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Mustang Tiji Festival Trek

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Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
Days
13
Save
US$ 40
Limited offer
From US$ 2,190
US$ 2,150
  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Book Now, Pay Later
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Max. elevation
3800 m / 12467 ft
Group size
Min 1+
Level
Moderate
Transportation
All ground transportation Local bus/private jeep as per itinerary
Best season
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accommodation
3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trek
Meals
 Breakfast

Highlights

  • Experience the vibrant and unique Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang, a centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist celebration that honors the victory of good over evil, with colorful processions, dances, and rituals.
  • Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Mustang, with its ancient monasteries, sacred caves, and traditional Tibetan customs still alive in the remote villages.
  • Trek through the arid, desert-like landscapes of Mustang, known for its unique geological formations, canyons, and dramatic cliffs that look almost otherworldly.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of towering peaks such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri as you journey through the Himalayan foothills.
  • Unique Villages and Architecture: Explore the medieval city of Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, with its whitewashed mud-brick houses, narrow alleyways, and ancient palaces.
  • Trek to key cultural and spiritual landmarks like the iconic Lo Gekar Monastery, the cave monastery of the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, and the famous Lama Temple of Chosar.
  • Meet the friendly people of Mustang, who have retained their traditional Tibetan lifestyle and speak their own dialect. Enjoy insights into their customs, art, and Buddhist beliefs.
  • While Mustang's landscape may seem arid, it’s home to a range of wildlife, including Himalayan blue sheep, yaks, and golden eagles. The trail also features various plant species suited for the high desert climate.
  • Mustang is often called the "Forbidden Kingdom" due to its past isolation from the rest of Nepal. Trekking here offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Nepal's most preserved and untouched regions.
  • Higher Path Treks & Expeditions provides experienced, knowledgeable local guides and porters who are familiar with both the terrain and the culture, ensuring a smooth and safe trek.
  • Higher Path Treks & Expeditions prioritizes eco-friendly practices and works closely with the local communities to ensure the preservation of Mustang’s culture and environment.

Overview

The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is a unique and culturally immersive trekking experience that combines the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Mustang region with the opportunity to witness one of Nepal's most significant religious festivals. The Tiji Festival is celebrated in the Upper Mustang region, particularly in the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, and marks an important occasion in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The festival, which usually takes place in May, is a celebration of the victory of good over evil, symbolized through a series of elaborate rituals, dances, and prayers. It is believed to represent the story of a deity, Dorje Jono, who fights against the forces of evil to save the people of Mustang.

Trekking through the Mustang region during the Tiji Festival offers a rare opportunity to experience a blend of dramatic landscapes and rich culture. The trail leads you through the dramatic arid terrain and cliff-side villages of Mustang, where you’ll pass through ancient monasteries, caves, and the stunning landscape of the Kali Gandaki River valley. As you approach Lo Manthang, the region’s distinct Tibetan influence becomes increasingly apparent, with its monasteries, Tibetan architecture, and unique way of life. Trekking to this remote and sacred region while the Tiji Festival is underway creates a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, where you can witness sacred ceremonies and dances performed by monks dressed in traditional costumes, accompanied by vibrant prayers and music.

Mustang Tiji Festival Trekking Permits
The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is located in the restricted Upper Mustang region, which means trekkers need specific permits to enter the area. The primary permit required is the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP). This permit ensures that only small groups of trekkers visit the region at any given time, preserving the area's unique culture and environment. The permit is only issued to trekkers who are accompanied by a licensed guide, as solo trekking is prohibited in this region.

Additionally, trekkers must also obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which is required for any trekking in the Annapurna region. These permits can be arranged through a licensed trekking agency, such as Higher Path Treks & Expeditions, which will take care of all the necessary paperwork and ensure you have the required documentation to trek legally and safely. We will help you navigate the permit process and ensure that everything is in order, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure. With our expert support, you won’t have to worry about permits and can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the Mustang region.

Best Time for Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
The best time to undertake the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is during the festival itself, which typically takes place in May. This is the perfect time to experience the cultural vibrancy of the festival, as well as to explore the stunning landscapes of Upper Mustang. The weather in May is generally mild and clear, with sunny days and cool nights, making it ideal for trekking. This time of year offers the best balance between favorable weather conditions and the opportunity to witness the traditional rituals of the Tiji Festival.

While May is the primary season for trekking to Mustang for the festival, the months of March to June and September to November are also good times to visit the region. Spring (March to May) offers pleasant temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies, making it a lovely time for trekking. Autumn (September to November) is also an excellent season, with stable weather and spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. The winter months (December to February) are colder and can bring snowfall, especially in higher altitudes, making trekking more challenging. The summer months (June to August) coincide with the monsoon season, which brings heavy rains and increases the risk of landslides, making trekking during this time less ideal.

Mustang Tiji Festival Trekking Difficulty
The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, suitable for trekkers with a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trail takes you through diverse terrain, from lower-altitude villages and forests to the dry, barren landscapes of Upper Mustang, with altitudes reaching around 3,800 meters in Lo Manthang. Trekking in this region requires stamina and the ability to cope with some altitude, though the gradual ascent helps minimize the risks of altitude sickness.

The trek involves walking for several hours each day, often on rocky, dusty trails and through remote villages. While the terrain is relatively less difficult compared to some of the higher Himalayan treks, the harsh weather and high-altitude environment of Upper Mustang can present challenges. Trekking through an arid, wind-swept landscape adds to the physical demands of the journey. However, with proper acclimatization and preparation, the trek is manageable for most trekkers who are reasonably fit. The cultural rewards, the opportunity to witness the Tiji Festival, and the stunning beauty of the Mustang region make this trek a worthwhile challenge for those seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.

Why Choose Us – Higher Path Treks & Expeditions
At Higher Path Treks & Expeditions, we specialize in providing expert-guided treks to some of Nepal’s most beautiful and culturally rich destinations, including the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek. Our team of experienced guides and staff is dedicated to ensuring that your journey is safe, comfortable, and enriching. We provide full logistical support, from securing your permits to organizing your accommodations and meals. Our guides are not only knowledgeable about the region’s terrain and trekking routes but are also deeply familiar with the local cultures, traditions, and spiritual significance of the Tiji Festival.

We take pride in offering personalized, high-quality service, tailoring each trek to meet the specific needs and preferences of our clients. Our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism ensures that your visit to Mustang helps support local communities and preserves the environment. We focus on providing a balance between adventure and cultural immersion, allowing you to experience the best of Nepal’s natural beauty and ancient traditions. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, Higher Path Treks & Expeditions offers a seamless and unforgettable journey to witness the Tiji Festival, one of Nepal’s most colorful and sacred celebrations, while exploring the hidden gems of the Mustang region.

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Higher Path Treks & Expeditions will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You’ll have time to rest and relax after your flight. Later in the evening, your trek leader will give you a briefing about the upcoming trek and the Tiji Festival. If you have any questions, this is the perfect opportunity to ask.

After breakfast, you'll head to the airport for a short flight (20 minutes) or take a scenic 6-hour drive to Pokhara. If you choose to fly, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Himalayan range. Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city, will be your base for a night of relaxation before heading further into the Mustang region. You’ll have time to explore Pokhara’s famous sights such as Phewa Lake, the World Peace Pagoda, or the bustling Lakeside area.

Today’s drive takes you along the Kali Gandaki River, passing through charming villages and terraced fields. The scenic 5-hour journey leads you to Tatopani, a town famous for its natural hot springs. After a long drive, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and soak in the therapeutic hot springs, easing any fatigue from the journey. Tatopani is a peaceful village that serves as a perfect place to unwind before the trek continues.

Today, you will continue your journey with a jeep ride to Kagbeni. On the way, you will stop at Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters, Muktinath offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. From there, you'll continue your journey to Kagbeni, a traditional village located at the gateway to Upper Mustang. The village is known for its ancient monasteries, traditional houses, and the vibrant culture of the local people.

Today’s drive takes you deeper into the Mustang region, with spectacular views of the barren landscape and majestic mountains. After a 5-hour drive, you will reach Charang, a village located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. Charang is known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The village serves as a great vantage point for views of the surrounding peaks. You will spend the night here in preparation for the upcoming festival days.

Today, you will drive to Lomanthang, the capital of the Mustang region, and the heart of the Tiji Festival. The drive offers some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Mustang Valley. Upon arrival in Lomanthang, you will witness the vibrant and colorful celebrations of the Tiji Festival. The festival is a traditional three-day event that celebrates the victory of good over evil through dances, prayers, and rituals performed by monks in the local monastery. This is a truly unique cultural experience that showcases the deep spiritual and cultural heritage of the Mustang people.

On the second day of the Tiji Festival, the celebrations continue with more traditional dances and ceremonies. You will have the chance to observe various ritualistic dances, which are performed by monks dressed in elaborate costumes and masks. The air will be filled with the sounds of drums and traditional instruments as locals and visitors come together to celebrate. It is a vibrant and spiritually uplifting day that provides insight into the rich cultural and religious practices of the Mustang people.

The final day of the Tiji Festival brings the most dramatic and powerful ceremonies, marking the culmination of the event. The monks perform the “Chhewar Dance,” which is believed to drive away evil spirits and bring peace and prosperity to the region. This day is the most sacred and emotional for the locals, as it signifies the triumph of good over evil. As you witness the colorful and intense celebrations, you will feel the deep spiritual energy that fills the air. After the festivities, you will have time to relax and enjoy the beauty of Lomanthang.

After the conclusion of the festival, you will drive back to Jomsom, a bustling town in the Kali Gandaki Valley. The 5-6 hour drive offers a chance to reflect on the amazing experiences of the past few days as you make your way through remote villages and rugged terrain. Once in Jomsom, you’ll have time to explore the town or simply relax. The town is known for its apple orchards and stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountain ranges.

Today, you will embark on a scenic drive back to Pokhara. The 7-8 hour journey will take you through varied landscapes, including terraced fields, deep valleys, and forested areas. You will also pass through several villages, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel, and the rest of the evening is free for you to relax or explore the lakeside area.

After breakfast, you can choose to either fly (25 minutes) or drive (6 hours) back to Kathmandu. If you opt for the scenic flight, you will get one last aerial view of the Himalayas as you approach the capital. Once in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You will have the afternoon to explore any remaining sights or do some last-minute shopping. In the evening, Higher Path Treks & Expeditions will host a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your trek and Tiji Festival experience.

This day is reserved as a buffer day, giving you extra time in Kathmandu to explore more of the city or relax before your departure. You can visit famous landmarks like the Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, or Pashupatinath Temple, or simply enjoy the local markets. If your travel plans are unaffected, you can use this day for shopping or enjoying the local cuisine.

On your final day, Higher Path Treks & Expeditions will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. You’ll leave Nepal with incredible memories from your trek and the vibrant Tiji Festival experience. Safe travels!

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Includes

  • Kathmandu Airport pickup and drop 
  • 2 night Hotel in Kathmandu 3 start hotel with breakfast 
  • Kathmandu to Mustang-Kathmandu private jeep 
  • 3 time meal and accommodation during the trek 
  • English speaking experience guide 
  • Annapurna conservation trekking permit conservation trekking permit 
  • Mustang restricted special permit 
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on the trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason) money is not refund

Doesn't Include

  • personal trekking gear 
  • extra night hotel in Kathmandu 
  • trips for guide and porter 
Why Book with Us?
  • Excellent customer service. Our travel experts are ready to help you 24/7.
  • Best price guaranteed.
  • No credit card or booking fees.
  • 100% financial protection.
  • Environmentally-friendly tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is a unique and culturally rich trekking experience that combines adventure with the celebration of one of Nepal’s most colorful and vibrant festivals—the Tiji Festival. Held annually in the forbidden kingdom of Upper Mustang, the Tiji Festival is a traditional Tibetan Buddhist celebration that marks the triumph of good over evil. This trek takes you through the rugged landscapes of the Mustang region, offering spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, ancient monasteries, and traditional Tibetan culture, all while giving you the chance to experience this fascinating cultural event.

The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek stands out because it provides a rare opportunity to witness one of the most significant and lively festivals in the region. The festival features ancient rituals, colorful dances, and prayers to expel evil spirits and bring good fortune. Held in the remote and restricted area of Upper Mustang, the trek offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Aside from the festival, trekkers will also have the chance to explore the unique walled city of Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries, and caves carved into cliffs, all while being surrounded by a dramatic, desert-like landscape that’s unlike any other region in Nepal.

The Tiji Festival takes place annually in the month of May, typically during the 3rd month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. The dates may vary slightly each year, but it generally lasts for three days. The festival is celebrated in the village of Lo Manthang, the capital of the Upper Mustang region. The timing of the trek is planned to coincide with the festival, ensuring you experience the event in its full cultural glory.

The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is considered a moderate trek, though it does have some challenging aspects due to the high-altitude conditions and rugged terrain. The highest point on the trek is Lo Manthang, at about 3,840 meters (12,600 feet), and altitude acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. The trails are mostly well-maintained, but some sections can be rocky or steep. The trek doesn’t require technical climbing skills, but trekkers should be in good physical shape and prepared for the challenges of trekking at high altitudes. The experienced guides from Higher Path Treks & Expeditions will ensure proper acclimatization and safety throughout the journey.

The trek to the Mustang Tiji Festival typically takes around 12 to 14 days, depending on the itinerary and pace. This includes a few days for acclimatization and exploring the festival. The journey starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a drive to the trek starting point. The trek itself takes you through traditional villages, monasteries, and stunning landscapes, with the final destination being Lo Manthang, where the Tiji Festival takes place. Higher Path Treks & Expeditions can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences and make sure you have enough time to enjoy both the festival and the surrounding landscapes.

The Tiji Festival is a deeply spiritual event that celebrates the legend of a young deity, Dorje Jono, who defeated his evil father to restore peace and harmony to the land. The festival is marked by traditional Tibetan Buddhist rituals, including masked dances, music, prayers, and offerings. These ceremonies take place at the Tashi Kyil Monastery in Lo Manthang and are an exciting and colorful spectacle. The festival's unique blend of culture, history, and vibrant celebrations offers trekkers a rare and authentic experience of Tibetan culture. Higher Path Treks & Expeditions ensures you have the opportunity to witness and immerse yourself in the full festival experience.

Yes, you will need a licensed guide and specific permits for the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek. Upper Mustang is a restricted area, and all trekkers must obtain the Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Additionally, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A licensed trekking guide is mandatory to ensure safety and to navigate the remote areas. Higher Path Treks & Expeditions will handle all the logistics, including permits and necessary documentation, so you can focus on enjoying the trek and the festival.

Accommodation along the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is basic but comfortable. Most nights are spent in traditional teahouses or guesthouses along the trail, with simple rooms equipped with beds and blankets. The facilities are typically shared, and in the more remote areas, the comfort level may be more rustic. In Lo Manthang, where the Tiji Festival takes place, there are slightly better accommodations, but they are still basic compared to urban standards. Higher Path Treks & Expeditions carefully selects accommodations to ensure safety, cleanliness, and comfort for all trekkers.

During the trek, the food is typically simple but nutritious. You will find a variety of local Tibetan and Nepali dishes, including dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodle soups, and Tibetan bread. In higher-altitude areas, food options may be more limited, but vegetarian meals are usually available. For those preferring Western-style meals, items such as pasta, fried rice, and pancakes are often on offer. It’s advisable to stick to vegetarian meals in the higher regions to minimize the risk of stomach issues. Higher Path Treks & Expeditions ensures that all meals are prepared hygienically and made with fresh ingredients.

Yes, the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is generally safe, but as with any high-altitude trek, trekkers must follow proper acclimatization procedures to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. The trails are well-marked, and the region is peaceful, with a welcoming local population. Higher Path Treks & Expeditions provides licensed and experienced guides who are trained in first aid and mountain safety. We take every precaution to ensure your safety during the trek, including proper acclimatization, ensuring that you trek at a comfortable pace, and providing support if any health issues arise.

Due to the remote nature of the Mustang region, internet and phone signals may be limited. In Lo Manthang, you may find some areas with basic mobile network coverage or Wi-Fi in a few teahouses, but the connections can be slow and unreliable. This trek offers a great chance to disconnect from daily life and immerse yourself in the surroundings. However, Higher Path Treks & Expeditions can arrange satellite phone access in case of emergency or for critical communication.

For the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek, it is essential to pack warm clothing, even during the spring months, as temperatures can drop significantly at night and at higher altitudes. Essential items include a down jacket, trekking boots, gloves, a hat, a rain jacket, and trekking poles. Don’t forget sunscreen, a camera to capture the festival and landscapes, and any personal medications you might need. Higher Path Treks & Expeditions provides a detailed packing list and offers assistance with renting any necessary gear.

Booking the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek with Higher Path Treks & Expeditions is easy. You can contact us via our website, email, or phone, and our team will work with you to create a customized itinerary that suits your preferences and trekking experience. We’ll handle all the logistics, including permits, accommodations, and transportation, so you can focus on enjoying the trek and the festival.

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