WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
WE KNOW MUSTANG BEYOND THE MAP.
The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is a spectacular cultural journey into the remote Upper Mustang region of Nepal, combining an unforgettable trek through the Himalayan high desert with the three-day Tiji Festival in the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. Known as one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist celebrations in Mustang, the Tiji Festival features sacred masked dances, traditional music, prayers and religious rituals performed by monks in colorful ceremonial costumes.
This 13-day Mustang Tiji Festival Trek takes you through dramatic landscapes, traditional mountain villages and ancient cultural sites before reaching Lo Manthang for the festival. Along the way, you experience the distinctive scenery of Upper Mustang, including the Kali Gandaki Valley, red cliffs, barren high-altitude valleys, ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan-influenced settlements. The journey also includes an exploration of Chhoser Valley, Dzong Cave and Kanchuling Cave before the three-day Tiji Festival begins.
The Tiji Festival in Mustang is more than a colorful cultural event; it is a sacred living tradition deeply connected with the spiritual heritage of the Lo people. The festival is associated with Vajrakila and the story of Dorje Jono, symbolizing the removal of negative forces and the restoration of peace and harmony.
After experiencing the Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang, the journey continues by road to Jomsom and onward to Pokhara, allowing you to combine Upper Mustang's ancient culture and landscapes with the natural beauty of Pokhara. This Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is ideal for travelers seeking a unique combination of Himalayan adventure, Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient history and authentic festival experiences.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Nord Extreme Himalaya will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. In the evening, you will receive a detailed briefing about the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek, including the route, permits, accommodation, safety procedures and necessary preparations. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Take an early morning flight to Jomsom, enjoying spectacular views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri ranges. From Jomsom, continue by private vehicle toward Samar through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley and gradually enter the remote Upper Mustang region. Along the way, witness barren cliffs, traditional villages, ancient chortens and distinctive Tibetan-style architecture. Upon reaching Samar, check into your lodge and relax. Overnight at a local lodge in Samar.
Begin your trekking adventure through the extraordinary landscapes of Upper Mustang. The trail passes through rugged valleys, barren hills, traditional settlements and colorful prayer flags while offering impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan terrain. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly dry and dramatic, with red cliffs and eroded rock formations characteristic of Mustang. Continue along the mountain trail to Syangboche, where you spend the night surrounded by spectacular high-altitude scenery.
Continue your journey toward the beautiful village of Dhakmar. The trail passes through dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient chortens, prayer walls and traditional Tibetan-influenced settlements. Along the way, you can explore Ghami and its impressive Mani Wall, one of the notable cultural landmarks of Upper Mustang. From Ghami, continue through striking red cliffs and deep valleys toward Dhakmar, a picturesque village renowned for its colorful rock formations and traditional houses. Overnight at a local lodge in Dhakmar.
Today is one of the major highlights of the trek as you make your way toward the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the cultural heart of Upper Mustang. Walk through spectacular high-altitude valleys and barren landscapes before approaching the historic settlement. Depending on the trail conditions, you may pass important cultural sites and monasteries before reaching Lo Manthang. The first sight of its whitewashed buildings, ancient walls, monasteries and narrow lanes offers an unforgettable introduction to the former Kingdom of Lo. Overnight at a lodge or guesthouse in Lo Manthang.
Dedicate the day to exploring the fascinating Chhoser Valley, located near Lo Manthang and renowned for its ancient cave settlements carved into towering cliffs. Visit the Dzong Cave and Kanchuling Cave while discovering the remarkable history, architecture and Buddhist heritage of the region. The surrounding landscape features dramatic cliffs, traditional villages and ancient cultural sites that provide a fascinating glimpse into the secluded life of Upper Mustang. After the exploration, return to Lo Manthang and spend the evening preparing for the three-day Tiji Festival. Overnight at a lodge or guesthouse in Lo Manthang.
Today you experience the first day of the spectacular Tiji Festival, one of the most important cultural celebrations in Upper Mustang. The festival is traditionally associated with the story of Dorje Jono and the struggle against destructive forces threatening the region. Join local communities and visitors at the festival grounds to witness monks performing traditional masked dances, religious rituals, prayers and ceremonial music. The colorful costumes, sacred masks and ancient surroundings of Lo Manthang create an extraordinary cultural experience. Overnight at a lodge or guesthouse in Lo Manthang.
The second day of the Tiji Festival continues with elaborate Buddhist rituals, masked dances and traditional performances. After breakfast, explore the historic streets and monasteries of Lo Manthang before joining the festival celebrations. Monks in colorful ceremonial costumes perform symbolic dances representing the continuing struggle between good and evil. Spend the day experiencing the unique traditions, music, spirituality and community atmosphere of this centuries-old festival. Overnight at a lodge or guesthouse in Lo Manthang.
Experience the final and most significant day of the Tiji Festival. The concluding ceremonies feature powerful masked dances, prayers, music and symbolic rituals as the festival reaches its dramatic climax. Local people gather in traditional clothing, creating a spectacular celebration of Mustang's living Tibetan Buddhist culture. After the ceremonies, take time to explore the ancient walled city, visit local monasteries or browse traditional handicrafts before enjoying your final evening in Lo Manthang. Overnight at a lodge or guesthouse in Lo Manthang.
After completing the Tiji Festival, begin the scenic return journey from Lo Manthang to Jomsom by vehicle. Travel through the remarkable landscapes of Upper Mustang, following the Kali Gandaki corridor and passing remote villages, barren cliffs, ancient settlements and traditional mountain communities. The drive offers a different perspective of the landscapes experienced during the trek. Upon reaching Jomsom, check into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening after your journey through the Mustang region. Overnight at a hotel or lodge in Jomsom.
After breakfast, transfer to Jomsom Airport for your flight to Pokhara. The spectacular mountain flight provides beautiful views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as you descend from the high Himalayan landscape into the lush Pokhara Valley. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may relax beside Phewa Lake or explore the lively Lakeside area. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
Enjoy a relaxing day in Pokhara after your Upper Mustang adventure. You can explore the Lakeside area, enjoy boating on Phewa Lake or visit attractions such as the World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave and the International Mountain Museum. Optional activities such as paragliding, sightseeing tours or additional mountain-view excursions can also be arranged. Spend the evening enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Pokhara. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
After breakfast, take a morning flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, your representative will assist with your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your international flight schedule. If time permits, you can enjoy some last-minute shopping or relaxation in Kathmandu. Your Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek concludes with unforgettable memories of Lo Manthang, ancient Himalayan culture, dramatic landscapes and the extraordinary three-day Tiji Festival.
Markers follow places mentioned in the itinerary
The Tiji Festival is an annual three-day Buddhist celebration held in Lo Manthang, the historic walled city of Upper Mustang. The festival is traditionally associated with the Vajrakila ritual tradition and symbolizes protection, peace and the removal of negative forces. Monks perform sacred masked dances and ceremonies as part of the festival, making it one of the most distinctive cultural experiences in Nepal.
Best Time for the Tiji Festival Trek
The best time to join the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is during the festival period, which falls according to the Tibetan lunar calendar and therefore changes each year. The festival generally takes place around spring, and travelers should confirm the official dates before booking flights and accommodation.
Tiji Festival 2027
For travelers planning ahead, current published festival calendars list the 2027 Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang for June 1–3, 2027. Because the festival follows the Tibetan lunar calendar, travelers should reconfirm the dates with the relevant local authorities or trekking operator before finalizing travel arrangements.
Upper Mustang Restricted Area
Upper Mustang is a restricted trekking region, so travelers need the appropriate permits and must trek with a licensed guide through a registered trekking agency. The region's restricted status has helped preserve its distinctive cultural heritage, traditional villages and ancient landscapes.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation during the trekking section is generally provided in local lodges and guesthouses. Facilities are more basic than in Kathmandu or Pokhara, but they offer an authentic experience of mountain life. Meals generally include a mixture of Nepali, Tibetan and common trekking dishes.
Festival Etiquette
Tiji is a sacred religious ceremony rather than simply a tourist performance. Visitors should dress respectfully, follow local instructions, avoid disturbing monks during rituals and ask permission before photographing people or religious activities. Respecting local customs helps preserve the authenticity of the festival.
Weather and Flight Considerations
Weather can affect flights between Kathmandu, Pokhara and Jomsom, particularly in mountain areas. It is advisable to maintain some flexibility in your schedule and allow sufficient time for unexpected delays. Conditions can also change rapidly at higher elevations, so appropriate warm and windproof clothing is essential.
Permits and Documentation
Travelers should carry a valid passport and required permits throughout the trek. The Upper Mustang route requires special trekking documentation, and permit arrangements should be completed through a registered trekking agency before entering the restricted area.
Altitude
Lo Manthang lies at approximately 3,800 meters, so the trek involves significant elevation. A gradual itinerary, adequate hydration, proper rest and awareness of altitude-related symptoms are important for a comfortable and safe journey.
