Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek-16 Days

Trip Facts

Duration 16 Days
Max. Altitude: 4,600m
Group size 2-14 pax persons
Best Season March - May, October - November
Trip Mode Local Lodge
Activity Trekking
DIFFICULTY Moderate
LOCATION Everest Region
Start/End Kathmandu, Nepal

Overview

The Ama Dablam Base Camp trek takes you through beautiful Sherpa villages, and to the foot of the most beautiful mountain. Plus, the trek offers a great way to get acquainted with the lifestyle, culture and religion of Sherpas in Khumbu valley.

Mount Ama Dablam is considered as the most beautiful mountain in the Himalayas due to it’s its elegant shape and breathtaking glacier. During expedition season, the base camp is busy with helicopters and summiteers. The first ascent was by the famous Edmund Hillary Silver Hut Expedition in 1961.

The Ama Dablam base camp trek starts with a scheduled flight to Lukla (2,830m). As you cross over the Dudh Koshi on your way to Namche, the tip of Everest will show itself just for a moment.  You will pass through the Sagarmatha National Park to the holy Tengboche monastery where an exceptional view of Everest and Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Tawache and Thamserku awaits. From Pangboche, you will hike across the Imja river to the Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,500 m).

Join us on an 11-day Ama Dablam Base Camp trek in the Everest region of Nepal, travelling as Keep Walking Nepal’s extended family.

The base camp offers a breathtaking 360-degree mountain panoramic view. But the trek doesn’t end here. You will detour through the Phortse and Khumjung. Phortse is known as the village of summiteers; the village has the highest number of Sherpa Everest Summiteers. Khumjung, on the other hand, has the only high school in the Khumbu region. The Shree Khumjung Secondary School was founded by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961. The village monastery is said to house the only ‘Yeti scalp and skull’ available till date.

While the Ama Dablam Base Camp trek isn’t as hard as the EBC Trek, it does require you to be in shape. The famous ‘Nepali Flats’; a series of ups and downs on the mountain, can be challenging. Keep Walking Nepal would be pleased to have you along on this adventure. The program as a whole introduces you to our country and way of life.

Itinerary

Our representative will pick you up at Kathmandu International Airport and drive you to your hotel. Depending upon what time you arrive, you can enjoy a full day at leisure. In the evening, we will meet for a welcome dinner with Keep Walking Nepal family.

Look out for the KEEP WALKING NEPAL board behind the railing once you exit the airport terminal.

Overnight at Hotel Tibet (D
Accommodation Overnight at Hotel Tibet
Meal Dinner

You will embark on a guided tour of two UNESCO world heritage sites; Pashupatinath Temple, the temple devoted to Lord Shiva – the god of creation and destruction, and Boudhanath Stupa – a Buddhist shrine worshipped by Hindus & Buddhists alike.

In the afternoon, your trek guide will brief you about the upcoming days and preparation requirements.

Accommodation Overnight at Hotel Hotel (
Meal Breakfast

You will drive to Kathmandu Domestic airport for an adventurous early morning 40m flight to Lukla’s Tenzing Hillary Airport (2,800m). The flight is an adventure in itself.  In clear weather, one is rewarded with the first glimpse of Everest.

At Lukla, you meet the rest of your crew. The porters will take your duffel bag and will meet you at the lodge (this will continue throughout the trek).

Once out of Lukla, you will descend past small fields and cozy little wooden houses with vegetable gardens; all with a picturesque mountain backdrop. Along the way, you might encounter some pack animals as they are the only means of goods transportation up and down the mountain.

Along the way, in clear weather, one can catch views of the ice-covered 6000m high Kusum Kanguru. The trail is marked by impressive black mani stones painted with Tibetan inscriptions and a large stupa which indicates our destination for the day, Phakding, is nearby.

Accommodation Overnight at guesthouse in Phakding
Meal B, L, D

After breakfast, you will continue on the trail. It is a relatively short day as you cross suspension bridges over raging streams, past small hamlets and fields. Though the trail isn’t difficult, it is undulating – what we call the Nepali flat.

You will reach Monjo for lunch, and the rest of the day is at leisure. You can visit the local school, visit the local snooker house for some beer or just call it a day.

Accommodation Overnight at guesthouse in Monjo
Meal B, L, D

Shortly after Monjo, you will arrive at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hike is beautiful with beautiful pine forests, raging rivers, and mountains in the backdrop. Another hour and we cross the milky river (Dudh Koshi) – over an iconic suspension bridge hanging a 100m above the riverbed.

Once across the bridge, you will definitely feel the mountain as you climb the steep uphill to Namche. The trail is frequented by porters carrying humongous loads and trains of pack animals.  In clear weather, Everest is also visible.

After the 600m vertical ascent in about 4 – 5 hours, you will arrive at Namche, the Sherpa capital of Khumbu.

Accommodation Overnight at guesthouse in Namche
Meal B,L,D

An important rule for a successful trek is successful acclimatization. Following the mantra, you will spend a second night in Namche but visit higher grounds to adapt our body.

We suggest a hike early morning hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m) and enjoy a breathtaking 360 panorama of Everest, Taboche, Thamserku, Kongde Ri and Ama Dablam.

Accommodation Overnight at guesthouse in Namche
Meal B, L,D

Leaving behind the bustling town of Namche, you will head east high above the raging Dudh Koshi river.

You will climb over open slopes, a few houses and sparse pine forest and then descend to the river again at Phunki Tenga to cross the Imja Khola. The trail now sharply ascends through mixed pine and juniper forest to Tengboche.

Tengboche monastery, largest in Khumbu, was completely destroyed by fire some decades ago but has been completely restored thanks to donations, especially from abroad. The double top view of Kongde Ri with the monastery in the front is picture-perfect. The monastery houses art, a large Buddha statue and musical instruments and robes of the Lama.

After a short rest, you will descend through Himalayan Birch, pine & juniper forest to the Deboche, your stop for the night.

Accommodation Overnight at guesthouse in Debuche
Meal B, L,D

After breakfast, you will continue on the trail towards Imja Khola which you will cross on a suspension bridge. On the other side, the view of Ama Dablam twin towering requires a moment to admire.

You continue to ascend towards Pangboche past mani stones inscribed with mantras, and after a short tea break leave the main trail in favor of isolated trails. The trail descends gently towards Imja Khola which you cross on a suspension bridge and climb for about 2 hours or so.

Just across the river you will hike through the forest that lead above the tree line to summer yak pastures and contour around the ridge lines of Kantega. Further ahead is the small settlement of Mingbo.

Mingbo sits high above the valley floor. At this altitude, with the clear air, and you can look across at the highest peaks, at their level, and only a few kilometers distant.

Accommodation Overnight at a local lodge in Mingbo
Meal B, L, D

Today you will hike up the ridge high in a sheltered valley. You may see climbing expeditions on our arrival in the base camp as Ama Dablam is one of the world’s most beautiful mountains. It means “Mother’s necklace”; the long ridges on each side like the arms of a mother (Ama) protecting her child, and the hanging glacier thought of as the dablam, the traditional double-pendant containing pictures of the gods, worn by Sherpa women.

You will have lunch at the Base camp and retrace your steps back to Pangboche.

Accommodation Overnight at Phortse
Meal B, L,D

You’ll start with a climb past the monastery in Upper Pangboche and then trek one of the most spectacular trails in all of the Everest region. It is the high trail to the less often visited village of Phortse (3810m) which is home to many Everest climbers.

The trail follows the side of the hill and climbs up and down often making steep ascents and descents on stone staircases some of which are quite steep. As you skirt the hill you can see the lodges of Deboche which you had passed a fews days ago. This trail has brilliant views of Ama Dablam, Melangphulang, Kangtega, and Thamserku and to the north Everest and Lhotse as well.

The trail finally climbs to a small chorten from where the village of Phortse Thanga lies below. Keep an eye out as you pass through terraced fields that are home to a brightly colored pheasant, the Daphne Pheasant, the national bird of Nepal.

Phortse Thanga village is a maze of small walled lanes. It is one of the oldest villages in the Khumbu region. You can visit the Phortse Gompa at the top of the village.

Accommodation Overnight at Phortse
Meal B, L, D

Initially, you follow the trail that drops sharply to the banks of the Dudh Koshi river. On the other side is the small settlement of Phungi Thenga. The trail then ascends to Mong La (4,000 m). The trail is frequented by trekkers either going to or returning from Gokyo.

After a scrumptious lunch at Mong la, with excellent views of Aama Dablam, Thamserku, Kusum Khangkaru, Kongde Ri and Tawache peak to keep you company, you will descend to Khumjung village, the largest settlement in the Khumbu region.

The only high school founded by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961 is definitely worth a visit. Also, don’t miss the mysterious Khumjung monastery where a Yeti scalp and skull are said to be “preserved”.

Accommodation Overnight at Khumjung
Meal B, L, D

It’s all downhill from here. You will hike directly down to Namche and after some rest retrace your steps back to Monjo.

The decrease in elevation from Khumjung to Monjo is almost 1,000m, but it isn’t all descends. Just out of Namche, you will have the famed “Nepali Flats” all to yourself till Benkar. You shouldn’t rush as it can be hard on the knees; we suggest you pace yourself and don’t be intimated by the scampering footsteps of children’s and grannies.

Accommodation Overnight at Monjo
Meal B, L, D

Backtracking to Lukla on the famous ‘Nepali Flats’, your journey in the homeland of the Sherpas will have come to an end. Alas, it’s your last day with your crew of Sherpas and porters and rightfully calls for a celebration.

Accommodation Overnight at Lukla
Meal B, L, D

Bidding farewell to your crew, you will fly back to Kathmandu, where Keep Walking Nepal’s diligent staff will be waiting for you.

The rest of the day is at leisure. We recommend a quick shower and a visit to the laundromat. In the evening, you are welcome to join for dinner with Keep Walking Nepal family celebrating your visit to Nepal.

Accommodation Overnight at Kathmandu
Meal B, D

You have the whole day at leisure to explore Kathmandu valley. This extra day also ensures a contingency plan, in case flights out of Lukla are hampered due to inclement weather.

In the evening there will be a farewell dinner by Keep Walking Nepal to celebrate your achievements.

Accommodation Overnight at Hotel
Meal B, D

A KWN representative will accompany you to the Tribhuwan International Airport for your flight back home.

Accommodation Breakfast

Fixed Departure

Start Finish Availability Price
Saturday 06/03/2026 Sunday 21/03/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Saturday 20/03/2026 Sunday 04/04/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Saturday 03/04/2026 Sunday 18/04/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Saturday 19/04/2026 Sunday 04/05/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Sunday 16/08/2026 Sunday 30/08/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Tuesday 15/09/2026 Tuesday 29/09/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Wednesday 07/10/2026 Wednesday 21/10/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Friday 23/10/2026 Friday 06/11/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Monday 09/11/2026 Monday 23/11/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Wednesday 25/11/2026 Wednesday 09/12/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Sunday 20/12/2026 Sunday 03/01/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Saturday 26/12/2026 Saturday 09/01/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Saturday 06/03/2027 Saturday 20/03/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Friday 20/03/2026 Saturday 03/04/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Monday 19/04/2027 Monday 03/05/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Monday 16/08/2027 Monday 30/08/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Wednesday 15/09/2027 Wednesday 29/09/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Tuesday 07/10/2027 Tuesday 21/10/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Saturday 23/10/2027 Saturday 06/11/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Tuesday 09/11/2027 Monday 22/11/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Thursday 25/11/2027 Thursday 09/12/2027 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Monday 20/12/2027 Monday 03/01/2028 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now
Tuesday 26/01/2027 Saturday 09/01/2028 Trip Status available Starting from $2390 Book Now

Cost Includes

  • All airport pick-ups and drops
  • Half-day guided tour of Kathmandu
  • 4-night hotels in Tibet Kathmandu on BB
  • All local transportation as per the itinerary
  • Airfare: Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu flights
  • Food and accommodation during the trek
  • All permits & entrance fees as per the program (unless mentioned otherwise)
  • Sleeping Bag, Down jacket and Kit bag during the trek
  • Guide and porter
  • Staff insurance

Cost Excludes

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except when mentioned)
  • Visa fees
  • Travel Insurance
  • Any alcoholic drinks, drinking water, cold drinks, laundry, phone call either in Kathmandu or on the trek
  • Tips for guide, porter and driver

Equipment

Here is a list of what you might want to pack for the hike. Please take this as a starting point. You’ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter. We provide a 75 liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep. Also, you can rent sleeping bag and down jacket with us at the additional fee of USD 35 for each once you are in Kathmandu.

  General

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Welcome or fare well dinner in kathmandu.
  • 4 Seasons Sleeping Bag
  • Extra Batteries/Power Bank
  • Charger for Devices
  • Travel Adapter

  Body

  • Sun Hat or Scarf, Sunglasses, Headband
  • Light Balaclava or Warm Fleece Hat
  • Hiking Boots & Camp Shoes
  • Hiking pants & Fleece Pants
  • Wool Socks & Lightweight Inner Socks
  • Thermal Tops & T-Shirts
  • Gloves or Mittens

  Accessories

  • Headlamp & Water Bottles
  • First Aid Kit
  • Trekking Poles
  • Toiletries
  • Lip Balm & Earplugs
  • Water Purification Tablets
  • Dry Bags/Ziploc Bags

  Other Essentials

  • Passport
  • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
  • Towel with Personal Care Kit
  • Toilet paper (2 rolls)
  • Maps and Trail Guides
  • Camera with Extra Memory Cards
  • Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes

Map

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