Ama Dablam

Height: 6,812 m
Duration: 30 days
Country:
Challenge yourself with the ultimate mountaineering adventure on Ama Dablam, one of the most iconic peaks in the Himalayas! With its steep snow and ice slopes, technical rock climbing sections, and exposed ridges, this peak offers a thrilling and unforgettable climb for experienced mountaineers. From the summit, you'll have unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. But be warned: Ama Dablam is not for the faint of heart. The climb requires a high level of fitness and technical climbing skill, as well as a willingness to brave high altitudes and extreme weather conditions. If you're up for the challenge, the rewards are truly unparalleled!

Route

  • 3,952 m gain over 30 days
  • Starting and ending in Lukla
  • approach: walk in

Walk in

  • +2,242 m over a 36 km approach
  • 4 - 6 days in
  • 2 days out

Climb

  • +2,242 m over 4 - 10 days.
  • 4 high camps. typically just 2 or 3 high camps are used.

Difficulty

  • TD: Very hard (alpine grade 5)

Cost

  • $3,000 solo
  • $3,500 - $17,495 guided

When to go

  • April and May
  • October and November

Permits

  • 3 permits are needed
  • costing around $347 total

Guide mandatory?

  • no

Guide links

GuideInfoCost
Mountain Rock Treksmore info $4,850
Rugged Trails Nepalmore info $6,000
Nepal Travel Adventuremore info $5,500
Nepal independent namemore info $4,800
High Camp Trekkingmore info $6,500
Himalayan Trekkersmore info $7,449
Elite Expedmore info $11,000
Summit Climbmore info $6,450 - $2,650
Mountain Madnessmore info $17,000
Jagged Globemore info $8,995 - $7,795
Namas Adventuremore info $8,250 - $7,950
Climbing The Seven Summitsmore info $17,495
Highland Expeditionsmore info $6,999
Makalu Adventuremore info $4,500
My Everest Tripmore info $4,700
Nepal Guide Treks & Expeditionsmore info $7,500
A.T. Adventures Internationalmore info $10,725
Exciting Nepal Treks and Expedition P.Ltd.more info $7,700
Happy Feet Mountaineers Pvt. Ltdmore info $6,500 - $4,000
Accessible Adventuremore info $3,500
Mountain Professionalsmore info $15,500
Mountain Monarch Trekking & Climbingmore info $7,500
Luxury Holidays Nepal Pvt. Ltdmore info $4,100
Mount Mania Treks & Expedition P. Ltd.more info $4,200
Ace The Himalayamore info $8,550
Himalayan Glacier Adventure & Travel Companymore info $12,000
Asian Hiking Teammore info $4,899
Visit Himalaya Treksmore info $6,500
Himalayan Recreation Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltdmore info $5,999
Nepal Wilderness Trekkingmore info $4,700
High Route Adventuremore info $4,665
The climbing itinerary for Ama Dablam includes stops at Base Camp, Camp 1, Camp 2, Camp 3, and the Ama Dablam Summit. Climbers acclimatize, progress through the camps, and make the summit push. Reaching the summit offers a rewarding experience with breathtaking views for experienced climbers.

base-camp
Base Camp

The starting point of the climb at an altitude of 4570 meters. Climbers acclimatize, prepare equipment, and receive training here.
4,570 m

high-camp
ABC

Generally skipped.
5,300 m

high-camp
Camp 1

The first campsite located at 5700 meters, providing a higher base for acclimatization and staging for the summit push.
5,700 m

high-camp
Camp 2

The second camp situated at 6000 meters, offering a strategic position for further acclimatization and preparation for higher altitudes.
6,000 m

high-camp
Camp 3

The third campsite located at 6400 meters, where climbers finalize their preparations, make the summit push, and stay during the descent.
6,400 m

summit
Ama Dablam Summit

The ultimate objective of the climb, reaching the summit of Ama Dablam at an elevation of 6812 meters. Experience a challenging ascent and enjoy stunning views from the top.
6,812 m

Ama Dablam weather

How is the weather on Ama Dablam, and when is the best time to go.

The climbing season is typically from September to November when the weather is clear and dry. During this time, the temperature ranges from 5°C to -10°C at night, and from 10°C to 15°C during the day. From December to February, it is extremely cold with the temperature dropping as low as -20°C at night. March to May is another popular climbing season with mild temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C at night, and from 10°C to 20°C during the day. June to August is the monsoon season with heavy rainfalls, making climbing difficult.

The best time to climb Ama Dablam is in these months:

  • Apr
  • May
  • Oct
  • Nov

More options Oct/Nov, as in Spring most exhibition companies focus on Everest. Easier in Autumn also due to less ice.

Ama Dablam Services

Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation

Services on the Ama Dablam route are limited, but there are some options available to support trekkers and climbers.

Accommodation

Teahouses and campsites are available on the route, although camping is more common for climbers.

Food

Teahouses offer basic meals, with a limited selection. For climbers, most food will need to be brought with them.

Guides

Guides are available for hire, and their rates depend on their experience and the services they provide. It's recommended to hire a guide for safety reasons.

Porters

Porters are available for hire, and are often used by climbers to carry their equipment. Rates depend on the weight of the load and the distance to be covered.

Medical facilities

There are no hospitals on the route, but some teahouses have basic first aid supplies. It's important to bring your own medication and medical kit.

Gear rental

Some gear can be rented in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar, but it's recommended to bring your own equipment. The nearest gear shop is in Namche Bazaar.

Transport

Transportation to the start of the route in Lukla is by flight from Kathmandu. Helicopter services are also available. There is no other motorable road on the route.

Internet / Phone

There is limited cell phone coverage on the route, but some teahouses offer wifi for a fee. It's recommended to bring a satellite phone or a communication device.

ATMs

There are no ATMs on the route. It's recommended to bring enough cash to cover all expenses.

Shops

There are a few shops on the route selling basic supplies, such as snacks, batteries, and toiletries.

Ama Dablam permits

What permits are needed for climbing Ama Dablam

Permits required for climbing Ama Dablam

1. Sagarmatha National Park Permit

  • $30
  • Required for entry into Sagarmatha National Park

2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

  • $17
  • Required for climbing peaks in the Khumbu region

3. Ama Dablam Climbing Permit

  • $300
  • Required for climbing Ama Dablam

Ama Dablam access - getting there

How to get to Ama Dablam

  • By Air: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and then trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp.
  • By Road: Drive from Kathmandu to Salleri or Phaplu and then trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp.
  • By Helicopter: Take a helicopter from Kathmandu to Ama Dablam Base Camp.
What you can see from the summit of Ama Dablam

Ama Dablam questions

What to know about climbing Ama Dablam

Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.