All-inclusive base camp of Ama Dablam (Matterhorn of the Himalayas)
In summary
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Sports
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Duration12 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationHimalaya / Everest
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AgeFrom 16 - 80 years
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CO₂-Emissions300.37 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
In a few words
This trek to the base camp of Ama Dablam , often nicknamed the Matterhorn of the Himalayas , offers a spectacular immersion in the heart of the Everest region, on trails that are more secluded and less frequented than the classic routes of the Khumbu.
Slender and perfectly shaped, Ama Dablam is considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world . Its name, which means " mother's necklace " in the Sherpa language, refers to the ice pendant hanging from its south face, a symbol of protection and femininity deeply rooted in local culture .
Designed for mountain enthusiasts seeking an intense high-altitude experience without technical difficulty, this route allows for a gradual approach to 4,600 meters facing this mythical mountain. From Lukla , the trek crosses the major Sherpa villages of the region — Namche Bazaar , Khumjung , Phortse and Pangboche — and leads to several iconic monasteries , living witnesses of Himalayan Buddhism .
By deliberately taking alternative routes , the itinerary offers exceptional panoramic views of Everest , Lhotse , Ama Dablam , and the surrounding peaks. The highlight of the trip is the arrival at Ama Dablam base camp, allowing you to get up close to this legendary mountain.
The highlights
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The base camp of Ama Dablam (4,600 m)
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Iconic views of Everest and other 8000-meter peaks
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Optimized 12-day all-inclusive package, private guide
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
This trek is classified as intermediate to advanced due to its duration, daily elevation gain, and altitude, culminating at 4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp. However, it does not require any particular technical skills: good physical fitness , experience walking several hours a day, and familiarity with repeated ascents and descents are sufficient to fully enjoy it.
Advance preparation is recommended, including regular hikes on hilly terrain with significant elevation gain, as well as carrying a backpack and wearing trekking boots to ensure comfort on departure day. On site, the itinerary is designed with a gradual pace , allowing for good acclimatization to the altitude. The guides constantly monitor the comfort, acclimatization, and well-being of the group, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience in the best possible conditions.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average distance/day: 10 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 475 m
- Average daily descent: 519 m
Management
Sudip Lingthep is a Nepalese guide with a passion for the mountains, which he has been leading for over 15 years . Highly experienced and perfectly familiar with the Everest region, he knows the trails and conditions like the back of his hand.
A kind, calm, and attentive guide, Sudip places great importance on everyone's safety and well-being. His warm approach, combined with his infectious laughter, naturally creates a pleasant atmosphere throughout the trek. He speaks fluent English and generously shares his knowledge of local culture and mountain life.
In case of unavailability, the trek would be led by another experienced, English-speaking Nepalese guide who shares the same values.
Program
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Arrival in Kathmandu
- Transportation Car - 00h15 - 6km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 1,400 m
Welcome to Nepal!
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, a driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel, located in the heart of the Nepalese capital. Depending on your arrival time, the journey may offer a glimpse of local life.
From the moment you step out of the airport, the atmosphere of Kathmandu is revealed: bustling streets, scooters, colorful markets, and the aroma of spices wafting through the air. A first immersion in the vibrant energy of the city.
At the hotel, you will be met by your guide and shown to your room . Depending on your arrival time, you will have free time to rest, adjust to the time difference, or begin exploring the surrounding area.
At the end of the day, the first briefing and welcome dinner will be held : presentation of the itinerary, the local team and the major stages of the upcoming trek.
Day 1 -
Mythical flight to Lukla
- Transportation Plane - 00h30 - 254km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 2,600 m
A very early departure from Kathmandu to reach Ramechhap , from where flights depart for Lukla. An early wake-up call, but one that was richly rewarded by one of the most memorable experiences of the trip.
After a spectacular flight over the heart of the Himalayas , landing in Lukla , considered one of the most legendary airports in the world, marks the official entry into the Everest region. Enjoy breakfast there, overlooking the first mountains, before packing your bag for the first day of trekking.
The trek begins gently, along the Dudh Koshi River, on a pleasant trail dotted with suspension bridges , prayer wheels, and small Sherpa villages. This short stage allows you to calmly soak in the Himalayan atmosphere and begin acclimatizing.
Arrival in Phakding , a charming village nestled at the bottom of the valley, for a first night in a lodge.
Day 2 -
Ascent to Namche Bazaar and first views of Everest
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 800 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 3,450 m
This day marks a true entry into the high mountains . The trail follows the Dudh Koshi river, crossing several spectacular suspension bridges , including the famous Hillary Bridge, before beginning the ascent towards Namche Bazaar.
After entering Sagarmatha National Park , the route alternates between forested sections, Sherpa villages, and more open areas. It is around a bend, on a clear day, that the silhouette of Everest is revealed for the first time, a moment often filled with emotion.
The final, steeper climb leads to Namche Bazaar , the true capital of the Khumbu region, an amphitheater of colorful houses clinging to the mountainside. This iconic village is a major cultural and commercial hub of the region.
Settle into the lodge and enjoy some well-deserved rest, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 3 -
Acclimatization in Khumjung via the Everest View Hotel
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 4 km
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 50 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 3,850 m
An active acclimatization day, essential for the rest of the trek. The trail leaves Namche Bazaar to follow a more secluded route, high above the valley.
After a gradual ascent, a stop at the Everest View Hotel , one of the highest hotels in the world, offering exceptional panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the iconic peaks of the Khumbu. A special moment to take the time to observe the high mountains.
The trek continues towards Khumjung , an authentic Sherpa village overlooked by mountain peaks. A visit to Khumjung Monastery and the renowned school founded by Sir Edmund Hillary offers a powerful testament to the region's history and humanitarian commitment.
Settle into the lodge in Khumjung for the night, ideal for promoting acclimatization before gaining altitude.
Day 4 -
Towards Phortse via the wild trails of the Khumbu
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 7 km
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Negative elevation 650 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 3,850 m
This day follows a less frequented route , away from the main roads of the Khumbu. The trail leaves the outskirts of Namche to head towards Gokyo , before branching off towards the isolated village of Phortse .
The stage alternates between steep descents and sustained climbs , offering a more alpine and varied experience. Along the way, panoramic views open up to Ama Dablam , Kang Tega , Thamserku and the surrounding peaks, in a quieter, more rugged atmosphere.
Arriving in Phortse , a superb Sherpa village clinging to the mountainside, renowned for its monastery and for being one of the villages that has trained many top-level mountaineers. The atmosphere there is authentic and deeply mountainous.
Settle into the lodge and enjoy a quiet evening, facing the great Himalayan walls.
Day 5 -
Trek to Pangboche, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 350 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 3,980 m
The trail descends gently from Phortse before traversing open landscapes dominated by the towering peaks of the Khumbu. Today's walk is shorter, allowing for continued acclimatization while fully appreciating the surroundings.
The route leads to the village of Pangboche , considered one of the oldest Sherpa villages in the region . A visit to its iconic monastery , the oldest in the Khumbu, is included, a spiritual haven offering a peaceful atmosphere deeply rooted in Himalayan Buddhist culture.
The views of nearby Ama Dablam are particularly impressive from Pangboche, whose village seems to be nestled at the foot of this mythical mountain.
Settling into the lodge for the night before approaching base camp.
Day 6 -
Ama Dablam base camp and return to Pangboche
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 750 m
- Negative elevation 747 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Maximum altitude: 4,600 m
An emblematic day of the trek, dedicated to approaching the base camp of Ama Dablam , one of the most mythical mountains in the Himalayas.
The trail gradually climbs above Pangboche, through increasingly rocky landscapes. Ama Dablam slowly reveals itself, immense and perfectly formed , offering spectacular and ever-closer views of its southern face.
Arriving at Ama Dablam base camp is a highlight of the trip. Situated facing the mountain, in a breathtaking high-altitude setting, the site offers a close-up view of the climbing routes and the atmosphere of the expeditions. Lunch break at base camp.
After this special moment, we descended via the same route to reach Pangboche , where a night at a lower altitude promotes recovery.
Day 7 -
Descent to Monjo via Tengboche Monastery
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 16 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 1400 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 2,800 m
The day begins with a gradual descent from Pangboche, through open landscapes offering further beautiful views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks. The trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests before reaching one of the most iconic spots in the Khumbu region.
Arrival at Tengboche Monastery , the largest and one of the most important in the region. Located on a promontory facing Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse, this major spiritual site offers a spectacular panorama. Time for sightseeing and contemplation before continuing the descent.
The trek then continues towards Monjo , alternating between descents, crossings of Sherpa villages, and sections along the Dudh Koshi River. Gradually, the vegetation becomes denser and the air milder as the altitude decreases.
Check-in at the lodge in Monjo for the night, at the gates of Sagarmatha National Park.
Day 8 -
Walk back to Lukla
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 2,600 m
Last day of trekking in the Khumbu region. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi valley, alternating between forest passages, suspension bridges and crossings of lively Sherpa villages.
The walk is gentler today, with a gradual descent and a few short climbs, allowing you to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the villages and savor the last moments in the mountains.
Arrival in Lukla during the day. Check-in at the lodge and free time to rest, stroll around the village or celebrate the end of the trek with a dinner together.
Day 9 -
Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
- Transportation Plane - 00h30 - 254km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Altitude: 1,400 m
An early departure for the flight between Lukla and Ramechhap , the last highlight above the Himalayan valleys. A final opportunity to admire, from the air, the mountains traversed during the trek.
Upon arrival in Ramechhap , transfer by road to Kathmandu .
Check-in at the hotel in Kathmandu at the end of the day. Free time to relax and enjoy the last few hours in the city.
In the evening, a celebration will take place around a closing dinner for the trek, all together , to share memories of the adventure and mark the end of this trip to the Himalayas.
Day 10 -
Reserve day (buffet day)
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This day is included in the program to ensure flexibility throughout the trip. It can be used at any point during the trek in case of unforeseen circumstances related to weather conditions, transportation (mountain flights), or to adjust the pace and acclimatization of the group.
If not used for logistical reasons, this day allows you to fully enjoy the region: rest, local walk, cultural discovery or free time depending on where the group is located.
Day 11 -
Departure - Return to your “base camp”
- Transportation Car - 00h15 - 6km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
It's time to say goodbye.
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Kathmandu International Airport.
Last smiles, last exchanges with the local team, before heading back to your base camp .
The images, voices and emotions of the Himalayas still resonate long after… like an invitation to return, one day, to walk these paths again.
Day 12
Accommodation
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
Access
Arrival and departure are in Kathmandu , with international flights included in the stay.
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be greeted by our local team , regardless of your flight's landing time. Transfer to your hotel will be arranged, ensuring a stress-free start to your stay.
Similarly, on the day of return, transfers to the airport are arranged according to the schedule of your international flight.
Once you arrive, all logistics are handled entirely by our team: transportation, accommodation, meals, supervision, and coordination. All you have to do is relax and fully enjoy the adventure.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Airport pick-up at Kathmandu and transfers to and from the airport, according to arrival and departure times
- All transfers and internal transport necessary for the smooth running of the stay
- Accommodation for the entire duration of the stay
- Hotel in Kathmandu
- Lodges during the trek
- Full board for the entire duration of the trek
- Post-walk tea during the trek
- Trekking permits, TIMS cards, and national park entrances
- Experienced and certified English-speaking local guide
- The group first aid kit and emergency equipment
- Access to a medical service specializing in altitude medicine, available 24/7 (in case of emergency only)
- A 24-hour emergency assistance service is available throughout your stay.
- Complete coordination of the stay before and during the trip
- A WhatsApp group for pre-departure preparation
The price does not include
- International round-trip flights to Kathmandu
- Visa fees upon arrival in Nepal
- Personal porter (option to be booked in advance)
- Meals not included in the program
- Extra drinks
- Hot showers in the lodges (depending on the lodge, sometimes included, sometimes charged on site; approximately €2)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for the local team (guide, porters)
Options
- Personal carrier : CHF146.37 / person
- Sleeping bag rental for trekking : CHF54.89 / unit
- Extra night before stay - Double room : CHF73.18 / unit
- Additional night after stay - Double room : CHF73.18 / unit
- Private room in Kathmandu : CHF82.33 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Group first aid kit
- High altitude detector (acclimatization monitoring)
- Communication radio
Equipment to bring
- Telescopic hiking poles
- 40–50 L trekking backpack
- Sleeping bag -10°C to -15°C comfort (often sufficient in lodges)
- Headlamp + spare batteries
- Water bottle or hydration system (minimum 2 L)
- Survival blanket
- Lightweight, quick-drying towel
- Toiletries kit (biodegradable products recommended)
- Toilet paper
- Bags for waste
- Camera
- Travel journal + pen
- Cash (villages without ATMs)
- Passport, visa and travel documents
- Personal medications
- Small personal first aid kit
- External chargers and batteries
- Category 4 sunglasses (altitude-specific)
- SPF 50+ sunscreen
- SPF 50+ Lip Stick
- Anti-chafing cream
- Compeed-type plasters
Clothing to bring
- Insulated and waterproof trekking shoes, suitable for cold temperatures
- Trekking clothing: recommended layering system:
- 2–3 long-sleeved technical t-shirts (merino recommended)
- Breathable technical underwear
- 1 pair of thermal tights (evening, cold mornings, lodges)
- 1 warm fleece or breathable thermal jacket
- 1 lightweight down jacket (synthetic or down) for breaks and evenings
- 1 waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex type or equivalent)
- 1 pair of waterproof/windproof trousers
- 1 pair of warm trekking trousers (softshell or equivalent)
- 2 pairs of gloves: 1 thin pair (for walking) + 1 warm pair (for cold mornings and evenings)
- 1 warm hat
- 1 neck warmer / buff
- 3–4 pairs of warm trekking socks (wool recommended)
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