Ama Dablam Expedition Guide | Itinerary, Route, Permits, Cost

This blog is about the Ama Dablam Expedition Guide contains information and tips for the expedition routes, permits, cost, difficulty, and best season. Ama Dablam Expedition is a must-do adventure that challenges your mountaineering skills and gives you an adrenaline rush. At an elevation of 6,812 meters, this mountain is one of the hardest peaks to climb. It is located in the Khumbu region of Nepal, home to Mt.Everest (8,848 m) world’s tallest peak in the world. Besides offering a thrilling adventure, its beauty and experience are another unforgettable part. Its distinct steep pyramid-shaped summit and hanging glacier have earned the name “Matterhorn of Asia.”

In the native Sherpa Language, Ama Dablam means mother’s necklace. The peak from the southwest face looks like a woman carrying a baby on her arms, wearing a traditional pendant worn by the Sherpa community’s women.

The view of soaring ridges piercing he blue sky and steep faces is a treat to the eyes. The Ama Dablam Mountain was first climbed in 1961 by Mike Gill and his team from New Zealand.

Ama Dablam is desired by many mountaineers due to the technical skill requirement and difficulty. The best part is the 360° panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and many more during the climb and from the top of the Ama Dablam summit too.

And we think you must not miss this adventure if you are into thrill and adventure. The blog is an ultimate guide for the Ama Dablam Expedition, so you can successfully complete this trek safely and comfortably.

Quick Facts about the Ama Dablam Expedition

• Ama Dablam Height: 6,812 meters (22,349 feet).

• Ama Dablam Location: Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Region of Nepal

• Ama Dablam Difficulty: Challenging, Technical skill, Prior experience required

• Popular Ama Dablam Climbing Route: South-west Ridge

• Best Season for the Ama Dablam Expedition: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)

• Ama Dablam Expedition Itinerary Duration: 24 to 30 Days

Why Climb Ama Dablam Mountain?

Ama Dablam’s height is below the 8,000m giants. However, what makes it special is its pointy pyramid shape, technicality, and breathtaking views along the route. The 360-degree panoramic views are not limited to one place. Climbers will enjoy expanded views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and even distant Kanchenjunga from the starting point (base camp) to the top of the summit.

Another good part of the Ama Dablam expedition is the route. Till Tengboche (3,860 m), it follows the classic Everest Base Camp Trek route. As a hiking nature lover, trekking through colourful rhododendron forests filled with the sweet aroma of flowers and traditional Sherpa villages like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Pheriche, what can we ask for more?

The major highlights of the Ama Dablam expedition  which make it a must to climb, are given below:

• Standing at the top of Ama Dablam (6,812m) via the Southwest Ridge.
• 360° views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and surrounding mountains from Ama Dablam’s summit and high camps.
• Trekking through the classic Everest Base Camp route: Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pheriche.
• Ancient monasteries and alpine landscapes.
• Climbing on steep snow, ice, and rocky terrain using ropes and other mountain climbing gear.

The expedition to Ama Dablam is highly recommended for adventure lovers who have advanced high-altitude climbing experience. The mix of views and adventure in every step is dream-like.

Who Should Attempt Ama Dablam?

In comparison to treks like the Gokyo Valley Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, or the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Ama Dablam Expedition is completely different. This is a mountaineering expedition that includes both hiking and climbing. And this means it is more challenging.

The highly experienced mountaineers and climbers should attempt Ama Dablam. If you have previous expereince, climbed several expeditilon peaks, comfortable using gears like ice-axe/crampon on a rocky and snowy terrains, you must try.

Along the journey, climbers have to climb through steep rock faces, exposed narrow ledges, and mixed snow/ice pitches, supporting the body with heavy fixed ropes. The most exhausting part is preparing for the summit days. There are several difficult sections, especially near the hanging glacier and summit push.

Climbers must prepare themselves physically and mentally. They have to stay in camp for several days with limited facilities in thin air. Here you won’t get lxurius services. There is barely any water, limited electricity, no internet, and basic toilets. For high-maintenance people, adventure like this is a big no. You have to walk continuously, covered in sweat and dust.

Therefore, if you have climbed peaks over 6,000-7,000m, then you can attempt Ama Dablam. Still, climbers are advised to prepare themselves two or three months in advance by doing training such as long hikes, leg, and core exercises. Climbing training on rock/ice as well as fixed rope is also beneficial.

Reaching the top of Ama Dablam is completely possible with proper guidance and preparation. Access Nepal Tours and Trekking offers highly experienced guides and adheres to strict safety guidelines.

Best Season to do the Ama Dablam Expedition

The best season for an expedition to Ama Dablam is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons are the peak trekking season in Nepal.

The warm and stable weather condition makes it a popular time to do an expedition. If you climb in springtime, colorful rhododendron and wildflower blooms along the trekking route. Autumn has its own speciality: clear skies, great visibility, and crisp mountain air.

Summer is also suitable for doing the Ama Dablam climbing. The permit fees are also cheaper in summer. However, prepare for unstable weather conditions and poor visibility.

Winter (December to February) is the best time to avoid. Climbing permits are not granted during the wintertime due to the high risk of avalanches, snowstorms, and extreme cold. Though you can go for a trek to the Ama Dablam Base Camp. For safety and comfort, it is best to book a date during the peak season only. At the expedition crowd is less unlike at the trekking route. So, you don’t have to worry about that.

The Ama Dablam Expedition itinerary usually starts from Kathmandu. If you are planning for the Ama Dablam Expedition 2026, now is the best time, as spring 2026 bookings should be made by late 2025. During the peak season, permits and flights get filled early.

Planning Your Ama Dablam Expedition 2026

Ama Dablam Expedition Itinerary

The standard Ama Dablam Expedition itinerary starts from Kathmandu (1,350m). Trekkers have to first arrive at the International Airport in Nepal. After that, you will check in at your hotel. The day before the trek, climbers will have a pre-trek briefing and equipment checks.

Then tomorrow, we take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m), the starting point to the Khumbu region. The flight lasts for 35 to 40 minutes, offering views of the green rolling hills and the Himalayas on the side. The Lukla flight is also known as one of the most thrilling flights in the world. This is the classic way of starting the journey into the Everest region.

After flying to Lukla, there is no transportation. We will be walking to Base Camp along the Everest Base Camp trail for the next few days. Daily, you are going to walk for 4 to 6 hours. Places you will stay along the trail are:

• Phakding (2,610m): After arriving at Lukla, we move forward, crossing the Dudh Koshi River via suspension bridges, and come here to spend a night.
• Namche Bazaar (3,440m): Popular tourist hub filled with markets, bakeries, hotels, and cafes. Also known as the Sherpa “capital.” We will stay here for two nights as part of the acclimatization process.

• Tengboche (3,860m): Famous for having the largest monastery in the Everest region with great surrounding views.
• Pheriche (4,371 m): Traditional Sherpa villages amid alpine meadows. Here, we will spend two nights as an acclimatization, enjoying the first closest view of Ama Dablam’s south face

During the trek, we will stay at teahouses, and during the climbing, we will stay at a camp/tent. The itinerary is mostly between 24 to 30 days, where Namche and Pheriche have an acclimatization day. From Lukla to Base Camp, the trek usually lasts for 5 to 7 days.

Although trekking is beginner-friendly, it becomes more challenging from the Ama Dablam Base Camp. However, the higher you go more expansive views of Ama Dablam’s south face and other peaks become visible. The Ama Dablam Base Camp is at an elevation of 4,570 m. It is located just below the peak, surrounded by a high rocky valley.

The highlight of staying at camp is the morning views. As you open your eyes, golden Ama Dablam and Everest, bathing in sunlight, greet you. Due to the high altitude, the landscape here is barren with icy cliffs only. It’s mandatory to stay at Base Camp to acclimatize and prepare for the expedition.

You have to climb continuously, supported by fixed ropes and carrying expedition gear. The journey is not easy, but it is worth every second. The high camps are very high, like Camp 1 (5,700m), Camp 2 (6,000m), and Camp 3 (6,300m). Therefore, climbers have to be mentally and physically prepared. It is one of the hardest expeditions in Nepal. It requires a good level of technical skills and preparation.

Climbing Route to Ama Dablam (Southwest Ridge)

The Ama Dablam Expedition package follows the standard Southwest Ridge. In comparison to other routes, this route is the most popular and used due to the less difficulty. Still, this route requires technical skill as you must climb steep rock pitches and snow/ice couloirs, which are UIAA Grade 5.8 (meaning they are demanding and difficult), using fixed ropes.

During the summit, climbers have to spend the night at high camp. In between the climb, the only place to rest is hanging from the rope. If you climb without including rest stops and acclimatization, you risk altitude sickness.

For safety reasons, Access Nepal Tours and Trekking follows the rotation rules. For example: climb from Base Camp to Camp 1 and return to BC to sleep and acclimatize, climb to Camp 2 on another day, and so on.

Continuously, during the summit push, the climbing starts relatively at midnight. After checking the weather conditions, the guide leads the expedition. Leaving the high camp, followed by the Yellow Tower and Grey Tower, you ascend forward. You have to pass through exposed ridges and climb the long snow/ice ridge to the top.

Throughout the expedition, the Sherpa will provide support and instruction. They will handle everything from fixing ropes, setting up camps and leading the climb. Each climber will get one guide, so that everyone can reach the Ama Dablam summit safely.

The summit itinerary is longer because it follows the rotation rules. During each rotation, you climb high during the day and sleep low at night. This gives your body enough time to acclimatize and prevent altitude sickness. To reach the top, it may take about 14-16 hours. This expedition can be done successfully. With a 70 – 80% success rate, prepared and experienced climbers can complete it smoothly. Most of all, the season in which you are doing it also varies the success rate of climbing.

Ama Dablam Expedition Permits

To climb Ama Dablam Mountain, travellers must have permits. The climbing permit fees change depending on the season. The permit to climb it is the Ama Dablam Climbing Permit (NMA expedition permit). The cost of it is $400 per climber (for spring/autumn). During the summer, the cost is $200 per climber.

Besides the climbing permits, you will need the other two permits, which are also mandatory:

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: $30 per traveller
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality: $17 per traveller

Another important part is hiring a Government Liaison Officer for expeditions like Ama Dablam. They are quite expensive, costing around $3,000 deposit per team, and the price may vary depending on the individual.

However, if you are trekking with Access Nepal Tours and Trekking, all these are included in the package and handled by our team. Our team covers all necessary permits, required government taxes, and makes the arrangements.

If you are planning for Ama Dablma 2026, Spring/Autumn permit fees are $400 per person. If you are trekking solo, begin the application process at least 2 to 3 months ahead. Seats are limited, especially during the peak season. Therefore, it’s best to book a few months ahead.

How to Prepare for the Ama Dablam Expedition?

Climbing is one of the activities that requires rigorous training, preparation, and endurance. It’s not only about enjoyment; safety is our top priority when doing an expedition. At this high altitude and in rough terrain, every step is taken with great care and calculation. Given below is the list of tips and suggestions to prepare yourself for this adventure:

• Physical training: The key part of this trek is being physically fit. For the best results, start training 1 or 2 months in advance. Try to build your endurance level by going for a hike, doing exercises, and strength training. You go for a short hike a few times on steep trails to build stamina and get familiar with this type of terrain. Another best option is doing training hikes at trekking peaks like Mera Peak, Island, or other beginner-friendly expeditions. For physical training, do cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, and swimming. Strengthen core and legs with squats, lunges, stair climbing, and hiking.
• Climbing skills: Try indoor rock climbing and practice ice climbing. Learn to use climbing gear and equipment like harnesses, belays, ice axes, crampons, and fixed ropes. Train yourself to ascend fixed lines and move over rock ledges. It is best to take a mountaineering course for better results.
• Essential gear: Pack all the essential personal gear. As for the groups gears, they are alll provided by the Access Nepal Tours and Trekking whish usually includes tents, ropes, stoves, down jackets, and sleeping bags Hwever, yu will still need some persona gears like down suit, climbing and trekking pants suits, high-altitude climbing boots, thick socks, crampons, ice axe, harness, carabiners, belay device, helmet, headlamp, glacier glasses/goggles, layered clothing. We can provide a packing list for the equipment.
• Acclimatization: The most important part of preparation is acclimatization days. It must include rest stops along the trek. In our package, we have acclimatization stops at Namche Bazaar and Pheriche. This gives your body enough time to adjust to high altitude and less oxygen. This helps in preventing altitude sickness. Drink lots of water and healthy foods only. If you feel any of the symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or headache, consult with your guide. During the summit, a push oxygen cylinder is provided in case of emergency.

Safety and Travel Insurance for Ama Dablam Expedition

The difficulty level of the Ama Dablam Expedition is challenging. Here, safety is paramount. Climbing at high altitude using ropes and crampons is not easy. Moreover, it also has a risk of crevasses, seracs, and avalanches. The higher you climb, the more prone you are to danger. In high mountains, the weather is unpredictable.

Therefore, the Nepalese government has made travel insurance mandatory. It will cover expenses for emergency medical conditions, helicopter evacuation, lost baggage, flight cancellation, trip cancellation, and many other related costs. Himalayan weather and terrain conditions are unpredictable, so backup is a must. You are not allowed to travel without insurance.

Another major challenge is altitude sickness. If not careful enough, climbers have a high risk of getting it. Although we follow the “Climb High, Sleep Low” principle, trekkers must also take care of themselves. The guide will monitor you closely throughout the journey. If you feel any of the AMS symptoms, inform your guide; they will help you descend immediately.

Similarly, if you experience shortness of breath at rest, nausea, headache, confusion, or loss of coordination, we will arrange the helicopter evacuation. For emergencies, the guide will be carrying a medical kit, oxygen bottles, and altitude sickness medicine as well.

Walk slowly, eat nutritious food, rest well, and drink lots of water throughout the expedition. Follow the instruction of guide strictly and do not try to walk alone.

Likewise, another thing you should be careful about is getting frostbite. Pack warm, multiple layers of clothes suitable for the Himalayas’ weather. Bring waterproof gloves with good insulation and change socks or gloves immediately if they get damp. And prepare yourself mentally.

How much Ama Dablam Expedition Cost?

The cost of the standard Ama Dablam Expedition is $7,500 per climber. Our Access Nepal Tours and Trekking provides an all-inclusive package that covers the full cost of group climbing gears, base camp staff, accommodation, meals, transportation, permits, guides per climber, porters, and a Government Liaison Officer.

At other expedition operators, the costs range between $7,500 $10,000 per climber. However, the Ama Dablam Expedition Cost totally depends on the service you choose, the inclusions, exclusions, itinerary, and timing. This price offer is available only in Nepal. At Western travel agency, it may cost you more than this, about $15,000-20,000.

Access Nepal Tours and Trekking offers $7,500 per climber for the Ama Dablam Expedition. It is a 24-day adventure where you can experience the best time of your life.

Breakdown of the Ama Dablam Expedition Cost 

• Climbing Permit of Ama Dablam: USD 400 (Spring/Autumn) and USD 2oo (Summer)
• Sagarmatha National Park + Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality: Around $50
• Lukla Flights (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu): $500 to $600 round trip.
• Equipment & logistics: All required climbing gears, high-camp gears, ropes, O₂, sherpa guides, etc. No need to pay for these, as Access Nepal Tours and Trek provides them.
• Guides & Sherpas: Guides are mandatory for trekking in Nepal. For activities like expeditions, you need highly professional guides. Their fees depend on their experience.
• Meals & Accommodation: Meals during the Kathmandu trek, and at high camp.
• Additional expenses: Travel insurance for emergency helicopter evacuation and medical problems (it is mandatory), personal climbing gears like down suit, boots, crampons, etc. (rent options available), extra personal snacks, internet at basecamp, etc. Carry about $1,500 cash for personal expenses like tips for guides and internet. Additionally, allocate money for your international airfare and Nepal visa.

At Access Nepal Tours and Trekking, there are no hidden fees. Once the trek is booked, the cost of the trip won’t change, and it is guaranteed to run. If you are in a large group, we provide some group discounts too. In summary, you can estimate about $8,000 per person as a baseline if you travel alone.

Ama Dablam Expedition Booking for 2026

Booking for the Ama Dablam Expedition 2026 is now exclusively open. The best time to climb this peak is in Spring or Autumn, which is just around the corner. Book early to reserve your seat and prepare yourself properly. The best time to book is 3 to 4 months ahead of the trek. This gives you enough time for training and for the operator to arrange logistics such as accommodation, guides, flights, and permits. Before booking the Ama Dablam Expedition, please keep in mind the Ama Dablam Expedition Guide.

• Use a Reputable Company: Similar to Access Nepal Tours Trekking, choose a local and government-registered company because they provide a more authentic experience. Book at a company that handles all the logistics, knows the route properly, provides high-altitude kitchen staff, reliable Sherpa support, and quality equipment.
• Verify Inclusions: Make sure the package includes the essentials like transportation, accommodation, meals, guides, porters, permits, base camp staff, and high camps tent. If you trek with Access Nepal Tour and Trekking, all the above-mentioned items are included. You don’t have to worry about safety and quality service. Review the package’s inclusion and exclusion before booking, or clear any doubts by communicating with your tour operator.
• Prepare for Changes: This adventure takes you to remote places. In a high-elevation region, facilities are limited, and it requires flexibility. Sometimes, itineraries need to be amended suddenly due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Therefore, we suggest you add a buffer day to avoid disturbance. It is best to have open-ended return flights. Do not try to do everything alone; cooperate with your team. Carry a digital and photocopy of your permits, travel insurance, and passport.
• Join a Group: It is best to join a group for an expedition. Doing this gives you the advantages, like a group discount. It will be more affordable per person and also more enjoyable to do it with people.
• Physical Check: Before going on an expedition, check your physical condition. Do not forget to double-check the monitor too. Bring all the necessary items for personal use, such as a power bank, pocket money, snacks, toiletries, and any other essentials.

For a smooth Ama Dablam Expedition 2026, simply follow this Ama Dablam expedition guide and enjoy your moment in the Himalayas.

Why Choose Access Nepal Tours and Trekking?

Access Nepal Tours and Trekking is a local Nepal-based company that has been operating for more than a decade. We have been working in this field with our highly experienced Sherpa teams. With direct control over logistics, we can provide authentic and quality services.

Access Nepal Tours and Trekking’s Ama Dablam Expedition package is an all-inclusive price. When trekking with us, you don’t have to compromise on safety and the quality of services. Your safety is our main priority, so all the given gears come in high-quality. Our guides are licensed and experienced; they will help with guiding, fixing ropes, supporting, and managing logistics during the stay at high camp.

Most importantly, from your arrival in Kathmandu to the day of your departure, everything will be handled by the Access Nepal Tours and Trekking team.

Conclusion

To put it, Ama Dablam is one of a kind. It’s a whole package that offers you the experience of both trekking and climbing simultaneously. This ultimate Ama Dablam Expedition guide is to provide you with a comprehensive idea of the cost of the packages, the route followed during this adventure, and to prepare yourselves accordingly.

With this detailed information about costs, difficulty, permits, and safety tips, you can book your Ama Dablam trip without hesitation. The only remaining part is choosing the right season, training diligently, packing properly, and joining a trip with our professional team of Access Nepal Tours.

Though Ama Dablam is a challenging expedition, with professional support, guidance, and proper training, any physically fit person can climb it successfully. So, book your Ama Dablam Expedition 2026 and visit this dreamy place blessed by nature.