- Airport pick up and drive according to itinerary and plan.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara according to program and demand.
- 1 day sightseeing in Kathmandu.
- 1 day sightseeing in Pokhara.
- Upper Mustang Trekking permits.
- TIMS Cards: Trekking Information Management System.
- Food and accommodation during the Trekking as per contract.
- Hot drinks: Tea, Coffee, etc. during the trek.
- Tourist bus from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
- Local Bus from Muktinath to Pokhara.
- Insurance for local staffs: Guide-Porters.
- Entry fee of Annapurna Conservation Area Trekking.
- Applicable Nepal government tax.
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Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 14 days
AnnapurnaTrip Grade
ModerateTrip Type
TrekkingMaximum Elevation
4230 MAccomodation
TeahouseDestination
AnnapurnaBest Time
Tiji Festival DatelineTrip Start
KathmanduTrip Ends
KathmanduOverview
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 14 days
The Tiji Festival is the most important Buddhist festival in Upper Mustang. They celebrate every year in Lo Manthang city- the capital city of Lo-Manthang and it’s known for its old walls and deep Buddhist spiritual roots. The festival follows Tibetan traditions and is filled with ancient rituals and colourful dances. Once a separate Himalayan kingdom known as the Kingdom of Lo, Upper Mustang still preserves its deep-rooted spiritual traditions and unique Tibetan-influenced culture.
In 2026, the Tiji Festival will take place from May 13 to May 15, drawing monks, locals, and international visitors to witness this powerful ritual event. The festival dates change each year according to the Tibetan lunar calendar.
Celebrated over three vibrant days, Tiji—short for “Tenchi”—commemorates the triumph of good over evil. It tells the legendary story of Dorje Jono, a deity who defeats destructive demons to restore harmony in the region. The celebration includes ancient masked dances, dramatic performances, and symbolic rituals performed by monks of Chhoede Monastery. These dancers, dressed in elaborate costumes and sacred masks, represent mystical forces and enact the battle between chaos and peace.
Three day Tiji Festival celebration :
First day Tiji Festival Celebration: On the first day, people from across Upper Mustang gather in Lo Manthang for prayers and offerings.
Second day Tiji Festival Celebration: The second day features ritual dances symbolizing the confrontation between good and evil.
Third day of Final day Tiji Festival Celebration: The final day climaxes with the symbolic expulsion of evil spirits, believed to bring peace, health, and prosperity for the year ahead.
The Tiji Festival is becoming popular among many travellers from around the world. And, it’s very spiritually meaningful and traditional festival for the people of Upper Mustang. It not only preserves the legacy of Mustang’s Tibetan heritage but also offers travellers an unforgettable cultural experience high in the Himalayas.
Many visitors now combine this unique event with the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek, which allows them to explore remote Himalayan landscapes, visit centuries-old monasteries, and become part of a living tradition rarely seen elsewhere.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival date
Tiji Festival in 2026 was taken from May 13 to May 15 in the capital city of Mustang at Lo Manthang. It’s annual celebration according to the date of Tibetan calendar. Tiji festival is sacred Buddhist festival.
In 2025, Tiji Festival was start in 24th of May and, ended in 26th May 2025. So, the date of Tiji Festival in Mustang changes according to the Tibetan calendar.
History of Tiji Festival
In ancient time, people used to say “Tenchi” Festival instead of Tiji Festival. Later on, it’s converted in “Tiji Festival“. It is one of the oldest and most meaningful festivals in Upper Mustang of Nepal. In 17th century, Tiji Festival was started to celebrate in Upper Mustang. It’s during the time of Mustang kingdom which was neighbouring of Tibet. The festival is deeply connected to Tibetan Buddhism and holds strong spiritual importance for the people of the region.
The tradition had started when King Samdup Rabten of Mustang invited a great Buddhist master, Sakya Trizin Ngawang Kunga Sonam, to Lo Manthang. During his visit, the master performed a powerful ritual known as Vajrakila inside the Chhode Monastery. This ceremony was believed to remove negative forces and protect the region. Since then, the monks of Chhoede Monastery have continued this ritual every year during the Tiji Festival in Mustang.
The festival honour’s the story of Dorje Jono, a deity who defeats a demon that brings trouble to Mustang. His victory symbolizes the protection of the land and the people. Over time, this story became the heart of the Tiji celebration.
The ritual and dance used in the festival are inspired by ancient Buddhist teachings known as Tenpa Chirim, meaning peace and well-being through the path of the Buddha. The Vajrakila practice, which forms the core of the festival, came to Tibet in the 8th century from Nepal and India, introduced by masters like Padmasambhava.
Over centuries, Tiji has kept its original form, thanks to the dedication of the local monks and community. Today, it continues to be a living tradition, showing the spiritual strength and cultural identity of the people of Upper Mustang.
Permit of Tiji Festival Trek
Tiji Festival Trek Permit and Guide
The Tiji Festival Trek takes you into the restricted region of Upper Mustang, a culturally rich area close to the Tibetan border. Since this is a controlled area, there are special rules and permits required for trekking during the festival.
Required Permits for Tiji Festival Trek
Upper Mustang Special Trekking Permit
Upper Mustang is a restricted zone, so all trekkers need a special permit issued by the Government of Nepal. This permit is not available to solo trekkers and must be arranged through a registered local trekking agency.
ACAP Permit- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Mustang is in Annapurna zone where Annapurna Conservation Project exists. So, apart of the special permit of Upper Mustang, trekkers must also obtain the ACAP permit- Annapurna Conservation Area Project
Permit Issued Only Through Authorized Agencies
The permits for the Tiji Festival Trek are issued only through authorized Nepali trekking companies. Glacier Family Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., a fully licensed and registered company in Nepal, handles all arrangements for permits on your behalf.
Minimum of Two Trekkers Required
As per government regulations, a minimum of two trekkers is required to obtain the Upper Mustang permit. If you’re a solo traveler, Glacier Family Treks can help you join a group or manage the paperwork accordingly.
Guide Requirement for Upper Mustang
Taking a trekking-guide is mandatory for Upper Mustang. It’s controlled area. The local trekking company demands the Upper Mustang Trek Permit with license of a Trek-Guide. This rule ensures the safety of trekkers and also helps to protect the cultural and environmental integrity of the Nepal as well as of Upper Mustang. So, for the Tiji Festival Trek in Upper Mustang, we need a trekking guide with his legal licence.
Horse Riding in Mustang
Horse riding in Mustang is a unique way to explore the beautiful landscapes and ancient Villages of this Himalayan Region. The tradition of horse riding is still alive in Upper Mustang, where locals use horses for travel and daily work. During treks or cultural tours, travellers can ride horses to reach remote places, especially around Lo Manthang and during the Tiji Festival. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy the views without walking long distances. Riding a horse through the dry valleys, old monasteries, and mountain trails makes the Mustang journey even more special.
Itinerary
We will meet you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. You will attend the team meeting and pre-trip discussion about the walk after getting some rest. Where the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival trip will begin, and where you will meet your trip leader or guide. Himalayan Connection will host a welcome meal including delectable Nepali food and a cultural performance in the evening.
Planning Your Trip and Sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley Camp: Kathmandu’s Thamel Height: 1,400 m. Explore world heritage sites like as the Pashupatinath temple, Swoyambhunath, Boudhanath stupa, Durbar squares in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, as well as the Newari culture. But, it depends on your demanded program.
O/N in Hotel in Kathmandu.
7-8 hours Pokhara (810m) driving from Kathmandu by Tourist bus. 25 minutes by airplane and 6–7 hours by car. The main draws include breathtaking views of the mountains, lovely lakes, paragliding, temples, pagodas, caves, and a lot more. Ready yourself for the once-forbidden trip through the Upper Mustang Kingdom.
Check in hotel at LAKE side.
Travel from Pokhara to Kagbeni (2,810m) by air to Jomsom from Pokhara or by Land from Pokhara to Kagbeni. Depends on your demanded program.
Magnificent views of the mountains, the world’s deepest gorge, wind valley Jomsom, breathtaking flights between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, an apple farm in the picturesque Kali Gandaki valley, charming Kagbeni town, and more.
After breakfast, 6- 7 HRS walk to Chhusang (3050 m) from Kagbeni. Tea house accommodations- The winding valley walk, the high Himalayan desert, the cliffs’ many colors.
O/N in local tea house.
Crossing a suspension bridge, walking along the River Kaligandaki through the Gyakar Village and Lunch at Samar Village then walk farther to Shenbochen via Chungsi Cave.
O/N at Shenbochen, Lodge.
SYANBOCHEN TO GHAMI (3,520M) will take about 5-6 hours of walking. Ghami’s old hamlet, its inhabitants, their culture, traditions, and way of life, mud and wooden dwellings, and much more… One of the most stunning locations on the Upper Mustang Trek.
GHAMI TO TSARANG (3560 m). Today, from Ghami to Tsarang will be 5-6 hours. Will be seen Nepal’s longest mani wall, red cliff, historic Tsarang village, culture and tradition, old royal palace and fortress, hundreds of years old red Gomba, and more.
The Opening day of Tji Festival. Be sure that we will start our morning earlier than normal days to get earlier to Lo-Manthang as the first day of Tiji Festival Ceremony which is important to see. But, generally, it will start a bit later about at 13:00 o’clock. So, we will start our trek at 06:00 o’clock.
When we get to Lo Manthang Village, check shortly in the lodge, light lunch and participate in the on-going ceremony of Tiji Festival in the city.
O/N in lodge.
The second day of Tiji Festival, a traditional dance will be performed by the monks. And, the main propose of performing dance by Lamas (monks), is to chase out the negative spirits of the whole region of Mustang. Local tradition dresses, longer horn, terrifying masks, Tormas and Yak-Butter cakes will be prepared as the offerings.
O/N in same lodge at Lo Manthang.
Today is the closing ceremony day of Tiji Festival of Lo Manthang. Everyone will walk to Namgyal Gumba which is situated on the top of the hill in Lo Manthang. They the rituals at this monastery and get back to Lo Manthang so, the belief is evil spirit of Demons, is not completely destroyed.
O/N in same lodge at Lo Manthang.
After having full experience of Tiji Festival, back to Yara Village (3580m) from Lo-Manthang. We will walk about 7-8 hours.
Today, we’ll do Dhi Pass (4100 m) and Dhi Village as well.
O/N at Yara Village.
From Yara to Tyange Village (3340 m) will take today about 6-7 hours. We follow the Dhechang River to cross. This River flows from the one of Holy Lake – called Damodar Kunda. The muddy pillar over the hundreds years make us just wow…
O/N at Tyange Village.
One of the longest and hardest day of entire trekking about 9-10 hours of total walking. We will have pack-food for the day and full of drinking water. Nowhere can be taken hot food and drinking water on the route.
O/N at Tetang or Chuksang.
After breakfast, trek t0 Muktinath through Tetang village and by crossing Gui-la (4021m). After getting 8 to 9 hours of walking, we get to Muktinath (3760 m).
To avoid the airplane from Jomsom-Pokhara, we will take a local bus directly from Muktinath to Pokhara. It will take full day about 10-12 hours.
Check in hotel at Lake Side, Pokhara.
Sightseeing in Pokhara: Cave, Stupa, Mountaineering Museum and Tibetan Camp.
In the afternoon, chill-out at Fewa Lake Side.
O/N in hotel Pokhara.
Drive to Kathmandu by Tourist bus, about 7-8 hours of local driving.
Check in hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is your last moment free day in Kathmandu. It will be for your shopping day for your friends and family.
Final dinner with us!
O/N in hotel.
Drive to International Airport for your final departure from Nepal.
What's Include in Cost
What's Excluded in Cost
- Nepal entry visa.
- International flights and airport tax.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses, Hot or Mineral water
- Laundry service and Bar Bills
- Internet and Battery charge
- Alcoholic drinks with mineral water.
- Rescue in emergency.
Fixed Departure
Equipment
🧳 Personal Equipment List for Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
👕 Clothing
Warm down jacket (windproof & lightweight)
- Thermal inner layers (tops and bottoms)
- Fleece or wool sweater
- Light trekking shirts (long & short sleeve)
- Trekking pants (convertible is useful)
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants
- Comfortable hiking socks (multiple pairs)
- Warm hat and sun hat or cap
- Gloves (inner liner and insulated outer)
- Buff or scarf (for wind and dust protection)
- Sleepwear (thermal or fleece)
- Lightweight sneakers/sandals for camp
- Undergarments
💊 Medicine & First Aid
- Personal prescribed medications
- Diamox (for altitude sickness – consult doctor)
- Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen or paracetamol)
- Antiseptic cream and band-aids
- Anti-diarrhea tablets
- Rehydration salts
- Blister care (moleskin or Compeed)
- Lip balm and sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Mosquito repellent (for lower altitude areas)
🥾 Trekking Equipment
- Trekking poles (adjustable)
- Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower)
- Backpack (30–40L for day use)
- Duffel bag (for main gear, carried by porter)
- Water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3 litres)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Power bank or solar charger
- Camera (optional but useful for festival moments)
- Lightweight towel
🧼 Toiletries & Personal Hygiene
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Quick-dry towel
- Soap or body wash (biodegradable)
- Wet wipes or baby wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissue paper and toilet paper
- Small mirror, nail clippers, tweezers
- Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
- Sunscreen and moisturizer (for dry weather)
Advisory
Advisory for Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
Trekking Permit: You must get a special permit for Upper Mustang. A minimum of two trekkers is required, and permits are issued only through a registered Nepali trekking agency.
Trekking Guide: Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for this trek. Independent trekking is not allowed.
Festival Dates: The Tiji Festival 2026 will be held from May 13 to May 15 in Lo Manthang. Plan your trek accordingly to arrive before the festival begins.
Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is needed. The trail is not too steep, but the altitude can be challenging (up to 3,800 meters).
Pack Wisely: Carry warm clothing, sun protection, personal medicines, and basic toiletries. Weather can be dry, dusty, and cold—especially at night.
Respect Local Culture: The festival is a sacred event. Dress modestly, ask before taking photos, and follow your guide’s instructions during ceremonies.
Altitude Awareness: Take time to acclimatize properly. Stay hydrated and alert for symptoms of altitude sickness.
Connectivity: Mobile and internet service may be limited. Inform family or friends in advance.
Tipping to Guides and Porters – Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
Tipping in Nepal is not mandatory, but it is a well-accepted and appreciated gesture to show respect and gratitude for the hard work of your guide and porter, especially on long treks like the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek.
Trekking Guide: USD 5 to 10 per day
Porter: USD 3 to 7 per day
For a 12–15 day trek, a total tip of USD 250–300 for the guide and USD 150–200 for the porter is considered fair, depending on your satisfaction and their service quality.
Tipping Tips:
Give tips at the end of the trek, usually during a group farewell or small ceremony.
If trekking in a group, you can collect and tip together.
Use clean cash (preferably in Nepali Rupees or USD).
A kind word or thank-you note along with the tip is always meaningful.
Note: These team members carry your gear, guide you safely, and help you understand the local culture. A thoughtful tip helps support their families and motivates their future service.
Inportant Things Required
✅ Important Things for Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
🛂 Permits
- Upper Mustang Trekking Permits- as this Area is controlled by the centra government of Nepal – Required for all foreign trekkers.
- ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) – Mandatory.
- Must be obtained through a registered Nepali trekking agency.
- Minimum 2 trekkers are required for the special permit.
🧭 Licensed Guide
- A licensed trekking guide is compulsory for Upper Mustang.
- Independent trekking is not allowed in this region.
📅 Festival Dates
The Tiji Festival’s date is changed each year. It’s decided according to Tibetan calendar every year. If you know well the date of festival days, better to book your trip earlier and your trekking company can manages your accommodation onetime.
🧳 Proper Packing
- Carry warm clothing, especially for mornings and nights.
- Pack layered clothes, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, and good trekking shoes.
- Bring personal medications, water purification tablets, and toiletries.
- A sleeping bag (rated to -10°C) is recommended.
🏔 Altitude Awareness
- Highest altitude is around 3,800 meters.
- Acclimatization is important – walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and watch for altitude sickness symptoms.
📶 Limited Connectivity
- Mobile signal and internet may be weak or unavailable in many places.
- Inform family in advance and enjoy being offline.
🙏 Respect Local Culture
- Dress modestly, especially during the Tiji Festival.
- Ask permission before taking photos of people or religious events.
- Follow your guide’s advice when attending monastery ceremonies.
🐎 Optional Horse Riding
- Horse riding is possible around Lo Manthang and can be arranged for those who prefer less walking.
💰 Cash, Documents and Tipping
- Bring enough Nepali Rupees for personal expenses and tipping.
- Keep your real passport with you or, keep always a copy of your travel documents.
- Bank-Cards works in many manor cities in Nepal. S0, it works.
- Tipping guides and porters is customary (see previous note).
FAQ
When you are up in the mountains in Nepal, we would suggest you to be ready for anything. Weather forecasts for Lukla are never correct and different sources will give you different information. If it is a really bad day in terms of weather, the airlines will themselves cancel the flight and you might have to wait till the weather clears. Yes, flying in high altitude is never easy, even on a clear sunny day, the plane might face turbulence because of the wind blowing from the mountains. But overall the flight to Lukla is very exciting and it’s an experience that you will never forget.
When you are up in the mountains in Nepal, we would suggest you to be ready for anything. Weather forecasts for Lukla are never correct and different sources will give you different information. If it is a really bad day in terms of weather, the airlines will themselves cancel the flight and you might have to wait till the weather clears. Yes, flying in high altitude is never easy, even on a clear sunny day, the plane might face turbulence because of the wind blowing from the mountains. But overall the flight to Lukla is very exciting and it’s an experience that you will never forget.
When you are up in the mountains in Nepal, we would suggest you to be ready for anything. Weather forecasts for Lukla are never correct and different sources will give you different information. If it is a really bad day in terms of weather, the airlines will themselves cancel the flight and you might have to wait till the weather clears. Yes, flying in high altitude is never easy, even on a clear sunny day, the plane might face turbulence because of the wind blowing from the mountains. But overall the flight to Lukla is very exciting and it’s an experience that you will never forget.
When you are up in the mountains in Nepal, we would suggest you to be ready for anything. Weather forecasts for Lukla are never correct and different sources will give you different information. If it is a really bad day in terms of weather, the airlines will themselves cancel the flight and you might have to wait till the weather clears. Yes, flying in high altitude is never easy, even on a clear sunny day, the plane might face turbulence because of the wind blowing from the mountains. But overall the flight to Lukla is very exciting and it’s an experience that you will never forget.
Review
- MaxNier67
It was one of the best and fantastique trekking in te Dudhkundo Lake trek with Dilu Rai our french speapking guide for second time in Népal.
I think no... read more
February 24, 2023CCdel555 Three passes and Island peak ascent - What an amazing experience... An explosion of nature, kindness (if you are advised and travelling with Dilu) and serenity.
Thanks again Dilu, I really loved those days.
October 19, 2022VoyageurTerrestre Two treks, a lot of great souvenirs - Super treks with great guide and boys team. Very knowledgeable about Nepal’s culture and montains, nice and warm guide.
January 17, 2019
Permit only u$525.00
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