What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 6920m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Short Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Risky Limited Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: 17 Day Dhaulagiri Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization, Dhaulagiri Circuit Acclimatization Check.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Gear List.

What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 6920m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Short Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Risky Limited Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: 17 Day Dhaulagiri Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization, Dhaulagiri Circuit Acclimatization Check.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Gear List.

Tukuche Peak Expedition

Transportation
Flight + Private Vehicle
Group Size
Max 6
Maximum Altitude
6920
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping
Fitness level
Very High
Arrival on
Kathmandu
Departure from
Kathmandu
Best season
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Guiding method
Live Personal Climbing Guide (Sherpa)
Tour type
Expedition
Language
English
Meals
Includes (BLD) + Expedition Camp Meals
Permits
Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit.
Destinations
Dhaulagiri Region
Activities
Hiking, Peak Climbing, Trekking
Trip Type
Camping, High Altitude, Nature Friendly
Difficulty
Hard

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Packing List

Know more

Trip Guides

Review

Map

Tukuche Peak (6,920m / 22,703 ft) is an expedition peak in the Dhaulagiri region of north-central Nepal, located between the Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna (8,091m) massifs, immediately north of the village of Marpha in the Kali Gandaki valley. The peak lies at approximately 28 degrees 31 minutes north latitude and 83 degrees 39 minutes east longitude, in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Tukuche Peak was first climbed in 1969 by a Swiss expedition led by Kurt Diemberger, via the north-east ridge. The mountain is classified as an expedition peak requiring a climbing permit from the Ministry of Tourism.The standard route climbs the north-east ridge, with Base Camp at approximately 5,100m on a high shelf above Marpha. The route establishes two high camps: Camp 1 at 5,600m on the lower north-east ridge and Camp 2 at 6,100m on the upper ridge. The summit push from Camp 2 involves climbing 40-50 degree snow slopes with some short ice pitches on the upper mountain, with the final section traversing an exposed summit ridge to the top. The technical difficulty is rated AD on the Alpine grading system, similar to other 7,000m expedition peaks.Tukuche Peak is one of the most scenically located expedition peaks in Nepal due to its location between two 8,000m ranges. The summit offers simultaneous views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the world seventh-highest mountain, and the entire Annapurna range, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II (7,937m), and Annapurna South (7,219m). The mountain also offers views of Nilgiri (7,061m), the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge (the deepest gorge in the world), and the distant Tibetan plateau. The mountain is significantly less crowded than other expedition peaks due to its technical nature and remote location.The approach follows the classic Annapurna Circuit route through the Kali Gandaki valley, with a flight to Jomsom and a short trek to Marpha. The region is culturally Tibetan Buddhist Thakali homeland, with traditional apple orchards, ancient gompas, and the famous Marpha apple brandy. The best climbing seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November), with autumn being more popular for Tukuche due to more stable snow conditions on the upper mountain.

Highlights

Climb a 6,920m expedition peak first summited in 1969 by a Swiss expedition led by Kurt Diemberger.
Located between Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna (8,091m) massifs, near Marpha.
Two high camps at 5,600m and 6,100m on the north-east ridge route.
Summit offers simultaneous views of two 8,000m ranges and the Kali Gandaki gorge.
Approach via the classic Annapurna Circuit through Thakali homeland with apple orchards.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport with private vehicle transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Evening welcome dinner and expedition briefing.

Day 02 :

Trek Briefing & Equipment Check

Full day expedition briefing and permit processing with the Ministry of Tourism. Equipment check and packing.

Day 03 :

Fly to Pokhara

Morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Afternoon free to explore Phewa Lake and prepare for the Jomsom flight.

Day 04 :

Fly to Jomsom & Trek to Marpha

Early morning scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (2,743m), between Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. Short 2-hour trek down the Kali Gandaki valley to the apple-growing village of Marpha.

Day 05 :

Acclimatization in Marpha

Full acclimatization day in Marpha. Optional hike to the Marpha monastery and apple brandy distillery. Afternoon equipment check and climbing briefing.

Day 06 :

Trek to Yak Kharka

Climb northward from Marpha through sparse forest and alpine meadows to reach Yak Kharka, a high yak pasture at 3,800m. First close views of Tukuche Peak.

Day 07 :

Trek to Tukuche Base Camp

Continue climbing above the tree line to reach Base Camp at 5,100m on a broad shelf below the north-east ridge. Establish full base camp with dining tent, kitchen, and communication equipment.

Day 08 :

Rest & Acclimatization at Base Camp

Full acclimatization day at Base Camp. Optional short hike above camp. Equipment check.

Day 09 :

Puja Ceremony & Climbing Training at Base Camp

Traditional Buddhist puja ceremony to bless the expedition, followed by climbing training. Pack and prepare for the Camp 1 carry.

Day 10 :

Establish Camp 1

Climb the lower north-east ridge on fixed ropes to establish Camp 1 at 5,600m. Carry loads and return to Base Camp.

Day 11 :

Move to Camp 1

Climb to Camp 1 and establish the camp. Spend the night at altitude for acclimatization.

Day 12 :

Establish Camp 2

Climb the north-east ridge to establish Camp 2 at 6,100m on the upper ridge. Carry loads and return to Camp 1.

Day 13 :

Acclimatization at Camp 2

Climb to Camp 2 for acclimatization. Optional short climb higher. Return to Camp 1 for the night.

Day 14 :

Rest at Base Camp

Descend from Camp 1 to Base Camp for rest and recovery. Review weather forecast and summit plan.

Day 15 :

Move to Camp 1

Climb back to Camp 1 to begin the summit rotation.

Day 16 :

Move to Camp 2

Climb to Camp 2 and establish the camp. Prepare for the summit push.

Day 17 :

Summit Push & Descend to Camp 2

Pre-dawn start at midnight. Climb 40-50 degree snow slopes with some short ice pitches on fixed ropes, traversing the exposed summit ridge to the 6,920m summit. Spectacular simultaneous views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and the entire Annapurna range. Descend to Camp 2.

Day 18 :

Descend to Base Camp

Continue descending from Camp 2 to Base Camp for celebration and hot meals.

Day 19 :

Buffer Day at Base Camp

Buffer day reserved for weather or acclimatization. If the summit was achieved on Day 17, rest at Base Camp. If summit was postponed, attempt again from Camp 2.

Day 20 :

Buffer Day for Weather

Second buffer day reserved for weather. Tukuche summit windows can be short due to high winds on the upper mountain.

Day 21 :

Trek to Marpha

Descend from Base Camp back to Yak Kharka and continue down to Marpha village for hot showers, yak cheese, and a celebratory meal at the local bakery.

Day 22 :

Trek to Jomsom

Short trek up the Kali Gandaki valley from Marpha to Jomsom. Final celebration dinner with the climbing crew.

Day 23 :

Fly to Pokhara & Connect to Kathmandu

Morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, then connect to Kathmandu. Check in to hotel and evening farewell dinner.

Day 24 :

Buffer Day in Kathmandu

Buffer day for Jomsom flight delays or rest in Kathmandu. Visit CIWEC Clinic for a check-up. Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.

Day 25 :

Final Departure

Private vehicle transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Things to Carry for Tukuche Peak Expedition

Headwear

Warm fleece or wool beanie hat (essential for cold mornings)
Sun hat with wide brim for UV protection
Neck gaiter or buff (multi-purpose for dust, wind, cold)
Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
Ski goggles for high-altitude passes and snow

Upper Body Layering

2x merino wool base layers (long sleeve)
1x mid-layer fleece jacket
1x soft shell jacket for wind and light rain
1x hard shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex)
1x down jacket rated to -25C (we provide rental for USD 20)

Lower Body

2x trekking pants (quick-dry, one convertible)
1x thermal bottom layer for cold nights
1x rain pants (Gore-Tex)
2x merino wool underwear
1x swimwear (for hot springs)

Hands

1x thin liner gloves (merino or fleece)
1x insulated waterproof gloves
1x expedition mittens for passes above 5,000m

Footwear

1x sturdy trekking boots (broken in for 50+ km, waterproof)
1x camp shoes or sandals for evenings
4-5x pairs merino wool trekking socks
2x pairs liner socks
Gaiters for snow, scree, and mud

Sleeping Gear

1x 4-season sleeping bag rated to -20C (we provide rental for USD 30)
1x sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece)
1x inflatable sleeping pad

Trekking Equipment

1x trekking poles pair (essential for descents, we provide rental for USD 15)
1x headlamp with spare batteries (200+ lumens)
1x 20-30L day pack
1x large duffel bag 80-100L (we provide free)
1x dry bag for electronics
1x water bottle or hydration bladder (2L minimum)

First Aid & Health

Personal prescription medications (with doctor’s letter)
Diamox for altitude sickness (consult your doctor)
Ibuprofen and paracetamol
Imodium for stomach issues
Rehydration sachets (ORS)
Blister treatment (Compeed, moleskin)
Antiseptic wipes and bandages
Lip balm with SPF 30+
Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring 2 tubes)
Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and wet wipes

Electronics

Camera with extra batteries (cold drains fast, bring 2-3 spares)
Power bank (20,000mAh minimum)
Universal power adapter (Nepal 220V, Type C/D/M)
Headphones
eReader or book

Documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 4 extra passport photos)
Travel insurance certificate (covering trekking to 6920m)
Flight tickets
Credit cards and USD cash
Emergency contacts

What We Provide (Rental)

4-season sleeping bag (rental USD 30 with deposit)
Down jacket (rental USD 20 with deposit)
Duffel bag for porter carriage (free, you keep it)
Trekking poles (rental USD 15)
First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen
Water purification tablets
Satellite phone on remote treks

Related Packing Guides

Read our detailed packing guides: Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Gear List, Island Peak Climbing Gear Bring From Home Vs Rent, Island Peak Climbing Total Budget Gear Tips Permits, Budget Mera Peak Climb Gear Insurance.

Note: Pack light. Porter weight limit is 15kg per trekker. Layers are key for mountain weather. We send a detailed seasonal packing list after booking.

Know Before You Book – Tukuche Peak Expedition Information

Trip Name: Tukuche Peak Expedition – 25 Days
Duration: 25 days
Difficulty: Hard
Maximum Altitude: 6920m
Group Size: Max 6

Difficulty & Fitness

This trek is rated Hard. Hard treks involve 6-8+ hours of walking daily at high altitude. Previous high-altitude experience strongly recommended. The maximum altitude is 6920m. You need a fitness level of Very High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises.

Read our difficulty guides: Dhaulagiri Circuit Strong Hikers No Expedition Experience, Dhaulagiri Circuit Vs Annapurna Circuit Difficulty Solitude.

Best Time to Go

Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.

Read our seasonal guides: Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Best Season, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Photography Season Value.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Luxury lodges (where available) offer heated ensuite rooms. 3-star or higher hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) included during treks with tea and coffee. Vegetarian options widely available.

Food and water guides: Dhaulagiri Circuit Remote Camping Support Crew, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Camping Required.

Transportation

Transport: Flight + Private Vehicle. Domestic flights (where applicable) are weather-dependent – build 1-2 buffer days into your schedule. Private ground transport uses comfortable AC vehicles.

Flight and transport guides: Reliable Pikey Peak Trek Reviews Guides Transport Teahouses, Pikey Peak Transport From Kathmandu.

Required Permits

Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos after booking. Permit fees are included in your trip cost.

Permit guides: Short Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Risky Limited Time, Dhaulagiri Circuit Once In A Lifetime Trek.

Altitude Safety

Maximum altitude is 6920m. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness is a real risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Walk slowly, stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol above 3,500m, report symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

Altitude safety guides: 17 Day Dhaulagiri Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization, Dhaulagiri Circuit Acclimatization Check.

Training & Preparation

Read our training guides: Details To Prepare Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Quote Australia, Mera Peak Training Plan.

Insurance Requirement

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks and tours. Your insurance must cover trekking to 6920m altitude (for treks), emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 10,000, emergency medical treatment, and trip cancellation. We recommend World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Adventure plans. Bring a printed copy of your insurance certificate.

Insurance guides: Nepal Peak Climbing Travel Insurance Australians Check, Mera Peak Climbing Insurance Australia.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctums. Walk clockwise around stupas and chortens. Ask permission before photographing people. Use your right hand for eating and passing items. Say namaste (palms together) as a greeting.

Culture guides: Remote Nepal Treks Culture Fewer Crowds, Mustang Vs Dolpo Tibetan Culture Trek.

Booking & Payment

To confirm your booking, a deposit is required (50% for helicopter tours). The balance is due 30 days before departure (7 days for helicopter tours). We accept bank transfer, credit card (4% surcharge), PayPal. Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation. Contact us for current pricing and availability.

What is Not Included

International airfare to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days), travel and rescue insurance (mandatory), personal trekking gear and clothing, hot showers and device charging on trek, alcoholic beverages, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, tips for guide/porter/driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost), and any costs from unforeseen events like weather delays.