Mustang Tiji Festival Trek

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Take this day to rest, refresh, and prepare for your upcoming adventure. If time permits, you can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hub, or enjoy a relaxing stroll around the city. In the evening, a pre-trek briefing will be held to review the trek itinerary, discuss essential tips, and ensure all preparations are in place for your journey to Mustang.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, passing through picturesque hills, terraced fields, and charming local villages. The journey typically takes 6–8 hours depending on road conditions. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Trishuli River, lush valleys, and glimpses of traditional Nepali rural life. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, take a stroll along Phewa Lake, enjoy the serene surroundings, or explore Pokhara’s lakeside cafes and markets. Prepare for the next day’s short flight to Jomsom, the starting point of your trek.

Early in the morning, take a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Jomsom, meet your trekking team and begin your trek towards Kagbeni, a historic village at the gateway to Upper Mustang.

The trek is easy to moderate, taking approximately 2–3 hours along a well-defined trail following the Kali Gandaki River. Kagbeni is known for its ancient stone houses, narrow alleys, and traditional Tibetan-influenced culture. Take time to explore the village, visit the local monastery, and enjoy the first glimpses of the arid Mustang landscape. Overnight stay will be in a tea house or guesthouse in Kagbeni.

Today, you begin your trek deeper into Upper Mustang, walking along the scenic trail that gradually ascends through arid landscapes, rugged cliffs, and small villages. The trek takes approximately 4–5 hours and offers a wonderful opportunity to observe traditional Mustang culture and the unique desert-like terrain of the region.

Chele is a quaint village featuring stone houses, prayer flags, and ancient mani walls, giving you a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of Mustang. The village is surrounded by stunning views of Tukuche and Nilgiri peaks, making it an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the serenity of the highlands. Overnight stay will be in a local guesthouse or tea house in Chele.

Today’s trek takes you further into the heart of Upper Mustang, gradually ascending through the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Lo Valley. The trek is moderate, covering approximately 4–5 hours, and you will pass through traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and arid cliffs adorned with prayer flags and mani walls.

Geling is a small, serene village perched at 3,500 meters, offering breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Along the way, you can interact with locals and experience the unique Mustang way of life, including traditional agriculture and Buddhist customs. Overnight stay will be in a tea house or guesthouse in Geling, providing a comfortable rest before continuing to Lo Manthang.

Today’s trek takes you further into the ancient heart of Upper Mustang, with a gradual ascent through the stunning Lo Valley. The trail passes through arid landscapes, cliffside villages, and stretches dotted with man-made mani walls and prayer flags, reflecting the deep-rooted Buddhist culture of the region. The trek is moderate, taking approximately 4–5 hours.

Charang is a historic village known for its ancient monastery, traditional stone houses, and panoramic views of surrounding peaks. Here, you will experience the authentic Mustang lifestyle and witness centuries-old cultural practices. Overnight stay will be in a local guesthouse or tea house, offering warm hospitality and comfort.

Today, you continue your journey deeper into the restricted kingdom of Upper Mustang, trekking through rugged terrain, desert-like landscapes, and ancient villages. The trek is moderate, taking approximately 3–4 hours, with gentle ascents and scenic views along the way.

Arriving in Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang, you will be captivated by its ancient architecture, narrow alleys, and monasteries. Lo-Manthang is also the heart of the Tiji Festival, offering a unique opportunity to witness centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist rituals, vibrant dances, and colorful festivities. Overnight stay will be in a local guesthouse or tea house in Lo-Manthang.

Today marks the first day of the Tiji Festival, a vibrant three-day celebration known as “The Chasing of the Demons.” You will witness colorful rituals, traditional dances, and Buddhist ceremonies that reflect the rich spiritual heritage of Lo-Manthang. The festival commemorates the legendary story of Dorje Jongboo, who battles his demon father to save the kingdom, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Spend the day immersed in local culture, observing monks performing rituals and villagers participating in the festivities. This is a unique opportunity to experience one of the most important cultural events in Upper Mustang, all within the setting of the historic walled city of Lo-Manthang. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse or tea house in Lo-Manthang.

Today is the second day of the Tiji Festival, when the celebrations become even more vibrant and dramatic. You will witness elaborate mask dances, colorful processions, and ritual performances that reenact the legendary battle of Dorje Jongboo against his demon father, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

This is also an opportunity to explore more of Lo-Manthang’s historic sites, including ancient monasteries, traditional stone houses, and narrow alleyways adorned with prayer flags and mani walls. Immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere, interact with locals, and capture memorable moments of this rare cultural event. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse or tea house in Lo-Manthang.

On the final day of the Tiji Festival, you will witness the concluding ceremonies and vibrant performances, marking the end of this sacred three-day celebration. Today also includes visits to Namgyal Gompa and the Tingkhar village, both offering fascinating insights into Mustang’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

The trek and sightseeing today cover approximately 4–6 hours, allowing you to explore these historical and religious sites at a relaxed pace. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Lo Valley and observe the traditional lifestyle of the local communities. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse or tea house in Lo-Manthang.

Today, you begin your return journey from Lo-Manthang, trekking through the scenic landscapes of Upper Mustang. The trail gradually descends and ascends through arid valleys, cliffs, and traditional villages, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the Lo Valley.

Drakmar is a quiet village known for its ancient monasteries, stone houses, and local cultural practices. Along the way, you will have opportunities to observe local life, interact with villagers, and enjoy the unique Mustang environment. The trek is moderate to challenging, covering approximately 6–7 hours, so be prepared for a full day of hiking. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse or tea house in Drakmar.

Today, you continue trekking through the breathtaking landscapes of Upper Mustang, following trails that pass through rugged cliffs, arid valleys, and traditional Mustang villages. The trek is moderate, taking approximately 5–6 hours, offering spectacular views of the Lo Valley and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Shyangmochen is a serene village at 3,800 meters, where you can experience the authentic Mustang lifestyle and observe the region’s ancient architecture and Buddhist culture. Take time to interact with locals, explore the village surroundings, and enjoy the tranquility of this high-altitude settlement. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse or tea house in Shyangmochen.

Today, you begin your descent from the highlands of Upper Mustang, trekking through the stunning arid landscapes, deep gorges, and traditional villages along the Kali Gandaki River. The trek is moderate, taking approximately 6 hours, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, terraced fields, and ancient Mustang settlements.

Chhusang is a historic village known for its ancient fortress-like structures, caves, and stone houses, reflecting the rich heritage of the Lo Valley. Along the way, you can interact with locals, explore traditional architecture, and enjoy the unique Mustang environment. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse or tea house in Chhusang.

Today, you complete the final leg of your trekking journey, descending along the Kali Gandaki River through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and dramatic cliffs. The trek is moderate, taking approximately 6–7 hours, and offers stunning views of the surrounding Mustang landscapes.

Jomsom is a lively town and the gateway to Upper Mustang, where you can relax, explore the local markets, and enjoy the town’s unique cultural blend before your onward journey. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse or hotel in Jomsom, providing comfort after your trek.

After breakfast, take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri ranges from the air. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the lakeside area. You can take a stroll along Phewa Lake, visit local cafes, or shop for souvenirs in Pokhara’s vibrant market areas. Overnight stay will be in a hotel in Pokhara.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, passing through lush valleys, terraced fields, and picturesque villages along the way. The journey typically takes 6–8 hours, depending on road conditions, with opportunities to stop for photography or refreshments at scenic spots.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and take some time to rest or explore the city. You can visit Thamel, enjoy local cuisine, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Overnight stay will be in a hotel in Kathmandu.

On the final day of your trek, enjoy a relaxing day in Kathmandu. You can explore the city’s rich culture and heritage, visit temples, markets, and local attractions, or simply rest after your long and rewarding journey in Upper Mustang. This day also provides an opportunity to reflect on your trek, take photographs, and purchase souvenirs before your departure.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell gathering or dinner with your trekking team, sharing memories and experiences from the Tiji Festival and the Mustang adventure. Overnight stay will be in a hotel in Kathmandu.