Overview

Trip introduction

Introduction: Why Tiji Festival Is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

The Tiji Festival is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant celebrations in Nepal, held annually in Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of Upper Mustang. This three-day Tibetan Buddhist festival tells the story of Dorje Jono, a deity who saved Mustang from destruction by defeating a demon. With its dramatic masked dances, traditional rituals, and stunning Himalayan backdrop, the Tiji Festival is a rare opportunity to witness a centuries-old spiritual performance in a remote corner of the world.

In 2026, the Tiji Festival is scheduled to take place from 14th to 16th May. Mark your calendar and prepare to trek deep into the Trans-Himalayan region, where Tibetan culture thrives untouched by modern influence.

Where Is the Tiji Festival Celebrated?

The Tiji Festival is celebrated in Lo Manthang, located in Upper Mustang, a restricted area of Nepal close to the Tibetan border. Whereas, Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Mustang, sits at an altitude of around 3,800 meters and is known for its whitewashed mud-brick palaces, centuries-old monasteries, and distinct Tibetan architecture.

What Makes Tiji Festival Special?

The word “Tiji” is short for “Tenchi,” which translates to “Prayer for World Peace.” The festival showcases sacred dances known as “Cham”, performed by monks of the Chhoede Monastery in Lo Manthang. Each day of the festival represents a different act of Dorje Jono’s legendary battle:

• Day 1 (Tsa Chham): The monks perform dances depicting the beginning of evil in the region.
• Day 2 (Nga Chham): The dances portray Dorje Jono’s attempts to defeat the demon.
• Day 3 (Rha Chham): Victory is declared as the demon is banished and peace is restored.

Surrounded by ancient monasteries and chanting lamas, the atmosphere is mystical, immersive, and unforgettable.

Tiji Festival 2026 Dates (and 2027)

The Tiji Festival 2026 will be celebrated from 14th to 16th May 2026, as per the Tibetan lunar calendar. Similarly, for those planning ahead, the tentative dates for the Tiji Festival 2027 are 1st to 3rd June 2027, though the exact dates are subject to confirmation by the local monks.

👉 Bookmark this guide or follow us for the latest updates on Tiji Festival Dates.

Detailed Itinerary – Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you’ll arrive and take a day to explore iconic cultural landmarks such as Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. Afterward, a scenic flight or drive takes you to Pokhara, offering majestic views of the Annapurna range.

From Pokhara, a short flight to Jomsom kicks off the trek. Further on, you’ll start walking to Kagbeni, a windswept village that serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang. Continuing through barren cliffs and mystical valleys, you’ll pass through Chele, Syangbochen, and Ghiling, absorbing the raw beauty and distinct Tibetan culture along the way.

By Day 8 or 9, you’ll reach Lo Manthang, just in time for the opening ceremony of the Tiji Festival. Over the next three days, you’ll stay in Lo Manthang and witness each phase of the sacred masked dance. With deep chants, vibrant robes, and powerful drumbeats echoing through the Himalayan desert, the festival leaves a lasting impression on all who attend. After all, this is all about the Tiji Festival Celebration.

After the celebration, the return journey follows a different scenic route via Dhakmar and Ghami, known for red cliffs and ancient cave dwellings. Eventually, you’ll reach Jomsom and fly back to Pokhara, where a relaxing night awaits before concluding your trip in Kathmandu.

This 18-day journey is ideal for those seeking both cultural immersion and Himalayan trekking.

Permits Required for Upper Mustang Trek | Tiji Festival

As Upper Mustang is a restricted area, the following permits are essential for Upper Mustang Trekking:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP): USD 500 for 10 days
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~USD 25)
• TIMS Card: Often included with agency packages

Best Time to Trek Upper Mustang

Regarding the best time to trek, the month of May is the best time to visit Upper Mustang for the Tiji Festival. The weather is dry, skies are clear, and the trails are less affected by the monsoon. Due to Mustang’s location in the Himalayan rain shadow, it receives very little rain, making it a great trekking destination even during the summer months. Hence, it is also one of the best monsoon trekking destinations in Nepal. But since we are planning the Upper Mustang Trek to coincide with the Tiji Festival, it is better to plan during May-June.

How Difficult Is the Upper Mustang Trek?

The Upper Mustang trek is a moderately difficult trek. While you don’t need mountaineering experience, you should prepare yourself for long trekking days and high-altitude conditions. The highest elevation on the trail is around 4,200 meters, and you’ll walk for 5–7 hours daily. With proper acclimatization and support, most healthy individuals can complete the trek.

However, with access to roads for almost the entire trail of Upper Mustang Trekking, nowadays, most people prefer a Jeep Tour to Upper Mustang. This way, even those who are on short holidays can explore Upper Mustang and even the Tiji Festival Celebration.

How Much Does the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Cost?

The prices for trekking to Upper Mustang can vary depending on service level, itinerary, and group size. However, on average, the basic cost of trekking to Upper Mustang is about:

• Standard Group Trek: USD 2,000 – 2,400 per person
• Private/Customized Trek: USD 2,500 – 3,000
• Luxury Jeep Tours: USD 3,000 and above

These typically include permits, domestic flights, guides, accommodation, meals, and festival access. Nonetheless, the exact cost will depend upon your itinerary, requirement of porters, transportation uses, standard of accommodation etc. Therefore, get in touch with us for an exact quotation of Upper Mustang Trekking with Tiji Festival Celebration.

Why Trek to Upper Mustang with Nepal Mountain Trekkers?

At Nepal Mountain Trekkers, we’ve been leading treks to Upper Mustang and the Tiji Festival for over a decade. Our guides are local experts, fluent in the history, rituals, and landscapes of Mustang. We ensure all logistics – permits, accommodations, guides, transportation – are handled smoothly, so you can enjoy the celebration stress-free.

Tiji Festival 2026 Awaits You

The Tiji Festival Trek is the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and ancient spirituality. From the dusty trails of Upper Mustang to the sacred courtyard of Lo Manthang, every step brings you closer to understanding a hidden world. Whether you’re searching for “Tiji Festival 2026 dates,” “Upper Mustang trek itinerary,” or “best time for Mustang trek,” this guide has you covered.

Book now with Nepal Mountain Trekkers and secure your place for one of the most unique Himalayan festivals on Earth.

Overview

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 : 5th May 2026 – Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m):

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Mountain Trekkers will greet you with a warm welcome. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the city’s vibrant tourist district. After check-in and some rest, take a short walk to soak in the local sights, sounds, and smells. In the evening, we’ll hold a detailed trek briefing and introduce your guide, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead.

Day 2 : 6th May 2026 – Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation:

Today, immerse yourself in the cultural riches of Kathmandu Valley with a guided sightseeing tour. You’ll visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the sacred Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), the giant Boudhanath Stupa, and the holy Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath. The afternoon is reserved for final gear checks, last-minute shopping, and acquiring trekking permits. This day is essential for cultural acclimatization and logistical readiness.

Day 3 : 7th May 2026 – Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827m):

A scenic drive to Pokhara awaits, taking approximately 6–7 hours depending on traffic. Along the way, enjoy views of lush hills, rivers, and traditional villages. Once in Pokhara, relax by the serene Phewa Lake or take a stroll along Lakeside. The majestic Annapurna range offers a stunning backdrop as anticipation builds for the trek.

Day 4 : 8th May 2026 – Fly to Jomsom (2,700m) and Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m):

An early morning flight brings you to Jomsom, a windy trans-Himalayan town in the Mustang district. From here, your trek officially begins as you walk along the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni—a windswept village that marks the entrance to Upper Mustang. Kagbeni is a cultural gem with medieval alleyways, prayer wheels, and a fusion of Tibetan and Nepali traditions.

Day 5 : 9th May 2026 – Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m):

After showing your permits at the checkpoint, enter the restricted area of Upper Mustang. The trail ascends through eroded cliffs and stark terrain, passing Tangbe village with its maze of alleys and apple orchards. The day ends in Chele, a quiet village perched above steep gorges, surrounded by barren cliffs and surreal vistas.

Day 6 : 10th May 2026 – Trek from Chele to Syangbochen (3,800m):

The path today is dramatic, taking you through deep canyons, suspension bridges, and rocky ridges. You’ll climb to Taklam La and Dajori La passes and descend into picturesque villages like Samar and Bhena. After traversing a series of ridgelines, you arrive at Syangbochen—a small village that offers expansive views and a restful night at altitude.

Day 7 : 11th May 2026 – Trek from Syangbochen to Ghiling (3,570m):

Crossing the Yamda La (3,850m) and Nyi La (4,010m) passes today, the landscape opens up to high desert plains. The views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri are magnificent on clear days. After a gradual descent, you reach Ghiling, where traditional mud-brick houses and ancient chortens create a timeless Tibetan ambiance.

Day 8 : 12th May 2026 – Trek from Ghiling to Tsarang (3,560m):

Walk past crumbling monasteries, barley fields, and mani walls as you head toward Tsarang, a culturally rich village with one of Mustang’s most revered gompas and an old royal palace. You’ll get your first taste of the deep-rooted Buddhist faith that will soon be on full display during the festival.

Day 9 : 13th May 2026 – Trek from Tsarang to Lo Manthang (3,800m):

Today’s trek is short but deeply rewarding. After crossing the Lo La Pass, you’ll be greeted with your first panoramic view of Lo Manthang—Upper Mustang’s iconic walled capital. The whitewashed mud-brick structures, fluttering prayer flags, and medieval alleys of Lo Manthang make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a living museum of Tibetan culture.

Day 10 : 14th May 2026 – Attend Day 1 of Tiji Festival – Tsa Chham:

The sacred Tiji Festival begins today with the Tsa Chham ceremony, symbolizing the arrival of evil forces. Monks perform intricate masked dances accompanied by deep chants, horns, and drums. The main courtyard of Lo Manthang’s royal palace transforms into a vibrant spiritual arena filled with locals in ceremonial attire.

Day 11 : 15th May 2026 – Attend Day 2 of Tiji Festival – Nga Chham:

On the second day, Dorje Jono confronts and attempts to subdue the demon causing chaos in the region. The energy in the square intensifies as performers depict the mythical struggle. The air is thick with incense, tradition, and reverence, making this a profound cultural and spiritual experience.

Day 12 : 16th May 2026 – Attend Day 3 of Tiji Festival – Rha Chham:

The final day celebrates the banishment of evil and restoration of harmony. The elaborate concluding ritual known as Rha Chham features dramatic sequences, sacred chants, and symbolic victory. The festival ends with blessings for peace, fertility, and good fortune—etched in your memory forever.

Day 13 : 17th May 2026 – Trek from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar (3,820m):

Bidding farewell to Lo Manthang, take an alternate scenic trail to Dhakmar. Along the way, visit the ancient Ghar Gompa, believed to be one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Nepal. The legend says that wishes made here come true. Dhakmar is famous for its striking red cliffs and sacred cave systems.

Day 14 : 18th May 2026 –Trek from Dhakmar to Ghiling (3,570m):

Today’s trek retraces part of the route back through dry plateaus and high-altitude passes. As the spiritual high of the festival settles in, the peaceful surroundings of Ghiling offer a chance to quietly reflect on the profound journey so far.

Day 15 : 19th May 2026 – Trek from Ghiling to Chhusang (2,980m):

Descending further into the lower Mustang region, you’ll encounter villages filled with Buddhist shrines, prayer flags, and farming communities. The landscape starts to shift from arid desert back to semi-green hills. Chhusang, where the Nilgiri range appears on the horizon, is your final overnight stop in Mustang.

Day 16 : 20th May 2026 –Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom (2,700m):

Our last day on foot takes you along the Kali Gandaki River to Jomsom. The trail is mostly downhill, allowing you to soak in the majestic mountain scenery one last time. Jomsom is a bustling trade town and the final base before we return to the lowlands.

Day 17 : 21st May 2026 – Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (827m):

After an early breakfast, we take a scenic mountain flight back to Pokhara. The day is free for leisure—explore the Lakeside area, sip coffee by Phewa Lake, or indulge in a rejuvenating massage after the long trek.

Day 18 : 22nd May 2026 – Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu:

A comfortable drive takes you back to Kathmandu. After check-in, you’ll have the rest of the day free to shop for souvenirs, revisit favorite landmarks, or enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 19 : 23rd May 2026 – Final Departure from Kathmandu:

Depending on your flight time, our team will transfer you to the international airport. As you leave Nepal, you carry not just pictures, but lifelong memories of the mystic land of Mustang and the unforgettable Tiji Festival.

Price Includes

• Airport Pick-up and drop service
• 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu (Hotel Green Horizon or similar standard)
• All accommodation during the trek in the best hotels/tea houses in the area (differing according to the price you wish to spend)
  • Sanitation: The accommodation we provide will be neat and clean with warm hospitality and quality services.
  • Single/Twin-sharing Accommodation (as per budget): Your group won’t have to share your accommodation with anyone else so your privacy is protected.
• All foods during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner; any items on the menu as much as you wish to consume.
  • We provide hygienic and safe meals to re-energize you.
  • We request you not to waste your meals for it is difficult to transport food in the rural area.
  • You are not allowed to share your meals with anyone else from another group.
• Transportation costs: Drive (Kathmandu-Pokhara – Kathmandu) and Domestic Flight (Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara)
• Professional and Highly experienced English-speaking Trekking Guide licensed by the Government. Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staff: Our guides are locals of the region which ensures that you will surely get to explore a bit more during the trek than with any other guides.
  • Experienced: With an experience of more than a decade of working in this field, our trekking guides possess excellent knowledge of briefing during the trek as well as they are experts in handling all kinds of critical situations which might occur during the trek.
  • Insurance: Nepal Mountain Trekkers have an insurance policy for all our trekking staff.
• Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers with a max load of 25 KG). Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staff: The porters we hire belong to the same region where we trek in order to provide employment opportunities to the locals as well as to make you explore every prospect of the region.
• Trekking permits: Upper Mustang Special Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area(ACAP) fees
• First aid medical box
• T-shirt, Duffel Bag, and Trekking Map with Company Logo
• Rescue Arrangement Service
• All required trekking gear like Sleeping bags and Down jackets are made available for rent
• 13% VAT and 10% service charge

Price Excludes

• Visa fee to enter Nepal (Visa Information)
• International flight tickets and extra baggage charges
• Extra night accommodation and meal costs in Kathmandu due to any change in the scheduled itinerary
• Travel insurance/ Rescue operation costs
• All personal expenses
• Tip for guides and porters is expected but not mandatory

Trip Gallery

Equipments