Mustang Tiji Festival - 17 Days

  • Duration:18 Days
  • Destination:Nepal
  • Trip Grade: Moderate
  • Max. Altitude: 3810
  • Starts at: Kathmandu
  • Ends at: Kathmandu
  • Best Time: March-May & September-November
Highlights
  • Mini Tibet in Nepal
  • History of Nepal
  • Witness the majestic panorama of Annapurna I (8091m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) on the trek
  • Enjoy trekking in one of the restricted areas of northern Nepal
  • Observe the grand festival of Tiji with the locals
  • Explore the historic land of Lo Manthang and its numerous attractions
  • Natural & Cultural Biodiversity

Mustang Tiji Festival celebrates the grand festival for locals and tourists who love and respect the culture. mustang is known as Mini Tibet in Nepal. Endemic to the Upper Mustang region of Nepal, the 3-days long masked-dance festival marks the victory of good over evil. It is held inside Lo-Manthang every year during mid-May and is marked by traditional dances, masked ceremonies, hymns, and numerous cultural performances.

 Mustang Trek takes the trails along with the barren lands of the Upper Mustang. While offering views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tibetan Himalayas on the horizon. Mustang is known as Behind the Mountains. This is the fact every year thousands of Tourists visit the Mustang.

The Upper Mustang Trek commences upon your arrival in Kathmandu Nepal.  Our journey starts to drive to Pokhara and catch a short flight to Jomsom.

Your trek at Jomsom and gradually advance into the Kali Gandaki Valley. You walk through the scenic Tibetan-styled villages of Chele, Ghami, and Charang and arrive at Lo Manthang. The festival of Tiji is held inside Lo Manthang in mid-May. You will spend 3 days at Lo Manthang to observe the Tiji festival.

This festival reflects the legend of a mythical hero called Dorje Jono. Who freed the world from the chaos of evil. Dances performed on each of the last three days of this festival revolve around the glorious feats of Dorje Jono. As well, the rituals also pray for world peace and harmony. Explore other esteemed destinations in Lo-Manthang as well. Afterward, you’ll retrace your path and turn back to Jomsom.

You should try the local brandy ‘Marpha,’ made from fresh local apples. Mustang Trek is accessible throughout the year. To observe the Tiji festival you must consider trekking during April and May. Which is the best time for exploring the Tiji Festival?

Tiji Festival navigates around the arid lands of Upper Mustang. For such an adventure, you need expert guidance and assistance.  Ace Vision Treks & Tours, make sure that your trip to Upper Mustang is worth your while.

A reliable Tour Trekking Company offers various transportation, guides, and accommodation, to suit your travel needs. Let us know about your time and customize your trip to Nepal. We plan a faithful and memorable trip to Nepal. We are experienced in the Mustang region trekking in Nepal.

Why Bookking Mustang Tiji Festival Trip with Ace Vision Treks?

  • Expertise Teams
  • Private Tours
  • Comprehensive Trip Briefing 
  • 24/7 Client Support 
  • Complimentary Private Airport Transfer
  • Trekking Equipments
  • Easy Trip Booking System 

Mustang Tiji Festival Cost for 2026

The reliable Tour Trekking Company offers tailor-made trek itineraries and packages. Which is comfortable, and hiking in the Himalayas at your own pace. Ace Vision Treks trekking itinerary, the cost starts from USD 2594 to 1680. 

Nu. of PaxMustang Tiji Festival CostBookking
12594Custom-Booking
2-31779

Custom Booking

4-61680Custom-Booking

Have a questions about Cost & Booking? Ace Vision Treks team quick response your  email and what's app, Contact us

Itinerary

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will warmly receive you at the airport and bring you to your hotel. You’ll meet the trek guide and discuss the trip in detail. Afterward, you can choose to relax or go out to take a stroll in the nearby market.

  • Max. Altitude:1, 300m.
  • Accommodation:Hotel

You’ll start early today. After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic road journey west of Kathmandu to the touristic city of Pokhara. The 200km journey may take 6hr to complete and goes through the Prithvi Highway along the massive Trishuli River. Once at Pokhara, you’ll be escorted to your hotel.

  • Max. Altitude:820m.
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast

After early breakfast at the hotel, you’ll embark on a short trans-Himalayan flight to Jomsom (2, 720m.). The flight will take you over the pristine Annapurna Himalayas and to the other side of Jomsom. Do not forget to grab a window seat so you can enjoy this beautiful scenery. Jomsom, also known as the ‘windy city of Nepal’, serves as the headquarters of the Mustang district. From here, you’ll gradually trek through the Kali Gandaki valley to reach Kagbeni.

  • Max. Altitude:2, 810m.
  • Time:3-4 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Kagbeni is the official gateway to Upper Mustang which is evident from the location of the village. Leaving Kagbeni, the trek gradually advances along the steep cliffs onto the eastern side of the Kali Gandaki valley. You’ll find numerous tiny villages en route comprising of lush fields of wheat, barley, and buckwheat. You will cross Tangbe and Chhusang villages before arriving at Chele.

  • Max. Altitude:3,050m.
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Cave You’ll encounter multiple detours while crossing the Kali Gandaki Valley. You’ll pass along the large, colorful rock canyons that are home to man-made ‘sky caves’ built centuries ago and are believed to have been built as burial sites and war shelters. You’ll also pass along the Rachung Cave en route which is one of the highlights of the trek. Along the way, you can enjoy the majestic panorama of the Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Tilicho ranges before arriving at Shyangbochen.

  • Max. Altitude:3,800m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Leaving Shyangbochen, you’ll trek to Dhakmar village. The trail en route is really windy, hence, you’ll take numerous stops to avoid the high winds during the noon. You will pass the Nyi La Pass (4010m) to descend and reach Ghami. Thereon, the trail goes past numerous monasteries as you head north. After a few minor detours, you’ll arrive at Dhakmar.

  • Max. Altitude:3, 820m.
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Leaving Dhakmar, the trail advances to Lo Manthang. To add fun to the trek, you’ll take another route and make a stop at Ghar Gompa. Ghar Gumba or Lo Gekar Monastery is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the world. It was built around the 7th century by the incarnated Saint Padmasanbhava before leaving for Tibet. From Ghar Gumba, you’ll make your way toward Lo Manthang. Lo was the capital of the Mustang kingdom before the entire region was annexed by Nepal in the 18th Century.

  • Max. Altitude:3, 810m.
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The celebration of Tiji begins in the early afternoon. The crowds are invited with the loud blurts of the Tibetan horns, Dhungchen. An enormous Thangka (painting) depicting the imagery of Padmasanbhava or Guru Rinpoche is hung on the southern wall of the square. The dance commences only in the evening when all the local authority takes their place. The masked dance depicts the age-old myth based on the life of Dorje Jono, a supreme force who repealed all the demons from Earth.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The second day of the festival is known to be more vibrant. Female performers come out in their traditional attire and jewelry. The dance continues the tale of ancient myths and the battle between the mighty force and the demons. The dancers in disguise as animals accompany the dancers. While dancing, the dancers perform various rituals to pray for the beginning of the monsoon.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The third day also marks the end of the Tiji festival. It generally ends with ceremonial music and the portrayal of the demise of the demon in dramatic dance form. More music, dance, and shooting guns accompany the last day of the festival. The rituals on the final day also include setting an old Tiger skin on fire before dispersing the remains. As the Tiji festival ends, you can visit the nearby Namgyal Gompa and Thinggar.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The trail ascends steadily to the pass marked by a cairn, offering a last glimpse of Lo Manthang. A lengthy rocky descent will follow until you reach Lo Gekar. From here, you’ll cross the Mui La Pass (4170m). Reaching Dhakmar, the trail leaves this Buddhist village through a series of monasteries. The trail descends and then climbs a ridge to reach Ghami.

  • Max. Altitude:3, 520m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Leaving Ghami, you’ll make your way toward Samar. An early morning trek will pass along the canyon and stone walls. Crossing the Ghami La Pass (3765m), the trek continues along the barren trails to reach Jhaite. Passing Tamagaon and Shyangbochen, the trail leads you to Bhena. You’ll pass through a few small settlements before arriving at Samar village.

  • Max. Altitude:3, 660m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Leaving Samar, you’ll re-enter the Kali Gandaki valley and head to Kagbeni village. It may take longer than usual to arrive at Kagbeni as you push your way through the rugged trail. You will encounter high sand hills and cliffs en route to Kagbeni. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River on the final moments of the trek.

  • Max. Altitude:2, 810m.
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, you’ll leave Kagbeni and trek to Jomsom. The trek concedes at Jomsom and goes along the Kali Gandaki River. The last part of the trek offers the beautiful sights of Annapurna I (8091m), Nilgiri (7061m), and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m). Once at Jomsom, you can explore the city and enjoy the local apple alcohol called ‘Marpha’.

  • Max. Altitude:2, 720m.
  • Time:3-4 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, you’ll catch your flight back to Pokhara. En route, you will get to see some extraordinary sights of the Annapurna, Lamjung, and Nilgiri Himalayan ranges, along with Mt. Machhapuchhre (6993m). To enjoy the success of the trek, you can choose to take a short tour of the city and indulge in fun activities including boating and cycling. Phewa Lake and Lakeside offer lively nights to participate in.

  • Max. Altitude:820m.
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast

Today, you’ll bid farewell to Pokhara and make your way back to Kathmandu. You’ll embark on a tourist bus and drive along the Trishuli River to arrive at Kathmandu. The ride may last anywhere from 6-7 hours. In Kathmandu, you head back to your hotel and rest. As this day is your final one in Nepal, you can head to the local streets and shop for gifts and souvenirs.

  • Max. Altitude:1,300m.
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast

After concluding one of the most esteemed treks in Nepal, you will prepare to leave Nepal and head to your destination. Ace Vision Treks company representative accompany you to the airport and help you with any remaining formalities.

    Cost Details
    What is Included
    • Kathmandu International Airport Pick up and Drop by private vehicle
    • 3*** Hotel 2 Nights Deluxe Accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan
    • 2-night deluxe Accommodations in Pokhara with B.B. plan
    • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist Bus (let us know about Private vehicles and Flights)
    • Pokhara-Jomsom-Pokhara Flights
    • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trekking
    • Lodge or Tea House accommodations during the trek
    • Upper Mustang Restrict area permits
    • Annapurna Conservation Area entry permits
    • An experienced English-speaking trekking guide
    • Staff food, accommodation, salary & insurance
    • All governmental procedure
    What is not Included
    • Your Nepal visa.
    • Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, Water, laundry, Wifi
    • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
    • Personal trekking Equipment
    • Tips for trekking crews
    • Entrance fees for Visit Monastery in Upper Mustang
    • You will require 2 passport size photos
    • Any other expenses which are not mentioned on the price include sections
    Add-ons & Options

    What are add-ons?

    The add-on is a service option that you can choose based on your own interest.

    • Flights: Kathmandu to Pokhara flight duration is 30 minutes, but the tourist bus takes 7-8 hours, and a private vehicle takes 5-6 hours.

    Departure Dates

    Trip Dates
    Price
    Availability
    Space Left
     
    Trip DateMay 07, 2026 - May 24, 2026
    PriceUS$0
    AvailabilityGuaranteed
    Space Left
    Useful Information

    Is season-wise the best time to explore Mustang Tiji festival?

    The tiji festival falls on the spring months of May 14, 15, and 16. The Month of May is best season for Nepal trekking, and especially Upper Mustang. Your unforgettable journey to Mustang's festival, every traveler loves to explore and enjoy the unique festival.

    During the Tiji festival, traditional dance performances, as well, Chode Monastery, offer several rituals. Are you travelling to Nepal in May? Ace Vision Treks highly recommends planning to visit Musang in the 2nd week of May. You learn Nepal's history, culture, and festivals. The spring season is known for blooming flowers, buds of plants, and the spectacular beauty of nature on your way to Upper Mustang.

    What types of Meals are served during the Tiji Festival in Mustang?

    The Mustang region is well-known for tourist destinations. Mustang trekking routes local tea houses serve various meal options like Nepalese cuisine, Dal Bhat, potato dishes, etc. Nepali food dal bhat includes lentil soup helps you maintain a healthy diet.

    What are breakfast options on Mustang?

    In Upper Mustang Trekking trails, tea house offers Tibetan Bread, known as(Sherpa and Gurung), Pancakes, Chapatti, Porridge, and muesli. As well, boiled eggs, scrambled, omelet, etc, with hot drinks (tea, coffee).

    What are the Lunch options during the Upper Mustang journey?

    The lunch time is at least 1 hour, if you are in a group, the team leader (Trek guide) chooses the meals for you. Which is easy and quick. Lunch dish options are Noodle soup (thukpa), Dal Bhat, macaroni, fried potato, spaghetti, fried rice, etc.

    Can I choose my meals for Dinner?

    Yes, you choose your dinner from the menu. The Tea House Menu includes Dal Bhat, MoMo (dumplings), fried potatoes, spring rolls, Pizza, Ramen noodles, etc., and, of course, Ace Vision Treks team provides dessert. Our team serves you seasonal fruits like apples, oranges, and pomegranates.

    How hard to get Accommodation in Lo-manthang during Tiji Festival?

    The Tiji festival is celebrated in Lo-manthang, so we have to book hotel rooms in advance. Most local teahouse rooms are designed for twin-sharing basis. Solo travelers should pay for a double supplement, for example: 1 room costs 2000 per person is 1000. This accommodation happened only during Tiji festivals.

    Some of the local teahouses have attached restrooms with sinks along the Upper Mustang trekking routes. Ace Vision Treks is well-known for the Mustang trails. Book your Mustang trek with us, we provide unique services for our valuable clients.

    How Hard is the Mustang journey, even the Tiji Festival?

    The Upper Mustang trail is easy to moderate difficulty level. Because of the road and elevation-wise, the Mustang journey is easy to moderate. If you are planning for completly walking/hike! Your physical condition is very important for the excursion.

    The Upper Mustang journey is acceptable for all level travelers in terms of height. The Mustang Journey passes Natural caves, Monasteries, Gompas, and praying wheels. Are you a history and cultural lover, hiker? So, the Ace Vision Treks Package Upper Mustang tiji festival trekking is for you.

    Is Travel Insurance necessary for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival?

    Yes, we highly recommend buying travel insurance because of accidents, lost baggage, liability, and sudden cancellation of the trip. As well, an emergency evacuation for the Himalayas.

    You are going to participate in Tiji festival, which is spiritual. During the festivals, the flow of travelers and locals is high, in case you lose your things, you can claim the travel insurance.

    What are equipment list for the Mustang trip?

    Upper Mustang is well-known for famous trekking trail, we ensure that you have the necessary trekking gear. Remember that you have to carry relevant documents, and prohibited items.

    Which things are most important?

    Clothing

    Base Layer (Inner Layer):

    • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (2 sets)
    • Synthetic or merino wool underwear

    Mid Layer (Insulation):

    • Fleece or wool jacket
    • Lightweight down or synthetic jacket

    Outer Layer (Shell):

    • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
    • Waterproof trekking pants

    Trekking Clothes:

    • Quick-dry trekking shirts (2–3)
    • Trekking pants (2 pairs)
    • Shorts (optional for lower altitudes)
    • Warm hat/beanie
    • Sun hat or cap
    • Buff or neck gaiter
    • Gloves (inner and insulated outer gloves)

    ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Footwear

    • Trekking boots (waterproof and broken in)
    • Camp shoes or sandals (for evenings & Shower)
    • Trekking socks (3–4 pairs, wool or synthetic)
    • Gaiters (for snow or dust protection)

    ๐ŸŽ’ Backpacks

    • Main backpack (50–65L) for porters or self-carry
    • Daypack (20–30L) for daily essential
    • Rain cover for both packs

    ๐Ÿ•๏ธ Sleeping & Camping

    • Sleeping bag (-20°C for autumn, -10°C for spring and summer season)
    • Sleeping bag liner (opt)
    • Pillowcase or small travel pillow (opt)

    ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ Accessories

    • Sunglasses
    • Trekking poles (collapsible, shock-absorbing)
    • Headlamp with extra batteries
    • Water bottles (1L x 2) or hydration bladder (2–3L)
    • Water purification tablets or filter
    • Quick-dry towel
    • Camera or phone with power bank

    ๐Ÿงด Personal & Toiletries

    • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
    • Lip balm with SPF
    • Wet wipes, tissue paper
    • Hand sanitizer
    • Toothbrush and toothpaste
    • Soap/shampoo (biodegradable)
    • Nail clipper and small mirror

    ๐Ÿ’Š First Aid & Medications

    • Personal first aid kit (bandages, tape, blister plasters)
    • Painkillers and anti-inflammatory meds
    • Antiseptic cream
    • Rehydration salts
    • Prescribed medications

    โšก Optional things:

    • Lightweight book
    • Snacks, bars
    • Travel documents
    • Cash (Nepali rupees)

    Why Ace Vision Treks for your Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trip?

    Ace Vision is a trustworthy company, propitiate for safety and security to secure the trip. Travelling in Nepal with us for hassle-free, comfortable, transparent, tailor-made trips, etc.

    Our teams are helpful, expert, honest, and cooperative, provide first aid training, and encourage and inspire you. As well, choose the clean teahouses, and advice for hygienic meals. If travelers are getting sick or ill along the hiking trail, the trek/tour guide is advised of the best options, and what services are available in the Himalayas?

    Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trip Booking Procedure for 2026

    Ace Vision Treks is a Government-authorized trek and tour operator based in Kathmandu Nepal. We are authorized by Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Rasta Bank, Company Register, and Kathmandu Metropolitan. As a result, you confidently booked the Mustang tiji festival package with us.

    To book the trip, deposit 20% of the total cost via our website. If your trip is a tailor-made package and itinerary, click the Custom-Booking. Please send us your passport copies, arrival and departure flight information, … Airlines, and flight number.

    Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek itinerary for 2026

    07 May 2026: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m/ 4593ft)
    08 May 2026: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara  (822m/ 2696ft)
    09 May 2026: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni 2, 810m. 
    10 May 2026: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele 3,050m.
    11 May 2026: Trek from Chele to Shyangbochen via Rachung 3,800m.
    12 May 2026: Trek from Shyangbochen to Dhakmar 3, 820m.
    13 May 2026: Trek from Dhakmar to Lo-Manthang via Ghar Gompa 3, 810m.
    14 May 2026: 1st Day of the Tiji Festival
    15 May 2026: Participate in the 2nd Day of Tiji Festival Celebration
    16 May 2026: Participate in 3rd or Final Day of Tiji Festival Celebration
    17 May 2026: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Ghami 3, 520m.
    18 May 2026: Trek from Ghami to Samar 3, 660m.
    19 may 2026: Trek from Samar to Kagbeni 2, 810m.
    20 May 2026: Trek from Kagbeni to Jomsom 2, 720m.
    21 May 2026: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
    22 May 2026: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
    23 May 2026: Departure from Kathmandu

     

    Similar Trips
    You May Also Like