Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2027 is an 18-day trekking package built around the three-day Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang, celebrated by around 65 monks of the Sakya sect and led by masked dances re-enacting the myth of a deity who saved Mustang from a demon. The Tiji Festival dates for 2027 have now been confirmed, taking place from 1st to 3rd June 2027, and we have arranged the fixed departure to match these dates. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,353m and combines the festival with classic Mustang highlights like Lo-Manthang, Kali Gandaki Gorge, Muktinath Temple, and Ghar Gumba monastery. Our package includes all necessary permits, transportation, accommodation, and meals throughout the trip.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2027- 18 Days
Trip Facts
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2027 is a trekking package 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 in Lomanthang takes place from June 1st to 3rd in 2027.
The Tiji festival, which locals call the Tenchi Festival, is a monk dance festival celebrated every year in Upper Mustang, Lomanthang. 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 the 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 the indigenous Lomanthang, Upper Mustang. Over the Mustang during the Tiji festival, 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, who belong to the Sakya sect of Buddhism. The monastery is headed by a Rinpoche, one of the Top 10 Buddhist priests in the World. About 65 monks from Lomanthang, 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 the further days of the Tiji Festival. The second day is lit as different dances are performed with drums, masks, attitude, swords, and the raging 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.
History of the Tiji Festival
Tiji is a short form of the Tibetan name Tenpa Chirim, which means "prayer for the continuity of Buddhist teachings." People often translate it simply as a prayer for world peace. Locals in Lo-Manthang also refer to the festival as Tenchi. Over time, Tiji became the shorter, more commonly used name among trekkers and outsiders, while Tenpa Chirim remains the formal name used within the monastery.
The Tiji Festival is built around a myth central to the history of Mustang. A demon named Ma Tam Ru Ta brought drought and destruction to the Kingdom of Lo, threatening the survival of its people. A deity named Dorje Sonam, said to be the son of a Buddhist god, fought the demon for three days and eventually drove him out of Mustang. This victory restored peace and water to the land.
Each day of the three-day festival shows a different part of this battle through masked dance. Day one shows the demon's attack on Mustang. Day two shows Dorje Sonam's fight against the demon. Day three shows the demon's final defeat and the return of peace.
The festival has two purposes. It retells the story of Dorje Sonam's victory over the demon. It also works as a yearly prayer for peace and protection over the kingdom.
Tiji Festival Date in 2027 in Upper Mustang
Since 2019, the Tiji festival has not been celebrated for three years because of COVID-19. The local people of Lomanthang resumed celebrating the festival in the years since, with the date fixed according to the Tibetan lunar calendar each time. The festival goes on for three days, with monks praying for world peace through masked dances and rituals.
For 2027, the Tiji festival date has now been confirmed. It will take place from June 1st to 3rd in Lomanthang. Nepal Adventure Team arranges the fixed departure for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2027 to match this confirmed date. The highest altitude you'll reach is 4353 meters, with windy, chilly weather. You may have a chance to grab an easy way to travel on the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour option.
About Upper Mustang, the Forbidden Kingdom
Upper Mustang is a remote region in northern Nepal. It is surrounded by mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the Nilgiri mountain ranges. For centuries, it stood as an independent kingdom, separate from the rest of Nepal, ruled by its own king. This history is why the region is often called the Forbidden Kingdom. The name reflects both its isolation and the many years it stayed closed off from outside visitors. Because of its long isolation and its position as a stronghold of Tibetan Buddhism, Upper Mustang remains one of the few places where this culture has survived largely unchanged.
The region sits along an old trans-Himalayan trade route that connected Tibet with the lowlands of Nepal and India. Traders moved salt, grain, and other goods along this path for generations. Trekkers today still walk the same trails once used by traders on this route.
Upper Mustang's landscape looks different from the rest of Nepal. Most of the country has green hills and forests, but Upper Mustang is a high-altitude desert instead, with deep valleys, rocky cliffs shaped by strong winds, and centuries-old cave dwellings built into the rock. Many of these caves are still being studied today, and some are believed to be over a thousand years old.
Lo-Manthang, the walled capital city, sits at the heart of this region. This is where the Tiji Festival takes place each year.
Lo-Manthang: Where the Tiji Festival is Celebrated
Lo-Manthang is a walled city in Upper Mustang, Nepal. King Ame Pal built it in 1380 as the capital of the Kingdom of Lo. The Tiji Festival takes place inside this walled city, in its main square, and locals still call the wider area the Kingdom of Lo. Inside the walls, narrow lanes connect old monasteries, a former royal palace, and homes that have stood for generations. Many families in Lo-Manthang still live in these same mud-brick houses today, and daily life here moves at a slow, quiet pace outside of festival time.
The former royal palace, known as Tashi Gephel, once served as the main residence of the King of Lo and his family. The monarchy was formally dissolved in 2008, but the former royal family still holds a respected place in the community. The palace continues to overlook the courtyard where the Tiji Festival takes place each year.
The Choedhe Monastery, the spiritual center of Lo-Manthang, sits at the heart of the city. This is where the monks prepare for the festival, performing the Vajrakila prayers each morning of the Tiji Festival, before the dances begin in the palace courtyard.
What You Will Experience During the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
A High Altitude Desert Landscape
The moment you leave Jomsom, you get a landscape unlike anywhere else in Nepal. Instead of green hills and forests, you walk through a high-altitude desert of red cliffs, deep canyons, and wind-carved rock formations. You get a chance to see ancient cave dwellings, some believed to be over a thousand years old, carved into the cliffsides along the way. With guides who have led treks through this exact route since 2012, you get details about these formations that many first-time visitors would otherwise walk past.
Local Villages and Daily Life
Each night, you stay in small villages like Kagbeni, Chele, and Ghami, where daily life still follows old rhythms of farming, herding, and prayer. You share meals in local teahouses, walk past mani walls and prayer wheels, and see how the Loba people of Upper Mustang actually live. You get a real look at Mustang, not a version staged for visitors. It is the same daily life our guides have walked alongside for years of operating this route.
The Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang
In Lo Manthang, you get the chance to witness the Tiji Festival firsthand. You watch monks from Chhoede Monastery perform sacred dances passed down through generations, in the same courtyard where these rituals have taken place for centuries. You experience a real ceremony, not a cultural show, standing as a guest in someone else's tradition. Since your departure is planned around the confirmed festival dates, you get your trek and the Tiji Festival lined up exactly, not by chance.
High Altitude Trekking to Mui-La Pass
The trek gradually climbs to Mui-La Pass at 4,353m, the highest point on the route. Along the way, you experience the physical rhythm of a real Himalayan trek: early starts, steady walking, and wide mountain views that open up as you gain altitude. You get the support of an experienced, Wilderness First Aid-certified guide who manages your pace, rest stops, and altitude gain based on real trail conditions, not a fixed schedule set in advance.
Muktinath Temple and Kali Gandaki Gorge
On the way back, you get to visit Muktinath, a site sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, and walk beside the Kali Gandaki River, one of the deepest gorges on earth. You get one more layer of Nepal's culture and landscape on this closing stretch, before your journey back to Pokhara and Kathmandu, closing out a trip built on years of firsthand experience running this exact route.
Jeep Ride vs Trekking to Upper Mustang Tiji Festival: Which Is Right for You?
This is the question most travelers ask before booking. Both options take you to Lo-Manthang for all three days of the Tiji Festival. The festival, the monastery, the palace courtyard, and the masked dances are the same either way. What changes is how you get there.
On foot, the trek to Lo-Manthang takes about five days from Jomsom. You walk through villages like Kagbeni, Chele, and Ghami along the way. Each day brings six to eight hours of walking through high-altitude desert, canyons, and cliffside trails. This route suits trekkers who want to experience the journey step by step, taking in every part of the landscape along the way.
With the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour, the same general route is covered by vehicle in a matter of days rather than weeks. Your attention stays free for the landscape rather than the trail underfoot. This option suits travelers with limited time or mobility, or those who prefer comfort over physical effort.
Who Should Choose the Jeep Riding Version?
- Travelers who want to attend the Tiji Festival without days of walking
- Older travelers or those with limited mobility who still want to experience Upper Mustang
- First-time visitors to Nepal with limited time who want to see Lo-Manthang and the festival in fewer days
- Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace and want to take in the landscape from the vehicle rather than on foot
- Anyone who has already trekked in the Annapurna or Mustang region and wants a lighter way to return for the festival
Note: If you're drawn to Himalayan festival culture more broadly, our Mani Rimdu Festival Trek in the Everest region offers a similar experience of masked monastery dances, at a different time of year and in a different part of Nepal.
What Happens During the Tiji Festival?
The Tiji Festival runs for three days, and each day has its own energy, rituals, and dances.
Day 1: Prayers and Tsa Chaam
The first day of the Tiji Festival starts early in the morning inside Chhoede Monastery. Monks gather to perform the Vajrakila prayers, also called the Dorje Sonam prayers. These prayers are quiet and sacred, and they prepare the spiritual energy for the whole festival. While the monks pray, long copper horns sound through the monastery. Drums and cymbals keep a steady rhythm alongside them. As part of the ceremony, monks display a massive, sacred thangka. This traditional painted scroll depicts the deity Dorje Sonam and the honored masters of the Sakya lineage who founded the festival.
After completing the morning rituals, the monks move from the monastery to the open stone courtyard in front of the Tashi Gephel Royal Palace. This courtyard is the main square, and it's where the public gathers to watch the rest of the festival. Here, monks perform the TsaChaam dance, also called the Awakening dance, made up of 52 different steps practiced for months in advance. This dance tells the story of the birth of Dorje Sonam, a reincarnated Buddha born to conquer the demon Ma Tam Ru Ta, who brought harm and destruction to the kingdom of Mustang. Visitors can watch monks enact the demon's harassment of the people of Mustang, accompanied by chanted prayers. It also marks the clearing and purifying of the ground for the days ahead.
The word Cham, or Chham, is the general name for these festival dances. TsaChaam is the name used only for this first day. The mood on day one stays calm and steady. It builds slowly toward the bigger battle and victory dances of days two and three.
Day 2: NgaCham, the Battle Dance
The second day begins the same way as the first, with monks returning to Chhoede Monastery for another round of Vajrakila prayers. This continues the spiritual preparation started on day one, building up the energy needed for the battle ahead. Around midday, the monks move back into the palace courtyard. A new thangka is displayed, replacing the one from day one. This scroll shows the powerful image of Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, who is remembered for taming the demons of Tibet and Mustang long ago.
The main event of the afternoon is the NgaCham dance, also called the Battle dance. In this performance, Dorje Sonam fights the demon Ma Tam Ru Ta and tries to force him back to the Buddha realm. Monks wear fierce, wrathful masks representing protector deities and mythical animals, spinning through sharp, complex steps while carrying swords, daggers, and large ritual drums. The performance includes a wide range of characters, from wolves armed with swords to ghost dances, warriors raging against the demon, and monkey boys who bring moments of humor and entertainment to the crowd.
This is also the day the King of Lo arrives at the festival. He takes his seat in the courtyard as the dances continue around him, adding to the sense of occasion for the crowd. Crowds are at their largest on this day, with people traveling in from villages across Mustang and gathering in the courtyard and on nearby rooftops to watch.
Day 3: RhaChham, the Victory Dance
The final day begins the same way as the days before it. Monks return to Chhoede Monastery in the morning to complete the last round of Vajrakila prayers. This closes out the spiritual preparation that started on day one.
The main event of the afternoon is the RhaChham dance, also called the victory dance. The monks wear their most elaborate costumes and masks for this performance. After the courtyard dance, people gather outside the walls of Lo-Manthang toward the nearby open fields. The monk playing the role of Dorje Sonam carries an effigy made from tsampa, a kind of barley flour, representing the demon Ma Tam Ru Ta. Using a sacred bow, the lead dancer shoots an arrow into this effigy, marking the demon's final defeat. At this moment, local men fire traditional long-barreled muskets into the air, a tradition believed to be tied to scaring off the demon and driving away any last trace of evil.
The King of Lo takes part in this final procession as well. Unlike day two, when he watches from his seat, on day three, he joins the walk out of the city. He, his family, and senior local officials walk alongside the monks and townspeople. Together, they witness the demon's defeat, a moment believed to bring peace and prosperity back to the land of Mustang. Every year, the Tiji Festival takes place in the hope of spreading peace throughout the world.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Highlights
- Lo-Manthang; Forbidden Kingdom
- The world’s Top 10 monks lead the Tiji Festival
- Classic and Authentic exposure to century-old ceremonies and rituals
- Panoramic view of the world’s 7th highest mountain, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tukuche, Manaslu, Thorang
- Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge
- Muktinath Temple- high value for Buddhists and Hindus
- Traditional Palaces, Monasteries, and caves formed on high cliffs
- Ghar Gumba- the oldest monastery
- Desert landscape with spires and cliffs, as well as dense green hills and woods
- Kagbeni - Holy Kaligandaki River Valley
- Diversified culture, tales, and lifestyle of Gurung, Tibetan, Thakali, Magar, and others
- A Unique History of Lo-Manthang
- Tranquil, unexplored, and unspoiled trails with few/no settlements
Why Choose Us for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
- 14+ years organizing treks and cultural tours across Nepal, including Upper Mustang
- Licensed and registered with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)
- Member of TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal)
- Direct local partners in Marpha, Jomsom, and the wider Mustang region
- Direct experience arranging fixed departures around the Tiji Festival, timed to the confirmed 2027 dates of June 1st to 3rd
- Full permit processing for the Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, and TIMS card, all handled through registered government channels
- Domestic flight bookings to and from Jomsom are arranged directly, with backup plans in place for the weather delays common in the Mustang region
- Professional, multilingual guides with real experience leading groups through Upper Mustang and the Tiji Festival itself
- Itineraries built around your pace, whether that means more trekking days, more rest, or the option to add the Jeep Ride Tour for a lighter version of the trip
- Small, personal group sizes from 2 to 18 people, so the trip stays attentive rather than crowded
- Transparent, all-inclusive pricing, with no hidden costs once you book
- 24/7 support throughout your trip, before, during, and after
- Reviews on [TripAdvisor/Google]
- Honest, upfront communication if the weather affects Jomsom flights or trek plans, so you always know where your trip stands
Outline Itinerary

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2027- 18 Days Itinerary
Upper Mustang Tiji festival trek itinerary for 2027 is our standard package, and if you want to customize it, we are here for you. You may do the trek, and after that, you may drive back to Jomsom or directly to Pokhara as well. You have another option as well, which means you choose the Jeep Ride tour for the Tiji Festival, Or You may call, SMS, or send a Message from WhatsApp/Viber directly to our managing Director Mr. Jeeban Thapa Magar, at +977 9851234322
Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m) via respective airlines
On arrival at Kathmandu international airport terminal, Nepal, Adventure Team staff and a guide will receive you. You are dropped off at your respective hotels in the popular hub of Kathmandu, Thamel. After the refreshment break, our guide/leader will brief us on information regarding hotels, Nepali culture, tours, and Upper Mustang Trekking with a welcome dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant with a folk cultural program.
Preparation day in Kathmandu
This day is set aside for the preparation of the entire journey. You will be informed of trekking plans and the packing lists, along with what you can expect and how it can be more interesting. A sightseeing tour in Kathmandu is optional; if intended, you can visit a number of world heritage-listed places.
Drive to Pokhara (860 m) 220 km, 6 - 7 hours
Early morning drive of about 08 hours to the popular tourism hub Pokhara, allowing you to explore the Nepali way of life. You are settled in the hotels of Pokhara and can enjoy the peaceful and fresh vibes of the city that are highly appreciated by people from all around the world. Besides, sightseeing is optional for you. (A 30-minute flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu is available as per request, with additional charges.)
Morning fly to Jomsom (2,715 m) and trek to Kagbeni (2858 m) 4 hours
An early morning short scenic flight is made to Jomsom from Pokhara. Throughout the 22-minute flight, you can please your eyes with woods, rivers, and snowcapped high mountains. Jomsom welcomes visitors with apple orchards and a chilly breeze from the mountains around.
Basically, trekking starts from Jomsom through the bank of the Kali Gandaki River leading to Kagbeni. Kagbeni is the gateway of Upper Mustang, and we stay there to enjoy the Kagbeni valley, composed of the windy village, crackling river, and vibrant barren hillocks.
Trek to Chele / Tsele (3,050 m) 5 - 6 hours
After a night's stay at Kagbeni village, we head towards Chele through the old Trans-Himalayan Caravan route of Nepal -Tibet. This morning's walk by the Kali Gandaki River leads to well-cultivated terraced farm fields near Tirigaon village. Likewise, we will be mesmerized by distinct landscapes and high-shaded cliffs and canyons on the way to Chele.
En route to Chele, we could see pilgrims searching for a fossil named “Salagram Silas,” which is regarded as a sacred stone by Hindus and worshiped as an iconic representation of the supreme Lord Vishnu (one of the three main Hindu Gods).
The walk continues for a few hours through Tangbe and Tsusang (Chusang) villages. Further, broken canyons and ruined castle walls surrounded by high red-shaded cliffs are encountered. After crossing the small bridge, an uphill walk for 45 minutes brings you to Chele village.
Trek to Syangmochen (3,800 m) 5 hours
The morning walk from Chele village gets steeper for an hour onto a ridge at (3,130m) from where one can get a grand view of Gyagar across a huge canyon. Trek continues with a slow climb on the windswept terrain till the pass at 3,540m is reached.
Then walk from Samar village to a ridge that leads to a large gorge painted with red, black, yellow, and white rocks. The journey continues into another valley with juniper trees, a stream, and a climbing drive to a ridge at 3,800m. With a few minutes' walk, Syangbochen is accomplished by having a small settlement with a few tea shops at 3,710m.
Trek to Dhakmar (3820 m) 5 - 6 hours
From Syangbochen, we climb gradually through the fields and pass various settlements. Among those settlements, Ghiling village is our stop for lunch for this day. Ghiling has a monastery as well as a water-rotating prayer wheel. We have a short break and have lunch to energize ourselves for the further walk to Dhakmar. Following the trails, the right path leads to Tsarang while the left leads to Ghaymi village. We take the left turn, cross the Ghami rivulets, and pass Ghaymi village to reach Dhakmar village. Dhakmar is our overnight station
Trek to Lomanthang (3,700 m) 5 - 6 hours
The 8th-day trek leads to our main destination at Lomanthang. On leaving Dhakmar, the longest and most spectacular series of Mani walls (a sacred-holy prayer stone wall which is built by locals and Buddhist pilgrims) can be encountered. We further climbed to reach Lomanthang. Before reaching Lomanthang, we visit and observe Ghar Ghumba, which is the oldest monastery in the area. After the quality moment at Ghar Ghumba and enjoying the monument, we head ahead to climb up. We pass the highest pass of this trekking route, named Morang-La, with an altitude of 4353m. Being nearer to Lomanthang, we see the grand view of the walled village of Lomanthang. A short downhill walk leads to a stream that outlines Lo-Manthang village; from here, a short climb on a plateau takes us toward the wall of our ultimate destination, Lomanthang. The only entrance to the village is from the northeast gate, the main entrance gate.
First Day of Tiji Festival
On the 1st day, the monks perform a dance called ‘TsaChaam’. This tells the story of the birth of ‘DorjiSonam’- a reincarnated Buddha to conquer a demon. This demon harassed the kingdom of Mustang and brought huge destruction to the country. The performance of the first day includes 52 different steps practiced for months, and evoking God and purifying the ground for the dances to take place on Day 2 of the Tiji festival. You can witness the monks enacting the harassment of the said demon on the people of Mustang along with the enchanted prayers.
Second Day of Tiji Festival
The second day is the main list of the Tiji Festival. Many tourists travel 100 kilometers from Jomsom through barren areas to attend the second day of the Tiji Festival. Tourists crowd around the square and the top of the buildings to watch the show of the day by standing shoulder to shoulder with locals. The monks perform ‘NgaCham’. During this performance, DorjeeSonam tries to return the demon to the Buddha realm. You see different dances, dance with drums, by monks, wolves with swords, ghost dances, dangerous attitudes, warriors raging demons, and monkey boys entertaining the audience. The King of Lo arrives on the Second day and settles on his throne.
Third Day of Tiji Festival
On the 3rd and final day of the Tiji festival, the ‘Rhachham’ dance takes place. In this ceremony, DorjeeSonam triumphs over the evil demon and banishes him from Mustang. Numbers of monks enchant prayer and mantras with drums and worship. The festival goes beyond the town’s main square, and monks and people walk through the city. They walk away from the city and fire the gun to scare off the demon and claim victory over the demon and destruction by peace. The monk who plays the role of Dorjee Sonam does this by throwing an effigy. This effigy made from Tsampa (barley) represents the demon ‘Ma Tam Ru Ta’.This defeat brings peace and prosperity to the land of Mustang. Every year Tiji festival takes place in the hope of spreading peace throughout the world.
Trek to Yara (3760m) 5 - 6 hours
After an amazing time in Lomanthang, early in the morning, we head towards Charang. We need to walk for 2 hours to reach Charang. Though we stay at Yara, we visit one of the oldest palaces, monasteries, and open valleys that come on our way. Today, we slowly stroll and explore the area and reach Yara. Yara is another cozy village for our stay.
Trek to Tengbe (3320m) 6 - 7 hours
The trail towards Tengbe from Yara is filled with solitude and tranquility, as we could find no settlements on our way. Probably, there is a small tea house offering limited service far away from the city chaos and urbanization. You just see the Himalayas, barren colorful hillocks, long trails, and Nepal Adventure Team’s guide on today’s entire journey. This day is all about cherishing the tranquility, nature, and settlement-free environment, and enjoying the hike. Having a smooth, gradual, calm hike, we stay at Tengbe to rest.
Trek to Chuksang/ Tsusang (3050m) 8 - 9 hours
This day is the tough day of our trek as we have to walk for long hours. Besides, the trail to Chuksang from Tengbe is more peaceful, settlements, and hustle free than the trails from Yara to Tengbe. We find no settlements at all in this way which makes it a more peaceful, entirely unspoiled nature, with zero human settlements, and just the moments of nature and you. Since there are no settlements on the trail, Nepal Adventure Team arranges packed lunches for you to keep you healthy and energetic. You just have to gradually walk enjoying nature and its tranquility to reach Chuksang for the night stay.
Trek to Muktinath (3800m) 8 hours
This is the last day of the Upper Mustang Trekking to enjoy the unspoiled and unexplored aspects of nature, as this is the end of those trails having limited settlements and human chaos. You see a few settlements and tea house lodges on your way. However, Nepal Adventure Team prefers to use quality-packed lunches for this day as well. You do not have to hike long hours as you did on the previous day from Tengbe to Chuksang. Today, we head to one of the most famous places, named Muktinath, which has the Muktinath Temple at an altitude of 3700m. Muktinath Temple holds high religious value for all Hindus and Buddhists. People from different parts of the world visit the Muktinath Temple and receive blessings. Additionally, Muktinath Temple is situated at 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.
Drive to Jomsom and fly to Pokhara and transfer to hotel
Early morning, you visit Muktinath Temple and cherish the religious and unspoiled environment. Then, you drive towards Jomsom to take a flight to Pokhara. Jomsom is the only place in this region having modern facilities, quite dense settlements, yet amazing surroundings. However, you can choose to stay at Jomsom instead of Muktinath so that you enjoy more facilities and more rest, and you do not have to walk. Nepal Adventure Team arranges your stay at Pokhara, and if required, sightseeing in Pokhara can be managed.
Drive back to Kathmandu, 6 - 7 hours
We drive back to Kathmandu on a tourist bus, the way we came to Pokhara. You are transferred to the respective hotels with leisure time for relaxation and shopping for souvenirs. A farewell dinner is arranged for you by the Nepal Adventure Team to add more amazing moments to your stay in Nepal. (A 30-minute flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara is available as per request, with additional charges.)
International Departure
The incredible Upper Mustang Trek ends here on the 17th day. You will be dropped off at the airport by our staff as per your flight schedule. Nepal Adventure Team appreciates you for completing the trek and bids you a warm see-off with the hope of serving you further in the following days.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2027- 18 Days Cost Details
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private Car / Jeep / Hiace
- Welcome and farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant and cultural dance
- Three days, 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara on a BB plan basis
- Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by deluxe tourist bus
- Pokhara – Jomsom, and back to Pokhara by domestic flight
- 13 Days 12 Nights tea house lodge accommodation during the trek
- All meal Breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee in a cup, and fruit salad every day
- An experienced and expert trekking guide and porter (one for two clients) and their salary, food, accommodation, equipment, and insurance
- Trekking map, equipment, and a First Aid Medical Kit bag
- Restricted area permit (It does cost USD 50 per day per/person)
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Cards permit
- Company T-shirt, duffel bag, and appreciation letter
- All local monument fees and taxes
- All Nepal Government VAT 13% included
Excludes
- Nepal visa fee and international flight
- Extra drinks: alcoholic and non-alcoholic
- Personal expenses such as phone bill, chocolate, bakery items, battery charge, laundry, hot shower, and extra porter
- Extra accommodation and meals behind schedule
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Tips to guide and porters
Dates & Availability
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.
The following are the prices per person.
Add-Ons
Essential Information
Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang for the Tiji Festival
Most treks in Nepal avoid the monsoon season. Upper Mustang works differently. The region sits behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, which block most of the monsoon rain before it reaches Mustang. This is called a rain shadow area. It means Upper Mustang stays mostly dry even during the monsoon months of June to August.
This is why the Tiji Festival, which falls in early June, is one of the best times to trek in this region. Trekkers get clear trails, dry weather, and open mountain views, while most other parts of Nepal are dealing with heavy monsoon rainfall at the same time.
Spring, from March to May, is another good season to visit Upper Mustang. Days stay mild, and the weather remains stable for trekking. Autumn, from September to November, also offers strong visibility and comfortable trekking conditions, if you plan to visit outside the festival dates.
Winter, from December to February, brings cold temperatures and strong winds to Upper Mustang, and most trekkers avoid this season. If you are experienced with high-altitude winter trekking and still want to visit, we can arrange and manage this trek for you during these months as well.
How Difficult Is the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek?
The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is graded as a moderate trek. It does not require any technical climbing skills, ropes, or previous mountaineering experience. Most days involve five to eight hours of walking on clear trails. One day, between Tengbe and Chuksang, runs longer at eight to nine hours, and this is the toughest day of the whole trek.
The highest point on this trek is Mui-La Pass at 4,353m. This altitude is reached gradually over the first week of the trek, not all at once. Our guides have led groups through this exact route since 2012, and this experience shapes how each day is planned. Walking speed, rest breaks, and daily altitude gain are all managed carefully, since a slow, steady climb gives your body the time it needs to adjust naturally.
Mild symptoms like a headache or shortness of breath are possible in the first few days above 3,000m. This is normal for most trekkers at this altitude and is not usually a sign of a serious problem. Drinking enough water, walking at a steady pace, and telling your guide about any symptoms right away are the best ways to stay comfortable throughout the trek.
Is the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, this trek is suitable for beginners who have a reasonable level of general fitness. You do not need previous high-altitude trekking experience to join. Some background in hiking or regular walking is helpful, but it is not required.
A few weeks of regular walking, light cardio, or stair climbing before the trek is enough preparation for most people. This kind of simple training builds the stamina needed for five to eight hours of walking a day.
Every group on this trek is supported by an experienced guide who understands how to pace a group with mixed fitness levels. Our guides walk at a steady pace, build in rest stops along the trail, and adjust the day's pace based on how the group is doing. This kind of hands-on, experience-based guiding is what makes a moderate high altitude trek like this one approachable for beginners, not just for experienced trekkers.
Permits Required for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
Three permits are mandatory for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek, since the route enters a restricted area of Nepal within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The Nepal government enforces these permits to protect the region's natural and cultural heritage, including Lo-Manthang and the communities that call it home.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
- Issued by: Department of Immigration, Nepal, through a registered trekking agency
- Cost: USD 50 per person, per day
- Required: Mandatory for all trekkers entering Upper Mustang, only issued through a licensed trekking company
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Issued by: National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Cost: NPR 3,000 per person (approximately USD 22-25)
- Required: Mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
- Issued by: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or TAAN offices, Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Cost: USD 10-20 per person, depending on trekking type
- Required: Mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal
We arrange all three permits on your behalf before the trek begins. Bring your passport and two passport-size photos for permit processing.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Cost 2027
The cost of the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek depends on the type of departure you choose and the size of your group. Fixed group departures are built around the confirmed Tiji Festival dates and offer a more affordable per-person rate, while private departures give you full flexibility over your schedule and exclusive use of your guide and support crew. All prices include the Restricted Area Permit, ACAP permit, TIMS Card, guide, porter, teahouse and hotel accommodation, trail meals, and domestic flights between Pokhara and Jomsom. We give you one clear price before you book, with no hidden fees or last-minute additions.
For group bookings, customized itineraries, or last-minute availability, contact us directly, and we will build the right package around your schedule and budget.
Types of Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Service
Fixed Group Departure
If you want the most budget-friendly way to attend the Tiji Festival, joining our fixed group departure is your best option. Since this departure is planned around the confirmed 2027 festival dates, you share trek costs with fellow travelers, which lowers the per-person price compared to booking privately.
This option works well for solo travelers who want to meet others along the trail, as well as couples or small groups of friends whose travel dates can align with the festival window. Group size on this departure ranges from 2 to 18 people.
Private Departure
If you want full control over your trip, you can book this trek privately. Your group gets exclusive access to your own guide, porter, and support crew for the entire journey, without matching the pace or schedule of other travelers.
This option lets you adjust daily start times, walking pace, and rest stops to fit your group. It also allows for custom additions along the route, such as extra time in Lo-Manthang or a different return route through Jomsom. We recommend this option for families, couples looking for a more personal trip, or small groups who want the Tiji Festival experience entirely on their own terms.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour
If your priority is reaching the festival without a multi-day trek, our Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour covers the same general route by vehicle. This option suits travelers with limited time, limited mobility, or a preference for comfort over daily walking, while still bringing you to Lo-Manthang for all three days of the festival.
Customized Package
If you want to extend your time in the Mustang region, this trek can be combined with other routes and experiences in the area. Instead of the standard itinerary, you can add extensions such as:
- Muktinath and Jomsom Extension: Spend extra time exploring the Muktinath Temple area and the town of Jomsom before returning to Pokhara.
- Mani Rimdu Festival Trek: Combine this trip with our Mani Rimdu Festival Trek in the Everest region for a broader look at Himalayan festival culture, on a separate departure.
- Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing: Add extra days in Kathmandu to explore the valley's heritage sites before or after your trek.
This is the most complete way to experience both the Tiji Festival and the wider culture of Nepal in a single journey.
Accommodation on the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
You get to stay in tea house lodges throughout the trek, including during your time in Lo-Manthang for the Tiji Festival itself. These lodges offer simple twin rooms, warm meals, and a place to rest after each day of walking or watching the festival. Since Lo-Manthang has limited rooms available and the festival draws visitors from across the region, accommodation here gets booked early, and we plan our fixed departure around the confirmed festival dates to secure your rooms well in advance.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you get to stay in three-star hotels on a bed and breakfast basis, giving you a comfortable base before and after the trekking portion of your trip. Rooms in Upper Mustang are basic compared to city hotels, with shared bathrooms common in most teahouses along the route, but you still get hot meals, warm blankets, and a genuinely welcoming stay at every stop, even in this remote part of Nepal.
What Documents You Need Before You Travel to Nepal
Passport & Visa
All foreign nationals, except Indian citizens, need visas to enter Nepal. Getting a visa must be the easiest one, though. You just have to go to the Nepalese Embassy/consulate in your country, or it can also be obtained upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. To get a visa, you need to bring 2 pp size photos, visa fees, and a valid passport.
Tourist Visa Fees: 3-day transit visa - Free of Cost
15 Days – 30 USD
30 Days – 50 USD
90 Days – 125 USD
For more information, please contact the Department of Immigration.
Kalikasthan, Kathmandu
Tel: 00977-1- 4429660 | 4438862 | 4438868 | 4433934
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must when you travel abroad. Therefore, before you come to Nepal, please make sure you have your insurance documents with you, since our insurance companies cannot insure foreign nationals. Because of the reason that they cover all the expenses if you face some unfortunate happenings and you have to be rescued or medically assisted during the trip, or if your belongings are lost or stolen.
Essential Gear and Packing List for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
After booking with the Nepal Adventure Team, please pack the necessary items as listed:
- Travel documents: passport, visa (If you have one), travel insurance, air tickets, voucher, passport photo (x 2)
- Bank cards or credit cards, travelers' cheques, etc
- Comfortable boots and runners/sports shoes.
- 6-8 pairs of socks, woolen/cotton. Fleece jacket, Down / Duvet Jacket, and Rain / windproof jacket.
- Gloves: 2 pairs.
- T-shirts: 4-6 pcs, shirts (woolen/cotton).
- A cap for the day and a woolen hat or Balaclava for evening/morning wear.
- Trousers.
- Shorts and tracksuits.
- Sleeping bag (4 seasons) with inner liner.
- Large and small towels.
- Toiletries.
- Water bottle.
- Sun /snow glass.
- Ski/walking poles (optional but useful).
- First Aid/medical kit.
- Rucksack/backpack.
- Duffel Bags (carried by porters or animals).
- Torch / Flashlights with spare batteries.
- Pen knife/ Swiss knife.
- Scarf/mask (for dust and wind).
- Personal hygiene stuff.
- Any other extras you feel are necessary, like binoculars, cameras, books, journals, and more.
Safety on the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
A trained guide stays with you throughout the trek, watching for any signs of altitude discomfort, especially on the days approaching Mui-La Pass.
Altitude Awareness
The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek reaches a maximum of 4,353 metres at Mui-La Pass. This is a moderate altitude for the Himalayas, but altitude sickness can still affect trekkers at this height. The route climbs gradually through Kagbeni, Chele, and Syangbochen before reaching the pass, giving your body time to adjust and lowering the risk of altitude sickness.
Signs of Altitude Sickness to Watch For
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Watch for these early signs:
- Persistent headache
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Shortness of breath at rest
- Trouble sleeping
If you notice any of these, don't keep climbing. Tell your guide right away. Descending 300 to 500 metres almost always brings quick relief.
How We Keep You Safe
- All our guides are Wilderness First Aid certified and carry a pulse oximeter
- We keep a slow, steady pace throughout the trek
- Helicopter evacuation is available for medical emergencies, covered by proper travel insurance
- All trekkers must carry travel insurance that includes high altitude coverage and emergency evacuation
- We cover altitude sickness basics in your trek briefing before departure
A Few General Safety Tips
- Drink 3 to 4 litres of water a day to stay hydrated
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives at altitude
- Eat regular meals, even if your appetite drops
- Walk at your own pace, never push through warning signs
- Always trek with your assigned guide
A Few Rules to Follow During Your Trek
The possession or use of any illegal drugs is not tolerated on this trek. Nepal's laws around this are strict, and following them is part of respecting the local people and their culture. Any trekker found in violation will be expelled from the group.
Responsible Travel in Upper Mustang Tiji Festival
We strongly believe that everyone shares responsibility for acting in favor of the local people and the surrounding environment. As our client, you also play an important role during your trek.
- Respect local laws, customs, and religious beliefs throughout your trek and during the Tiji Festival
- Walk clockwise around monasteries, stupas, and mani walls, following local Buddhist tradition
- Ask permission before photographing monks, locals, or private ceremonies during the festival
- Do not touch sacred objects, thangkas, or ritual items without permission
- Always ask before doing something local, or consult your guide first
- Keep the area the same as you found it, wherever you go, and dispose of your rubbish properly
- Support local skills and businesses by buying from local artisans and eating at local teahouses in Lo-Manthang
- Possession or use of illegal drugs is not tolerated on this trek, out of respect for local laws and culture, and results in expulsion from the group
Feedback and Reviews
This is very important for us. After your trip, we want your feedback, whether it is good or bad, since that's the way we can thrive further. To motivate you to finish the review or feedback online, we are going to give you an 8% discount on your next trip with us. Outstanding, isn’t it?
Additional Information
For all additional information, go to Contact Us, send a message, or call directly to Mr. Jeevan Thapa Magar +977 9851234322 (Viber/WhatsApp)
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2027- 18 Days FAQs
The Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang takes place from June 1st to 3rd, 2027. The exact date is set each year according to the Tibetan lunar calendar.
The Tiji Festival is celebrated in Lo-Manthang, the walled capital city of Upper Mustang, Nepal.
Tiji is a short form of the Tibetan name Tenpa Chirim, which means prayer for the continuity of Buddhist teachings, often translated as prayer for world peace.
The Tiji Festival lasts three days. Each day features a different dance and ritual, performed by monks from Chhoede Monastery.
Monks from Chhoede Monastery perform the dances. They train for months in advance to learn the exact steps and movements passed down through generations.
Most trekkers fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then to Jomsom, and trek from Jomsom to Lo-Manthang over about five days. For a faster option, our Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Ride Tour covers the same route by vehicle.
This trek is graded as moderate. It does not require technical climbing skills, but most days involve five to eight hours of walking at high altitude.
The highest point is Mui-La Pass at 4,353m, reached gradually over the first week of the trek.
No. The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of general fitness. Some prior hiking experience helps but is not required.
Three permits are required: the Restricted Area Permit, the ACAP permit, and the TIMS card. We arrange all three on your behalf before the trek begins.
Yes. Upper Mustang sits in a rain shadow area behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, so it stays mostly dry even during the monsoon months when most other regions of Nepal receive heavy rainfall.
Trekkers stay in tea house lodges throughout the trek and in three-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Yes. Travel insurance covering high altitude trekking and emergency rescue is required for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek, since local insurance companies in Nepal do not cover foreign nationals.
Because Upper Mustang is a restricted area with limited permits issued each year, the Tiji Festival stays far less crowded than many other major festivals around the world.
Tibetan is the main language spoken in Lo-Manthang. The local Loba community follows Tibetan Buddhist traditions closely tied to their Tibetan roots.
Yes. Alongside our fixed group departure, we arrange private and customized versions of this trek to match your travel dates, group size, and pace.
The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek cost includes the Restricted Area Permit, ACAP permit, TIMS Card, guide, porter, teahouse and hotel accommodation, trail meals, and domestic flights between Pokhara and Jomsom.
Yes. If your travel dates fall outside the Tiji Festival window, you can also experience similar Himalayan festival culture in the Everest region through our Mani Rimdu Festival Trek, which features masked monastery dances held at a different time of year.
You can contact us directly through our website or reach our managing director by phone, WhatsApp, or Viber to confirm your booking for the June 2027 departure.
What Our Guests Say?
Witnessing the vibrant Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang was an experience like no other, with its colorful rituals and dances against the backdrop of stunning Himalayan landscapes. The trek itself...
Participating in the Tiji Festival was a highlight, with its fascinating rituals and vibrant performances that brought the history and traditions of Mustang to life. The trek offered stunning views...





