Pick a Peak - list of mountains Home
← Ama Dablan

Northwest Ridge

5A | TD | V Edit route
The Northwest Ridge is a documented alternative alpine route on Ama Dablam, but it is less commonly climbed than the Southwest Ridge. It is a serious high-altitude line with sustained steepness and complex mixed terrain. Conditions can vary greatly with snow and ice cover, making the route highly committing. Exposure is significant throughout, and protection can be difficult in places. The route is generally considered more difficult and less straightforward than the standard southwest line. It is known from established climbing accounts of the mountain.

Route Outline

Approach from the northwestern side of Ama Dablam
Climb steep snow and mixed terrain toward the ridge crest
Gain the upper northwest ridge and continue on exposed climbing
Reach the summit ridge and summit
Descend by the ascent route

More routes on Ama Dablan

Southwest Ridge

4A | D | IV
The Southwest Ridge is the classic and most established climbing line on Ama Dablam. It is a sustained alpine route combining steep snow, rock, and mixed climbing on a very exposed ridge. The route is famous for its technical sections, especially the Grey Tower and the upper rock-and-ice steps. Objective hazards include rockfall, avalanche danger on the lower slopes, and severe exposure to wind and weather. It is generally climbed from a high camp on the ridge, with a long summit day from that camp. This is the standard route described in major Himalayan climbing references for the peak.
Details →
Add route