- 1 - 1 pax USD$3390
- 2 - 2 pax USD$2899
- 3 - 5 pax USD$2750
Imagine walking through a land where ancient traditions still thrive, where the dry Himalayan winds whisper stories of gods and demons, and where every village feels like a step back in time. That’s what the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour offers—a rare chance to explore the hidden world of Upper Mustang and witness one of the most colorful and spiritual festivals in Nepal.
Held in the walled city of Lo Manthang, the Tiji Festival is not just a celebration—it’s a story brought to life through dance, ritual, and deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture. With dramatic desert-like landscapes, majestic peaks, ancient monasteries, and warm local hospitality, this trek is an unforgettable blend of culture and adventure.
Highlights of Tiji Festival Tour
- Experience the three-day annual Historical Buddhist Tiji Festival.
- Discover the walled city of Lo Manthang, famously known as the Forbidden Kingdom.
- Explore the historic Chossar Cave near the Tibet border.
- Visit the ancient Ghar Gumpa monastery, built in the eighth century.
- Explore the ruins of Charang village’s old Buddhist monastery and enjoy stunning landscapes.
What Is the Tiji Festival?
The Tiji (or Tenchi) Festival is a sacred three-day celebration known as “The Chasing of the Demons.” It tells the story of Dorje Jono, a deity who defeats his demon father to save Mustang from ruin. During the festival, monks dressed in elaborate costumes and masks perform traditional dances in the royal courtyard of Lo Manthang, drawing hundreds of people from nearby villages who come together to celebrate.
As you stand among the crowd, watching the swirling colors and listening to the rhythmic beats of ceremonial drums, you’ll feel the spiritual energy that makes this event so special.
Your Journey for Tiji Festival Tour with Everest Hikes
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic flight to Pokhara and then to Jomsom, where the trek begins. The trail takes you through stunning Mustang villages, high desert plateaus, and ancient monasteries, all leading to the magical city of Lo Manthang just in time for the festival.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Himalayan giants like Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7,061m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m), and Tilicho Peak (7,134m). More than just a visual treat, this journey lets you experience the unique culture, language, and lifestyle of the people of Mustang—one of the last places where pure Tibetan culture still thrives.
Tiji Festival Tour 2026 Dates:
14th, 15th, and 16th May 2026
Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang
Why Travel with Us?
At Everest Hikes, we don’t just take you to places—we help you connect with them. Here’s what makes our Tiji Festival Trek special:
- Local guides who know the region inside and out
- Small group sizes for a more personal and meaningful experience
- Pre-booked lodges in Lo Manthang (a must during festival time!)
- A deep respect for local culture and environment
- Honest, transparent communication and reliable support
We’ve helped countless trekkers experience the Tiji Festival over the years, and we’re proud of the positive feedback and friendships we’ve built along the way.
Plan Ahead—Spots Fill Quickly!
The Tiji Festival draws people from around the world, and accommodation in Lo Manthang is limited. We recommend booking early to make sure you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Why Choose a 4WD Jeep Tour for an Upper Mustang?
- Luxurious Access to Remote Beauty: Skip the weeks of strenuous trekking. Our premium 4WD vehicles whisk you comfortably through dramatic gorges, past surreal rock formations, and across high-altitude plateaus directly to the walled city of Lo Manthang. Experience the full majesty of Mustang’s landscapes – from sweeping valleys to snow-capped peaks – without the physical strain.
- Unrivaled Flexibility & Photo Freedom: Enjoy the best of both worlds! Like trekking, you have complete freedom to stop your jeep at any breathtaking viewpoint. Capture the perfect shot of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, admire ancient cave dwellings, or simply soak in the stark, beautiful vistas – all on your schedule.
- Truly Accessible Adventure for Everyone: This journey is perfectly suited for all ages and fitness levels. We’ve welcomed spirited travelers up to 84 years young! Whether you’re not keen on long hikes, have limited time, or simply prefer comfort while exploring remote regions, our jeep tour makes the wonders of Mustang effortlessly attainable.
- Immerse in a Living Tibetan Legacy: Step into a “Mini-Tibet” where ancient traditions thrive. Explore thousand-year-old Buddhist monasteries adorned with intricate murals, witness vibrant Tibetan festivals unique to this region, and interact with communities preserving a culture largely unchanged for centuries. It’s a profound cultural immersion.
- Thrilling Yet Secure 4WD Adventure: Navigate the rugged Mustang terrain in capable, well-maintained 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers or Mahindra Scorpios. Driven by our highly experienced, safety-conscious local drivers with impeccable off-road records, the journey itself becomes part of the unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
The Magic of Mustang: Tiji Festival Tour 2026 - Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a representative from Everest Hikes. You'll then be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu by private vehicle. In the evening, a detailed briefing will be provided regarding the upcoming adventure.
Fly or Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Enjoy a scenic flight or a comfortable drive to Pokhara. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Half-day sightseeing includes:
World Peace Pagoda
Devi’s Fall
Mahendra Cave
International Mountain Museum
Evening stroll around Phewa Lake (Boating optional)
Drive to Tatopani (1,190m)
Enjoy breakfast and begin your scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Reach Tatopani in about 5 hours and relax in its natural hot springs.
Drive to Kagbeni via Muktinath (3,800m)
Explore Marpha village, Jomsom market, and the sacred Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Return to Kagbeni for overnight stay.
Drive to Charang (3,570m)
After permit checks at Kagbeni, continue the journey through picturesque villages like Chele, Samar, and Ghiling. Explore Buddhist schools and monasteries en route.
Drive to Lo Manthang (3,800m) and Attend Tiji Festival (Day 1)
En route to Lo Manthang, visit the ancient Lo-Gyagar Gumba monastery. After lunch, head to the King's Palace to attend the opening ceremony of the Tiji Festival.
Tiji Festival (Day 2) and Excursion to Chhoser
In the morning, drive to Chhoser village. Explore sky caves and the cliffside Lowo Nyiphug Namdrol Norbuling Monastery. Return to Lo Manthang for the festival's second day.
Final Day of Tiji Festival
Spend the morning exploring the monasteries and local culture of Lo Manthang. Attend the final rituals and performances of the Tiji Festival.
Drive Back to Jomsom (2,743m)
Retrace your drive through the Upper Mustang landscape. Check out at the Kagbeni checkpoint and continue to Jomsom. Evening free to explore the town.
Drive Back to Pokhara (820m)
A scenic 7–8 hour drive back to Pokhara. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and prepare for your return to Kathmandu.
Return to Kathmandu (Flight/Drive)
Choose a convenient flight or scenic road journey back to Kathmandu. Free time in the evening for shopping or a farewell dinner.
Final Departure
Enjoy some last-minute shopping or rest before your scheduled departure.
Inclusions
What's included
- Airport transfers: pickup and drop off
- Domestic Flights: Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu Two Way Flights
- Accommodation: 2 Nights Boutique Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara, Lodging in tea houses with attached bathroom (local lodges) during the trek
- Permits: Upper Mustang Special Permit: USD 500 per person for 10 days, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit, Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit
- Entrance fees: All entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals: Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) throughout the trek
- Guide: An experienced, English-speaking, licensed local guide
- Transportation: 4WD Jeep Pokhara to Lo-Mangthang to kathmandu by 4WD Land Cruiser/Mahindra Scorpio.
- Guide Expenses: Includes wages, equipment, insurance, and other necessary provisions
- Basic Medical Kit
- Duffel bag and sleeping bag to carry your belongings
- Farewell dinner
- All government taxes and paper works
What's not included
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance
- Porter
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- All other personal expenses (beverages, cold drinks etc)
- Tipping for guide and driver
