The Tukuche peak is located in the western Nepal Himalayas between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges. Although relatively less explored, Tukuche is one of most exotic mountain climbs in Nepal. Despite being a technical climb, it’s nonetheless a favorite training mountain even among the prospective 8,000m climbers. The peak lies north of the exotic Hidden Valley. The summit of Tukuche Peak also offers great vistas of the surrounding Himalayas including the Annapurna Ranges, Nilgiri and also of the nearby villages such as Marpha and Jomsom. Tukuche Peak Expedition (6920m) is inside of world’s popular Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan range. And it lies in the western part of Nepal. Entire Annapurna and a Dhaulagiri range divided by the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge and the peak Tukuche. It is exactly standing in front of Annapurna Massif and Mt. Dhaulagiri I – just above from a beautiful hidden valley.

Annapurna and Dhaulagiri region trekking is demanded by thousands of trekkers every year. But the peak is relatively less climbed. From the summit of Tukuche Peak Climbing, we will be rewarded by splendid views of Annapurna range, Mt. Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak, and many other snow-capped peaks. In the trekking journey, you will face some difficult trails like Thapa Pass, French Pass, Italian Base Camp, and Dhaulagiri Base Camp.  Because of its remoteness, the peak is less visited by the trekking groups and is less crowded than other trekking trails.  Tukuche Peak is an easier peak to climb as there is no risk factor involved with it and is considered as a low-risk trekking peak. Tukuche Peak Expedition with Tukuche Peak Climbing Summit is at 6920m/22703ft. It is located at Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan range of Nepal.

Day 1 Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

The journey starts from the Kathmandu valley from where the bus ride of about 5 to 6 hours will take you to the beautiful city of Pokhara. Through this ride travellers can enjoy the scenic views of beautiful river valleys, alongside terraced fields of barley and rice and over green hills blanketed with lush vegetation. When you arrive at the Pokhara valley there you will witness the beautiful lakes, hills and mountain ranges. The travellers will enjoy the evening here and stay here for a night. 

Day 2 Fly to Jomsom and Trek to Yak Kharka

You will take an early morning scenic flight from Pokhara and fly towards Jomsom. Jomsom is an important hub for Mustang and Upper Mustang Treks with the airstrip, tea houses and services. After landing at the airstrip of Jomsom, you will start your trek by following a rather easy trail to Marpha also known as ‘ The Apple Garden ‘. From there you will start to ascend steeply until you arrive at the open fields of Yak Kharka.

Day 3 Acclimization Day at Yak Kharka

Acclimatization is very essential in higher altitudes to avoid mental and physical illness that may arise due to altitude sickness. Also, proper acclimatization is the key to reach your target, a summit of Tukuche Peak. Thus, today you will take a day rest at Yak Kharka. There are a couple of good hike options from Yak Kharka that are considered best for acclimatization.

Day 4 Yak Kharka to Hidden Valley via Dhampus Pass

After spending a good day resting at Yak Kharka, the trail ascends gradually as you enter the Kali Gandaki Valley, the deepest gorge of the world. The uphill trekking continues as you head towards the crossing of Dhampus Pass at 5,240 meters also known as ‘ Thapa ‘ Pass. From the top of the pass, your trail descends over moderate snow slopes towards the Hidden Valley for your overnight camping. 

Day 5  Rest Day at Hidden Valley

By now you have reached over 5,000 meters above the sea level. So, in order to stay fit both physically and mentally, you will rest at Hidden Valley for acclimatization and exploration. Hidden Valley offers good hike options for its visitors. The best option would be a hike up to the western ridge from where you will have stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri and the beautiful mountain valleys. You will head back to Hidden Valley for overnight camping after a great day’s hike.

Day 6 Hidden Valley to Tukuche Base Camp

After breakfast, you will get ready for a short day trekking. The trail climbs gradually as you trek through harsh alpine vegetation. The climb can be very tiring, so resting every now and then helps in restoring energy. You will trek until you arrive at a good camping site at 5,640 meters where you will set up your Base Camp. The Sherpa crew will quickly set up the camps and start making necessary preparations for setting up camps at higher altitudes.

Day 7 – 17 Climbing Period of Tukuche Peak and back to Base Camp

For several days you will keep on doing climbing training practices with proper acclimatization. The Sherpa team will do all the hard work from setting up the camps, providing healthy meals and fixing the routes for reaching the summit. Following the instructions are given by  experienced climbing experts you will make a gradual climb. Several camps will be set up above the base camp.

In fact, weather conditions play a significant role in predicting and planning your summit climb attempt. Fully equipped with all the climbing gears and properly acclimatized you will tackle several technical climbing sections and climb to conquer the summit of Tukuche Peak. Once at the top you are rewarded with amazing up-close views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges and other surrounding high peaks. You will spend short quality time at the summit and then start to descend down following the same route back to reach the Base Camp.

Day 18 Trek Back to Hidden Valley

After successfully achieving the summit of Tukuche Peak, you will begin your return journey by retracing your steps on the same trail that descends downhill for a few hours. With great views of high mountain valleys and surrounding high peaks, you will arrive back to Hidden Valley for your overnight camping. 

Day 19 Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka

From Hidden Valley, you will continue to retrace your steps on the same trail that climbs up a moderate snow slope towards the crossing of Dhampus Pass. After successfully crossing the pass you make a steep descent entering into the Kali Gandaki Valley and then make a rather long traverse across the snow which usually takes around four hours before descending down to Yak Kharka.  

Day 20 Yak Kharka to Jomsom

The last day of your trek starts from Yak Kharka as you follow the main trail that descends for a rather long time to reach the village of Marpha. From Marpha your trail is a rather pleasant and moderate walk all the way back to Jomsom. 

Day 21 Jomsom to Pokhara

The travelers will take a flight back to Pokhara.  The remaining afternoon can be spent exploring the beautiful landscapes, lakes and hills of the city. You can also roam around the market area of the Pokhara in the night and get yourself immersed in the limelight of the city.

Day 22 Pokhara to Kathmandu

It is time to bid farewell to the Pokhara valley and take a bus ride back to the Kathmandu valley. You can enjoy the beautiful landscapes, river valleys and clear sky through the window of the bus before reaching the city.