Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 15 Days
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Trip Difficulty Moderate
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Maximum Altitude 4,600m/15,091 ft.
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Best Season To Visit March-May, October-December
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Average Group Size Min. 2 pax

Trip Overview

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek: The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure in Nepal

The Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking adventures in Nepal, offering breathtaking Himalayan views while avoiding the crowds of the traditional Everest Base Camp Trek.

This trek gives you the rare opportunity to experience Ama Dablam, known as the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas,” up close. Reaching Ama Dablam Base Camp at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) provides stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, making it a top choice for anyone seeking an Everest region trek in Nepal.

The trail passes through iconic Himalayan villages such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Pangboche, giving trekkers ample time for acclimatization and a safe, enjoyable trekking experience. Along the route, you can immerse yourself in Sherpa culture, visit Buddhist monasteries like Tengboche Monastery, and interact with local communities, adding a cultural dimension to your Nepal trekking adventure.

Whether you are planning a Himalayan trekking trip in Nepal or looking for a scenic Everest region trek, the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and Himalayan adventure.

Why Choose the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks

At Nepal Sanctuary Treks, we design personalized Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek itineraries tailored to your preferences. Whether you are trekking solo, with family, in a school group, or a small group of friends, we ensure a customized trekking experience that prioritizes your comfort, and safety.

Our experienced  trekking guides, knowledgeable about the local culture and ecosystem, will take you to sacred sites like Tengboche Monastery while sharing fascinating stories about the Sherpa community.

As a Travelife Certified trekking company, we are committed to sustainable tourism in Nepal. We minimize our environmental impact and support local Sherpa communities through responsible trekking practices, eco-friendly accommodations, and contributions to local economies.

By choosing Nepal Sanctuary Treks for your Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, you experience an unforgettable Himalayan adventure while helping preserve Nepal’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage for future generations.

Best Time to Embark Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

The best seasons for the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to December). These months offer ideal trekking conditions with clear skies, mild temperatures, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks in the Khumbu region.

Planning your trek during these periods ensures stunning Himalayan scenery, excellent visibility, and a safe, enjoyable trekking experience in Nepal.

Physical Fitness for the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

The Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is a moderate trek that requires good physical fitness and stamina. Trekkers should be prepared for steep climbs, long walking days, and elevations above 4,000 meters. Maintaining a steady pace and allowing time for proper acclimatization ensures a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Proper fitness preparation allows trekkers to fully enjoy the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek and the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

Book Your Amadablam Base Camp Trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks

Experience the Himalayas like never before with the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, guided by Nepal Sanctuary Treks. Book your trek today and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and serenity of the Khumbu region.

Choose the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek for your next Himalayan adventure, and let Nepal Sanctuary Treks guide you every step of the way.

Below is a sample itinerary for the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek. We can customize the itinerary sustainably to suit your preferences. For more information, contact us at info@nepalsanctuarytreks.com.

Note: Below trekking hours, altitudes and distances are approximate, and absolutely for general ideas only.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu Airport

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.

Driving Time: Approx. 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu,, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will be holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” sign outside the terminal to greet you.

You will be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to give a detailed briefing on the upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Day 02: Leisure day and trek preparation- Drive Ramechhap in the afternoon

Altitude above sea level: 1,218 m / 3,996 ft – Ramechhap
Drive Duration: Approx. 4 hrs.
Accommodation: Guest House
Meal: Breakfast
After breakfast, take the morning to relax and enjoy at your own pace. In the afternoon, a private vehicle will take you to Ramechhap.

Day 03: Drive Ramechhap – Flight to Lukla –Hike to Phakding

Altitude above sea level: 2,610 m / 8,563 ft. – Phakding
Driving Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Flight Duration: Around 25 minutes
Flight Time: 6:15 AM
Hiking Duration: 4–5 hrs. approx. (9 km / 5.6 mi)
Ascent: 280 m / 919 ft
Descent: 510 m / 1,673 ft
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading to Ramechhap Airport for a short yet thrilling flight to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,315 ft), renowned for its adventurous mountain runway. During the flight, enjoy stunning views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Cho Oyu (8,153 m / 26,781 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft), Gauri Shankar (7,145 m / 23,444 ft), and Menlungtse (7,181 m / 23,557 ft).
Upon arrival in Lukla, your Everest Base Camp journey officially begins as you start trekking toward Phakding. The route follows the beautiful Dudh Koshi River, often called the “Milk River” for its milky-blue glacial waters. Along the trail, you’ll pass through traditional Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, and colorful prayer wheels, with Mani stones carved with Buddhist prayers lining the path.
After passing through the quaint villages of Chaurikharka and Ghat, you’ll reach Phakding, a peaceful riverside settlement that serves as your first overnight stop on the remarkable trek to Everest Base Camp.

Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar

Altitude above sea level: 3,445 m / 11,302 ft. Namche Bazaar
Hiking Duration: 6–7 hrs. approx.  (11 km / 6.8 mi)
Ascent: 1,150 m / 3,773 ft.
Descent: 320 m / 1,050 ft. 
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a nourishing breakfast, set out on your trek, crossing and re-crossing the Dudh Koshi River, whose milky-blue waters flow from glaciers high in the Himalayas. The trail passes through pine forests, open meadows, and terraced farmlands, offering glimpses of local crops and rural mountain life. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter donkeys and yaks carrying supplies and trekking gear along the narrow paths.

You’ll pass through the picturesque villages of Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsale before tackling a steep ascent of around 600 meters (2,000 ft) leading up to Namche Bazaar—the gateway to the high Himalayas.

Namche Bazaar is the largest and most vibrant town in the Khumbu region, beautifully situated on a natural amphitheater with sweeping views of the Dudh Koshi Valley. This bustling mountain hub offers everything from cafes and bakeries to trekking shops and lodges. Historically, Namche served as a vital trading point where Tibetan yak caravans met Hindu merchants from the lowlands, creating a rich blend of cultures that still thrives today.

Day 05: Acclimatization day in Namche

Altitude above sea level: 3,962 m / 12,998 ft. — Hotel Everest View
Hiking duration: Around 2–3 hrs. (5.4 km / 3.4 mi)
Ascent: 440 m / 1,445 ft.
Descent: 440 m / 1,445 ft.
Accommodation: Mountain Lodges of Nepal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Namche is an ideal spot for acclimatization. The scenery is stunning, and there are many activities to enjoy.

Begin your day with a short trek to Hotel Everest View, situated on a ridge offering spectacular views of the Everest range. The lodge is harmoniously integrated into the landscape. Be sure to visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, which offers intriguing insights into local customs.

After your visit, return to Namche. The afternoon is free for leisure, relax at the lodge or wander through the lively Namche Bazaar to experience the local atmosphere.

Day 06: Trek to Debuche

Altitude above sea level: 3,770 m / 12,369 ft. — Debuche
Hiking Duration: Approximately 6–7 hrs. (10 km / 6.2 mi)
Ascent: 985 m / 3,232 ft.
Descent: 810 m / 2,657 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving Namche Bazaar, you trek to Debuche, located about a 30-minute walk from Tengboche, home to the region’s largest monastery. This monastery hosts the vibrant Mani Rimdu festival each autumn shortly after the full moon, featuring religious ceremonies, traditional songs, dances, and legendary performances, and visitors are warmly invited to join. The trail to Debuche winds through rhododendron forests and follows the Dudh Koshi River. While the path is steep at times, it rewards trekkers with spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Along the way, colorful prayer flags and smaller gompas add a rich cultural and spiritual dimension to your journey.

Day 07: Trek to Pangboche

Altitude above sea level: 3,875 m / 12,713 ft. — Pangboche
Hiking Duration: Approximately 2–3 hrs.(3.5 km / 2.17 mi)
Ascent: 240 m / 787 ft.
Descent: 80 m / 262 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, you follow winding trails along roaring rivers and through lush forests, gradually entering a more rocky and barren terrain. The scenic route from Debuche crosses the Imja River before reaching Pangboche. In the afternoon, you can relax or explore the nearby monasteries. The village offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Everest trekking region. From here, the majestic peaks of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, Kangtega, and Ama Dablam can be admired in all their glory.

Day 08: Hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp

Altitude above sea level: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft. — Ama Dablam Base Camp
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5–6 hrs. (9.8 km / 6.1 mi)
Ascent: 645 m / 2,116 ft.
Descent: 645 m / 2,116 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, embark on a scenic trek toward Ama Dablam Base Camp. The trail begins with a crossing over the Imja Khola River, followed by a steady ascent toward the base of the iconic mountain. As you climb, Ama Dablam’s sharp ridges and towering presence become increasingly striking.

Upon arrival at the base camp, enjoy an awe-inspiring panorama of Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest (8,848 m / 29,029 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft), Cho Oyu (8,201 m / 26,906 ft), Thamserku (6,623 m / 21,729 ft), and Nuptse (7,816 m / 25,643 ft), along with the dramatic hanging glacier of Ama Dablam.

After soaking in the views and capturing the moment, descend back to Pangboche for an overnight stay.

Day 09: Trek to Khumjung Village

Altitude above sea level: 3,970 m / 13,025 ft.— Khumjung
Hiking Duration: Approx. 6–7 hrs. (14 km / 8.7 mi)
Descent: 386 m / 1,266 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

From Pangboche Monastery, the trail gently winds through the valley, offering stunning views of Kangtega, Thamserku, and Cho Oyu. It’s a relaxed day’s walk, providing plenty of time to explore the traditional Sherpa villages along the route.

Nestled at the base of the sacred Khumbi La, the charming village of Khumjung is often referred to as the “Valley Inside the Clouds.” Here, you’ll visit Khumjung Monastery, a 400-year-old spiritual site said to house a preserved relic believed by locals to be a Yeti skull, viewable upon request. You’ll also explore Khumjung School, founded in 1960 by Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the first climbers to summit Mount Everest.

Along the trek, you’ll meet warm and welcoming Sherpa communities, gaining insight into their rich culture, traditions, and legendary mountain hospitality.

Day 10: Trek to Thame

Altitude above sea level: 3,750 m / 12,303 ft. — Thame
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5–6 hrs. (10 km / 6.2 mi)
Ascent: 964 m / 3,160 ft.
Descent: 611 m / 2,005 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After an early breakfast, begin your trek toward Thame. The trail offers stunning mountain vistas as it winds through forests along the sides of a scenic canyon.

From the village of Tesho, the path widens and becomes easier, gradually leading to the charming village of Thame. Known for its tranquil beauty, Thame features scattered stone houses, terraced fields, and a magnificent backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Thame is home to several legendary Sherpa mountaineers, including Apa Sherpa, who holds the world record for summiting Mount Everest 21 times, and Tenzing Norgay, one of the first climbers to reach Everest’s summit with Sir Edmund Hillary. It is also the birthplace of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, the revered Lawudo Lama and spiritual head of the FPMT (Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition).

You’ll also visit the historic Thame Monastery, one of the oldest in the Khumbu region, renowned for hosting the colorful Mani Rimdu Festival each year; a vibrant celebration of Tibetan Buddhism and Sherpa culture.

Day 11: Trek to Monjo

Altitude above sea level: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft. — Monjo
Hiking Duration: Approx. 6 hrs. (14.94 km / 9.3 mi)
Ascent: 279 m / 915 ft.
Descent: 1,266 m / 4,154 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, leave Thame behind and begin your trek toward Monjo. Before descending, consider a short detour to visit Laudo Monastery, located about 15 minutes above Mende. Although the main temple is relatively young around 40 years old; it was once a meditation center for Western Buddhist students and still offers a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.

From there, return to Namche Bazaar for lunch and take in your final views of the surrounding peaks. Afterward, continue along an easy downhill trail through pine and rhododendron forests until you reach Monjo, a quiet village just outside Sagarmatha National Park.

Day 12: Trek to Lukla via Gumila Monastery

Altitude above sea level: 2,840 m / 9,318 ft. — Lukla
Hiking Duration: Approx. 6 hrs. (13.84 km / 8.6 mi)
Ascent: 954 m / 3,130 ft.
Descent: 935 m / 3,068 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, leave Monjo behind and begin your final trek toward Lukla. The return route takes a slightly different path to avoid retracing your steps through the Sherpa village of Phakding. Following a higher trail along the opposite side of the Dudh Koshi River, you will visit Gumila Monastery, one of the region’s most notable gompas and home to monks of the Gelugpa sect, the youngest school of Tibetan Buddhism.

After exploring the monastery, descend to rejoin the main trail and stop for lunch at Ghat. From there, continue your gentle trek back to Lukla, where you will spend your final night in the Everest region, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve completed.

Day 13: Flight to Ramechhap-Drive back to Kathmandu

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft — Kathmandu
Flight time: Approximately 25 minutes
Driving duration: Approximately 4 hours
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After an early breakfast, you’ll take a flight from Lukla back to Ramechhap airport. Upon arrival, you will drive for about four hours back to Kathmandu, completing your journey.

Day 14: Cultural Introductory Tour

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,272 ft. – Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meal: Breakfast
It’s also a spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla if we could not fly on the scheduled date and time, or we can organize a guided day tour in or around Kathmandu.

9:00 AM: Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu Valley
Start your day with a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Explore the vibrant Kathmandu with our expert guides, who will share insights into the area’s rich history.

Kathmandu Durbar Square
Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a historical royal complex with temples, palaces, and shrines dating back to the 15th century. Key attractions include Kumari Ghar (the house of the living goddess) and Kasthamandap, built from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Next, head to Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple, a sacred site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Admire the stunning white dome and golden spire, while soaking in the serene atmosphere filled with incense and prayer wheels.

PM: Boudhanath Stupa
Visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a spiritual center for Tibetan culture, surrounded by prayer flags, monks, and devotees chanting ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’.

Pashupatinath Temple
Conclude your tour at the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, located along the Bagmati River. Here, you can witness profound spiritual rituals, including the moving sight of open-air cremations, which hold deep cultural significance. After immersing yourself in this sacred experience, you will transfer back to your hotel.

Day 15: Final Departure

Meal: Breakfast

It is time to fly back home, keeping all the incredible experiences of Nepal in mind. The representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to TIA airport, where you should check in 3 hours before your scheduled flight.

Price Included

What's Included

  • Private Airport transfers,
  • Private transfer to/from Ramechhap
  • Internal flight: Ramechhap-Lukla –Ramechhap
  • 3 nights in Hotel Tibet or similar in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • 1-night hotel in Ramechhap with breakfast
  •  Tea house lodges during trek on full board
  • Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with entrance fees
  • Trek Permit & National Park Fees,
  • Staff insurance on the trek,
  • Trek guide, and porter
  • Map

What's not Included

  • Additional tours and meals that are not mentioned
  • Beverage,
  • Personal equipment,
  • Personal bills
  • Visas
  • Excess baggage beyond 15 kilos, including day pack
  • Insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects), liability insurance
  • Tips

Reviews

Valérie Beyssade, PCC, Directrice Associée Team Global Network France 

It’s been long due in my mind. Please find below my testimonial for NST, in both English and French: “In November 2011 I had the privilege to go on...

Valérie Beyssade, PCC, Directrice Associée Team Global Network France

Faqs

What is the best time of the year for this trek?

The trek is possible throughout the year. However, autumn and spring are the best seasons; choose to trek in autumn (Sep-Nov) as spring is busy with expedition stuff.

How fit do I need to be for this trek?

You will be walking for minimum of 5 – 7hrs a day, you don’t have to really fit but the minimum level of fitness is required as the trek is not an easy one. You do have to be healthy and mentally prepared for trekking in this region although it doesn’t require mountaineering skills.

Why should I trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks (NST)?

For over two decades, Nepal Sanctuary Treks has been crafting sustainable and bespoke trekking adventures in Nepal. Our deep knowledge of the region allows us to meticulously tailor itineraries to guest’s specific desires, ensuring a transformative journey. Committed to sustainability, our efforts are recognized by the prestigious Travelife Certified Award. Nepal Sanctuary Treks actively empowers local communities by supporting female-owned businesses and promoting girls’ education. Learn more

 

Can children do trek with their families in Nepal?

Yes, children can join trek, as there are no age restrictions. Generally, children acclimatize well to altitude, but our travel expert will reach out to you beforehand to provide personalise advice tailored to your family’s needs. At Nepal Sanctuary Treks, we specialize in creating family-friendly itineraries, and our guides have extensive experience working with families to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. For more information or to discuss specific details about the trek, please don’t hesitate to email us at info@nepalsanctuarytreks.com.

Do I need travel insurance covered while trekking/traveling in Nepal?

Insurance is a compulsion as anything can happen in the trek; for emergency rescue, personal liabilities, cancellation, loss of luggage and other reasons if necessary.

How much weight do I have to carry or how much will my porter carry?

You can bring as much as clothes you want but extra luggage is not required for the trek, you can leave your extra luggage in Kathmandu or Pokhara’s hotel. For the trek you can carry enough clothes you require in your backpack or carry only the camera, water bottle few clothes etc in your backpack. The potter can carry your extra duffle bag clothes which can weigh up to  30kg. However the local domestic flights (Lukla, Jomsom, Juphal, Simikot) allows maximum of 15kg per person including carry-on baggage.

What medical facilities are there on Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek?

Medical facilities are available according to the tourist seasons. During the season time there are basic altitude clinics at certain places as Gokyo and Pheriche, there is health post in Namche and Lukla.
Besides the season time there are pharmacies in Namche and Lukla, and a small hospital in Khumjung. However, you need to carry a First Aid and bring all your personal medicines you need. (First aid will be provided by Nepal Sanctuary Treks), also your guide will be trained for first aid in case of emergency.

Why choose Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek?

Ama Dabla base camp trek is for those trekkers who have short period of time and want to explore the Himalayas, it takes about 2 weeks to complete this trek. ‘Ama Dablam’ means ‘mother’s necklace’ as it is one of the most beautiful mountain to look at.

Are there any specific dietary requirements for the meals provided during the trek?

Dietary requirements should be noted on the pre-trip form from Nepal Sanctuary Treks. Based on your information, we will tailor meals during the trek to accommodate any allergies or preferences.

Will I be able to purchase the pre-paid WIFI card for Everest Link at the airport? 

You can use either NCELL or NTC prepaid cards until you get to Pangboche. However, after Pangboche, the internet and mobile signal become less reliable. Also you can use paid WI-FI available in teahouse lodges. Once you go past Pangboche, Everest Link becomes operational, and you can buy it for NPR 700, valid for one day.

Where in Tribhuvan airport I will be paying my visa fee?  I’ve already completed the application online but I’m unclear where I make my payment at the airport.  

Since you completed the process online, you will receive a submission receipt with a barcode. Please print this receipt and bring it with you when you visit the visa fees collection counter. Make sure about the type of visa you will need (15 days, 30 days, or 90 days) and make the payment accordingly. We recommend you bring the exact amount in US currency of the current visa fee while paying at the visa counter.

Next, you should head to the Immigration Desk, taking along your online application form, payment receipts, and your passport. Hand over these documents to the immigration officer to initiate the visa processing procedure.

How do Nepal Sanctuary Treks guides keep clients safe during treks?

Monitoring Health: Guides use oximeters to check clients’ oxygen levels daily, carry a first aid kit, and utilize the Lake Louise Form to monitor altitude sickness.

Communication: They are equipped with local SIM cards and satellite phones for continuous updates.

Emergency Response: In emergencies, they promptly notify the Kathmandu office and CIWEC clinic and are prepared to arrange critical support, including helicopter evacuations for severe medical issues.

Do we have one guide and one porter assigned for each person ?

There will be one main guide and one porter for every two trekkers. If the group size is four or more, we will supply an additional guide.

Ask Our Travel Expert

Affiliations & Recommendations

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek