Ama Dablam
In Nepali: अमा दब्लम
Ama Dablam (6,812 m) dominates the view from Tengboche and Pangboche. Its name means 'mother's necklace' — the long ridges are the mother's arms, and the hanging glacier is the dablam, a pendant box worn by Sherpa women.
It is one of the most popular technical climbs in Nepal, usually attempted in autumn from a base camp above Pangboche. Trekkers can visit the base camp as a day walk.
Where to see it
Ama Dablam dominates the trail between Tengboche and Dingboche, and its classic profile is seen from Tengboche monastery, Pangboche and the Everest View Hotel. From Dingboche and Chhukung you see its steep east side, and from Gokyo its long west ridge.
Visiting base camp
A side trail from Pangboche climbs to Ama Dablam Base Camp (about 4,600 m), a grassy meadow beneath the south-west ridge — a rewarding day hike that also helps acclimatisation. In autumn you can watch climbing teams preparing.
Good to know
The mountain was first climbed in 1961 by members of Edmund Hillary's Silver Hut expedition. Today most climbers use the south-west ridge, with fixed ropes and three high camps; a permit and experienced guide are required.
Quick answers
- Where is Ama Dablam?
- Ama Dablam is in Solukhumbu district, Koshi Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Ama Dablam?
- About 6,812 m (22,350 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Ama Dablam?
- For a 11-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 118,000 (≈ US$875) per person on a budget, or NPR 133,500 (≈ US$990) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 51,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Ama Dablam?
- Plan 9 nights there for the trek; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 11 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Ama Dablam?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 5,000 / US$37 to enter Sagarmatha National Park plus the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality fee (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Ama Dablam?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Ama Dablam?
- October–November
- How do I get to Ama Dablam?
- Seen from the Everest Base Camp trail; base camp is a day hike from Pangboche. It is about 152 km (straight line) from Kathmandu, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Ama Dablam called in Nepali?
- अमा दब्लम
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