Mt. Ama Dablam expedition has long been considered the prettiest mountain in the world. High on her Southwest face hangs a glacier resembling a 'Dablam' - the sacred ornament box worn by ladies in the Sherpa community. It was this spectacular feature that got her the name "Ama Dablam". She lies alongside Everest in the heart of the Khumbu valley offering a superb climb up a spectacular ridge. The route we follow begins at Lukla (2850m) and the initial days of the trek pass through the legendary Sherpa country up the spectacular high valley of the Khumbu. Much of he route on the actual climbing is fixed with no icefall or glacier to negotiate, and most of it is concentrated on the crest of a ridge. The climb is relatively safe though exposed and sheep and not really a mountain for debutantes.Amadablam is renowned for its incredible beauty. Located to the south of Everest and Lhotse, it is characterized as vertical walls and sharp exposed ridges. We climb via the ascent route, the classic southwest ridge. The climb requires a strong mountaineering background and previous high altitude experience. We will fly to Lukla and trek to Amadablam base camp via Namche bazaar and Tengboche. From base camp at an altitude of 4500m, we will erect at least three camps in the mountain slopes. Our highly experienced Sherpa team will fix the ropes and assist whenever necessary. From our high camp, we'll make the final push to summit along steep and snowcapped slopes. We will climb along a nicely exposed ridge providing unsurpassed views from one of the world's most coveted peaks.
The Unique Adventure International offers one of the highest quality commercial operations available in Amadablam. The expedition consists of ample support with delicious meals. We'll use plenty of Sherpa power to ensure the greatest chance of success. Ama Dablam has long been considered the prettiest mountain in the world. High on her Southwest face hangs a glacier resembling a 'Dablam' - the sacred ornament box worn by ladies in the Sherpa community. It was this spectacular feature that got her the name "Ama Dablam". She lies alongside Everest in the heart of the Khumbu valley offering a superb climb up a spectacular ridge.
The route we follow begins at Lukla (2850m) and the initial days of the trek pass through the legendary Sherpa country up the spectacular high valley of the Khumbu. Much of his route on the actual climbing is fixed with no icefall or glacier to negotiate, and most of it is concentrated on the crest of a ridge. The climb is relatively safe though exposed and sheep and not really a mountain for debutantes.
Highlights of the Expedition
Passing through Namche Bazaar (gateway to Mt. Everest), explore 200 years old Tyangboche monastery, Pangboche monastery, and panoramic views of the dozens of grand Himalayan peaks.
Experienced Required
The Ama Dablam climb is not for novice mountaineers. It will require members to be comfortable ascending and descending steep terrain on fixed ropes. A high technical standard is not mandatory because primarily the local Sherpa guides will be leading the climb and fixing the route. However, this is not a mountain to visit and then discover that you are not comfortable with exposure.
You must have solid rock climbing and cramponing skills and be able to climb and rappel with a pack on. You’ll be jumaring on fixed ropes. There are several short, steep sections of near vertical ice and rock on the spectacular ridge between Camp 1 and Camp 3 that require strength and technique. Most importantly, you need good common sense and the ability to learn and adapt. Ama Dablam is usually climbed un-roped, using fixed ropes, so it is common for climbers to move together but at the same time be semi-independent on the mountain between camps. We will provide a walkie-talkie to all climbers so they can stay in contact.
Our 'Ama Dablam expeditions ' is not a "guided" . "Guiding" and being "guided" implies the intimate supervision and care of a "client" by a "Guide" who can be responsible for the direct and immediate control of safety. We believe on mountaineering, such a direct duty-of-care, implicit in the traditional guide-client relationship.
Important Note
The above itinerary is not a fixed program but is intended to give an indication of the likely events during the expedition. Please note that because of climbing High Mountain, it will be necessary to have a flexible plan in order to take the best advantage of situations as they present themselves. Any changes to the itinerary will be made with a view to maximizing the benefit to the team members and of ensuring their eventual success on the mountain.
Normally climbers will change their departure flights from Kathmandu when they know exactly when the expedition is going to end. We plan to stay at Base Camp for climbing as long as it takes for us to be successful.
Team members should take out private insurance if they wish to be covered against cancellation due to medical or personal reasons. This is called trip Cancellation insurance and can be obtained from your normal travel agent.
Flight Delay in Kathmandu and Lukla
Twin Otter is the primary mode of transport to and from the airstrip at Lukla. This service is fairly dependable. Sometimes, flights (to and from Lukla) may be cancelled due to mountain weather conditions or technical problems. In such case, Himalayan Trail Blazer will charter a helicopter to ensure you are on schedule for your international flight. The helicopter can fly if the visibility is 1500m, while the twin otter can fly if the visibility is 5000m, as per Nepal’s Civil Aviation rules.
The cost of the helicopter is payable directly to our Kathmandu office in the event that this service is utilized. US cash, traveler's cheques, or credit cards (Visa Cards, Master Cards only) are accepted. You will be given a receipt upon payment so that you may claim the amount from your travel insurance. The minimum cost will be US$1000 and maximum US$3500 depending on the number of group members.
