Success is in the summit. Wrong.
Keeping fingers and toes, returning to family and keeping a level enough head to know when to turn around are all signs of success. We were presented with difficult decisions on Ama Dablam, and the team navigated them with maturity and good judgement.
The Final Push
Departing Camp 2 in the early hours, we moved toward Camp 3 and the summit pyramid. Conditions were demanding — variable snow quality and wind on the exposed upper ridge — but manageable.
The summit of Ama Dablam at 6812m delivers one of the great views in the Himalayas. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu all visible from a single vantage point. The experience of standing on this peak — one of the most technically demanding 6000m peaks in Nepal — is difficult to describe adequately.
Reflecting on the Expedition
35 days in Nepal. Multiple acclimatisation rotations. Several weather delays. And ultimately, a successful summit and safe return for the whole team.
Mountaineering at this level demands patience above all else. The mountain sets the timeline; you adapt to it. The teams that summit Ama Dablam are rarely the strongest — they’re the most patient, the most methodical, and the most willing to wait for the right window.
Thank You
To the team for their trust, good humour, and determination. To our cook at base camp for keeping us fuelled. And to the mountain for letting us have a good day.