Climb Lobuche East and Ama Dablam on an unforgettable Himalayan expedition featuring Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass and one of the world's most iconic alpine summits
Ama Dablam (6,812m) expedition is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and iconic mountains in the world. Rising dramatically above the Khumbu Valley in Nepal’s Everest region, its elegant pyramid-shaped summit, exposed ridges and technical climbing routes have made it one of the most sought-after mountaineering objectives in the Himalayas. This expedition combines the ascent of Lobuche East (6,119m) with a fully guided Ama Dablam climb, providing excellent acclimatisation and valuable technical preparation before attempting one of Nepal’s premier expedition peaks.
The journey follows a spectacular route through the Everest region, trekking via the stunning Gokyo Valley, climbing Gokyo Ri, crossing the challenging Cho La Pass and summiting Lobuche East before establishing camp at Ama Dablam Base Camp. This carefully designed itinerary maximises acclimatisation while allowing climbers to experience some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas.
Ama Dablam is a technical mountain involving fixed ropes, exposed ridges, steep rock sections, mixed alpine terrain and snow climbing at high altitude. Supported by experienced expedition guides and a proven acclimatisation strategy, climbers progressively move through Camps 1 and 2 before making their summit attempt. From the summit, breathtaking views extend across Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Baruntse and countless Himalayan peaks.
Combining world-class trekking, a classic trekking peak ascent and one of the most prestigious expedition climbs in Nepal, this Ama Dablam Expedition offers an unforgettable challenge for experienced mountaineers seeking a true Himalayan achievement.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Ama Dablam Expedition.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Expedition briefing, equipment checks and preparation
Day 3: Helicopter flight to Lukla (2,886m) and trek to Phakding (2,640m)
Day 4: Trek Phakding – Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Day 5: Acclimatisation day in Namche Bazaar
Day 6: Trek Namche Bazaar – Dole (4,000m)
Day 7: Trek Dole – Machermo (4,470m)
Day 8: Trek Machermo – Gokyo Lake (4,750m)
Day 9: Climb Gokyo Ri (5,360m) and trek to Thaknak (4,700m)
Day 10: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) and trek to Dzongla (4,830m)
Day 11: Trek Dzongla – Lobuche High Camp (~4,800m)
Day 12: Summit Lobuche East (6,119m) and descend to Dingboche
Day 13: Rest day in Dingboche
Day 14: Trek Dingboche – Ama Dablam Base Camp (~4,570m)
Day 15: Climb to Ama Dablam Camp 1 (5,600m)
Day 16: Acclimatisation rotation to Camp 2 (5,900m) and return to Camp 1
Day 17: Descend to Ama Dablam Base Camp
Day 18: Rest day at Base Camp
Day 19: Climb to Camp 1
Day 20: Climb to Camp 2
Day 21: Summit Ama Dablam (6,812m) and descend
Day 22: Return to Base Camp
Day 23-25: Contingency days
Day 26: Trek Ama Dablam Base Camp – Namche Bazaar
Day 27: Trek Namche Bazaar – Lukla
Day 28: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 29: Departure from Nepal
Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, route conditions, acclimatisation requirements, group pace or operational requirements.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be by us and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax, recover from your international journey or explore the vibrant streets of Nepal’s capital city.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Expedition Briefing, Equipment Check and Preparation (B)
Today is dedicated to final expedition preparations. Meet your expedition leader and climbing guides for a comprehensive briefing covering the route, climbing strategy, acclimatisation programme, safety procedures and weather considerations. All technical equipment will be checked, and any last-minute gear purchases or rentals can be arranged.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Helicopter Flight to Lukla (2,886m) and Trek to Phakding (2,640m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
Enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight into the Everest region, offering magnificent aerial views of the Himalayas before landing at Lukla. After meeting the local crew, begin trekking through traditional Sherpa villages and alongside the Dudh Koshi River to reach Phakding.
Overnight in Phakding.
Day 4: Trek Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3,440m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Follow the Dudh Koshi Valley through forests and across a series of suspension bridges before entering Sagarmatha National Park. A steady climb brings you to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa capital of the Khumbu and an important acclimatisation stop on Everest trekking and climbing routes.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Acclimatisation Day in Namche Bazaar (B L D)
A vital acclimatisation day helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude. Optional hikes to Everest View Hotel or nearby viewpoints provide spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Thamserku. The afternoon can be spent exploring local cafés, bakeries and mountain shops.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 6: Trek Namche Bazaar - Dole (4,000m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Leave the main Everest Base Camp trail and enter the quieter Gokyo Valley. The trail traverses scenic ridges before passing through rhododendron forests and seasonal grazing settlements. Outstanding views of Ama Dablam and surrounding peaks accompany much of the day’s walk.
Overnight in Dole.
Day 7: Trek Dole - Machermo (4,470m) | Approx. 3 Hours Trekking plus Acclimatisation Hike (B L D)
Continue ascending through the upper Gokyo Valley with increasingly impressive mountain scenery. After reaching Machermo, undertake an optional acclimatisation hike to approximately 4,800 metres before returning to the lodge.
Overnight in Machermo.
Day 8: Trek Machermo - Gokyo Lake (4,750m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Follow glacial streams and alpine terrain to the stunning Gokyo Lakes. Surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers, Gokyo is considered one of the most beautiful locations in the Everest region.
Overnight beside Gokyo Lake.
Day 9: Climb Gokyo Ri (5,360m) and Trek to Thaknak (4,700m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Begin before sunrise to climb Gokyo Ri, one of Nepal’s finest viewpoints. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. Descend to Gokyo before crossing glacial terrain to Thaknak.
Overnight in Thaknak.
Day 10: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) and Trek to Dzongla (4,830m) | Approx. 8-9 Hours (B L D)
One of the most demanding trekking days of the expedition. Ascend to the dramatic Cho La Pass, crossing rocky and often icy terrain before descending into the Everest Valley. The pass offers outstanding views and serves as an important step in the acclimatisation process.
Overnight in Dzongla.
Day 11: Trek Dzongla - Lobuche High Camp (Approx. 4,800m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Leave the main trekking route and ascend towards Lobuche East. The trail climbs through rugged alpine terrain to Lobuche High Camp, where climbers prepare for the expedition’s first summit objective.
Overnight at High Camp.
Day 12: Summit Lobuche East (6,119m) and Descend to Dingboche (4,410m) | Approx. 10-14 Hours (B L D)
Begin the ascent before dawn, climbing glaciated terrain and snow slopes using fixed ropes where necessary. The summit rewards climbers with magnificent views across the Everest region. After celebrating your achievement, descend carefully and continue to Dingboche for a well-earned rest.
Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 13: Rest Day in Dingboche (B L D)
A full day for recovery and continued acclimatisation following the Lobuche East ascent. Surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery, Dingboche provides an ideal location to prepare for the technical challenges of Ama Dablam.
Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 14: Trek Dingboche - Pangboche - Ama Dablam Base Camp (Approx. 4,570m) | Approx. 4-6 Hours (B L D)
Leave the main Everest trail and head towards Ama Dablam Base Camp. The mountain’s dramatic ridges and towering summit dominate the skyline throughout the approach. Upon arrival, settle into the expedition camp and prepare for the climbing phase ahead.
Overnight at Base Camp.
Day 15: Climb to Ama Dablam Camp 1 (5,600m) | Approx. 4-6 Hours (B L D)
Begin the technical phase of the expedition. The route ascends steep rocky terrain and exposed ridges protected by fixed ropes before reaching Camp 1. Climbers encounter technical scrambling sections and gain their first experience of Ama Dablam’s alpine terrain.
Overnight at Camp 1.
Day 16: Acclimatisation Rotation to Camp 2 (5,900m) and Return to Camp 1 | Approx. 6-9 Hours (B L D)
Continue higher on the mountain, ascending the famous Yellow Tower section and negotiating exposed fixed-rope terrain. Reach Camp 2, perched high on the mountain in a dramatic and exposed position, before descending back to Camp 1. This climb-high, sleep-low strategy is an essential part of the acclimatisation process.
Overnight at Camp 1.
Day 17: Descend to Ama Dablam Base Camp | Approx. 3-5 Hours (B L D)
Descend from Camp 1 back to Base Camp for recovery and rest. This important stage allows the body to adapt after sleeping at higher elevations while preparing for the summit rotation.
Overnight at Base Camp.
Day 18: Rest Day at Ama Dablam Base Camp (B L D)
A full day of rest and recovery. Guides continue monitoring weather forecasts and route conditions while climbers focus on hydration, nutrition and preparation for the summit attempt.
Overnight at Base Camp.
Day 19: Climb to Camp 1 (5,600m) | Approx. 4-6 Hours (B L D)
Begin the summit rotation by reascending the route to Camp 1. With acclimatisation now well established, the climb should feel more comfortable than the initial rotation.
Overnight at Camp 1.
Day 20: Climb to Camp 2 (5,900m) | Approx. 4-6 Hours (B L D)
Reascend the technical fixed-rope sections, including the Yellow Tower, before reaching Camp 2. Located on an exposed ledge high on the mountain, Camp 2 offers breathtaking views across the Khumbu region and serves as the final camp before the summit push.
Overnight at Camp 2.
Day 21: Summit Ama Dablam (6,812m) and Descend | Approx. 10-16 Hours (B L D)
Summit day begins before midnight. Ascend steep snow, ice and mixed alpine terrain using fixed ropes as you climb towards the summit. The final summit ridge is exposed and spectacular, leading to one of the most iconic summits in the Himalayas. From the top of Ama Dablam, enjoy extraordinary views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Baruntse and countless surrounding peaks. Following the summit, descend carefully to Camp 2, Camp 1 or Base Camp depending on conditions and team progress.
Day 22: Descend to Ama Dablam Base Camp | Approx. 2-5 Hours (B L D)
Complete the descent from the mountain and return to Base Camp. The remainder of the day is free to relax, celebrate and reflect on your journey.
Overnight at Base Camp.
Day 23-25: Contingency Days (B L D)
These reserve days provide flexibility for weather delays, route conditions, acclimatisation requirements or summit scheduling. Ama Dablam is a serious alpine objective, and maintaining flexibility significantly improves the chances of a safe and successful ascent.
Day 26: Trek Ama Dablam Base Camp - Namche Bazaar | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Leave Base Camp and descend through Pangboche and Tengboche before continuing to Namche Bazaar. Enjoy your first night back in comfortable lodge accommodation after the expedition.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 27: Trek Namche Bazaar - Lukla | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Retrace the route through the Dudh Koshi Valley, crossing suspension bridges and passing traditional Sherpa villages before arriving in Lukla. Celebrate the successful completion of your Ama Dablam expedition with your guides and support team.
Overnight in Lukla.
Day 28: Fly to Kathmandu (B)
Return to Kathmandu by mountain flight. Depending on seasonal flight operations, travel may involve a flight via Manthali before continuing to Kathmandu by road. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest after completing one of Nepal’s most prestigious mountaineering expeditions.
Day 29: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, bringing your Ama Dablam adventure to an end.
Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, route conditions, acclimatisation requirements, climbing schedules, group pace or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Additional Information
Climbing Grade: Technical Alpine Expedition
Expedition Style: Fully Supported Guided Expedition
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- Porters
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Ama Dablam Expedition
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
18 Days Days
Everest Region
Strenuous/Difficult
