Mustang Tiji Festival: 12 Days
Trip Facts
Group size
1-20+
Duration
12 Days
Trip Mode
Private Vehicle
Level of difficulty
Easy
Max. Altitude:
3800 m
Best Season
Late Sep-Nov and Feb-May
Accommodation
Tea houses/Lodges
Start/End
Kathmandu
Trip Highlights
- Witness the sacred Tiji Festival – a three-day Tibetan Buddhist celebration with masked dances, rituals, and ancient myth reenactments.
- Explore the walled capital of Lo-Manthang, rich with monasteries, chortens, and centuries-old Himalayan heritage.
- Trek through Upper Mustang’s iconic red canyons, eroded cliffs, and desert landscapes shaped by wind and time.
- Experience deep Tibetan-influenced culture, preserved for centuries due to Mustang’s restricted access.
- Visit ancient gompas such as Choser Cave, Jhong Monastery, Charang Gompa and other sacred sites.
- Visit ancient gompas such as Choser Cave, Jhong Monastery, Charang Gompa and other sacred sites.
- A rare chance to join local celebrations in one of Nepal’s most protected cultural regions.
Overview
Firstly, the Mustang Tiji Festival is a fascinating annual three-day festive. Secondly, it consists of Tibetan rituals that celebrate the myth of a son who had to save the Mustang kingdom from destruction. Next, the festival is indigenous to Lo-Manthang, Upper Mustang. Above all, the Tiji Festival is a purification ritual at the beginning of every harvest season. The history of the Tiji Festival goes back many centuries, but myths and legends rather than recorded facts.
The word Tiji originates from the word “Ten Che.” It means “hope of Buddhism prevailing in the world for peace” and celebrates the triumph of God over the demon. Moreover, the three-day ritual is marked by various dancing ceremonies to chase the devil away. It stands on the mythological story of Lo Manthang. The Mustang Tiji Festival is unique and fun.
Upper Mustang trekking in Nepal was officially opened in 1992. Minimal numbers of trekkers are only allowed each year. Thus protecting and conserving the local Tibetan tradition and the fragile environment. Upper Mustang Trekking unfolds the fabled forbidden kingdom’s vast and arid valleys, eroded canyons, and yak caravans.
The Upper Mustang trek brings you into the hidden world of the old Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, also called Lo. Lo used to be part of the Tibetan empire and is close to Tibet in culture, language, and geography.
Breif detail about upper mustang tiji festival
On the 1st day of the Mustang Tiji Festival
The monks perform a dance called ‘Tsa Chaam.’ This tells the story of the birth of ‘Dorji Sonam’- a reincarnated Buddha to a demon. Moreover, this demon harassed the kingdom of Mustang and brought havoc to the country. You can witness the monks enacting the harassment of the said demon on the people of Mustang.
On the 2nd day, Mustang Tiji Festival.
The monks perform ‘NgaCham.’ During this performance, Dorjee Sonam tries to return the demon to the Buddha realm.
On the 3rd and final day
On this festival day, the ‘Rha Chham’ dance takes place. In this ceremony, Dorjee Sonam triumphs over the evil demon and banishes him from Mustang. Therefore, The monk who plays the role of Dorjee Sonam does this by throwing an effigy. This effigy from Tsampa (barley) represents the demon ‘Ma Tam Ru Ta.’ This defeat brings peace and prosperity to the land of Mustang. Therefore, every year, the Mustang Tiji festival takes place in the hope of spreading peace throughout the world.
The Upper Mustang trail follows the ancient salt caravan route through which the people of Mustang traded Tibetan salt for grain from the lowlands. Therefore, the goal of the Upper Mustang trek is to the capital of the Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang. From the pass Lo La (3950 m), you can see the walled medieval capital in the distance, the white-washed 6-meter tall wall sticking out in sharp contrast to the barren landscape.
Current Update Of Mustang
The Mustang Tiji Festival could be more spectacular. According to the BBC, Mustang is the 23rd best tourable destination in the world.
Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu, and you will be received by our company representative and transferred to the selected hotel. Welcome evening dinner is held in the hotel for all clients arriving today. A short brief about your trip is held. Stay overnight in the hotel.
On the second day, we will have sightseeing in Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and is known as the city of temples. We will visit famous sites like Pashupatinath temple, Swayambhunath stupa, Boudhanath stupa, Kathmandu durbar square, Thamel, and neighboring districts’ favorite places, Patan Durbar square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Changunarayan temple. Most of these sites are listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.
After finishing our tour in Kathmandu, we will drive to Pokhara on the third day. Pokhara is known as the city of lakes. This city is the most beautiful city in Nepal and the most sought tourist destination. There are plenty of things to do in Pokhara. You will visit famous lakes like Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, a renowned cave, and one of the favorite waterfalls. We will be spending our night in a beautiful hotel.
Note!
In the morning, we will take an early flight to Jomsom, offering remarkable views of the Mountains. From here onwards, it is very windy in the afternoon. The path is relatively barren with rocks and sand, and the track is mostly flat. This trial will offer a picturesque view of peaks like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, and Dhampus. After hours of ups and downs, our path will reach Kagbeni. Kagbeni delivers a stunning view of channels, mountains, and green land. We will spend our night in a hotel.
From Kagbeni, our trek will start in Ghami. We will have a 3-4 drive. Ghami is located at the height of 3560m. In Ghami we will see while buildings and houses. Most of the part of this site is barren.
On the 6th day, we will be driving to Lomanthang to celebrate the most auspicious festival of this site which is the Tiji festival. Chanting of hymns, Masked dance, and man more.
There is still a lot to come on the second Day of the Tiji festival.
Authentic new culture is within this festival. Start meeting new people, rituals, and ancient religions.
Prayers of Vajrakila, Monastery, Evil Demon- Dorje Shunu, and Straw effigy seem to be wholly different things we have never seen.
The true essence of this trip is the Tiji Festival. So you may not want to miss it.
The morning begins with Prayers to Vajrakila by monks in the monastery. Next, Two offers ritualistic nectar, the dance of monks wearing masks depicting animals and ending with a raucous procession.
Final celebration in Mustang King’s Palace sharing greetings between King and Khenpo.
You are lucky to attend this Tiji Festival, and the rituals might have purified your mind and body.
On this day, we will be driving to the holy and pilgrimage site – Muktinath. Muktinath is a famous and sacred place that people from different parts of the country visit the temple of Muktinath. We will see that temple and also the nearby Buddhist monastery.
After we tour these famous places, we will drive back to Pokhara. We will spend our night in a beautiful hotel or perhaps enjoy the night walk around the lakeside.
We will have an early morning drive to Kathmandu. We will spend our night in our hotel and have a delicious dinner and farewell program.
After having your morning breakfast, you will be driven to the airport 3 hour before the actual flight.
Price Includes
- Airport picks up & drop by private vehicle to hotel.
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu.
- Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara.
- Sightseeing at Kathmandu Valley.
- Sharing jeep over trip for Upper Mustang.
- Necessary paperwork and Trekking Permits fee (ACAP permit & Upper Mustang Restricted Permit).
- Accommodation during trek and Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea).
- Licensed English or Chinese or Korean or Hindi along with Nepali speaking Friendly trekking guide.
- Coverage of Guides including their Meals, Insurance, Salary, Lodging, transportation and other necessary equipment.
- First Aid Medical Kit(Carried by the guide) Aarogya PC-303 Portable Vital Signs Monitor Device
- Sleeping bag, down jackets and trekking map, if necessary.
- Emergency Evacuation Assistance Service (The cost of the helicopter, hospital and necessary transport are not payable by the company).
- Welcome or farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a cultural restaurant (complimentary).
- A nation-wide operated Mobile SIM Card and a map of the trekking region.
Price Excludes
- Nepal Entry Visa fee: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport.
- International airfare.
- Personal Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory.
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-chargefee).
- Accommodation, Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu, except the farewell dinner.
- Emergency expenses such as expenses on charted helicopter.
- Additional costs or delays caused by out of management control, for example, landslide, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies etc.
- Gratitude and tips for your guide, porter and driver.
Add-ons & Options
1. Accommodation Booking in Kathmandu:
We can arrange your hotel stay in Kathmandu for a smooth and stress-free arrival.
✅ Double Room: USD 55 per night (cost can be shared between two trekkers)
✅ Single Room: USD 45 per night
📍 Centrally located near Thamel – close to gear shops, great restaurants, and cultural sites.
2. Private Jeep Transfer & Flights:
We offer comfortable and convenient round-trip private jeep services between Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kagbeni and returned.
3. Porter Services:We can arrange a reliable, experienced porter to support your trek.
✅ Contact us for current rates and availability.
4. Accommodation Booking in Pokhara:
We can also assist with hotel bookings in Pokhara for your pre- or post-trek stay.
✅ Contact us for current rates and availability.
📍 Centrally located near Pokhara– close to gear shops, great restaurants, and cultural sites.
5. 🪂 Paragliding (Pokhara)
Glide above Fewa Lake with stunning Himalayan views.
6. 🤸 Bungee Jump (The Cliff, Kushma)
Leap 228m over the Kaligandaki Gorge – one of the world’s highest jumps.
7. 🎢 Swing (The Cliff, Kushma)
Feel the thrill on the world’s 2nd highest giant swing.
Don't hesitate to get in touch with us for current rates and availability.
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FAQ's for Mustang Tiji Festival: 12 Days
General
A vibrant three-day Buddhist ritual in Upper Mustang celebrating the victory of a deity over a demon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
It combines a rare cultural experience with trekking through a remote, arid landscape resembling Tibet, often called Nepal's "hidden kingdom."
Itinerary & Duration
Spending three days in Lo Manthang to witness the ancient, colorful masked dances and ceremonies of the Tiji Festival.
The duration allows for the journey into the restricted region, time to acclimatize, fully experience the festival, and return.
Difficulty & Preparation
It is moderately strenuous. The challenge comes from the high altitude, long jeep rides on rough roads, and walking in a dry, windy climate.
Good physical fitness is required. Focus on cardio and hiking training, and prepare for significant temperature swings and dusty conditions.
Transportation
The journey involves a flight or drive to Pokhara, then a flight to Jomsom, followed by jeep rides into the heart of Upper Mustang.
Yes, the jeep ride is bumpy and travels on rough, dusty mountain roads, which is an adventure in itself.
Altitude & Safety
The festival occurs in Lo Manthang at around 3,840 meters (12,600 feet).
Yes, but the risk is lower than on higher treks. The itinerary is designed to acclimatize properly in Kagbeni and on the way to Lo Manthang.
Accommodation & Food
Teahouses in Upper Mustang are basic but comfortable. Rooms are typically twin-share with shared toilets. Hot showers are rare.
Menus offer a mix of Tibetan, Nepali, and basic Western food. Dal bhat, noodles, soups, and momos are common staples.
Preparation & Gear
Sturdy hiking boots, a high-quality sleeping bag, layered clothing for cold nights, a warm jacket, a sun hat, and a buff or mask for dust are crucial.
Yes, carry enough Nepali cash for the entire trip. There are no ATMs in Upper Mustang, and credit cards are not accepted.
Permits & Costs
An Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, which is more expensive than standard trekking permits and must be arranged through a registered agency.
The primary reason is the high cost of the mandatory restricted area permit and the expensive flights to/from Jomsom.
Services & Guides
Yes. Trekking in Upper Mustang is restricted, and you must be accompanied by a licensed guide and obtain permits through a registered agency.
They are essential for logistics, translation, and providing cultural context to deeply enhance your understanding of the complex Tiji ceremonies.
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