Max Elevation
4200m
Group Size
Min.2 Pax
Duration
12 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Accommodation
Hotels/Lodges
Meals
L.D.B
Best Season
May
Transportation
Vehicle and Flight
Region
Upper Mustang Restricted Area
Are you someone who enjoys immersing yourself in unique festivals and cultural experiences? If so, the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is perfect for you. This trek offers the perfect mix of adventure and cultural immersion, with the highlight being the Tiji Festival celebration. The Upper Mustang Trek offers an exclusive adventure to one of Nepal’s most remote and isolated regions, bordering Tibet. Previously known as the Kingdom of Lo, Upper Mustang was only opened to trekkers in 1992, making it one of the most well-preserved regions in the world. Its unique cultural and geographical isolation has kept Tibetan traditions alive, with most locals still speaking Tibetan dialects.
The Tiji Festival (“Tenchi”) is a three-day Buddhist celebration held annually in Lo Manthang, Nepal, established in the 14th century by Shakya Trizin scholar Nagwang Kunga Sonam. Created to cleanse the region of demons, monks perform the Vajrakila practice introduced by 8th-century master Guru Rinpoche. Following the Tibetan lunar calendar, this May festival depicts the battle between good and evil through colorful mask dances and chants performed by monks in traditional dress. Culturally significant for Mustang residents, Tiji aims to protect the seven villages from the curse of Kyirong Songa. Monks prepare colorful “Torma” (ritual cakes) before the festival begins. Locals believe that without Tiji, they would lose their cultural identity and faith, making this celebration a vital heritage event in Nepal’s remote Upper Mustang region.
The Tiji Festival is an ancient tradition celebrated by the people of Mustang. This three-day festival commemorates the triumph of a mythical hero who saved the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction. Its origins date back to the 17th century when Samdup Rabten started the festival in Lo Manthang, inviting the kings of neighboring districts.
In short, the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is an excellent option for a memorable adventure with friends and family.
If you’re looking for other trekking options, we recommend the Upper Mustang Trek, a 17-day journey full of adventure, or the Upper Mustang Trek with Yara, which takes 18 days.
Please let us know which trek you’d like to choose, and we’ll be excited to help you plan an incredible adventure!
Witness vibrant rituals, explore ancient Tibetan culture, and uncover Mustang’s hidden beauty with Save Mountain Treks.
Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, our representative will pick you up and arrange for your private transfer to a 3-star hotel in Thamel. You can relax at your hotel or explore the local attractions. In the evening, you’ll attend a briefing about the Tiji Festival Jeep Tour Itinerary 2025 and meet your guide.
Begin your day with a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, enjoying scenic views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Upon arrival, our team will transfer you to your hotel, and you’ll have the rest of the day to explore Pokhara.
Start your journey to Upper Mustang by driving from Pokhara to Tatopani. You will travel through scenic landscapes of rivers, gorges, and local villages. In the evening, relax at the natural hot springs of Tatopani.
After breakfast, drive to Kagbeni via Jomsom, stopping at Marpha village and the sacred Muktinath Temple, which is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. After exploring the religious site, return to Kagbeni for an overnight stay.
From Kagbeni, drive towards Charang, passing through villages such as Ghami and exploring local monasteries and Buddhist schools along the way. You’ll cross several high-altitude passes and enjoy spectacular views of the Kali Gandaki River.
Continue your journey from Charang to Lo-Manthang, passing Upper Mustang’s longest mani wall and beautiful mountain views. After arriving in Lo-Manthang, explore the first day of the Tiji Festival, witnessing traditional dances and ceremonies performed by Tibetan monks.
Enjoy the second day of the Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang. Before the festivities start, take a morning trip to Chhoser village, famous for its sky caves and Buddhist school. Return to Lo-Manthang to join the festival celebrations.
Experience the final day of the Tiji Festival, a significant celebration that draws visitors and monks from across the region. Visit notable monasteries, such as Champa Lhakang, and immerse yourself in the ancient culture of the Lo people.
After bidding farewell to Lo-Manthang, drive back to Jomsom, passing through the scenic villages of Ghami, Ghiling, and Kagbeni. Upon reaching Jomsom, explore the local market and enjoy the evening.
Retrace your journey back to Pokhara by jeep. Along the way, take in any sights you might have missed earlier, such as the charming villages and mountain views.
Board a tourist bus and travel back to Kathmandu along scenic rivers and valleys. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening shopping or exploring Thamel.
Our team will provide airport transfer services based on your departure time. If you have more time, we can arrange additional trips or sightseeing tours.
The Tiji Festival is a celebration that venerates the victory of good over evil, with its origins tracing back to ancient mythology.
During the Tiji Festival, which spans over three days, the monks of Chode Gompa in Mustang, Nepal, perform a series of sacred dances. On the first day, they perform the ‘Tsa Chaam’ dance, which re-enacts the harassment of the demon named Ma Tam Ru Ta from the Buddhist tradition. The monks who perform this dance are believed to be empowered by Vajrakila.
On the second day, the monks perform the ‘NgaCham’ dance, which depicts the birth or rebirth of Dorje Soman, with his demon father watching from under a blanket in the royal square. This dance includes manifestations representing the souls he encounters on his journey through the Bardo, the transition between death and rebirth.
On the third and final day of the Tiji Festival, the monks perform the ‘Rha Chham’ dance, symbolizing the victory of Dorje Sonam over the evil demon and his expulsion from Mustang. This victory signifies the arrival of peace and prosperity in the remote land of Mustang.
Yes you need special Permit for Upper Mustang trek:
1.Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
2.Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
Both permits are essential for the Upper Mustang Trek and must be carried throughout the journey. Make sure to arrange them in advance, as they are strictly checked at various checkpoints.
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