Upper Mustang Tiji festival Jeep Tour 2025

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Trip Facts

Trip Facts

Duration
15 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4353 m
Group Size
4
Overview

Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour, the package is an alternative to the Tiji Festival trekking to attend a fascinating annual three-day festival consisting of Tibetan rituals that celebrate the myth of a son who had to save the Mustang kingdom from destruction. The Tiji festival Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang on May 24th, 25th, and 26th 2025. 

The Tiji festival, which locals call Tenchi Festival is a monk dance festival celebrated every year in Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang. According to Tempa Chhirim, Tenji: commonly pronounced Teeji or Tiji means “ Prayer for World Peace” Upper Mustang, is a place highly influenced by Tibetan- Buddhism and the only untouched preserved safe zone for Tibetan Buddhism. According to His Highness Dalai Lama, “Authentic Tibetan culture survives only in exile in a few places like Mustang, which has had long historical and cultural ties with Tibet.” The main priest of the Tiji Festival is one of the Top 10 Buddhist priests in the World.

The festival is only celebrated in indigenous Lo-Manthang, Upper Mustang. Over the Mustang during the Tiji festival time, monks dressed in elaborate costumes and masks perform dances and rituals that are supposed to drive away evil spirits. The Tiji festival dances are all organized by the Choedhe Monastery and led by the monks, which belong to the Sakya sect of Buddhism. The monastery is headed by a Rimpoche, the Top 10 Buddhist priests in the World. About 65 monks from Lo Manthang, Nhenyul, and Chhosyer reside in this monastery. They practice religious and traditional dances for months just to perform at the Tiji Festival.

The Tiji Festival begins with the opening of the 400-year-old banner of the respective Lord who conquered the demons and brought peace. The Tiji Festival is held in the town’s main square. On the first day, monks integrate the dances and complex ceremonies to lead the world towards peace, evoke God, and purify the ground for further days of the Tiji Festival. The second day is lit as different dances are performed with drums, masks, attitude, swords, and the ragging of demons. The king of Lo comes to the town’s main square and settles on the throne for the ongoing Tiji Festival. The third day is all about winning over demons and destruction and welcoming peace.

Kali Gandaki Gorge, the Deepest Gorge in the World

Kali Gandaki Gorge is the narrow valley between Mt Dhaulagiri, the 7th-highest mountain in the world, and Mt.Annapurna I, the 10th-highest mountain in the world. Kali Gandaki Gorge separates the major peaks of Dhaulagiri (8,167m / 26,795ft) on the west and Annapurna I (8,091m / 26,545 ft) on the east. When one measures the depth of the canyon by the difference between the river height and the heights of the peaks on either side, the gorge is the world’s deepest.

During the 19th century, it was termed Kora La (La means pass) which was highly used as a Tibet-India Trade Route. Besides, Kali Gandaki Gorge is within the Annapurna Conservation Area and part of Annapurna Circuit, the famous trekking route. Kali Gandaki River source coincides with the Tibetan border and the Ganges-Brahmaputra watershed divide. It flows through a deep canyon south of Lo Manthang and widens up as it approaches Kagbeni. Then, continues southward passing Jomsom, Marpha, and Tukuche to the deepest part of the gorge about 7km south of the Tukuche peak around Lete. Further, the Kali Gandaki River flows through Dana and Tatopani toward Beni. You can also find the valuable Saligram fossils in the bank of Kali Gandaki which is regarded as Lord Vishnu per Hindu mythology. Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour enables you to encounter and observe the deepest gorge in the world.

Dumba Lake at (2900 m/9515 ft)

Dumba Lake reflects the pureness and beauty of nature and its surroundings through its crystal clear and pristine water. The lake is fenced with prayer flags and the water of the lake is used by the local stupa as a religious offering. Some myth is related to Dumba Lake which makes it religiously valuable along with its natural attractiveness. It is believed the lake turned red and after religious ceremonies by Tibetan Buddhists, it returned to be as greenish and clear as it was. Locals do not fish at the lake and come for prayers whereas travelers visit Dumba Lake to enjoy the tranquility as well as a view of the mountains and Jomsom Bazaar. 

Explore Apple Garden at Marpha, Thakali Village

Marpha village made Mustang widely famous by supplying apples and apricot products in Nepal. Though Mustang widely practices apple and apricot farming and produces products like juice, wine, and dry fruit, Marpha is solely famous for its Apple and Apricot garden along with its typical Thakali culture. Marpha village took the hype due to the beautiful mixture of culture and nature. Marpha is the residence of the Thakali (one of the indigenous communities of Nepal) community which showcases the ancient traditions yet managed to introduce the apple business in the Mustang Region.  When you choose Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour, you grab the opportunity to explore the famous Apple Garden of Nepal on the way to Upper Mustang/Lo-Manthang. Not just at Marpha village but as you enter the Mustang district you can observe the apple garden on the roadside till you reach Kagbeni.

Muktinath Temple at (3800 m/12,468 ft)

When you pick the Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour, the package ensures you the tour of Muktinath Temple situated at an elevation of 3800m/ 12,468 ft. Whereas, in the Tiji Festival Trekking you may not be able to explore Muktinath Temple as it requires much time and energy to climb up the hill and visit Muktinath Temple.

Muktinath Temple is a Lord Vishnu temple sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath means a place of liberation. Muktinath Temple is situated on the lap of the Himalayas offering a heart-pleasing view of mountains, hills, and settlements. It has 108 holy water streams and two holy ponds and bathing in them is believed to be blissful, valuable, a blessing, and a way of salvation. Pilgrims believe it makes them pure. The temple's surroundings are peacefully decorated with streams and trees which showcase the unique spot of religious belief and nature’s creation.  

Off-road Adventure Trip  

Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour leads to the off-road adventure trip. The entire road is not bumpy and off-road but few days you have to ride through the thrilling off-road. The jeep rides on unsurfaced roads or tracks made of materials such as sand, gravel, riverbeds, mud, rocks, and other natural terrains. The road crosses the streams and rivers without bridges as well as the highway goes through the Kali Gandaki river bank which makes it more thrilling and adventurous. However, there is no risk in this off-road ride and an everyday number of vehicles travel. The off-road begins from Beni and lasts up to Jomsom.

With all these benefits of exploring places from deep down the gorge to high up temples, lake views to garden views, and catching up on off-road adventure, the Nepal Adventure Team arranges the fixed departure for the Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour as per the other customized requirements for the attainment of Tiji festival. You can also check out the option of the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek.

Nepal Adventure Team arranges the fixed departure for the Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour (2025) for 15 Days or less than 12 days as per the customized requirements for the attainment of the Tiji festival.  Nepal Adventure Team arranges the fixed departure for the Tiji festival by jeep ride as per the other customized requirements for the attainment of the Tiji festival. The Nepal adventure team has a well-organized package for the Tiji Festival Jeep Ride 2025, which starts from Kathmandu allowing visitors to prepare as well as enjoy Kathmandu. The next day leaves for Pokhara on the jeep and then bumpy off-road begins towards Marpha, Jomsom. Further few kilometers of the newly pitched and dusty ride to Lo-Manthang (Upper Mustang) through Ghami.

Highlights

  • World’s Top 10 monk leads the Tiji Festival
  • Classic and Authentic exposure to century-old ceremonies and rituals
  • Panorama View of the world’s 7th highest mountain-Dhaulagiri and Gangapurnna, Tukuche, Manaslu, Thorang
  • Kali Gandaki George, World’s Deepest George
  • Muktinath Temple- high value for Buddhists and Hindus
  • Traditional Palaces, Monasteries, and caves formed on high cliffs
  • Ghar Gumba- oldest monasteries
  • Hills with vibrant shades of pink, brown, grey, and glaciers
  • Desert landscape with spires and cliffs as well as dense green hills and woods
  • Kagbeni - Holy Kaligandaki river valley 
Roadmap

Upper Mustang Tiji festival Jeep Tour 2025 Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrival to Kathmandu

On arrival at Kathmandu international airport terminal Nepal Adventure Team staff and guide will receive you. You are dropped to respective hotels in the popular hub of Kathmandu, Thamel. After refreshment break our guide / leader will brief with information regarding hotels, Nepali culture, tours and Upper Mustang Jeep Ride with a welcome dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant with folk cultural program.

Day 02:

Preparation in Kathmandu

This day is separated for the preparation of the entire journey. You will be informed with Jeep Ride plans and the packing lists along with what you can expect and how it can be more interesting. Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu is optional, if intended you can visit a number of world heritage listed places

Day 03:

Drive to Pokhara

Early morning drive of about 08 hours to popular tourism hub Pokhara allowing you to explore the Nepali living style. You are settled to hotels of Pokhara and can enjoy the peaceful and fresh vibes of the city that is highly appreciated by people from all around the world. Besides, sightseeing is optional to you so if required Nepal Adventure Team can arrange Sightseeing of Pokhara. (30minutes flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu is available as per request with additional charges) 

Day 04:

Drive to Kalopani 2300m

We have a quality time at Kathmandu and Pokhara which own modern facilities and have flavors of urbanization, now it’s time to move away from these urban areas. Now we head towards North of Pokhara valley by passing numbers of places as Lumle, Kade (beautiful view of Pokhara and Annapurna range, Nayapul, Kusma and like. Till Pokhara you had smooth paved roads. As you leave Pokhara , the ride on off road begins. As you reach Maldunga, the highway for Baglung and Beni is separated and we choose Beni highway. We ride through Kali gandki and reach Beni Bazar , last town till we return back from Upper Mustang. As we leave Beni Bazar the real off and bumpy road begins. We climb through this road being on the bank of Kali Gandaki river as well as pass the point of Deepest George of the world named as Rupachhe Jharna. As we climb up the altitude also rises, cold breeze gives us company and the road through cliff gives us goose bump. We stay at Kalopani with an altitude of 2300m.

Day 05:

Drive to Kagbeni via Dhumba lake

The bumpy road continues as we leave Kalopani and head towards Kagbeni. During the spring and monsoon season, you can see numbers of waterfalls on this way. The one of the popular waterfall is at Ghasa. Ghasa has a check point where the details of tourists and vechile are collected in meanwhile you can enjoy the view of huge waterfall nearby checkpoint. Similarly, you climb higher, pass typical thakali villages with the view of Himalayas much nearer to you. The well known Marfa village for its culture, tradition and apple garden is another major attraction of this day. Then, we visit Dhumba Lake that is located exactly at the lap of Mount Nilgiri giving the view of Dhaulagiri. Within few minutes on off road, we drive through smooth highway to Kagbeni which is newly pitched. Kagbeni is our night stop. 

Day 06:

Drive to Ghami

Kagbeni is a renowned religious village of Nepal located at the bank of Kali Gandaki river. Pilgrims are different country visit this village and feel blessed. The popular Shaligram stone is found on the bank of Kaligandki river and people also search for it. People regard it as God Bishnu as well as Shaligram has high value in the market. After staying at such holy and valuable village of Mustang district, we move forward and today’s stop is Ghami. To reach Ghami, we need to climb up hill and we see the colourful barren hills decorating all the areas and the shining mountains above those hills. We have come far from the urban areas yet you are served with great hospitality and possible facilities that locals can afford and supply. 

Day 07:

Drive to Lo-Manthang

On the 7th day of our adventurous Upper Mustang Jeep Ride , we reach pur ultimate destination Lo-Manthang. Though we aim to reach Lo-Manthang , we ride in a slow pace as we explore the local areas, cultural artifacts and beauty of environment while heading towards Lo-Manthang as there are number of essential and beautiful place which attract tourists. We visit such places that is on our way such as Ghar Ghumba- The oldest Monastery of the area representing the history, culture and ancient architecture and like other palaces of ancient time. We aim to reach Lo-Manthang in the evening just to rest and relax.

Day 08:

Explore Lo-Manthang

The beautiful morning begins at Lo-Manthang , a city of culture and history. Despite the world is busy with urbanization, Lo-Manthang stills holds the authentic culture, traditions, monuments, life style and cultural artifacts. This city is surrounded with white wall and only the north-east gate of wall is open for the entrance. There are monastery and palace keeping the ancient history alive. We also drive towards China Border to visit and also explore the places that comes by our ways. Near China border you see Chhosar Cave. By observing the sites, we return to Lo-Manthang for stay.

Day 09:

Drive to Chhuksang

After a busy exploration day at restricted city, Lo-Manthang, we head to return towards Kathmandu with the mesmerized heart. We find no settlements at all on this way which makes it more peaceful, entirely unspoiled nature, zero human settlements and just the moments of nature and you. Since there are no settlements on this way, Nepal Adventure Team arranges packed lunch for you to keep you healthy and energetic. You can thoroughly enjoy and cherish the drive through colorful barren hills, nearby Himalayas and unspoiled environment.

Day 10:

Drive to Jomsom via Muktinath

From Chhuksang, we head to sqaty at Jomsom, one of the popular and developed market of Mustang Region. While riding to Jomsom, we also make a visit to renowned Temple, Muktinath Temple. Muktinath Temple carries the high religious value for the Buddhists and Hindus. Muktinath Temple at an altitude of 3700m and people from different parts of the world visit Muktinath Temple and receive the blessings. Additionally, Muktinath Temple is situated at the lap of Himalayas offering the heart pleasing view of mountains, hills and settlements. It has 108 holy water streams and two holy ponds and bathing on them is believed to be blissful, valuable, blessing and way of salvation. Pilgrims believe it makes them pure. Then, we drive to Jomsom a city of facilities and blessed with nature’s features

Day 11:

Fly to Pokhara

Since, Jomsom is the only well facilitated and developed city of Mustang Region, you can roam and explore Jomsom though you have early flight to Pokhara. Pokhara valley doesnot need a introduction as it is widely popular among the tourists throughout the globe. Within half an hour, you land to Pokhara. You can explore on your own, or just relax or Nepal Adventure Team can manages Sightseeing in Pokhara valley. Pokhara is city with a view of long mountain range on north , surrounded with hills, accompanied by lakes and supported by cool lifestyle and authentic religious temples.  

Day 12:

Drive to Kathmandu

We drive back to Kathmandu as the way we came to Pokhara. You are transferred to respective hotels with leisure time for relaxation and shopping souvenirs. Farewell Dinner is arranged for you by Nepal Adevnture Team to add more amazing moments in your stay in Nepal.(30minutes flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara is available as per request with additional charges)

Day 13:

International departure for homeward bound

The incredible Upper Mustang Jeep Ride ends here on 13th day. You will be dropped to airport by our staff as per your flight schedule. Nepal Adventure Team appreciates you for completing the thrilling Upper Mustang jeep Ride and bid you warm see off with the hope to serve you further in following days.

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Cost Details

Upper Mustang Tiji festival Jeep Tour 2025 Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pick up and drop by private vehicle
  • Welcome and farewell dinner at typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance
  • 3 night 3-Star Level Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin sharing basis on BB plan.
  • 2 night’s 3-Star Level Hotel accommodation in Pokhara on a twin sharing basis on BB plan.
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu ground transportation by Deluxe tourist bus
  • 4WD Jeep Pokhara to Lo-Manthan to Pokhara by Jeep
  • 3 meals a day during the trip (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation while trekking on a twin-sharing basis in guesthouses.
  • Jomsom to Pokhara by Flight
  • Annapurna conservation area permit and (TIMS) card.
  • Upper Mustang special restricted area permit fee.
  • Professional government license holder English speaking trekking guide, one assistance
  • Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation, and Insurance for the Guide and driver.
  • Sleeping bag and duffel bag during the trek. (Refundable after finishing the trip, If needed)
  • Company T-shirt, appreciation letter, and Trip map
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • All government VAT, Entrance monument fees, and local taxes.

Excludes

  • International airfare to/ from Nepal.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Insurance covers, medical, emergency evacuation, loss, etc.
  • Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water during the trekking.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Personal gear and expenses.
  • Tips and gratitude are provided to staff.
Upcoming Trip

Dates & Availability

We have some groups for the Tiji festival Jeep ride Tour booked on the date, and some groups have limited seats, however, you may find groups below the schedule and book them with us. The following dates are the fixed departure dates and a common schedule. If you want a special and private package we can arrange one for you.

Must-Know

Essential Information

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Transport

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour is largely in 4x4 jeeps, ideal for the boulder and rock-scattered terrain of Mustang. The tour begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then by plane or by driving to Jomsom, which is the gateway to Upper Mustang. The jeep ride from Jomsom passes through stunning villages like Kagbeni, Chele, and Lo Manthang, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and Kali Gandaki River.
Key Highlights:

  • Scenic drive along the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
  • Thrilling off-road jeep tour.
  • Opportunity to explore remote villages and landscapes.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Food and Drinks

In the course of the tour, you will be treated to a mixture of Nepali, Tibetan, and international food. Meals tend to be provided at teahouses, lodges, or camps. Meals are heavy and designed to prepare you for the high-altitude adventure.

Food Options:

  • Dal Bhat (standard Nepali fare).
  • Tibetan bread, thukpa, and momo.
  • Pasta, noodles, and rice courses.
  • Hot, freshly brewed tea, coffee, and chhang (barley beer), the local brews.

Tips:

  • Carry along snacks and energy bars during jeep rides.
  • Stay hydrated with bottled or purified water.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Accommodation

Accommodations on the tour are mixed, ranging from basic teahouses to comfortable lodges. In Lo Manthang, you might stay in old-style Tibetan-type guesthouses with a glimpse of local culture. Accommodations are simple but clean, and facilities are shared bathrooms and limited electricity.

Accommodation Highlights:

  • Sleep in Lo Manthang, a walled ancient town.
  • Experience the hospitality of the Mustang.
  • Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Permit and Fee

Upper Mustang is a limited area, and visitors need special permits to visit. The permits are issued by the Nepalese government and are compulsory for all visitors.

Permits Required:

  • Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 for 10 days (per individual).
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30 (per individual).

Tips:

  • Permits need to be arranged through a registered trekking agency.
  • Keep spare passport-size photos for permits.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Cost

The cost of the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour varies depending on duration, group size of people, and services included. The tour usually costs between USD 1,500 to USD 2,500 per individual.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Guide and Staff

There is a need for a trained guide and supporting staff for this tour. They provide an excellent understanding of the culture, history, and traditions of Upper Mustang and make it a safe and worthwhile experience.

  • Guide and Staff Functions:
  • Guide through the terrain.
  • Arrange permits and accommodations.
  • Assist with cultural interactions and translation.

Tips:

  • Use experienced guides from well-established agencies.
  • Show appreciation by tipping guides and support staff.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Itinerary

Generally, an itinerary of 10-12 days for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour can accommodate traveling and attending the festival.

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly/drive to Pokhara.
Day 3: Fly to Jomsom and drive to Kagbeni.
Day 4-5: Jeep ride to Lo Manthang.
Day 6-7: Attend the Tiji Festival at Lo Manthang.
Day 8-9: Upper Mustang and return to Jomsom.
Day 10: By flight back to Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Day 11: Departure.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour: Itinerary

The itinerary of the tour includes visiting some of the most attractive and culturally significant sites of Upper Mustang.

Main Stops:

  • Kathmandu → Pokhara → Jomsom → Kagbeni → Chele → Lo Manthang.
  • Return by the same route or other routes.

When is the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour?

The Tiji Festival is celebrated annually in Lo Manthang in the third month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, usually in May. The three-day festival consists of vibrant rituals, masked dances, and cultural events.

Best Time to Visit:

May to October: Best time for jeep rides and witnessing the festival.

How to Book the Tiji Festival Jeep Ride TourBooking the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour is easy with registered trekking agencies in Nepal. Booking is as easy as:
Research Agencies: Look for good, reviewed agencies.

  • Select a Package: Select a tour package according to your budget and preference.
  • Confirm Permits: Ensure that the agency books all the permits.
  • Prepare for the Trip: Travel with proper clothing and insurance for travel.

Tips:

  • Book in advance, particularly for the Tiji Festival, since accommodation is booked rapidly.
  • Clarify your needs to the agency.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime travel that presents cultural experience, adventure, and beauty. With planning and preparation, you can have this once-in-a-lifetime trip to one of Nepal's remotest and most enchanting locations. Join your tour now and be prepared to unveil the secrets of Upper Mustang!

Ready to Book?
Secure your spot now and take the first step toward your next unforgettable adventure.

What Our Guests Say?

4.9
based on 65 reviews
4.9
based on 22 reviews
4.9
based on 7 reviews
Cultural and Scenic Adventure!!!!

The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour was an extraordinary blend of cultural immersion and breathtaking landscapes. The journey through the remote Mustang region was an adventure in itself,...

read more +
S
Sandiego - Spain
May 07, 2024
Cultural Delight on Wheels!

The jeep ride through the stunning landscapes of Upper Mustang was both exciting and comfortable. Attending the Tiji Festival was the highlight, with its mesmerizing rituals and performances in the...

read more +
D
Dixie - United Kingdom
May 07, 2024
Unforgettable Jeep Ride to Tiji Festival!

The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour was an amazing experience! The comfortable jeep ride made it easy to navigate route. Witnessing the vibrant Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang was...

read more +
I
Issabella - Ukraine
May 06, 2024
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