Tiji Festival Trek 2027 – Sacred Rituals of the Forbidden Kingdom
Festival Dates: June 1- June 3, 2027 | Lo Manthang, Mustang
Nestled in the remote Trans-Himalayan region of Nepal, the ancient kingdom of Upper Mustang is a land of stark landscapes, centuries-old Tibetan culture, and mystical traditions. Among its many cultural treasures, the Tiji Festival stands out as a captivating religious and cultural event drawing travelers and spiritual seekers from around the world. This vibrant 3-day festival, combined with the adventure of trekking in Mustang’s dramatic terrain, makes for a remarkable expedition blending culture, nature, and spirituality. In 2027, the festival will take place from June 1 to June 3, offering a rare opportunity to witness this centuries- old tradition in its authentic Himalayan setting.
What is the Tiji Festival?
The Tiji Festival is a traditional Tibetan Buddhist ritual held annually in the walled village of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Mustang. Celebrated in late May or early June (the third, fourth, and fifth days of the lunar month of Jestha), Tiji commemorates the victory of good over evil and is deeply rooted in local mythology.
The festival features colorful masked dances, elaborate costumes, chanting monks, and symbolic performances reenacting the triumph of the deity Dorje Jono over the demon king. It is a spiritual cleansing ritual meant to bring peace, prosperity, and protection to the community for the coming year.
Location and Community
- Mustang Regionlies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, bordering Tibet to the north. The landscape is arid, with deep canyons and towering cliffs.
- Lo Manthang, the walled city, is the cultural heart of Upper Mustang and home to about 1,300 people, mostly of Tibetan descent.
- The community is deeply Buddhist, preserving ancient traditions, language, and art, making Mustang a living museum of Tibetan culture.
Permits and Access
Upper Mustang is a restricted area requiring a special permit issued by the Nepal government.
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP):Mandatory for all visitors to Mustang; costs approximately $50 USD per person for per days.
- Additional Fees:Local royalties and guide/porter fees may apply.
- Permits are often arranged through trekking agencies or tour operators.
Why Experience the Mustang Tiji Festival?
- Unique Cultural Immersion:Witness one of the last living Tibetan Buddhist festivals preserved in its authentic form.
- Remote and Unspoiled:Mustang is less touristy than other parts of Nepal, offering a genuine experience.
- Spectacular Landscape:Dramatic desert canyons and snow-capped peaks create a breathtaking backdrop.
- Spiritual Enrichment:The festival’s profound symbolism and community devotion offer a rare glimpse into Tibetan spirituality.
- Adventure:Combining trekking and cultural discovery in a challenging and rewarding expedition.
Day 1 – May 27: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, meet your guide, and transfer to a boutique hotel in Thamel. The day includes a briefing on the trip, preparation for permits, and equipment checks. Overnight at hotel.
Day 2 – May 28: Drive to Pokhara (900 m)
Enjoy a scenic 6–7 hour drive along the Prithvi Highway to Pokhara. Take in views of rivers, hills, and traditional villages along the way. Check into a lakeside hotel and enjoy leisure time in the evening. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3 – May 29: Drive to Kagbeni via Jomsom (2,800 m)
Begin an early morning drive toward the Mustang region, passing through Beni, Tatopani, Ghasa, and Jomsom. Continue along the Kali Gandaki Valley to Kagbeni, the historic gateway to Upper Mustang. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 4 – May 30: Drive to Ghami (3,520 m)
Enter the Upper Mustang Restricted Area and continue toward the high-altitude desert landscape. Drive through Tangbe, Chhusang, Chele, and Syangboche before reaching Ghami. Enjoy views of dramatic cliffs, barren valleys, and ancient settlements. Overnight at a traditional lodge in Ghami.
Day 5 – May 31: Drive to Lo Manthang (3,810 m)
Continue toward Lo Manthang through the spectacular landscapes of Upper Mustang. Pass through Dhakmar and Tsarang before arriving at the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. Explore the historic settlement, monasteries, and surrounding areas while preparing for the Tiji Festival. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 6 – June 1: First Day of Tiji Festival – Tsa Chham (3,810 m)
Experience the first day of the three-day Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang. Witness sacred masked dances, traditional music, prayers, and Buddhist rituals performed by monks. The ceremonies portray the beginning of Dorje Jono’s battle against the forces of evil. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 7 – June 2: Second Day of Tiji Festival – Nga Chham (3,810 m)
Continue your festival experience with the second day of Tiji celebrations. Witness more elaborate masked dances and ritual performances depicting the struggle between good and evil. Explore Lo Manthang and immerse yourself in the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 8 – June 3: Final Day of Tiji Festival – Rha Chham (3,810 m)
Attend the final and most significant day of the Tiji Festival. Witness the concluding masked dances, rituals, and symbolic victory of good over evil. Take time to appreciate the spiritual atmosphere and centuries-old traditions of Lo Manthang before concluding the festival experience. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Day 9 – June 4: Drive to Chhusang (2,980 m)
Begin the return journey from Lo Manthang. Drive through the dramatic Upper Mustang landscape, passing through Tsarang, Ghami, Dhakmar, and Ghiling before continuing toward Chhusang. Enjoy the changing scenery as you descend to a lower elevation. Overnight at a tea house.
Day 10 – June 5: Drive to Pokhara (900 m)
Continue the journey toward Pokhara via Jomsom, Marpha, Tatopani, and Beni. Enjoy views of the Kali Gandaki Valley and surrounding Himalayan landscapes along the way. Arrive in Pokhara and check into your hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 11 – June 6: Drive to Kathmandu (1,345 m)
Drive back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel or continue to the airport for your onward journey. The Tiji Festival Trek 2027 concludes with unforgettable memories of Upper Mustang’s sacred traditions, dramatic landscapes, and ancient Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
✅ COST INCLUDES
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Accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 nights in a 3-star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis
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Accommodation in Pokhara: 2 nights in a hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis
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Transport (Tourist Bus): Kathmandu ⇄ Pokhara Deluxe Air-Conditioned Bus
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Private Jeep Transport: Pokhara → Jomsom → Pokhara → Kathmandu
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Trek Arrangement: Lodge / Tea-house trek with all meals during the trek
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Staff Arrangement: Experienced guide, sherpas, and porters as required
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Permits: Mustang Restricted Area Permit & Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
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Logistics: Transportation of trekking staff & equipment
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Staff Flights: Pokhara ⇄ Jomsom round-trip flight for trekking staff
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Cargo Charges: Transport of trekking goods Pokhara ⇄ Jomsom
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Domestic Airport Taxes
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Insurance & Proper Clothing for Trekking Staff
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Airport Transfers: Airport ↔ Hotel transfers in Kathmandu
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Farewell Dinner: Traditional Nepali cultural dinner in Kathmandu on the final evening
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Company Service Charge & All Applicable Government Taxes
❌ COST EXCLUDES
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Personal Expenses: Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, shopping, etc.
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Personal Travel / Medical Insurance (mandatory for trekking)
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Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara: Lunch & Dinner (except breakfast)
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Emergency Rescue / Helicopter Evacuation if required
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Medication and personal medical supplies
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International Airport Departure Taxes
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Tips / Gratitude for the trekking crew and guide
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Extras: Laundry, phone calls, bar bills, bottled/mineral water, chocolates, sweets, etc.
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Upper Mustang Trek
In Tibetan, Mustang means “fertile land.” Mustang, or the Kingdom of Lo, is an area located at the North-West of Nepal and it borders Tibet. Mustang was a prohibited area to foreigners up until 1991. Formerly independent, it’s now an integral part of Nepalese territory (since 1951.) Located behind a mountainous barrier, Mustang sits in a rain shadow, unaffected by the monsoons. It has a dry, desert-like, and windy climate. Here one lives with the rhythm of the seasons isolated from modern time. Fantastic canyons with red cliffs, chimneys of fairies, & monasteries; Lo Manthang, the royal capital city strengthened by high Mustang, is an exceptional voyage to the meeting of an authentic culture full of legends and secrets.
Tour Reviews
In 2013 we trekked to Lo Mantang with Sonam and his team. There we had the fortunate to visit the Tiji- Festival. What a great experience, as Mustang as itself!
Few years later we trekked to Manaslu (2015), Kangchenjungha (2016) and EBC (2017) with Sonam again. So we could recommend him and his company by his knowledge, care and perfect organization. No problems, just solutions.
Thank you for all these experiences, my friend!
You have been a wonderful guide ! Thank you for answering the all of our questions, managing all the details, helping us meet the challenge of trekking at altitude – and for your generosity and kindness throughout the trip.
Namaste !
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