An Ama Dablam expedition is a highly sought-after and challenging endeavor, situated in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Climbers must possess previous mountaineering experience and physical fitness to tackle the technically demanding ascent of the 6,812-meter-high peak. Typically lasting 4 to 6 weeks, the expedition involves setting up base camp at around 4,600 meters and establishing higher camps up to 6,300 meters. The summit day presents a daunting task of navigating steep rock and ice faces to reach the pyramid-shaped summit. With the aid of experienced guides and Sherpas, climbers can relish the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a profound sense of accomplishment upon conquering Ama Dablam.
The visually appealing, distantly recognizable, and most beloved by climbers, Ama Dablam, at 6,812 metres, is a jewel of the Everest region. Ama Dablam's expedition, an expedition to a peak of 6,000 metres, is often considered technically arduous, and to climb to the summit is rewarding. It's a significantly technical climb that even mountaineers with previous climbing experience struggle to scale the summit.
The name, Ama Dablam, translates to a Mother Jewel. On the dot, Ama means mother, and Dablam means the pious box of ornament put on by Sherpa women. The striking SouthWest face of Ama Dablam holds a glacier that mimics the figure of Dablam.
The expedition team of the Silver Hut Scientific Expedition led by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1960 was the first successful Ama Dablam expedition. The four members, Barry Bishop from the USA, Mike Ward and Wally Romanes from New Zealand, and Mike Ward from the UK, successfully reached the summit on the 13th of March in 1961.
The setting of Ama Dablam is in the heart of Khumbu. Not only for Ama Dablam expedition members but also for Everest base camp trekkers who adore the utter elegance of this peak. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu are visible from its base camp. The summit of Ama Dablam is a viewpoint for viewing the world's four highest 8,000ers, Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.
Those who make it to the top of Ama Dablam hail the SouthWest summit ridge ascent as the most appealing summit climbs in the Himalayas. Unlike other 6,000 metres mountains, Ama Dablam is a seriously arduous mountain for climbers. Ama Dablam's expedition is not for aspiring mountaineers because even climbers with some 7,000 metres of peak climbing experience struggle while climbing it. With endurance and strength, technical expertise in climbing is equally necessary for it.
Ama Dablam is nominal avalanche-prone, but the steeper rocks, blue ice ridges, and walls make the climb arduous. The climber's favourite route to the summit, the SouthWest route, is supported by fixed rope lines. The sufficient ice and rock climbing skills come in handy at these climbs. The vertical wall, also called Yellow Tower, below 5,950 metres, Camp II, is the trickiest section of the entire Ama Dablam expedition climb.
Since the climbing Ama Dablam expedition only calls the experienced climbers, they'll participate in two acclimatisation rotations and a final summit push.
The first acclimatisation rotation begins from Base Camp at 4,600 metres to Camp I at 5,600 metres. With an overnight stay at Camp I, we'll hike down to the Ama Dablam base camp the next day.
The second acclimatisation rotation takes climbers to Camp II at 5,900 metres with further push to 6,000 metres. The acclimatisation rotation lasts three days and returns to the base camp.
In a perfect weather window, we'll prepare the summit push of the Ama Dablam expedition. We'll climb to Camp I on the first day. From Camp I, we'll reach Camp II and the Ama Dablam summit on the third day. We'll climb down to Camp II on the summit day. We'll rest overnight at Camp Ii before leaving for the Base Camp.
The appealing glimpses of landscapes around Ama Dablam base camp are heavenly. A stream from the mountain zigzags via the meadows of the Base Camp. Mt. Tawoche and the valley below it look spectacular.
We'll start our climb to Camp I via the grass-filled moraine ridges mostly covered in ice. The plateau at 5,150 metres, en route to Advanced Base Camp, is an ideal spot for viewing Mingbo La Pass, at 5, 815 metres. The climb becomes steeper as we ascend via the north face and reach boulder terrain. The Advanced base camp of Ama Dablam expeditions is usually placed right below this boulder terrain.
The deep crevices and ridges to Camp I are arduous. To climb further to Climb I, you'll have to use fixed ropes from the end of the boulder face. Camp I will be over west of the boulder terrain at 5,700 metres. The platform supports at most five tented camps overnight.
The route to Camp II becomes more arduous as you encounter exposed ridges and ample rock fingers. The thin ridges and raised cervices count require the use of fixed ropes.
The yellow tower, a 15-metre steep climb, is the most arduous of the entire Ama Dablam expedition. But, our Sherpa will make arrangements for fixed ropes. The exposed Camp Ii at 5,900 metres has limited space for tented camps.
The route to Camp III is cosmopolitan of icy rocks covered in snow. We'll drop down to a snowy ridge from the red rocks and traverse a ravine linking the Lower rock wall and Grey tower. You may have to tribalize the groundless snowy couloir, till the famous Mushroom Ridge, at 6,300 metres.
We'll set up our tents on the east face of the Mushroom Ridge.
Ama Dablam summit push depends on the weather window and the snow conditions. The east route of the climb gets covered in snow and ice. The summit route goes around the hanging glacier on the west face. Crossing icefields, a few small snow fields, exposed ridges, and the snow rib of a 60-degree slope take us to the heavenly summit of Ama Dablam.
Every mountain you can name in the Everest region stands tall in front. You'll catch glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Baruntse. Further, the beautiful valleys like Dingboche and Chhukung, moraines, and glaciers appear alluring from the top.
We, World Expedition Nepal, employ IFMGA certified climbing guides and sherpa for the Cho Oyu expedition we run. Also, we design every expedition with precise logistics and acclimatisation.
World Expedition Nepal is running Cho Oyu expedition for autumn 2023 and Spring 2024. After a long Covid pandemic, climbers from different countries are making their inquiries about expeditions in Nepal. So, we are receiving inquiries for trekking, peak climbings, and mountain expeditions. We are overwhelmed with the inquiries we are receiving at this time. Also, most climbers who make inquiries with us are reserving their seats for climbing Cho Oyu in Autumn 2023 and for Spring 2024.
We operate every expedition with a fixed number of clients. Thus, we encourage you to reserve your seat before it fills out. We are ready to take you to the adventurous Cho Oyu expedition for Autumn 2023 and Spring 2024. Are you ready?
Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you'll be welcomed at the Tribhuvan International Airport by a representative from your expedition operator. They will greet you and help with the immigration and customs formalities. After collecting your baggage, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu.
The drive from the airport to the hotel will give you a glimpse of the vibrant city of Kathmandu, with its bustling streets, colorful markets, and ancient temples. Depending on the time of your arrival, you may have some free time to explore the local area or simply rest and recover from your journey.
Once you check-in at the hotel, you'll likely have a briefing session with the expedition team. They will provide you with important information about the upcoming Ama Dablam Expedition, the itinerary, and the equipment you'll need. This briefing will also be an opportunity to ask any questions and clarify any doubts you might have about the expedition.
During your stay in Kathmandu, you can take the opportunity to explore some of the city's cultural and historical sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (also known as the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.
You'll also need to make sure all your personal equipment and gear are in order. In case you are missing any climbing gear or equipment, you can purchase or rent them in Kathmandu. Your expedition operator will be able to assist you with any last-minute preparations and ensure you have everything you need for the adventure ahead.
Finally, take some time to relax and acclimatize to the altitude in Kathmandu before embarking on the trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp. Proper acclimatization is crucial for a successful and safe ascent to higher altitudes in the Himalayas.
On the second day of your Kathmandu visit, you will have a full day dedicated to exploring more cultural and historical sites in the valley. Here are some additional places you can visit:
Kathmandu Museum: Start your day by visiting the Kathmandu Museum, also known as the Kaiser Mahal. It houses a wide array of artifacts, sculptures, and historical objects that reflect Nepal's cultural heritage.
Thamel: After the museum visit, head to Thamel, a bustling neighborhood known for its vibrant atmosphere, shops, and restaurants. Thamel is a popular tourist hub where you can find handicrafts, souvenirs, trekking gear, and a variety of international and local cuisines.
Narayanhiti Palace Museum: This former royal palace has been converted into a museum and offers insights into Nepal's monarchy and history. It includes exhibits on royal life, ceremonies, and historical events.
Asan Tole and Indra Chowk: Explore the lively marketplaces of Asan Tole and Indra Chowk, where locals gather to buy and sell fresh produce, spices, textiles, and traditional items. The colorful atmosphere and the hustle-bustle of these areas provide a unique cultural experience.
Patan Museum: After lunch, head to Patan (Lalitpur) and visit the Patan Museum. Housed within the Patan Durbar Square complex, this museum showcases a remarkable collection of traditional art, religious artifacts, and historical objects.
Mahabouddha Temple: Visit this unique terracotta temple in Patan, adorned with thousands of small Buddha images on its exterior walls. It is a fine example of Newari architecture and craftsmanship.
Krishna Temple: While in Patan Durbar Square, don't miss the chance to explore the Krishna Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is known for its remarkable stone carvings and intricate details.
Bhaktapur: If time permits, you can also take a short drive to Bhaktapur, another ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and features well-preserved medieval architecture, similar to Patan Durbar Square.
In the evening, you can relax at a local café or restaurant in Kathmandu and reflect on the rich cultural experiences of the day. The vibrant energy and historical charm of the Kathmandu Valley will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your journey. Make sure to rest well and prepare for the upcoming trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp, which will be an adventure of a lifetime.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
On Day 3 of your Ama Dablam Expedition, you will focus on completing all the necessary preparations and official paperwork before heading to Ama Dablam Base Camp. Here's how your day might unfold:
Permit Issue:
Preparation:
Last-Minute Shopping:
Team Briefing:
Meet the Climbing Sherpas:
Final Logistics:
Weather and Route Updates:
Physical and Mental Preparation:
Celebratory Dinner:
Early Rest:
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
On the morning of Day 4, we'll start the exciting journey to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region and the starting point of our Ama Dablam Expedition. Here's how our day might unfold:
Early Departure:
Check-In and Boarding:
Scenic Flight to Lukla:
Arrival in Lukla:
Begin the Trek:
Tea Houses and Accommodation:
Rest and Acclimatization:
Evening Activities:
Overnight Stay in Lukla.
On Day 5 of our Ama Dablam Expedition, we'll continue our trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the bustling and vibrant trading hub of the Everest region. This is a crucial part of the trek, as it involves gaining significant altitude and crossing some suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
Here's how our day might unfold:
Early Start:
Crossing Suspension Bridges:
Monasteries and Mani Walls:
Lunch Stop:
Steep Ascent to Namche:
Arrival in Namche Bazaar:
Rest and Acclimatization:
Exploration:
Stunning Mountain Views:
Accommodation:
On Day 6 of our Ama Dablam Expedition, we'll take a well-deserved rest day in Namche Bazaar. Rest days are essential during high-altitude treks and climbs as they allow our body to acclimatize properly to the increasing elevation. Namche Bazaar, situated at an altitude of 3,420 meters (11,286 feet), is an ideal place for acclimatization due to its relatively lower altitude compared to higher points on the trek.
Here's how we can make the most of our rest day at Namche Bazaar:
Acclimatization Hike:
Explore Namche Bazaar:
Visit the Sherpa Cultural Museum:
Relax and Rest:
Visit the Everest Photo Gallery:
Hydration and Nutrition:
Check Gear and Equipment:
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
On Day 7 of our Ama Dablam Expedition, we'll continue our trek deeper into the Everest region as we make our way from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche. This part of the trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and takes us to the serene village of Tyangboche, famous for its beautiful monastery. Here's how our day might unfold:
Morning Departure:
Gradual Ascent:
Views of Everest and Other Peaks:
Lunch Break:
Ascending to Tyangboche:
Tyangboche Monastery:
Evening at Tyangboche:
Explore the Monastery:
Sunset Views:
Acclimatization and Rest:
Overnight Stay in Tyangboche.
On Day 8 of our Ama Dablam Expedition, we'll leave Tyangboche behind and embark on the trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp. This part of the journey takes us even closer to the majestic Ama Dablam peak, and we'll be surrounded by stunning Himalayan landscapes. Here's how our day might unfold:
Early Start:
Ascend through Alpine Terrain:
Pangboche Village:
Deboche:
Imja Khola River:
Base Camp Arrival:
Base Camp Set-Up:
Acclimatization and Rest:
Briefing and Training:
Enjoy the Scenery:
Overnight stay in Base Camp.
Base Camp Preparation for the Ama Dablam Expedition is a crucial phase that involves organizing gear, finalizing logistics, and acclimatizing to the high altitude. Base Camp serves as the starting point for the climb, and proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe and successful ascent.
Here's what Base Camp preparation may entail:
Gear Organization:
Gear Staging:
Climbing Gear Training:
Acclimatization:
Base Camp Hygiene and Sanitation:
Weather Monitoring:
Communication System:
Daily Routine and Rest:
Team Bonding and Motivation:
Expedition Strategy:
Emergency Response Plan:
Mental and Psychological Preparation:
Overnight stay in Base Camp.
Certainly! The climbing period of Ama Dablam, which spans from Day 10 to Day 24 of our expedition, is the most critical and challenging phase of the journey. It involves multiple stages of acclimatization, establishing higher camps, and making summit attempts.
Here's a detailed breakdown of how this period might unfold:
Day 10: Base Camp to Camp 1 (5,700m/18,700ft)
Day 11: Acclimatization at Camp 1
Day 12: Return to Base Camp
Day 13: Base Camp to Camp 1
Day 14: Return to Base Camp
Day 15: Base Camp to Camp 2 (6,400m/21,000ft)
Day 16: Acclimatization at Camp 2
Day 17: Return to Base Camp
Day 18: Rest and Preparation at Base Camp
Day 19-20: Summit Push
Day 21-22: Contingency Day
Day 23-24: Descend to Base Camp
Overnight stay in Base Camp.
Departure from Base Camp:
Descending through the Valley:
Crossing the Imja Khola River:
Passing through Pangboche and Deboche:
Arrival in Tyangboche:
Rest and Relaxation:
Exploring Tyangboche:
Overnight stay in Tyangboche.
Trekking from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar is a scenic and enjoyable journey through the beautiful Everest region of Nepal. This segment of the trek takes you through picturesque landscapes, traditional Sherpa villages, and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Here's how your trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar might unfold:
Departure from Tyangboche:
Descending to Phunki Thenga:
Lunch Break:
Ascending to Tengboche:
Tea Break at Debuche:
Journey to Namche Bazaar:
Arrival in Namche Bazaar:
Overnight stay in Namche Bazar.
The trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla marks the final leg of our journey in the Everest region. It's a picturesque route that allows us to revisit some of the places we passed through during the initial ascent. Here's how our trek back from Namche Bazaar to Lukla might unfold:
Departure from Namche Bazaar:
Crossing Suspension Bridges:
Passing through Phakding:
Lunch Break:
Crossing Monjo:
Last Stretch to Lukla:
Arrival in Lukla:
Rest and Relaxation in Lukla:
Evening in Lukla:
Overnight stay in Lukla.
Flying from Lukla to Kathmandu is the final leg of our journey back to the capital city after completing the trek in the Everest region. Here's what we can expect during the flight from Lukla to Kathmandu:
Early Morning Departure:
Check-in and Boarding:
Scenic Flight:
Approximate Flight Duration:
Arrival in Kathmandu:
Rest and Relaxation:
Free Time in Kathmandu:
Celebration and Farewell:
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Having a free day in Kathmandu for sightseeing is a wonderful opportunity to explore the cultural, historical, and architectural treasures of Nepal's capital city. Kathmandu is rich in heritage and offers a variety of attractions that showcase its unique blend of ancient and modern influences. Here are some popular places and activities you can consider during your free day in Kathmandu:
Visit Durbar Squares:
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple):
Boudhanath Stupa:
Pashupatinath Temple:
Thamel:
Garden of Dreams:
Cultural Shows and Performances:
Local Cuisine:
Spa and Wellness:
Day 30 : Final Departure
The Ama Dablam Expedition is a challenging and technically demanding mountaineering endeavor. Climbers face several difficulties and obstacles throughout the expedition. Here are the main difficulties involved in the Ama Dablam Expedition in detail:
Technical Climbing:
Ama Dablam is a technically challenging peak, requiring climbers to have proficient mountaineering skills. The route involves various technical sections, including rock climbing, ice climbing, and traversing steep ridges.
Altitude:
Ama Dablam's summit stands at 6,812 meters (22,349 feet) above sea level. Climbers must acclimatize properly to the high altitude to reduce the risk of altitude-related illnesses such as altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening.
Extreme Weather:
The Everest region experiences rapidly changing weather conditions. Harsh winds, snowstorms, and extreme cold are common at high altitudes, which can impact climbing plans and pose serious risks to climbers' safety.
High Camps:
Establishing high camps at strategic points on the mountain is essential for a successful ascent. However, setting up and maintaining these camps at high altitudes can be physically demanding and challenging due to the extreme conditions.
Rockfall and Avalanche Hazards:
The steep terrain of Ama Dablam exposes climbers to potential rockfall and avalanche hazards. Climbers must be vigilant and choose safe routes to minimize the risk of accidents.
Technical Gendarmes:
Ama Dablam is known for its technical gendarmes, which are steep and narrow rocky towers on the ridge. Climbing these features requires precise technical skills and a calm approach.
Roped Team Climbing:
Climbers need to be proficient in roped team climbing techniques to navigate the technical sections safely. Roped teams must work together efficiently to ensure the safety of all members.
Limited Weather Windows:
The expedition's success largely depends on finding suitable weather windows for the summit push. These windows may be short, and climbers must be prepared to take advantage of them.
Equipment and Gear:
Carrying heavy equipment and gear for technical climbing and high-altitude conditions can be physically taxing, especially during the ascent to higher camps.
Expedition Duration:
The expedition typically lasts around 25 days, which includes acclimatization, climbing, and descent. Spending an extended period in challenging environments requires mental and physical endurance.
Rescue and Medical Facilities:
The remote nature of the Everest region means that access to rescue and medical facilities can be limited, especially at higher altitudes. Climbers must be self-sufficient and prepared for emergencies.
The cost of an Ama Dablam Expedition can vary widely depending on several factors, including the expedition's duration, level of services, the number of climbers in the group, the level of support provided, the expertise of the expedition leader, and the logistics involved. The cost of a fully guided Ama Dablam Expedition with a reputable and experienced expedition company can range from USD 25,000 to USD 40,000 per person.
Keep in mind that this cost typically includes various services and expenses, such as:
Climbing Permit: The cost of the climbing permit for Ama Dablam, which is a significant portion of the total expedition cost.
Expedition Support: Services provided by the expedition company, including experienced climbing Sherpas, guides, and support staff.
Food and Accommodation: Meals and lodging during the expedition, both in Kathmandu and during the trek to and from the mountain.
Logistics: Transportation between Kathmandu and Lukla, as well as cargo flights for expedition equipment and supplies.
Climbing Gear: Renting or providing specialized climbing equipment, such as ropes, harnesses, crampons, ice axes, and technical gear.
Medical and Rescue: Emergency medical and rescue arrangements, as well as medical supplies and equipment.
Permits and Fees: Other permits and fees required for trekking and mountaineering in the Everest region.
The best months for the Ama Dablam Expedition are typically during the two main climbing seasons in Nepal, which coincide with the most favorable weather and climbing conditions in the Everest region. The two main climbing seasons are:
Spring Season (March to May):
Autumn Season (September to November):
The first ascent of Ama Dablam was made on March 13, 1961, by an expedition led by New Zealand climber Sir Edmund Hillary. The successful summit team included Mike Gill, Barry Bishop, Mike Ward, and Wally Romanes. They approached the mountain from the southwest ridge, making their way through challenging technical sections and steep ice faces. Despite encountering strong winds and adverse weather conditions, the team persevered and reached the summit, marking the first ascent of this stunning peak in the Everest region of Nepal. The successful climb of Ama Dablam added to Sir Edmund Hillary's remarkable mountaineering legacy, following his historic first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953.
Yes, Ama Dablam is considered harder and more technically challenging to climb than Mount Everest in terms of technical difficulty and the nature of the climbing route. While Mount Everest is the highest peak in the world and demands high-altitude mountaineering skills and endurance, Ama Dablam presents unique challenges due to its steep and technical sections.
Ama Dablam's southwest ridge, which is the standard route for climbing, involves rock and ice climbing, steep snow slopes, and technical gendarmes. Climbers must navigate through narrow ridges, traverse exposed terrain, and tackle challenging technical sections, including icefalls and rockfaces. The mountain's complex terrain demands strong mountaineering skills and the ability to handle varying climbing techniques.
Mount Everest, on the other hand, is predominantly a high-altitude climb that requires endurance, stamina, and acclimatization. While it involves the challenges of extreme altitude and weather, the ascent is mostly a non-technical hike along established routes, such as the Southeast Ridge from Nepal and the Northeast Ridge from Tibet.
Both Ama Dablam and Mount Everest are significant mountaineering achievements, but climbers often consider Ama Dablam as a technically more demanding and challenging climb due to its technical difficulties and steep sections. Climbers attempting Ama Dablam require a higher level of technical expertise and specialized climbing skills, making it a coveted peak for experienced mountaineers looking for a technical challenge in the Everest region of Nepal.
Ama Dablam has a relatively lower death rate compared to some other high-altitude peaks in the Himalayas. However, like any mountain expedition, climbing Ama Dablam comes with inherent risks, and fatalities can occur due to various factors, including avalanches, falls, exposure to extreme weather conditions, altitude-related illnesses, and accidents during technical climbing sections. The exact death rate varies from year to year and is influenced by climbers' experience, weather conditions, route conditions, and the decisions made during the expedition. Climbers attempting Ama Dablam must have adequate mountaineering skills, be well-acclimatized, and make sound decisions to minimize risks and ensure a safe ascent and descent. Expedition companies prioritize safety measures and thorough preparation to mitigate the potential dangers involved in climbing Ama Dablam.
the alternative route for the Ama Dablam Expedition is the Northwest Ridge. While the Southwest Ridge is the standard and most popular route, the Northwest Ridge offers a less-traveled and more technically challenging option. This route involves starting the climb from the northern side of the mountain and involves climbing through steep ice and rock faces, as well as navigating seracs and crevasses. The Northwest Ridge requires advanced mountaineering skills, including proficiency in ice and mixed climbing techniques. Climbers attempting this route will experience a more remote and adventurous expedition with fewer crowds, but they must be prepared for additional technical difficulties and complexities in the ascent. However, it's important to note that the availability and feasibility of the Northwest Ridge as an alternative route may vary, and climbers should consult with experienced guides and expedition organizers for the most up-to-date information and guidance.
Certainly! Here are more details about altitude sickness and its management during the Ama Dablam Expedition:
Altitude Sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness - AMS):
Acclimatization Schedule:
Climbing Route:
Rest and Acclimatization Days:
Monitoring Climbers' Health:
Descending for Recovery:
Medication:
Proper Hydration and Nutrition:
For the Ama Dablam Expedition, climbers and expedition teams are required to obtain various permits and documents to comply with the regulations set by the Government of Nepal. The main permit documents required for the Ama Dablam Expedition are as follows:
Climbing Permit for Ama Dablam:
Sagarmatha National Park Permit:
Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
Liaison Officer (LO):
Visa:
The Ama Dablam Expedition requires a wide range of clothes, gear, and climbing equipment to ensure climbers' safety, comfort, and success on the mountain. The following is a comprehensive list of essential items needed for the expedition:
Clothing:
Climbing Gear and Equipment:
Technical Equipment:
Miscellaneous Items:
During the Ama Dablam Expedition, climbers and their support staff will stay in a combination of lodges, tents, and base camp facilities.
Here's an overview of the food and accommodation arrangements during the expedition:
Accommodation:
Kathmandu: In Kathmandu, climbers will stay in comfortable hotels or lodges before and after the expedition. These accommodations provide basic amenities, including private rooms, attached bathrooms, and dining areas.
Trekking Lodges: During the trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp, climbers will stay in teahouses or lodges in the villages along the route. These lodges offer simple but comfortable accommodation with shared rooms and basic facilities, such as beds and blankets. While the amenities are more basic at higher elevations, the lodges still provide shelter and meals.
Base Camp: At Ama Dablam Base Camp (around 4,600 meters/15,091 feet), climbers and their support team will set up a temporary base camp. Tents will serve as sleeping quarters, and dining tents will be provided for meals and communal activities. Base Camp facilities may also include a kitchen tent and a communication tent.
High Camps: During the climbing period, climbers will establish several high camps at strategic points on the mountain. These high camps will consist of tents that serve as temporary shelters during the ascent. The higher the camp, the more basic the facilities become, as climbers are focused on lightweight and functional equipment.
Food:
In Kathmandu: In the city, climbers can enjoy a variety of food options, including Nepali, continental, and international cuisines, at hotels and restaurants.
Trekking Route: During the trek to Base Camp, meals will be provided at the teahouses and lodges along the trail. The menu typically includes a variety of dishes, such as dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), noodles, pasta, potatoes, eggs, and seasonal vegetables.
Base Camp: At Base Camp, a dedicated kitchen team will prepare meals for the expedition members. The menu will include a mix of Western and Nepali dishes, as well as high-calorie and nutritious food to support the climbers' energy needs during the climb.
High Camps: During the climbing period, climbers will rely on packaged and lightweight food that is easy to prepare and carry. Energy bars, snacks, freeze-dried meals, and hot drinks will be common options at higher altitudes.
Using credit cards for payment during the Ama Dablam Expedition is generally not a common option, especially in the remote areas of the Everest region. While credit cards are widely accepted in Kathmandu and some major cities, they are not practical for transactions in the mountainous and less developed areas, including the villages along the trekking route and Ama Dablam Base Camp.
Here are some important points to consider regarding payment methods during the Ama Dablam Expedition:
Kathmandu:
In Kathmandu, you can use credit cards for hotel bookings, restaurants, shopping, and other services. However, it's advisable to carry enough cash as some smaller establishments may not accept cards.
Trekking Route:
During the trek from Lukla to Ama Dablam Base Camp, you'll be staying in teahouses and lodges in remote villages. These places usually do not have credit card facilities, and you'll need to pay for accommodation, meals, and other services in cash (Nepalese Rupees).
Base Camp:
At Ama Dablam Base Camp, payment for expedition-related services, such as support staff, climbing equipment, and logistical arrangements, is typically handled by the expedition organizer. They will provide you with information on how to make payments before the expedition begins. Cash is usually the preferred method for settling expenses at Base Camp.
Withdrawal of Cash:
While credit cards may not be widely accepted, there are ATM facilities in Lukla and Namche Bazaar where you can withdraw cash in Nepalese Rupees. However, it's essential to carry enough cash from Kathmandu for the trekking portion of the expedition.
Currency:
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). It's advisable to exchange your foreign currency into NPR in Kathmandu before heading to the mountains.
© 2011 - 2023 All rights reserved. World Expedition Nepal Developed By : Xenatech Nepal