Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek 

Flights to Lukla operate differently depending on the season. During peak trekking seasons, most Lukla flights are operated from Manthali Airport, while during non-peak seasons, flights operate directly from Kathmandu. Manthali to Lukla Flights (March, April, May, September, October, and November): During these peak months, flights to Lukla depart from Manthali Airport, which is approximately a 5–6 hour drive from Kathmandu. To catch the flight, we leave Kathmandu between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM by shared jeep and travel to Manthali Airport. From Manthali, a scenic 20-minute flight takes you to Lukla. Kathmandu to Lukla Flights (January, February, June, July, August, and December): During the non-peak seasons, flights operate directly from the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. These flights usually depart early in the morning, typically between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM. After a scenic flight to Lukla, we arrive at Lukla Airport. Our porter-guide will be there to welcome you and assist with trek preparations. Before starting the walk, we take a short snack break in Lukla and then begin our trek toward Phakding. En route, we witness breathtaking mountain scenery, traditional Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and fluttering prayer flags along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. Note: Flight schedules and updates are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information regarding Lukla flights, please consult one of our representatives.

After breakfast, we begin our trek along the serene Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges as we head toward Namche Bazaar. The trail passes through small settlements, including Toktok, Benkar, Chomua, and Monjo. After Monjo, we enter Sagarmatha National Park for permit verification and continue to Jorsalle (2,740 m / 8,989 ft), a peaceful riverside stop and an ideal place for lunch, marking the halfway point to Namche. Following lunch, we cross two more suspension bridges and gradually ascend to the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge. A steep climb then leads to Top Danda, where we enjoy the first breathtaking view of Mount Everest. From here, Namche Bazaar is about an hour away. The trail is lined with mani stones, prayer wheels, chortens, and colorful prayer flags, reflecting the spiritual heritage of the Khumbu region, with scenic views of Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, Nuptse, Taboche, and Mount Everest. After 5–6 hours of trekking, we arrive at the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar—an ideal place for rest, acclimatization, and cultural immersion.

Proper acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness while trekking at higher elevations. To adapt safely, we spend an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft), the vibrant trading hub of the Everest region known for its modern amenities and warm Sherpa hospitality. After breakfast, we take a short acclimatization hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880 m / 12,730 ft), one of the highest hotels in the world. This scenic viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Khumbila, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. The afternoon is free to explore Namche Bazaar, where you can visit the Everest Museum, browse local shops, enjoy cafés, or immerse yourself in the rich culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa community.

After breakfast, we continue our trek toward Tengboche. The trail ascends out of Namche Bazaar before leveling into a gradual climb through lush forests and past several stupas, including one built in memory of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. We pass through settlements such as Kenjoma, Sanasa, and Leushyasa, enjoying scenic mountain views before stopping for lunch at Phunke Tenga after 2–3 hours of trekking. From here, we cross a suspension bridge at the confluence of the Dudh Koshi River and Imja Khola and complete permit verification at the Sagarmatha National Park army post. A steady 2–3 hour uphill climb then leads us to Tengboche (3,860 m), one of the finest viewpoints along the Everest Base Camp trek. Home to the revered Tengboche Monastery, the area offers panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Arriving by mid-afternoon, we have time to visit the monastery and attend the evening Buddhist chanting ceremony, a peaceful and culturally enriching experience reflecting the deep spiritual traditions of the Khumbu region.

Today's trek is short and sweet—just 2 to 3 hours of gentle walking through beautiful mountain scenery. We leave Tengboche behind and descend into a peaceful rhododendron forest, arriving first at the small settlement of Deboche. After crossing the flowing Imja Khola river on a sturdy bridge, we begin a steady climb up toward Pangboche. With every step, the magnificent peak of Ama Dablam grows larger, standing guard over the valley. By late morning, we reach the village of Pangboche, perched at 3,950 meters. This shorter day is designed to help our bodies adjust to the altitude, giving us time to rest and relax in the spectacular mountain views that surround us.

The hike from Pangboche to Ama Dablam Base Camp is nothing short of breathtaking. As you draw closer to this majestic peak, you begin to see why it's called "Mother's Necklace." The hanging glacier resembles a sacred jeweled chain draped across the mountain. This day trip is one of the most rewarding alternatives to the classic Everest Base Camp trek. After crossing the Imja Khola, we begin our steady ascent. Soon, we reach the base camp, surrounded by a panorama of majestic mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Kantega, standing proudly in every direction. We spend time here, dwelling in the beauty, capturing photos, and simply being present among these snow-capped monarchs. Then, with hearts full of fresh memories, we make our way back down to Pangboche, carrying the magic of Ama Dablam with us.

Today's trail from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar is mostly downhill. As you descend, you may find yourself wondering how you ever managed to climb all those stone steps in the first place. The walk is filled with beauty at every turn, vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, elegant stupas standing silently, and distant views of Mount Everest peeking through the clouds with the back of Lhotse behind it. By late afternoon, we arrive in Namche Bazaar, our home for the night. Here, we celebrate our accomplishment with a delicious meal, enjoying a variety of cuisines. After all, completing this trek deserves a little something special.

Today is the second-last day of our Everest Base Camp trek as we walk back to Lukla. After breakfast, we follow the familiar trail, crossing the Hillary Suspension Bridge and passing through small villages along the way. Reaching Lukla feels special, it’s a chance to slow down, enjoy a warm meal, and celebrate the journey. Spend the evening relaxing, sharing stories with fellow trekkers, and soaking in the lively mountain atmosphere before the adventure comes to an end.

During peak trekking seasons (March, April, May, September, October, and November), flights from Lukla are often diverted to Manthali Airport instead of Kathmandu due to heavy traffic. The flight duration is approximately 20 minutes, followed by a 5–6 hour drive to Kathmandu by shared jeep. Please note that travel time may vary depending on road conditions, weather, and traffic. Early departures are common, and delays can occur, so flexibility in travel plans is recommended. During the monsoon and winter months (January, February, June, July, August, and December), flights from Lukla usually operate directly to Kathmandu. The flight takes around 35 minutes, followed by a 30-minute drive to your hotel if you are staying in the city. Flight routes can change due to weather or air traffic conditions, so it’s best to check the current flight status before booking and allow some flexibility in your travel plans. After a leisurely breakfast, you will prepare for your journey back to Kathmandu (or via Manthali, if required). Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you can relax and rejuvenate in comfort after your remarkable Himalayan adventure with Create Himalaya.