Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Tour overview
The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival tour is an extraordinary cultural and spiritual experience set in the last forbidden kingdom of mustang, Nepal. This three-days festival deeply rooted with Tibetan Buddhism. It offers a rare opportunity to witness the rich traditions of lo-pa people, who have preserved their unique culture, way of life for centuries. Tiji festival is an annual event to observe the ancient rituals, masked dances and spiritual ceremonies. Experience the mystical Tiji festival in upper mustang, Nepal once in a lifetime.
What is the Tiji Festival?
Tiji is the main festival of mustang, celebrates in the walled city of Lo Manthang by local Loba people. Tiji festival, known as “Tenchi” or “Tempa Chirim” is a sacred festival that signifies the victory of good over evil spirits. The ritualistic dance and drama of Tiji festival tells the story about the deity named Dorje Jono (Vajrakila), who battles against his demon father to save the kingdom of mustang from destruction and suffering.
During the celebration monks wear elaborate costumes and masks, chant mantras, play horns, drums and perform the Vajrakila as per mythology and spiritual energy (Tantras). The main festival is held in the courtyard of royal palace and second in Chode Monastery, where locals and visitors gather to witness the mesmerizing dances, rituals, and prayers. Local believe that Tenchi celebration is for blessings, purification, renewal, it brings peace and ensure prosperity in the community.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Tour Highlights
# Explore the medieval wall city, interact with local, experience their hospitality and enjoy traditional cuisine of mustang.
# Enjoy the series of masked dances performed by the monks of chode monastery wearing colorful costumes.
# Participate in spiritual ambiance created by the chanting of prayers, performance of religious rituals and sacred dances.
# Enjoy wonderful drive in mountain roads, pass through arid terrain, colorful rock formations picturesque villages, cave dwellings and stunning views of the Himalayas.
# Explore ancient sky caves, monasteries adorned with intricate murals and statues, Chortens (stupas) and traditional villages along the way.
# Witness three days of ritual performances and cultural celebrations in the royal courtyard.
# Discover the sacred Buddhist rituals, history, culture and receive blessings from high-ranking monks.
Tiji Festival Dates
Tiji festival is based on the Tibetan lunar calendar and is usually falls in May. It is an ideal time to visit upper mustang because the weather generally pleasant, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Teji celebration dates from 2026 to 2028 given below to book the trip in advance.
* Tiji Festival 2026 (14th, 15th and 16th May)
* Tiji Festival 2027 (1st, 2nd and 3rd June)
* Tiji Festival 2028 (21st, 22th and 23th May)
Upper mustang Tiji festival tour offers a rare opportunity to witness the living traditions of indigenous lo-pa people. The festival is a window into their spiritual beliefs, artistic expressions and communal values.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Tour itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal
Day 2: Drive to Pokhara 822 meters / 2,697 feet
Day 3: Drive to Kagbeni 2800 meters / 9185 feet
Day 4: Drive to Samar 3660 meters / 12008 feet with Muktinath temple
Day 5: Drive to Lo Manthang 3840 meters / 12598 feet
Day 6: First day of Tiji Festival (opening ceremony)
Opening ceremony of Tiji festival known as “Tsa” is dedicated to the introduction of story and the beginning of rituals. Monks unveil ancient thangka paintings into the wall, prayers, chants and rhythmic beats of traditional instruments create the spiritual atmosphere. The main square of Lo-Manthang is filled with the sounds of traditional Tibetan instruments like drums, cymbals, and long horns.
The monks’ chants mantra, perform ritual mask dance to chase away of evil spirits. These dances depict the story of central figure of festival “Dorje Jono’s” battle with the demon. Locals and visitors gather in the royal palace courtyard, wearing traditional attire and enjoy the spiritual energy of the festival.
Day 7: Second day of Tiji Festival celebration at Lo Manthang
The second day known as “Nga” is a most intense and dramatic part of Tiji Festival. It features different dances, battle between good and evil, offerings and purification. It includes more energetic and aggressive masked dances with weapons and animal forms. A straw effigy, represent the demon, is brought out and finally banish, symbolize the defeat of evil. The presence of mustang king in festival is the climax of the day. It is visually stunning and spiritually insightful that draw large crowds of locals and tourists alike.
The rituals, prayers and performance of monks ensure festive atmosphere. It helps to purify the land, bring peace, harmony, prosperity and protection to the community.
Day 8: Third & final day of Tiji Festival
The final day known as “Rha” is to purify the region and its inhabitants from negative energy. Monks wear elaborate masks and crowns, representing both deities and demons. They perform the last dance, final prayers, offerings for deities. Final day concludes with shooting of guns and symbolic destruction of Torma (butter cake effigy of the demon). After demon defeated and balance restored, the community comes together to celebrate and express gratitude.
This three-days festival, steeped in mythology, tradition, rituals and spirituality. Lo-Pa people believe that the blessing purify the region and bring good fortune, peace and harmony to the community.
Day 9: Drive to Luri Gumba explore around and back to Chhusang 3040 meters / 9974 feet
Day 10: Drive to Pokhara and flight back to Kathmandu
Day 11: Transfer to the airport for departure from Kathmandu
Mustang Tiji Festival tour cost: US$ 2195 Per person
Service inclusion
# Airports pick up on arrival day by private vehicle
# 2-nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu BB as per deal
# Ground Transportation from Kathmandu to Mustang to Pokhara by jeep
# 1-night hotel accommodation in Pokhara BB as per package
# 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) + 3 cups of hot drink each day on choice
# Best accommodation at teahouses or lodges as per travel schedule
# Domestic Flights from Pokhara to Kathmandu (one way after tour)
# English speaking local guide knowledgeable about the region and Festival
# All necessary permits (RAP, ACAP), festival entry tickets and local taxes
# Airport transfer by private vehicle to back home
Why Join the Tiji Festival Tour?
It is important to join mustang Tiji festival tour to experience the last remaining Tibetan festivals before disappear. It is marked by colorful masked dances, traditional music, and elaborate rituals performed by the monks of chode monastery. Take part in the spiritual and festive atmosphere, meeting monks, villagers, and travelers from around the world in Lo Manthang. Experience medieval culture, unique landscapes, and traditional lifestyle of Himalayan kingdom. Tiji Festival is a popular, colorful and spiritual event, create an aura of spiritual energy and positivity.
Generally, mustang Tiji festival tour begins with drive or scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Jomsom. Then driving route follow the ancient salt trading route along Kaligandaki river to reach the walled capital of mustang. Interact with local, experience their way of life, learn about their traditions, customs and deep-rooted faith. Discover the magic of upper mustang region is characterized by its arid desert-like terrain, dramatic cliffs and ancient cave dwellings.
Trip Cost overview
Mystical Tiji festival in upper mustang is one of the most significant events in Tibetan Buddhism. The Mustang Tiji Festival tour price can vary widely. It depends on the level of service, group size and duration of tour. Generally, full board package cost range from 2,195 to 4,500 per person. This journey to Lo Manthang takes you through picturesque villages, lush valleys, and rugged terrain, offer stunning views at every turn.
Upper Mustang Tiji festival is an opportunity for the local to come together, strengthen their bonds, and pass down traditions to new generation.
Permits and Tips
Upper mustang is a restricted area, require special permits to visit. Restricted area permit fee is US$ 500 per person for first 10 days. Beside that ACAP permit (US$30) also essential to explore this area. Local charge photography and videography camera fee during the festival. Hotel of upper mustang increase the room rate and make double or triple than regular rate in festival time. Plan your trip carrying extra budget with destination expert to get the recent updates.
A Rare Cultural Experience
Tiji festival of mustang is a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. It provides an opportunity to witness ancient traditions, explore breathtaking landscapes, and connect with the unique spirit of the Himalayas.
Mustang Tiji festival tour typically lasts within 10 to 12 days, including acclimatization, exploration, and festival participation. Upper mustang is a high-altitude region, so it’s important to acclimatize properly to enjoy the stunning landscapes and festival in optimum level.
Upper mustang Tiji festival tour is a journey of discovery the culture, spirituality and natural wonders. This trip takes you into the heart of unique and preserved cultures in the world. The vibrant festival and mesmerizing landscapes in the destination of dream for explorers, bloggers, photographers and videographers. Embark on the Tiji festival tour to witness the magic of upper mustang and its timeless traditions.