Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

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The Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek offers a scenic journey through Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and rhododendron valleys before leading you to the foot of one of Nepal’s most iconic peaks. This moderate adventure delivers close-up views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Lhotse while keeping the route less crowded than classic EBC trails. Ideal for trekkers seeking culture, mountain panoramas, and a rewarding Himalayan experience in under 10 days. Join Mountain Eco Trails for a safe, guided, and well-paced trek.

  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration8 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude4600 meters
  • Starts/EndsLukla/Lukla
  • Trip StyleTrekking
  • Group SizeMin 1 Pax.
  • Best SeasonSpring and Autumn
Highlights
  • Standing below the towering south-west face of Ama Dablam (6,812 m) at the base camp at 4,600 metres
  • Panoramic views of Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, and Island Peak from multiple viewpoints
  • Immersion in living Sherpa culture through villages including Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, and Pangboche
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site wilderness experience inside Sagarmatha National Park
  • The tranquillity of a less-crowded trail compared to the main Everest Base Camp corridor
  • Flexible departure dates throughout the year with private and group options.

The Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is an 8-day trek that takes you to Nepal's Everest (Khumbu) region, which leads to the base camp of Ama Dablam — a 6,812-metre peak widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful mountains.

Starting and ending in Lukla, the trail passes through the Sherpa villages of Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Pangboche before climbing to the base camp at 4,600 metres (15,092 feet). The trek offers close-up views of Ama Dablam alongside panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, and is considered one of the best short treks in the Everest region for trekkers who want a rewarding Himalayan experience in under 10 days.

Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Quick Facts at a Glance

Duration

8 days (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)

Max altitude

4,600 m (15,092 ft) — Ama Dablam Base Camp

Difficulty

Moderate (prior trekking experience recommended)

Start / End

Lukla (via 35-min flight from Kathmandu)

Best season

Spring: Mar–May | Autumn: Sep–Nov

Group size

Minimum 1 person (private & group departures)

Accommodation

Tea house lodges (twin-share, meals included)

Cost (2026)

From USD 1,199 per person (all-inclusive)

Permits required

Sagarmatha NP Entry + Khumbu Municipality Permit

Operated by

Mountain Eco Trails Pvt. Ltd., Thamel, Kathmandu

8-Day Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek Itinerary

The itinerary below represents our standard 8-day programme. Every departure can be customised — additional acclimatisation days, alternative route segments, or an extension to Everest Base Camp can all be arranged on request.

Day

Route

Max Altitude

Duration

Day 1

Kathmandu → Lukla → Phakding

2,610 m

4–5 hrs

Day 2

Phakding → Namche Bazaar

3,446 m

5–6 hrs

Day 3

Acclimatisation at Namche Bazaar

3,446 m

3–4 hrs

Day 4

Namche → Tengboche → Pangboche

3,930 m

4–5 hrs

Day 5

Pangboche → Ama Dablam BC → Pangboche

4,600 m

7–8 hrs

Day 6

Pangboche → Namche / Monjo

2,835 m

7–8 hrs

Day 7

Monjo → Lukla

2,840 m

5–6 hrs

Day 8

Lukla → Kathmandu (flight)

1,350 m

35 min

Ama Dablam Trek 8-Day Cost for 2026, 2027

The total Ama Dablam Trek 8 Day cost ranges from USD 1200 to USD 2,000 or more per person for a standard trek lasting between 8 to 12 days. This range in cost is influenced by several factors, including the specific trekking agency chosen, the level of service provided, the size of the trekking group, and whether the package includes flights and other amenities.

Cost Component

Estimated Cost

Kathmandu–Lukla Flight (Round Trip)

$450

Permits

$60 

Guide Service

$30-35/day

Accommodation

$10 – $30/night

Meals

$30 – $40/day

Taxes and VAT$80-120

Mountain Eco Trails offers this trek at a fair price with no hidden costs and matches the price with the service provided. 

How to Book the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Step 1 — Contact Us: Email [email protected] or WhatsApp +977 9849790153 with your preferred travel dates and group size.

Step 2 — Receive Your Proposal: We will send a detailed itinerary, cost breakdown, and departure date options within 24 hours.

Step 3 — Confirm with Deposit: A deposit of 20–30% of the total trek cost confirms your booking. We require a signed booking agreement and a copy of your passport.

Step 4 — Final Payment: The balance is due 4–6 weeks before your departure date. Payment is accepted by bank transfer or credit card via our secure payment portal.

Step 5 — Pre-Trek Briefing: On arrival in Kathmandu, your guide will meet you for a pre-trek briefing covering the itinerary, permits, altitude management, and any last-minute gear needs.

How Difficult Is the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek?

The Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is rated moderate. It is less demanding than the classic Everest Base Camp Trek because it reaches a lower maximum altitude (4,600 m vs 5,364 m) and takes fewer days, but it still involves 5–8 hours of walking per day on uneven, rocky terrain at elevations where oxygen levels are roughly 40% lower than at sea level.

You do NOT need to be an experienced mountaineer. You DO need to:

  • Be able to walk 5–8 hours per day on uneven terrain
  • Have no serious cardiovascular or respiratory conditions
  • Prepare with at least 6–8 weeks of cardiovascular and leg-strength training before departure

Be willing to pace yourself and follow your guide's advice on ascent rate

Why choose Mountain Eco Trails for the Ama Dablam Trek in Nepal

Choosing the right trekking company can make a huge difference in your experience. Mountain Eco Trails specialises in operating the trek in the Everest Region, including the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, providing a balance of safety, professionalism, and local expertise. Here are a few reasons to trek with Mountain Eco Trails:

  • Experienced crew members and official team. 
  • Flexible and customised Langtang Trek Itinerary with personalised service. 
  • Complimentary Services like Duffel Bag, Trekking Poles, SIM Card, and an hour trekker's massage 
  • First Aid Kit with basic medication. 
  • Hassle-free last-minute booking and trip arrangements. 
  • Competitive and Fair price that matches the services and has no hidden costs. 
  • Special Discount for a group of trekkers of more than 5 Pax. 

With Mountain Eco Trails, you trek with a trusted local company that prioritises your experience, safety, and the environment. We strive to turn your Ama Dablam journey into an incredible memory you’ll cherish for life.

Itinerary

Your adventure begins with an early morning transfer to the domestic terminal at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport for a scenic 35-minute flight to Lukla. Upon arrival at the Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, you'll meet our trekking crew and commence your trek with a gentle downhill walk following the Dudh Koshi River towards Phakding.3 The trail passes through the Cheplung settlement, offering the first glimpses of the Khumbu region's charm and the breathtaking vista of Mount Khumbila. You'll continue along the river, crossing a suspension bridge, before arriving at the peaceful village of Phakding for your overnight stay in a comfortable tea house.

Note: In Peak season, the flight often operates from the Ramecchap Airport, which is a 4-5 hour drive away from Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude:2650 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 Hours
  • Meals:Lunch and Dinner

The real adventure begins today with a bit challenging day. After breakfast, the trail will follow downhill to the suspension bridge and ascend for 3 hours on the stone steep pathway. The beautiful village of Monjo arrives and permit check-in will be done here. Then the trek continues from here with beautiful views of mountains, and crossing the Dudh Koshi River numerous times. Jharsale is the last village before reaching Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay at Namche.

  • Max Altitude:3440 Meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is dedicated to acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. We recommend an optional hike to the Everest View Hotel, located a kilometer higher than Namche, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. You can also explore the vibrant markets of Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum to learn about the local heritage, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of this unique mountain town.

  • Max Altitude:3440 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:3-4 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trail winds through alpine forests of fir and rhododendron, leading to the spiritually significant village of Tengboche. En route, enjoy jaw-dropping views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Lhotse. After a steep descent to the Dudh Koshi and crossing another suspension bridge, the path climbs to Tengboche Monastery (3,867m)—the largest in the Khumbu. Here, you can witness monks performing morning rituals against a stunning Himalayan backdrop. After a brief stop, the trail continues through rhododendron groves and sparse juniper landscapes to reach Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa villages. This high-altitude hamlet offers rare insights into mountain life, with an ancient monastery and close views of Ama Dablam.

  • Max Altitude:3930 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea house
  • Time:4-5 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On Day 5 of your Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, you’ll set off from Pangboche (3,930m) for a scenic ascent to the majestic Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,600m). The trail begins with a gentle climb through yak pastures and crosses the Imja Khola River, gradually transforming into a steeper, rocky path surrounded by towering Himalayan giants like Ama Dablam, Everest, and Lhotse. This short but rewarding hike offers awe-inspiring views and a peaceful escape from the busier Everest trails.

Reaching the base camp—nestled below the icy cliffs and ridgelines of Ama Dablam—is often the emotional high point of the trek. After spending time taking photos and soaking in the panoramic alpine scenery, you’ll retrace your steps back to Pangboche. The round-trip takes around 7–8 hours, making it one of the most memorable and scenic days of the entire Ama Dablam Base Camp trek itinerary.

  • Max Altitude:4600 Meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:7-8 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a tranquil morning at the base camp, begin the long descent back toward lower altitudes. Retrace your steps through Pangboche and Tengboche, absorbing familiar landscapes from a new perspective. The downhill trek offers easier breathing and more chances to appreciate the valley’s lush greenery. Depending on your pace and energy, you can either stop at Namche Bazaar or continue further down to Monjo, reducing the distance for the final day. The route is scenic, spiritual, and filled with fresh energy as you walk past prayer wheels, mani stones, and fluttering flags.

  • Max Altitude:2835 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:7-8 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your final trekking day takes you back through the forested Dudh Koshi Valley. Cross familiar bridges, pass through vibrant villages, and reflect on the journey as you gradually descend to Lukla. The trail is easier now, with every step bringing a sense of achievement. Upon arrival in Lukla, celebrate with your trekking team—perhaps with a warm cup of tea or a local beer. Tomorrow, you’ll fly back to the capital, but tonight is for rest, reflection, and reveling in the adventure just completed.

  • Max Altitude:2840 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

With a heart full of memories and a camera full of photos, board your morning flight back to Kathmandu. The 35-minute flight offers a final chance to gaze at the snow-capped giants from above. Upon landing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can enjoy the comforts of civilization—hot showers, diverse cuisine, and maybe even a well-earned massage. This marks the end of your Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, an offbeat, majestic journey in the shadows of Nepal’s most iconic mountains.

  • Max Altitude:1350 meters
  • Time:35 Minutes
  • Meals:Breakfast,

The outlined itinerary has been carefully designed to provide a well-balanced trekking experience, incorporating key highlights, acclimatization considerations, and a comfortable pace for most trekkers. However, we understand that each individual or group may have unique interests, time constraints, fitness levels, and travel goals.

To accommodate these varying needs, we offer full flexibility in customizing the itinerary. Modifications can be made in the following areas:

Duration: The number of trekking days can be extended or shortened depending on your available timeframe.

Pace & Difficulty: We can adjust daily walking distances and rest days to better suit your fitness level or acclimatization needs.

Route Alteration: Alternative trails or side trips (such as cultural villages, scenic viewpoints, or lesser-known paths) can be added or replaced based on your preferences.

Accommodation Style: We offer options ranging from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges where available.

Interests & Focus: Whether you’re more inclined toward photography, nature, cultural experiences, or spiritual exploration, the itinerary can be fine-tuned accordingly.

If you have any special requests or would like to discuss a personalized trekking plan, please feel free to contact us. Our team will be happy to assist in designing a journey that best aligns with your expectations.

Cost Includes
  • Pick up and drop off at the Domestic airport
  • Domestic flight tickets including airport taxes (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu)
  • 7-night accommodation in tea houses on a twin-sharing basis.
  • Meals include 8 breakfasts, 7 Lunches, and 7 Dinners 
  • Government-licensed and well-experienced trekking guide.
  • Expenses of the guide include meals, accommodation, salary, insurance, flights, and transportation.
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Fee
  • Khumbu Region Municipality Permit Fee
  • Duffel Bag and Trekking Poles as a complimentary. 
  • Seasonal fruits every day after dinner. 
  • Basic First Aid is carried by the guide. 
  • Farewell dinner after the trek.
  • All government and local taxes.
Cost Excludes
  • Travel insurance, visa fees, and emergency evacuations with medical bills.
  • Personal expenses during the trek like snacks, hot drinks (other than breakfast), Wi-Fi, Hot shower, Battery Charges, etc.
  • Extra night at Kathmandu in case of early arrival or late departure. Moreover, extra nights and meals in the mountains in case of bad weather or flight delays or any other situation that is not in our favor.
  • Porter expenses. (If needed, it costs $22 per day)
  • Tips to guide.
  • Things that are not mentioned in the cost include
Availability
  • Flexible departure dates for all trekking and tour packages
  • Customized schedules to match your travel plan
  • Private and group departures available
  • Seasonal advice for the best trekking conditions
  • Short-notice and last-minute departures possible
  • Share your preferred dates, and we’ll handle the rest
Select a Departure Month
Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: SundayMar 29, 2026End DateEnds: SundayApr 05, 2026PricePriceUS$1199StatusStatusAvailable
Good to Know

Travel Insurance for Ama Dablam Trek

Embarking on the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, like any high-altitude adventure, necessitates the crucial step of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance.9 This insurance should specifically cover high-altitude trekking and include provisions for emergency helicopter evacuation, a vital service in the remote and mountainous terrain of the Himalayas, where adequate healthcare facilities are scarce.

Best Time to Do the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

The best time to trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp is during the spring season (March to May) and the autumn season (September to November). These windows offer stable weather, clear skies, and the best visibility of the Himalayan peaks.

Spring (March–May)

Spring is the most popular trekking season in the Khumbu. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations (Namche, Phakding) range from 12°C to 20°C, dropping to –2°C to –8°C overnight at Pangboche and base camp. Longer daylight hours (up to 12 hours) allow for relaxed hiking schedules. Late March and April are considered the peak months for the clearest skies.

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn follows the monsoon and is prized for exceptionally clear air and long visibility. Daytime temperatures are slightly cooler (8°C to 15°C at lower altitudes), but crisp conditions mean the best photography of the season. October is broadly regarded as the single best month for trekking in Nepal — skies are reliably blue, trails are post-monsoon fresh, and the Himalayan panoramas are razor-sharp. November begins to bring cold evenings but remains viable for the trek.

What permit do I need for the 8-Day Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek?

You will need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, which costs approximately NPR 3,000 (around USD 30) for foreign nationals, and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit, which also costs around NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 30) per person. These permits can typically be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board or en route in places like Monjo or Lukla.

Meals During the Trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp 

During the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, meals are typically provided in the tea houses where you will be staying overnight.

Breakfast options may include local Tibetan bread, chapati, porridge, eggs, and toast, along with hot drinks like tea, coffee, and milk.

For lunch and dinner, a staple meal is the traditional Nepali dish called Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetable curry), which is widely available and provides a good source of carbohydrates and protein. Many tea houses also offer other menu options such as noodles, soups, pasta, potatoes, and sometimes even pizza and sandwiches. Snacks like cookies and seasonal fruits are often available. 

Teahouse Accommodation along the Ama Dablam Trek

Accommodation along the Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek is primarily in tea houses, which are local lodges run by Sherpa families. These lodges generally offer basic amenities, including shared rooms with twin beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Bathrooms are usually shared, and hot showers may be available for an extra fee in some places.

In larger villages like Namche Bazaar, there may be a wider selection of accommodations, including some with attached bathrooms and more comfortable facilities. To get an attached bathroom in the Teahouses of Namche, there will be an extra cost. Our trekking guide ensures that you will get the best available place to spend an overnight.

About Mountain Eco Trails and Your Guide Team

Mountain Eco Trails Pvt. Ltd. is a government-registered Nepali trekking company headquartered in Thamel, Kathmandu. We are registered members of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN), the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), and the Nepal Association of Tour Operators (NATO).

All our guides hold current licenses issued by the Nepal Tourism Board and are certified in wilderness first aid and high-altitude medicine. Our Everest-region specialists have completed the Ama Dablam Base Camp route dozens of times across multiple seasons and are experienced in identifying altitude-related symptoms, managing weather changes, and making safety-first descent decisions.

We operate on a strict environmental policy: all single-use plastics are removed from your kit list, we work exclusively with tea houses committed to waste management, and a portion of every trek fee is contributed to local community and school support programmes in the Khumbu valley.

Get more info:

FAQs
  • Spring (mid-March to May) and Autumn (late Sept to November) are ideal for clear views and stable weather. Monsoon (June–July) is usually wet and is not recommended. Winter (Dec–Feb) is cold but feasible.

  • The altitude of Ama Dablam Base Camp us 4600 meters above sea level. To reach the Ama Dablam Base Camp, you have to Hike from Pangboche. 

  • It would be a bonus if you have past trekking experience. The experience can help you in high altitudes, your strength, and endurance.

  • Yes, many trekkers do. You can extend the itinerary by 2–4 days to continue to Everest Base Camp via Dingboche and Gorak Shep. We can arrange a combined 16-18-day trek to cover both.

  • Although local tap water is along the trail, we do not recommend drinking it. You can buy mineral water bottles from teahouses or use a purification tablet. We also recommend bring your bottle and fill in teahouses rather than buying plastic bottles.

  • Even though it takes time to get rid of altitude sickness immediately, you can reduce it by drinking a lot of water, acclimatizing properly, slow walking, and taking medicine like Diamox.

  • Trekkers should have a good level of physical fitness, including cardiovascular endurance and some strength, as the trek involves several days of hiking for 4-8 hours per day over varied terrain.

  • During October (autumn), daytime temperatures at lower elevations range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F).9 In April (spring), daytime temperatures at lower elevations range from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F), while nighttime temperatures can range from 0°C to -10°C (32°F to 14°F).9 Temperatures will decrease as you gain altitude.

Clients Reviews
  • Best Trekking Agency for Everest Region Trek

    "I chose Mountain Eco Trails after comparing several operators, and I am very glad I did. The inclusion of all permits, meals, and even trekking poles in the price meant there were no surprises. The acclimatisation day at Namche made all the difference — I arrived at base camp feeling strong."

    T
    Takesi W.Japan,March 2026
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