Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, followed by flight from Manthali Airport to Lukla (2860 meters / 20 mins). After that, a trek to Phakding/Manzo (2610 meters / 4 to 5 hrs.)

Well, we should not delay good things whether it be anything, even for the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek. Therefore, our journey begins on the first day with a drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap. We begin the drive early in the morning and cover a total distance of 138 kilometers. It takes about 5 hours to reach Ramechhap which will be one of the best drives you go for. Passing through several modern and traditional settlements, pitched and off-roads, rivers, check posts, etc, we make our way to the Manthali Airport.

As you reach Ramechhap, our representatives will help you board on flight from Manthali Airport (Ramechhap) to Tenzing and Hilary Airport (Lukla). Another 35 kilometers to cover, but this time, it will be on a flight. The place takes you over some aerial views of different villages, streams, hills, and even mountains. As you land in the Tenzing and Hilary Airport, you can feel the crisp mountain air. From there, our guides will take you for a short trek to Phakding.

The trek begins with a gradual descent through pine forests, passing prayer wheels and Mani stones inscribed with Buddhist chants. Besides, this section of the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking map follows the Dudh Koshi River while crossing through several suspension bridges covered with fluttering prayer flags. Furthermore, the Lukla to Phakding trail also offers you the views of Himalayas for the first time during this trek.

Within the next 4 to 5 hours of walking past some rhododendron and juniper forests. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into cozy teahouses, where warm Sherpa hospitality welcomes you. Enjoy a delicious and fulfilling dinner before going for a comfortable sleep.

Day 2: Ascend from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,444 meters / 6 to 7 hrs.)

We continue the trek in the Ama Dablam Trekking trail after having breakfast and quickly preparing for the ascend. Today, the trail can be a little more challenging because we need to cover a total distance of 10 to 12 kilometers which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. As you keep walking on the Phakding to Namche trail, you will wander through pine and rhododendron forests, following the glacial river’s course. Furthermore, our journey for this day also passes through small Sherpa villages like Tok Tok, Benkar, and Monjo.

On this section of the Ama Dablam Trekking journey, you can also enjoy outstanding glimpses of the traditional mountain lifestyle. Furthermore, this part of the trail also has several Mani Walls, prayer flags, and Chortens. After a few hours of trekking, you’ll reach Monjo (2,835m), the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, your Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit gets checked by the officials. After that, we enter the Sagarmatha National Park, where the landscape becomes even more dramatic, with towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and lush forests teeming with Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and Danphe (national bird of Nepal).

A little more to walk and we will need to cross the famous Hilary suspension bridge. From there, the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking trail becomes more steep, and we follow the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. Moreover, you will also get to see outstanding views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. After passing through this long route, you will enter Namche Bazaar, a heaven of Sherpa settlement, located at an altitude of 3,444 meters above sea level.

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar with Quick Hike to Everest View Hotel

After just two days of walking on the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking route, we have finally reached an altitude of 3,444 meters above sea level. Remember that, after we ascend above the altitude of 3000 meters, there are higher risk of altitude sickness. Therefore, the Nepal Unique Treks have decided on the third day as an acclimatization or rest day. Here, we do not sit idle throughout the day. Rather than that, the guides will take you for a quick hike to the Everest View Hotel. This viewpoint or hotel is located at an altitude of 3,880 meters above sea level.

Here, the trekkers can take some sips of tea or coffee while watching the spectacular views of Mount Everest (8848 meters), along with other mountains, including Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Thamserku. The hike to Everest View Hotel begins with a steep ascent past Namche’s terraced hills, winding through rhododendron forests and small Sherpa settlements. After spending some amazing time in the Everest View Hotel and watching the mesmerizing view of Ama Dablam’s sharp ridges and Everest’s majestic summit, we return to Namche Bazaar. After reaching Namche, we recommend the trekkers to go for a quick stroll of Namche Bazaar and interact with the locals.

Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Deboche (3820 meters / 5 hrs.)

Another day calls for another outstanding, adventurous, and strenuous trek in the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking route. After you have your breakfast and prepare for today's hike, the guides lead you on a trek from Namche Bazaar to Deboche. The trail begins with a gentle ascent, offering breathtaking views of Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam (6,812m). As you walk along the winding mountain paths, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and yak caravans carrying supplies create an authentic Himalayan experience. Furthermore, the trekkers will also walk through some of the most scenic landscapes in the Everest region while covering this section of the trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp.

Within the next 5 hours of leaving Namche Bazaar, we will finally step our feet in Deboche, a monastic settlement located at an altitude of 3820 meters above sea level. Did you know that Deboche was established by Lama Gulu for the benefit of the nuns? Also, the Deboche nunnery stands as the oldest Buddhist nunnery in Nepal that has been active since 1913 A.D. However, before reaching Deboche, the trail also takes you past two other significant settlements in the Everest region, Phunkii Thenga and Tengboche (3867 meters). Overnight stay and dinner will be arranged by Nepal Unique Treks and Expeditions in Deboche.

Day 5: Trek from Deboche to Dingboche (4410 meters / 7 to 8 hrs.)

Get ready with proper preparation, documents, permits, and most importantly, physical and mental fitness. That's because we will go for a 12 to 14-kilometer-long walk which takes about 7 to 8 hours. As we will cover such long distances in a single day, we recommend the trekkers to have a fulfilling dinner. After that, the journey toward Dingboche (4,410m), one of the highest permanent settlements in the Everest region, begins. Walking on this trail takes the trekkers deeper into the Khumbu Valley while offering eye-soothing views of dramatic landscapes and towering peaks.

As we leave Deboche and start the walk, the trail passes through a serene forest of birch, rhododendron, and juniper trees. If lucky enough, you might also get to witness some unique animals, including Himalayan tahr and colorful Danphe. Soon, you’ll cross a small bridge and reach Pangboche (3,985m), the highest permanent Sherpa village in the Khumbu region. In this village, trekkers can explore the Pangboche Monastery, the oldest monastery in the Everest region. Also, many locals believe that this monastery sits as a house to a legendary Yeti, as per the myths. Our journey in the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trail continues through an even more rugged trail and within the next couple of hours, we will reach Dingboche.

Remember that, as we reach this altitude, you find yourself in a picturesque village nestled in a wide valley beneath the massive Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam peaks. This village also offers spectacular views of Chortens (Buddhist shrines), fluttering prayer flags, and carved mani stones. Upon reaching Dingboche, we will settle into a cozy teahouse, enjoy a warm meal, and then go for a comfortable sleep.

Day 6: Ascend from Dingboche to Chhukung (4730 meters / 4 to 5 hrs.)

After a couple of days of strenuous long walks, finally, it's a day where we only need to walk for about 4 to 5 hours. Covering a total distance of 5 to 6 kilometers. while passing through different alpine meadows and glacial moraines, we make our way to the Chhukung Village. This village, located at an altitude of 4730 meters above sea level, is home to some small yak pastures, stone-walled fields, and barley and potato farms. However, all of this vegetation becomes thin as you gradually gain altitude.

As we go higher and higher, the condition of the trail becomes even more rugged and the ascend becomes more difficult. However, the eye-catching views of Lhotse (8,516m) and Nuptse (7,861m) massifs make every while worth struggling. Moreover, the interactions with some other people living in different settlements throughout this section of the Ama Dablam Trekking route, make the journey even more adventurous and insightful.

Chhukung, a small yet vital outpost for trekkers and climbers preparing for high-altitude adventures, is located at the foot of the Imja Tse (Island Peak. Moreover, this place is also the entrance to Kongma La Pass (5,535m). We will arrange your stay at a cozy and comfortable hotel with all the facilities you need for a proper rest.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Chhukung (Hike to Chhukung Ri)

Another acclimatization day in the 15-day- Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking journey awaits you on the seventh day. As we are at an altitude of above 4000 meters, our body requires proper training against altitude sickness and other higher altitude issues. Therefore, we will also ascend any further on the seventh day. Instead, the professional guides from Nepal Unique Treks take you for a quick hike to the Chhukkung Ri viewpoint.

The hike to Chhukkung Ri begins with a steep ascent straight out of Chhukung, winding through rocky ridges and glacial moraine. Besides, as you reach higher in the trail, the trekkers can get some of the most spectacular views of Lhotse and Nuptse, along with other Himalayas, including Ama Dablam, Baruntse, and Makalu. It takes about 2 hours for us to ascend from Chhukkung to Chhukkung Ri, passing through a rocky outcrop offering a breathtaking 360-degree panorama.

Besides, the viewpoint offers some outstanding views of Imja Glacier and Imja Tsho (a glacial lake formed due to climate change). We recommend the trekkers capture as many photos and videos before we trace our way back to Chhukkung. Once you return to Chhukung, go for a proper rest and stroll through the village before having dinner and sleeping in the hotel.

Day 8: Trek from Chhukung to Lobuche (4910 meters) via Kongma La Pass (5535 meters / 7 to 8 hrs.)

The eighth day marks one of the most spectacular, remarkable, and crucial days of the 13-day Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking journey. That is because, the trekkers will get a chance to ascend to one of the Three Highest Passes of the Everest Trekking Region, the Kongma La Pass (5535 meters). We will leave Chhukung early in the morning as we need to ascend over a rocky and rugged trail. Besides, the path gradually passes through the barren, glacial moraine of the Nuptse and Lhotse mountains, offering spectacular morning views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, and the Island Peak region.

It takes about 4 to 5 hours for any average trekker to ascend to Kongma La Pass from Chhukung. There, you will witness a whole different world. A world that offers mindblowing views from an altitude of 5535 meters above sea level. Watching the 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas, colorful prayer flags, and staying over the clouds, we spend some time in Kongma La Pass. After that, our journey in the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking map continues. Well, it will be a descending journey through some stunning scenery. Remember that, this part of the trail is rocky and uneven. Therefore, you must keep your feet strong and carefully navigate the track.

Moreover, this section of the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking route also offers you a chance to witness deep crevasses, frozen lakes, and shifting ice formations. It takes about 2 to 3 hours for us to finish the descending journey from Kongma La Pass to Lobuche. In Lobuche, you can check in at the hotel before enjoying dinner and going for a comfortable sleep.

Day 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep 5180m, Trek to Everest Base Camp 5364m and return Gorakshep 9/10 hrs

As we have already arrived at Lobuche and Everest Base Camp is so near to this village, would not it be injustice to not visit the base camp of the tallest peak in the world? Well, we think that will not be a good idea to return without stepping on the Everest Base Camp. So, as you wake up and have your breakfast in Lobuche, the guides will take you on a trail towards Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. This will certainly be one of the most challenging days in the 15-Day Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek.

After you enjoy a delicious breakfast in Lobuche, we will begin with a gradual but relentless ascent along the Khumbu Glacier’s rocky terrain. As we walk along this section of the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking trail, moraine fields, and glacial ridges accompany you. Moreover, the trail also offers outstanding views of some mountains, including Mount Pumori, Nuptse, Lingtren, and Khumbutse. It takes about 3 to 4 hours for us to reach Gorakshep from Lobuche.

In Gorakshep, we will take a short break and have something to eat before continuing the walk. After that, the guides take you on a trail towards the Everest Base Camp. Located at an altitude of 5363 meters above sea level, this is the base camp of the tallest peak in the world. It only takes 2 to 3 hours for us to ascend from Gorakshep to the EBC, crossing some rugged, icy, and rocky trails and glacial debris. Furthermore, you can also see the mighty Khumbu Icefall towering ahead while you move your legs continuously. At Everest Base Camp, you will witness several tents, camps, and summiters ascending to the peak of Mount Everest. The dinner and overnight stay will be arranged in Gorakshep where we return in the evening.

Day 10: Early Morning Hike to Kalapatthar (5550 meters) - 2 hours and Descend to Pheriche (4371 meters) - 5 hours

How did you like the ascend to the Everest Base Camp on the previous day? Well, let us tell you that, today, the journey will be even more difficult yet adventurous. Be prepared with all the gear and equipment along with strong mental and physical strength to ascend on an adrenaline-rushing part of the Ama Dablam Trek. To begin with the day, the guides lead you on a trail toward the Kalapatthar viewpoint. Located at an altitude of 5550 meters above sea level, this viewpoint stands as one of the best spots to watch sunrise. Therefore, it will be an early sunrise view hike to the Kalapatthar viewpoint.

As you reach the top of the viewpoint, you will be mesmerized by the spectacular sunrise view. Along with that, the sun's rays strike the mountains to turn them golden. We will cover a total distance of 7 to 8 hours on this day, which certainly is one of the best parts of this package. The Kalapatthar viewpoint also offers the closest view of Mount Everest. Therefore, we recommend that trekkers make as many memories as possible, click photos, take videos, and stroll around.

After spending some time in the Kalapatthar viewpoint, we will return to Pheriche. Stroll around the village for a while and interact with the locals, before having dinner and going for a sound sleep.

Day 11: Descend from Pheriche to Pangboche (3985 meters 2/3 hrs.)

This is where the descending journey in the  Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking map begins. As you finish having breakfast in the hotel, our guides will take you for a rather easy and comfortable walk from Pheriche to Pangboche. The trail begins with a gentle descent from Pheriche, following the Imja Khola River as it snakes through the valley. As you go lower, you can see the trail traverse into greener pastures, juniper bushes, and rhododendron trees.

Within the next 2 to 3 hours, the trekkers will step their feet into the Pangboche village. Here, you can check in at the hotel before freshening yourself up and going for a quick stroll. In the evening, please return to the hotel for a delicious dinner and overnight stay.

Day 12: Ascend from Pangboche to Ama Dablam (5120 meters / 6 to 7 hrs.) and back to Pangboche

Finally, it's the day when the trekkers finally reach the Ama Dablam Base Camp. This base camp is located about 7 to 8 kilometers far from Pangboche and it takes approximately 6 to 7 hours to reach there. Did you know that the Ama Dablam Base Camp has its name as one of the most breathtaking base camps in the Everest region? Standing at an altitude of 5120 meters above sea level, this is the base camp of Ama Dablam Peak (6,812 meters), the Matterhorn of the Himalayas. Also, let us tell you that, this section of the trek is very less crowded compared to any other trekking routes in the Everest region or the entire Khumbu region.

The hiking trail from Pangboche to Ama Dablam Base Camp begins with a steep climb passing through lush pastures and scattered yak herder huts. However, very soon, you will notice that the trail becomes isolated and goes into the high-altitude terrain. Due to that reason, you will also find yourself in a remote, part of the trekking trail. It takes about 6 to 7 hours for us to reach the Ama Dablam Base Camp, which is a grassy plateau beneath the towering peak. You will get chances to meet several summiters heading up to the Ama Dablam peak and their tents sitting in the base camp.

Besides, the views that you get here also set standards in the trekking journey. Therefore, we can guarantee that trekkers will be in for a special treat for their eyes and hearts during their time at the Ama Dablam Base Camp. You can utilize the rest of the afternoon and evening strolling around the base camp and interacting with the summit climbers before returning to Pangboche for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 13: Descend from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar

On the eleventh day, we will start the descending journey on the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trekking trail. After such a long journey over an altitude of 3000 meters above sea level, it's finally time to return. We cover a total distance of about 6 kilometers and walk for 5 to 6 hours in a mostly downhill route. As you have already ascended the same trail, it will not be much new for you. However, talking about the experience with fellow trekkers, walking past some lush rhododendron blooms, while watching the views of the vibrant color of prayer flags and elegant Stupas, we will descend to Namche Bazaar.

Here, you can check in the hotel before strolling around the town, trying out some locally-prepared bakery items, and spending time in the internet cafes. In the evening, we will arrange a proper dinner in the hotel before you go for a comfortable and cozy sleep.

Day 14: Trek down from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Well, there is one more day for us to walk in the Ama Dablam Base camp Trekking map. On the twelfth or say, the second last day of the trekking package, we trek down from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. Here, the trekkers get to walk on a rather well-maintained path across some rhododendron forests, smaller settlements, and many tea houses on the route.

It takes about 6 to 7 hours for us to cover this section of the trail that stretches an approximate distance of 13.5 kilometers. In Lukla, you will get a chance to rest in a rather warm temperature, gain excess oxygen, and stay or stroll without worrying about the possibility of altitude sickness. In the evening, we will go for the last dinner in the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trial or the Everest trekkking region.

Day 15: Fly from Lukla to Manthali followed by a drive to Kathmandu

This is the day for us to put an end to the 13-day Trek to the Ama Dablam Base Camp. Based on the time of the flight, our guides will take you to the Tenzing and Hilary Airport, from where you will go for a scenic flight. Within the next 20 minutes, the trekkers will land at the Manthali Airport before going for a comfortable 5-hour drive to Kathmandu. Once you reach Kathmandu, the Ama Dablam Base Camp trekking package comes to an end.