Key Information
Book this Nepal trek and get a complimentary one hour Trekker’s’ massage after the trek is over. The masseuses will be from a marginalized community. This is part of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Note: You can pre-book a seat on a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and return for an additional US$500 per person each way. You will avoid the 4-5 hours drive to or from Manthali. For example – if you decide to book a helicopter seat for both ways – US$1000 extra needs to be added.
The Ama Dablam Base Camp trek is a remarkable journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful Sherpa villages near Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital of the world. The highlight of this trek is standing at the foot of Ama Dablam, a breathtaking mountain whose hanging glacier resembles a traditional Sherpa necklace.
During this adventure, you will spend ten nights in remote villages, residing in lodges run by local Sherpa families. These lodges provide a unique opportunity to experience Sherpa hospitality firsthand. Imagine staying in picturesque villages surrounded by lush forests, terraced fields, and majestic snowy peaks.
As you traverse through the trek, you’ll have the chance to enjoy afternoon tea in a bakery. These bakeries are famous for their delectable freshly baked goods, providing a delightful treat during your journey. Savour pastries, sip a warm cup of coffee or tea and take in the serene atmosphere.
Another highlight of the trek is visiting the esteemed Tengboche Monastery, the largest and oldest monastery in the Everest region. Situated amidst awe-inspiring mountain vistas, this monastery holds profound religious and cultural significance for Sherpas and Buddhists. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience, witness peaceful religious ceremonies, and enjoy panoramic views from this sacred place.
The ultimate goal of the Ama Dablam Base Camp trek is reaching the base camp itself. Standing at the foot of this majestic mountain is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The hanging glacier of Ama Dablam resembles a traditional Sherpa necklace, lending the hill its unique name. Take a moment to absorb the breathtaking views, marvel at the surrounding peaks, and revel in the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching this significant milestone.
Experienced guides will accompany you throughout the trek, providing safety, knowledge of the local culture, and assistance when needed. They will enhance your journey by sharing insights and ensuring a memorable adventure.
The Ama Dablam Base Camp trek offers an unforgettable combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a spirit of exploration. It is an opportunity to connect with Sherpa communities, witness stunning landscapes, and stand in awe of the majestic Ama Dablam.
We are pioneers in gastronome trekking in the Himalayas. We provide a varied, exciting menu on treks throughout the Himalayas. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be catered for upon request, and other special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
Trekking is not only fun, but it is beneficial for you. It helps in detoxifying the body while also nourishing the soul. Although to provide a better experience, we also tailor our meals to include superfoods as ingredients to keep you fit and healthy while assisting in acclimatization to high altitudes. Combining hiking in the pristine mountain air and healthy food makes trekking with us a complete adventure. Read More on Food and nutrition on our treks.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative, who will escort you to your hotel. Your trek leader will provide a comprehensive briefing about the trek, covering the itinerary, safety guidelines, and necessary preparations. This briefing will ensure you are well-informed and prepared for the adventure ahead. Take this opportunity to ask questions and interact with your trek leader and fellow trekkers. After the briefing, you will have free time to explore Kathmandu and immerse yourself in its rich culture before embarking on the trek.
In the morning, you can take a walking tour of Ason, an old spice market in Kathmandu. This tour will allow you to explore this historic market’s vibrant and bustling streets, where you can witness the local trade and experience the unique sights, sounds, and aromas of Nepalese spices.
Alternatively, if a direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is available, you can drive to Mulkot in the afternoon. This option allows you to reach Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, more quickly and efficiently.
The choice between the walking tour of Ason or driving to Mulkot will depend on the flight availability to Lukla. Our team will inform you about the best option based on the flight schedules and ensure you have a smooth and convenient travel experience.
Both options provide immersive experiences that showcase different aspects of Nepalese culture and scenery. Whether you explore the bustling streets of Ason or embark on the drive to Mulkot, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the local environment and prepare for the upcoming trek to the Everest region.
Note: You can pre-book a seat on a direct helicopter flight at an additional $500 per person to avoid the 4-5 hours of drive to Manthali.
Your trek officially begins after flying to Lukla, situated at 2,840 meters. The duration of your flight will depend on the time it takes for the weather conditions to allow landing in Lukla, which can vary.
If your flight lands in the morning, you will aim to trek towards Monjo, approximately a 5-hour trek from Lukla. Monjo is a picturesque village located at an elevation of around 2,835 meters. Throughout this scenic trek, you will traverse charming villages, cross suspension bridges, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Everest region.
However, if your flight arrives later in the day, you will stay at the village of Phakding instead of continuing to Monjo. The trek from Lukla to Phakding typically takes about 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Dudh Koshi River and its surroundings.
The decision to trek to Monjo or stay in Phakding will depend on the timing of your flight. Our team will consider the flight schedule and weather conditions to ensure your safety and optimize your trekking experience.
Whether you reach Monjo or Phakding on the first day, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beautiful Himalayan landscapes, experience the hospitality of the local communities, and begin your adventure in the Everest region.
Continuing our trek, we will follow the Dudh Koshi River, which offers a scenic backdrop. We will cross a suspension bridge over the Kyashar Khola, a tributary of the Dudh Koshi River. This bridge adds an adventurous element to the trek, providing breathtaking views of the river below.
Our next stop is Jorsalle, which serves as the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. As we pass through Jorsalle, we will have the opportunity to appreciate the region’s natural beauty and conservation efforts.
From Jorsalle, our trek will involve roughly one hour of walking. This portion of the trail comprises a combination of flat terrain and some short, steep ascents and descents. After this, we will encounter a high-suspension bridge, yet another thrilling experience.
Following the bridge, we face a challenging ascent lasting approximately two hours. This steep climb will push our endurance and take us to our destination for the day: Namche Bazaar. Situated at a higher elevation, Namche Bazaar is a vibrant hill town offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. We will stay in a lodge at the top of Namche Bazaar, where we can enjoy the local community’s scenic beauty and warm hospitality.
Namche Bazaar is an important trekking hub, providing essential services such as accommodations, restaurants, and shops. It also allows for proper acclimatization due to its altitude of around 3,440 meters, acting as a gateway to further exploration of the Everest region.
By resting in Namche Bazaar, we can acclimate to the higher altitude and prepare ourselves for the incredible trekking adventure in the Everest region.
Rising early in Namche Bazaar, we can embark on a captivating climb to witness breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and other majestic peaks in the Everest region. This experience offers a magnificent panorama that genuinely showcases the grandeur of the Himalayas.
After enjoying the awe-inspiring vistas, we can then explore the Sherpa Museum and Cultural Centre, conveniently located within the lodge compound where we are staying. This private museum and cultural centre provide valuable insights into the rich Sherpa culture, history, and way of life. You can immerse yourself in the exhibits, artefacts, and displays that shed light on the Sherpa community’s traditions, customs, and mountaineering heritage.
The lodge owner, L.S Sherpa, is not only a lodge proprietor but also a passionate conservationist and photographer. He showcases his talent and love for the region through scenic posters and postcards available for purchase. These artistic creations capture the beauty and serenity of the Everest region, allowing you to take a piece of this incredible landscape home with you.
By visiting the Sherpa Museum and Cultural Centre and exploring the works of L.S Sherpa, you can gain a deeper understanding of the Sherpa culture, support local conservation efforts, and have the opportunity to bring back unique souvenirs that illustrate the natural splendour of the Everest region.
This enriching experience adds an extra dimension to your trek, allowing you to connect with the local community and appreciate their artistic expressions and conservation efforts.
We can expect to encounter very few trekkers as we venture along this less-travelled trail, away from the main route to Everest Base Camp (EBC). This secluded path offers a unique and tranquil experience, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the serene surroundings and escape the crowds.
Instead of the typical bustling trekking routes, our journey will lead us through quaint small villages and scenic forested areas. This allows us to witness the local way of life, interact with the residents, and gain a deeper understanding of their culture and traditions. The peaceful ambience of these villages offers a different perspective on the Everest region, away from the more frequented areas.
Throughout our trek, we will be treated to spectacular vistas, with Mount Kongde majestically towering on the opposite side of the valley. This impressive peak adds to the natural beauty and grandeur of the landscape, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for our journey.
During our stay, we will have the privilege of lodging at a lodge owned by Apa Sherpa, a legendary figure who holds the world record for the highest number of successful ascents of Mount Everest—22 times. Staying at Apapa’s Lodge provides a unique opportunity to enjoy comfortable accommodations and meet and learn from a celebrated mountaineer with extensive experience in the Everest region.
Apa Sherpa’s presence and ownership of the lodge present an inspiring connection to the world of mountaineering and Everest summits. It offers a chance to engage in insightful conversations, hear incredible stories, and gain valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of climbing the world’s highest peak.
Overall, our trek on this less-frequented trail, coupled with the opportunity to stay in Apa Sherpa’s lodge, offers a truly distinctive and enriching experience, allowing us to explore the region’s beauty while being immersed in the mountaineering legacy surrounding Everest.
After retracing our steps back to the “fork” on the trail, we embark on a new path that leads us towards the Shyangboche airstrip. As we ascend, we are treated to breathtaking views and stunning landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of the Everest region.
Reaching the Shyangboche airstrip, we take a well-deserved break and enjoy a delicious lunch. This scenic spot provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the surrounding mountains and valleys, offering a serene and picturesque setting for our meal.
From there, we continue our trek towards the village of Khumjung (3,790m), passing through the charming village of Khunde. These traditional Sherpa settlements are nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Himalayan peaks, creating a picturesque backdrop for our exploration.
In Khunde village, we have the opportunity to visit the hospital, which stands as a testament to the efforts of Sir Edmund Hillary, a renowned mountaineer and philanthropist. Sir Edmund Hillary was instrumental in establishing healthcare facilities in the region, and the hospital serves the local Sherpa community, providing vital medical support.
Continuing our journey, we arrive at Khumjung village, where we discover another remarkable project initiated by Sir Edmund Hillary – the school at Khumjung. This educational institution offers opportunities for the local Sherpa children to receive quality education while nurturing their unique cultural heritage. Visiting the school allows us to witness the impact of Sir Edmund Hillary’s philanthropic endeavours and the enduring legacy he left behind in these remote mountain communities.
Khunde and Khumjung villages are below the majestic protector deity mountain Khumbila. This sacred mountain holds immense spiritual significance for the Sherpa people, and its towering presence adds a sense of reverence and tranquillity to the villages that lie in its shadow.
Immersing ourselves in the culture and hospitality of these Sherpa villages and witnessing the tangible benefits of philanthropic efforts, we gain a deeper appreciation for the connection between the local communities and the mountains surrounding them.
Exploring the hospital, school, and villages of Khunde and Khumjung while being embraced by the towering presence of Khumbila offers a truly enriching experience that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a legacy of humanitarian endeavours.
Leaving Khumjung village, our journey continues as we venture off the beaten path towards the village of Phortse. As we ascend steadily, we are greeted with mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks, offering a different perspective of the majestic Himalayas.
We approach a small pass called Mong-La, adorned with several quaint tea houses. This tranquil spot provides a perfect opportunity to rest and rejuvenate while admiring the panoramic vistas that unfold before us. Along this portion of the trail, if we’re lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the beautiful Danfe Munals, also known as Impeyan Pheasants, which are the national bird of Nepal.
Descending approximately 350 meters to Phortse Tenga, we cross a river and begin a 200-meter ascent to the village of Phortse. This traditional Sherpa village, situated high in the mountains, offers a unique glimpse into the local community’s daily lives and cultural traditions.
Phortse village is also home to the Khumbu Climbing Center, which has played a crucial role in training Sherpas and other indigenous Nepalese individuals in essential climbing skills since its establishment in 2014. The village provides a serene and inspiring environment for aspiring mountaineers to hone their abilities.
Our hike from Phortse to Pangboche takes us along an exposed but wide trail characterized by ups and downs. The approximately two-and-a-half-hour journey, or longer if we choose to stop for photo opportunities, rewards us with magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.
Upon reaching Pangboche, we have the pleasure of staying at a lodge owned by a long-time friend. The lodge’s dining room is comfortable and serves as a mini mountaineering museum. Decorated with oxygen bottles, goggles, and wooden boxes from the historic 1953 Everest Expedition led by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary, as well as artefacts from subsequent expeditions, it offers a unique ambience that reflects the rich mountaineering history of the region.
Our stay in Pangboche allows us to immerse ourselves in the mountaineering legacy as we learn about the achievements and challenges faced by climbers throughout history. It also offers a comfortable and inviting environment to rest, refuel, and engage in lively conversations with fellow trekkers.
In summary, our ascent from Khumjung, trekking towards Phortse and Pangboche, not only grants us stunning vistas and encounters with Nepal’s national bird but also provides us with the chance to witness the training grounds of the Khumbu Climbing Center and embrace the rich mountaineering heritage in one of Pangboche’s long-standing lodges.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a thrilling hike towards the lesser-explored Amadablam Base Camp (ADBC) at the foot of the breathtaking Amadablam mountain. This three-hour journey will take you through captivating landscapes, and as you ascend, you will be treated to awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
During the autumn climbing season, glimpsing the mountaineers’ campsite is possible, which adds an extra element of excitement to the trek. Upon reaching ADBC, our experienced team will provide you with a delicious packed lunch they have prepared and carried from the lodge. You can savour the meal while immersing yourself in the incredible scenery.
After lunch, we will begin our descent back to the village. It’s important to note that the afternoons in this region often become windy, so your trek leader will remind you to pack layers of clothing and bring a windproof jacket for your comfort and protection.
Once we return to the village, our dedicated team will prepare a nutritious and delicious meal for you, incorporating superfoods that will aid in your recovery from the exhilarating excursion. This meal will offer you the nourishment necessary to prepare your body for the higher altitudes we will encounter in the forthcoming days. The following day is expected to involve a challenging five-hour hike.
By providing a memorable hiking experience, delicious food, and the necessary care for your well-being, we aim to make your trek in the Amadablam region a truly extraordinary adventure.
As we return to Everest Base Camp (EBC) from Pangboche, our trek continues along the main trail. This stretch of the trail offers different perspectives and scenery from our route through Khumjung and Phortse. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to visit the renowned Thyangboche Monastery, a significant cultural and spiritual landmark in the region. We will take some time to explore the monastery and soak in the serene atmosphere before enjoying a delightful lunch.
After leaving Thyangboche, we will begin a steep descent of approximately 650 meters to reach Phunki Tenga, where the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers merge. This is a picturesque spot where we can take a break and rejuvenate ourselves.
Following the descent, we will face a challenging climb of about 90 minutes to Kyangjuma, which will mark the final leg of our day’s trek. Upon arrival, we can indulge in well-deserved relaxation while enjoying a hot beverage and delectable treats from the bakery. The owners of this establishment are known for their friendly and warm hospitality, adding an extra charm to the experience.
At an altitude of 3650 meters, today’s trek is estimated to be around 6 hours. We must pace ourselves and remain mindful of the altitude as we ascend to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
By following this route, we will have the opportunity to witness breathtaking landscapes, experience local culture, and find moments of tranquillity in the heart of the Himalayas.
Our day starts with a relatively easy 90-minute trek along a mostly flat terrain, leading us to the vibrant Namche Bazaar. This initial stretch allows us to enjoy the stunning surroundings and adjust to the day’s trekking.
We’ll begin a steep downhill descent from Namche that takes us past the town and towards a high suspension bridge. This section of the trail offers breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience as we navigate the slopes.
Leaving the Sagarmatha National Park behind, we’ll reach the picturesque village of Monjo, where we’ll pause for a delightful lunch. Nestled in a serene setting, this break will provide a chance to relax, refuel, and appreciate the tranquillity of our surroundings.
After lunch, we’ll embark on a two-hour trek towards our overnight stop in Phakding. This charming village will offer comfortable lodging in a lodge or guesthouse, allowing us to rest and recharge for the next leg of our adventure.
During the evening in Phakding, we’ll have a chance to reflect on the day’s incredible experiences and prepare ourselves for the upcoming days of our extraordinary trek.
Our day begins with an invigorating three-hour trek from Phakding to the bustling town of Lukla. As we make our way towards our destination, we may reflect on our initial thoughts at the beginning of the trek and compare them to our current state.
At the start of our journey, we might have felt a sense of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a bit of nervousness. We embarked on this adventure with a spirit of exploration, ready to embrace the challenges and rewards it would bring. The beauty of the landscapes, the camaraderie with fellow trekkers, and the constant discovery of our capabilities were all part of our early motivations and expectations.
Now, nearing the end of our trek, we can look back on the incredible journey we have undertaken. The memories created, the friendships forged, and the personal growth experienced are valuable achievements. We have successfully navigated various terrains, challenging altitudes, and strenuous physical demands.
And what better way to celebrate our accomplishments than by joining our dedicated support crew commemorating the previous night’s party? This festive gathering will serve as a joyful and heartfelt expression of gratitude towards the team who have been instrumental in making the trek successful.
As we spend our final night in a cosy lodge, we can bask in the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles, reaching milestones, and creating lifelong memories. The journey has transformed us in countless ways, leaving us with a renewed appreciation for nature, resilience, and the power of human connection.
Tomorrow, as we bid farewell to the Himalayas and board our flight from Lukla, we carry the spirit of adventure and the profound experiences gained throughout this remarkable trek.
After bidding farewell to the breathtaking Himalayan region, we will board a flight from Lukla to Manthali. From Manthali, we will embark on a scenic four-hour drive back to Kathmandu, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the countryside along the way.
Upon returning to Kathmandu, you will have the luxury of enjoying a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation. This free time will provide an opportunity to unwind, reflect on the incredible journey, and soak in the experiences of the past few weeks.
Additionally, if you wish to purchase gifts for your loved ones back home, this afternoon presents the perfect chance to explore Kathmandu’s vibrant markets and shops. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and offers various handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, and other unique souvenirs. You can traverse the bustling streets, marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship, and find precious mementoes to bring back as tokens of your unforgettable adventure.
In the evening, you can savour a delectable meal, reminiscing about the cherished memories created during the trek and relishing the satisfaction of accomplishing such a remarkable feat. Take this time to savour the final moments of your journey in Nepal before departing for your next destination.
Overall, the fly-and-drive combination allows for a convenient and scenic transition from the mountainous region to the vibrant capital city of Kathmandu. It balances relaxation and exploration, allowing you to conclude your adventure on a high note while also tending to personal pursuits.
Note: You pre-book a seat on a direct helicopter flight to Kathmandu for an additional $500 and avoid a 4-5 hour drive from Manthali.
As with any adventure travel, planning for unexpected circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays is always wise. In such an occurrence, it is advisable to incorporate a free day into your itinerary to serve as a buffer.
A free day can be valuable to your schedule, allowing flexibility and ensuring you have time to address any unforeseen changes. During this extra day in Kathmandu, you can further relax, explore the city, or engage in alternative activities.
If your flights go according to plan and no interruptions arise, this free day can be utilized to delve deeper into the cultural and historical aspects of Kathmandu. You may choose to visit iconic landmarks such as the ancient Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, or the sacred Buddhist site of Boudhanath. These culturally significant sites offer an immersive experience, providing insights into Nepal’s rich heritage.
Alternatively, you could use this additional day for leisure, allowing yourself time to unwind, rest, and reflect on your journey. You may want to indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments or read a book in a tranquil garden, taking in the peaceful ambience.
In case of flight disruptions, this free day can also be used to make necessary arrangements, rebook flights, or seek alternative transportation options. It provides a buffer to accommodate any unexpected developments and helps ensure a smooth transition to your next destination.
By incorporating a free day into your itinerary, you are prepared for unforeseen circumstances and can make the most of your time in Kathmandu, whether it be exploring the city, pursuing personal interests, or managing any necessary travel arrangements.
International departure. You will leave for the airport three hours before your flight time.
Cost Includes:
Despite the exceptional circumstances in which we find ourselves at the moment, we don’t want you to give up your holiday – and we want you to be able to book your trip without any worries.
To provide additional security for your booking, we have introduced a new rebooking and cancellation policy so that you can easily rebook or cancel your trip free of charge if the worst comes to the worst.
For new bookings made between May 10th 2021, and December 31st 2022, you may cancel your complete package (activities, hotels, tours, excl. flight) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure and get 100% of your money back. However, to stay flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.
Stay flexible with our new rebooking service until shortly before your departure. For new bookings made between May 10th and December 31st, 2021, you may rebook your package (activities, hotels, tours) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure (subject to availability). Rebooking is only allowed once, and you must inform us 30 days before your planned departure. Any additional costs incurred due to changes in your schedule or upgrades, such as additional fees in high season or upgrades to your accommodation, will still apply. To remain flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.
Trek FAQ
Most of our clients have completed their treks from 3 years old to some in their 70s with almost no exercise or training.
Do you offer hotel/airport pick-up?
We offer hotel and airport pick-up. As you continue with your booking, there will be an option to input flight details or hotel names.
Do I need a Visa?
A visa for Nepal can be acquired on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and at border entry points in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki on the Nepal-India border, and Kerung on the Nepal-China border.
A visa can also be obtained outside of Nepal at the nearest Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.
For more information, visit the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.
What should I bring on a Trek?
Being adequately equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. For information to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip, please see our Clothing and Equipment Guide.
Also, see our Links page for details of specialist retailers who will offer further advice and assistance with purchasing new clothing or equipment.
If you have more questions, please check this article to reference equipment to pack or contact us.
Is this trip safe for solo/female/LGBT+/minority/POC travellers?
You are safe if you respect the culture, do not show affection in public, and dress decently (this won’t pose too much of a problem as you will be covered up in layers to stay warm).
Here are some helpful articles:
Am I too old to go trekking?
Arriving at Kathmandu airport.
Should I bring cash or ATM cards?
What to pack for a trek?
Do I need to train for a walk?
What is a typical day on a tour like?
What is the food like on the tour?
The Benefits of Using Trekking Poles.
What do I need to know about high altitudes?
High altitude myths.
How to trek safely?
For more articles, you can go to our blogs.