Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2023

Renown enlightening and spiritual Tiji Festival celebration trip in Lo Manthang Nepal.

Trip Code
AMT - TREK - 204
Best Season

Spring

Trip Grade

⭐⭐

Max Altitude

Dhakmar (3,820m/12,529ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

Share

Introduction

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is the privilege to trek towards the world's most preserved area with a thrilling experience is a wonderful experience to hold once in a time. Upper Mustang region Known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom". It is opened since 1992 for trekkers with special authority to which a permit approved by Nepal Government is given. After all the preservation of hidden arts, cultures, and primitive lifestyle of Himalaya people resides within this territory.

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek

Firstly, take a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom where the trek starts towards the Upper Mustang making it away from the unique place named "Kagbeni". The man-made caves at Lo-Manthang at the higher cliffs seem to be a hidden story being hypothesized by many local people which can be true and lefts everyone wonder-struck. From Lo-Manthang with a spectacular picturesque of Upper Mustang to have the perfect taste of trekking to a wondrous land making a match up to extreme joy. The never-ending beauty of the Upper Mustang gives an adventure that we experience one in a lifetime. Capture it from every corner.

Tiji Festival Information

Tiji festival is a fascinating annual three-day festival consisting of Tibetan rituals that celebrate thea myth of a son who had to save the Mustang kingdom from destruction. There are two different meanings as local people believe:

“Tiji” comes from the words ten che, meaning the “hope of the dharma prevailing in all worlds,” the message Guru Rinpoche carried through this region over a thousand years ago. "Tiji" the name is an abbreviation of the word "Tempa Chirim" which means "Prayer for World Peace". This festival commemorates the victory of Lord Buddha's incarnation Dorjee Sonnu over a demon called Man Tam Ru a vicious creature feeding on human beings and causing storms and droughts.

The Tiji festival usually takes place around Mid May and early June for 3 days. The monks of Lo Manthang's "Choedhe" monastery perform ritual dances during the celebration. The harassment of Ma Tam Ru Ta (in a dance called "Tsa Chham" on the first day), the birth of Dorjee Sonnu as the demon's son (on the second day called "Nga Chham"), and then attempt to return the demon to Lord Buddha's realm (on the third and final day) are en-act during the performances.

Day by Day Itinerary

31 April 2023: Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.

After you reach Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative would pick you up at the airport’s entry gate and thereby, transfer you to the nearby hotel. In case of persisting time, you may visit Kathmandu city or rest in your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel or Resort as per your request.
Meal includes Breakfast. In general, we prefer BB plan for your stay in cities so you can choose varieties of tastes in different restaurants around the city

1 May 2023: Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.

Today we will be visiting the world heritages sites in Kathmandu and explore its rich cultural history

2 May 2023: Drive or Fly to Pokhara.

Once you explore the historical valley of Kathmandu, you will get opportunity to move towards a popular tourist destination named Pokhara and explore pokhara. If you want a drive then, you would be able to view Trishuli River across your way and during early afternoon hour, you would be able to visit Pokhara.

3 May 2023: Fly to Jomsom (2,800m) and trek to Kagbeni (2,810m/9186ft) (20min fly and 3-4 hrs walk).

Trekkers should wake up as early as possible to take a flight of about 35 minutes to reach at Jomsom. During this time, you will be able to view few of the amazing naturistic views from the window of your airplane. Once you land in Jomsom, you will move ahead for your trek towards Kagbeni. By walking for about 3 to 4 hours, you will be able to reach at Kagbeni before sunset. In this way, you would end up with ample time for strolling across the entire village.

4 May 2023: Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,080m/10104ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

By passing from few rivers on a series comprised of various small ridges, trekkers would be able to move ahead towards Chele. During the complete trip, individuals will get the opportunity to find many white, red and black Chortens recognized as hallmarks of the popular upper Mustang region.

5 May 2023: Trek from Chele to Ghiling (3,570m/11712ft) (7-8 hrs walk).

Trekking from Chele towards Geling would continue during the morning time by hiking on various undulated mountain trails. Finally, on this day, you will be able to visit a small village of the district, where you find painted buildings in red color, which symbolizes the region’s famous monasteries.

6 May 2023: Trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar (3,820m/12,529ft).

We will continue with our trek from Geling to reach Dhakmar. Here, you will find an oldest Tibet monastery named Lo Gekar Monastery built during the eighth century by a worldwide famous magician of Tibet named Guru Rinpoche

7 May 2023: Trek from Dhakmar to Lo Manthang (3,730m/12237ft) (4-5 hrs walk).

On our 8th day of trekking, our trail will broaden and let us get the first view of Lo Manthang, known popularly as the walled city. Since the city has a single entrance, we have to circumambulate the wall towards the gate present on its northeastern corner. We will start with our return journey via the upper highland route and again get dramatic views of the Charang Valley and Lo Manthang, along with snow cladding peaks in the background. Just before our settlement at Ko Gear, we will reach the Mustang’s oldest monastery named Ghare Gompa and finally have an overnight stay at Lo-Manthang.

8 May 2023: Witness the Tiji festival starting in the afternoon (3900m/12870ft).

The first day of the festival, there is going to be a huge celebration. An ancient and enormous three stories high Thanka is unrolled down the entire south wall of the square. The thanka portrays Padma Sambhava or Guru Rimpoche who brought this ceremony to Tibet in the 8th century. Eleven lamas in maroon and gold, wearing high red hats, come from the palace and take their places along the wall beneath the Thanka. The monks and lamas commence sacred chanting. Later, a masked dance starts that enacts the myth of the Tiji festival. Dorje Jono, the incarnation of Buddha, repels the demon through the power of his magical dancing. At the end of the dance, Dorje Jono kills the demon, after which his people are relieved of their plague of misfortunes, water becomes plentiful once more, and the balance and harmony of existence are restored. Overnight local lodge.

9 May 2023:Tiji Festival Day 2.

Numbers of Loba arrive from the outlying hamlets, and the small square is thronged with people, with all of the women and children, in traditional dress. The Royal of Mustang is present today. The costumes and masks, the twelve-foot horns, the gold cups of wheat, the butter cakes, the snow peaks and wind and dust and sun, the mehti, snow leopard, snow pigeons, saligrams, the dying glacier and the desert ruins, the drunks and rajas and foreigners, the dogs and yaks. Tantra! . Overnight local lodge.

10 May 2023: Tiji Festival Day 3.

Tiji ends with the ceremonial destruction of the evil remains. The demons are set out on an old tiger skin, whereupon they are attacked by bow and arrow, slings, and the old guns. The poor devil's remains are overturned upon the ground. The day brings the festival to end performing all mythological stories. People are now relieved, happy for the good days to follow. After all, they have ended the reign of the Devil. Overnight local lodge..

11 May 2023: Trek from Yara to Tange (3,240m/10,627ft).

Today, we will take to reach Tange by walking for about 4 to 5 hours. During our walk, we can get continuous views of mountains.

12 May 2023: Trek from Tange to Chuksang (3,050m/10,004ft).

We will trek via deep ridges and landscapes to hit the entire valley of Kali Gandaki and finally reaches to a high altitude village named Chuksang..

13 May 2023: Trek from Chuksang to Jomsom (2,730m/8,954ft).

Today, we will take to reach Tanggye by walking for about 4 to 5 hours. During our walk, we can get continuous views of mountains.

14 May 2023: Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.

We will wind up our trekking tour by taking a local flight to Pokhara. Here, you may participate in different activities, boating, sightseeing and other personal activities.

15 May 2023:Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Now, we will drive back from Pokhara to reach at the capital city Kathmandu.

16 May 2023: Spare day. Free for personal activities or additional activities on request.

Here, you will again get a spare day to view the beauties of Kathmandu City and be the part of shopping and various personal activities. In the evening, join with our dinner program with authentic Nepali cultural program..

17 May 2023: Farewell, departure transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.

Our team will depart you to the Tribhuvan International Airport, from where you will get the flight as per your own chosen schedule.

Cost & Dates

N/A

TOUR MAP

Additional Information

How difficult is the Upper mustang Tiji Festival Trek ?

The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival trek us Considered as Easy level of trekking. Anyone can carry out this trekking and is graded as moderate trekking route. No Trekking Experience is required and trekkers should be physically fit and able to walk about 6-7 hours per day.

What are the specialities of Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek ?

The Specialities of Upper Mustang Trek are you get a chance to witness the traditional Culture of Local People Of Mustang, unfold the flavorsome history of Tiji, attend the dance and the thangka which is believed to bring peace and prosperity to one’s life & lands, trek towards the world's most preserved area with a thrilling experience is a wonderful experience to hold once in a time.

Do I need to have Travel Insurance during Trek ?

Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.

Should I manage the equipment/accessories for trekking by myself ?

All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.

Who are my Guides ?

Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.

What if I cancel the trip , do I get my refund ?

Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.

Are your staff equipped/trained & insured ?

We hire our staffs according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.

What is the Accommodation Like ?

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Annapurna Region trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude places like Thorong Phedi the service will be limited.

Is the Internet accessible during Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2023 ?

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during theUpper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2023. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.

How to select a local agency for trekking ?

Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.

Can I charge my mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek ?

Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring your power bank with you which will be helpful.

What are the permits required for Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2023 ?

We only need one permit to trek to Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2023 that is:

  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP) – US$ 500 per person for minimum 10 days and extra 50$ cost per day

Quick Enquiry

    EXCELLENT rating
    Based on 57 reviews
    Great Trip We had a great time in Nepal thanks to Pradip and his team! From landing to take off we were thoroughly looked after. We were greeted at the airport and the same person helped us in Katmandu both sides of the trek, picking us up from our domestic flight and again taking us to the airport at the end. He was always early and received a sweet momento on arrival and departure. Due to weather we unfortunately had to make a last minute decision to change our route; Pradip and the guide See Wa were very accommodating and we easily changed from ACT to Poon Hill and ABC. He quickly sent us a new itinerary and we were picked up the following morning. We were given options as to how we wanted to get to Pokhara and Pradip made this seamless for us. Many trekkers also had to change their route to ABC rather than other routes like ACT and EBC which meant the tea houses were very busy. Our guide ensured that we always had a room to stay in and was flexible with our itinerary if we wanted to walk further/fit in a visit to the hot spring. At times it was a bit difficult to communicate with the guide due to the language barrier and we found we were fitter so would often be walking ahead with one of the porters but over all we had a good experience and would recommend.
    Eleanor H
    Eleanor H
    2022-10-21
    Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek In Summer The whole trek went very smoothly.It was a 4 day trek.Guide and the porter both were very polite & professional no doubt.I didn't find anything negative in the service.Mr.Pradip helped us via telephone whenever we needed him.
    Deep Chakraborty
    Deep Chakraborty
    2022-07-11
    Trip of a lifetime The best part of being with this team is their ability and willingness to help in every way possible, at times even going out of their way to help. The professional approach to every aspect of a trip means the best deal will always be put on the table☺️.
    Papai B
    Papai B
    2022-07-06
    Excellent service provided by Mr.Pradip the founder Mr. Pradip the founder of the adventure mountain treks is very generous and very polite. He helped in all the ways possible. I have been pestering with questions regarding my packing list. He was so polite and answered all my queries without seeing the time. A very genuine person to do the trek and a very well organised person and the trek was perfect.
    adityanaravind
    adityanaravind
    2022-06-25
    May 2022 great EBC trekking experience Mr. TikkaThank you for organizing a great 14 day trek in May 2022.I want to thank our guide Dinesh and two great porters Anu and Prem for their effort in making our trek most enjoyable. All three gentlemen went above and beyond their duty to make us comfortable on our trek and giving us encouragement every step of the way.
    sham p
    sham p
    2022-06-03
    16 day tour to Gokyo Ri & EBC My girlfriend and I went on a 16 day tour to Gokyo Ri and Everest Base Camp and were in Nepal for almost 4 weeks. All I can say is that Pradip is an outstanding person. He took care of us from day one in Kathmandu, was extremely helpful and did everything so that we felt good and secure, not just on the trekking trail but also at every place we stayed in Nepal. Unforgettable experience which I highly recommend all of you share !
    Franck
    Franck
    2022-05-20
    3 Pass Trek with EBC well organized Dear Pradip,thanks for the Organisation of my 3 Pass Trek. It was soo komfortable for me to come to Nepal and the whole Trip was perfectly arranged. After 1 Organization Day in Kathmandu we Start the Trek in Luka for 18 Days. I can only say ! Good work had you done. I am Back in Germany and had perfect organized Trekking Thanks Adventure Mountain Nepal Trecking ! And also my Guide Padam Hendrik
    Henny B
    Henny B
    2022-04-18
    Best Agency for Travel and Trekking Experiences... I and my friends did a trekking experience with Adventure Mountain Nepal. I would like to thank the entire team for providing us a hospitable manner, professional service, and affordable package rate. Will recommend this company to all who’re going to Nepal for a trekking adventure.
    Unsaved Memo
    Unsaved Memo
    2022-02-03
    Gokyo Ri & Everest Base Camp Trek - January 2022 Cet agence touristique est réellement à l'écoute des besoins de ses clients et tente toujours de répondre à toutes leurs questions. J'ai pu tout organiser à distance avec Pradip Sharma qui a été très transparent sur les tarifs pratiqués et m'a accompagné dans la préparation de cette aventure, notamment en me guidant dans mes derniers achats à Katmandou et en m'évitant les arnaques.Pendant la randonnée, mon guide Mane s'est montré très professionnel lorsque la haute altitude est venue altérer ma condition physique. Son soutien et ses conseils ont été indispensables. Il est préférable d'organiser cette marche au printemps ou à l'automne pour éviter le froid pouvant aller jusqu'à -18°C...Il faut une dizaine de jours soit pour Gokyo Ri, soit pour EBC. Pour boucler les deux en un coup, il faut 15 jours.L'expérience est intense et parfois difficile mais reste inoubliable.
    Abdelhakc
    Abdelhakc
    2022-01-20
    私の旅行は楽しくて良かったです🥰❤️👍 私がこの会社から遊びできましたとてもいい会社です。もし誰かがネパールに旅行したいなら私が障害することもできます。この会社の値段も安いしサービスもとても良かった👍です。こちらのオーナーと他の社会人もとても親切とまじめ❤️です。 こんども私が旅行するときこの会社何回もら選びます。みんなさんネパールへ行ってみましょうネパールはとても美しい国💕です。よろしくお願いします🙏
    シマ
    シマ
    2021-12-29