on the trek?
They have electricity at the tea houses in the common areas. They do charge an extra fee of $1 to $4 an hour for charging.
What type of adapter might I need?
A lot of the tea houses have the power strips with the American outlets. If not then either a C or D type outlet is good. You can check out all the details on the different outlets If you have time in Kathmandu you can buy at least the common adapters for just a couple of dollars.
What about wifi or phone calls?
Some of the lower elevation tea houses offer wi-fi for an extra charge of $3 to $10. Another option is to get a Nepalese SIM card in Kathmandu for both internet and calls. Even if you have a SIM card data use is mainly limited to lower elevation tea houses. You can also use your guide’s phone for international calls as long as you reimburse him for the charges which tend to be fairly reasonable.
What are the Toilet facilities in the tea house/guesthouse?
Most of the tea houses have western style flush toilets and cold running water. In almost all cases the bathrooms are shared and not attached to the individual rooms. Some of the higher elevation tea houses have the Asian style toilets which consists of a ceramic basin on the ground
HEALTH AND SAFETY What about acclimatization and altitude?
The best way to avoid problems with altitude is to ascend slowly and all of our Everest treks are designed to average about 300m or 1000ft a day in elevation gain which helps to minimize any elevation problems and is the rate recommended by high altitude doctors. For a complete list of symptoms please review our Welcome to Nepal Brochure. All of the guides are well experienced at recognizing symptoms related to AMD and each carries a pulse oximeter and will monitor your blood oxygen level on a regular basis.
What about sun protection?
It may seem counterintuitive, but your skin is in more danger of sun damage on the mountains than while at the beach! The sun’s intensity increases dramatically as we rise in altitude, and fresh snow reflects exponentially more UV rays than does the sand. You will need to protect your skin with clothing and sunblock. A sunblock specifically for mountain conditions is recommended. If you wear prescription eyeglasses it’s recommended that you get your prescription fitted to sunglasses. It’s best to wear a hat and cover up while trekking.
What happens if I get sick or injured while trekking?
We take all possible precautions to proactively ensure the safety and wellness of our trekkers, but rest assured that our guides are trained and experienced in dealing with emergencies. If necessary, your guide will utilize your travel insurance information to call a rescue helicopter, and you will be flown to Kathmandu for medical attention.
What happens if I have symptoms of altitude sickness on the trek?
Having minor symptoms of altitude sickness such as a headache are quite common and you can continue trekking. However, if you develop additional symptoms it’s critical that you don’t continue trekking to a higher elevation. We can often arrange to have you walk down to a lower elevation and wait several days for the symptoms to resolve before continuing with the next group. Note that additional charges apply for extra days on the trek.
If I am sick can I continue the trek next day after a day of rest?
If you are sick and need to rest for a day we can often place you in the next trekking group coming up the mountain. We would rather see trekkers take extra time on the trail then risk altitude sickness by pushing themselves too fast. Please talk to your guide about this and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What safety measures are in place?
All of our guides are certified by the Red Cross and also have an international WAFA certification. Wilderness Advanced First Aid is comprehensive medical training designed for remote professionals or wilderness leaders who venture into remote and challenging environments. Our guides are all equipped with pulse oximeters and in addition to keeping a close watch of your condition they will take daily readings of your blood oxygen saturation levels. In addition our guides carry a basic first aid kit and have a mobile phone. In an emergency situation the guide will coordinate rescue efforts with the office in Kathmandu where our team is available 24/7.
How cold does it get on the trek?
Temperatures vary quite a bit in the Everest Region depending on the season. Temperatures in Lukla at the start of the trek are actually quite warm from March to May and from September to November and trekkers often wear t-shirts and shorts. Everest Base Camp is cold year round and even during the warmer months you can expect lows at night below freezing. During the winter months it can reach -25C or colder at night and it’s important to have warm clothes and a good sleeping bag. Our packing list for Everest Base Camp should have you well prepared for even the coldest months
What sort of footwear is recommended?
Comfortable, sturdy trekking shoes or boots are a must. Look for shoes with ankle support, and ideally your footwear will have Gore-Tex or similar lining, along with thick soles. This will ensure that your feet stay warm and dry, and that you are comfortable walking on rocky paths. It’s always best to break your boots in before you arrive and make sure they are comfortable. If you start to get a blister it’s best to stop immediately and cover it with duct tape or moleskin.
Is the food and water in Nepal safe?
All of the water in Nepal needs to be treated before drinking. If you want to avoid treating the water you can buy bottled water on the trek or in Kathmandu. Whether trekking or in Kathmandu its best to avoid uncooked vegetables. To be on the safe side make sure all your meals are cooked and avoid meat on the mountain.
How much money should I bring along?
Our treks are all-inclusive and cover accommodation, food, park fees, permits, and many other costs, as a means of making your adventure as stress-free and convenient as possible.. Travelers generally bring a small amount of pocket money to cover bottled water, snacks, or tea beyond your included meals, souvenirs, tips, or donations to monasteries along the route (if you are inclined to give one). Trekkers find that around $15 to $20 USD a day is reasonable for these extras although if you’re on a tight budget you can get by with less.
Do you have any extra charges for solo travelers?
We don’t have extra fees for solo travelers who join an existing group. However, if you are the only one who signs up for a departure date we do charge an extra $20 per/day as a porter fee. If an extra fee applies our team will let you know about the extra fee before you book or the extra charge will be added automatically when you book the trek online. If additional guests do sign up and join your trek this fee will be waived when you arrive in Nepal.
Can I get a refund if I don't finish the trek?
It’s sometimes the case that trekkers finish ahead of schedule or they end up stopping the trek early for health or personal reasons. If this is the case please understand that we do not offer any refunds for unused days on the trek. Please understand that our costs are the same as we have an obligation to pay our guides and porters for the time they have committed.
Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?
This is certainly possible if you have arranged a private trek with us. If you are doing a group trek please ask us in advance on how this might be arranged and we will do our best to find a good solution.
Who else is in my trekking group?
If you’re concerned about the number of people signing up for a group or have questions about the other trekkers in the group please ask us. We never share personal data but we can give you a general idea on nationalities, sex and approximate age ranges.
I would like to extend my holiday, any recommendations?
If you have extra days after the trek please ask our ground team in Kathmandu for assistance with arranging day tours around the city. We also organize short 3 day trips to Chitwan for safari.
Altitude
6,810 m / 22,349 ft
Trip Level
Extreme
Best Season
October, November
Route
Kathmandu - Lukla - Namche Bazar - Pangboche - Ama Dablam - Doboche - Lukla - Kathmandu