Ama Dablam

Ama Dablam is a majestic mountain in eastern Nepal. The name means ‘Mother’s Necklace’, because the ridges leading up to the mountain resemble a mother’s arms. The dablam, or necklace, is a hanging glacier that evokes images of the traditional double pendant worn by many native Sherpa women. The main peak stands out above neighboring mountains at an impressive 6,812 metres, making it a considerably more impressive sight than its big brother, Everest. Ama Dablam is the third most climbed mountain in the Himalayas, requiring a permit and a liaison officer to summit the peak. Most people attempt the climb on the Southwest Ridge, between either April and May or September and October.

Both Ama Dablam and Everest are located in Sagarmatha National Park, encompassing 1,148 square kilometers. The park itself is an awe-inspiring destination, with dramatic mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and huge glaciers. More than 6,000 native Sherpa live within the park's boundaries, and are known for their open and friendly disposition towards tourists, who have boosted the local economy dramatically. Whether your plan is to summit Ama Dablam, or simply immerse yourself in the Sherpa culture and breathtaking mountainous landscape, a trip to Ama Dablam is one you won’t soon forget.

Making it Happen

Flights to Nepal are available from Thailand, India, or Singapore. You will fly into Kathmandu and can then choose to fly into Lukla, which is an eight-day trek from the Ama Dablam base camp, or take a bus into Jiri. Although the bus option takes longer than flying, it will give you an opportunity to acclimate to the high altitude. The trek from Jiri is about 14 days to Ama Dablam.

Tips

If you are climbing Ama Dablam, fees, permits, and a garbage deposit are just a few of the behind-the-scenes requirements. Most climbers hire guides to take care of these details.

There are fabulous hiking opportunities within the park, including a trek to the Everest Base Camp, for visitors in good physical condition who don’t want to take part in a technical climb.

All Sherpas speak some English; Many are fluent.

Many of the popular trails are lined with lodges and restaurants. Food is plentiful, which means less for you to carry.

Cell-phone service is available in some remote areas.

Whether climbing the ridge to the peak of Ama Dablam, or just relaxing in the world’s highest national park, the area’s cultural significance, natural attractions, and pristine landscape, make this one the most awe-inspiring destinations on earth.