Mustang is one of the most fascinating regions of Nepal boarding with Tibet, inhabited mainly of Tibetan origin. Due to its sensitivity, the entire region of Mustang has been categorized into Lower Mustang and Upper Mustang. Upper Mustang has been declared a restricted area for travelers, which means they require a special permit to travel to the Upper Mustang area.

The entire region is blessed with beauty and natural resources, including uranium. Apart from these, the Himalayas, the origin of Kaligandaki River, famous for ammonite/fossils and one of the holy rivers for both Hindu and Buddhist followers, numerous monasteries, caves, an orchid garden, waterfalls, etc, are the center of attraction of Mustang.

Upper Mustang, which is also known as the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal, is a Himalayan deserted area and the oldest trade route to Tibet. The panoramic view of the massif Himalayas like Annapurna (8,091m/26,545ft), Nilgiri (7,061m/23,166ft), Dhaulagiri (8,091m/26,545ft), etc, makes Mustang one of the very attractive regions for travelers with magical wonder every step you take.

The upcoming Tiji Festival Tour 2027 falls from 1st June to 3rd June 2027.

  • 1st June 2027  Tiji Festival in Lo-Mangthang (1st day)
  • 2nd june 2027 Tiji Festival in Lo-Mangthang (2nd day)
  • 3rd June 2027  Tiji Festival in Lo-Mangthang (3rd day)

Tiji Festival Jeep Tour Itinerary for 2027 - Join Our Fixed Departure

28 May 2027: Fly or Drive to Pokhara - 30 min / 8 hrs

29 May 2027: 4WD Jeep Drive to Jomsom 2,736M (8,976 ft)  – 7 Hours

30 May 2027: Explore Muktinath and Kagbeni and Drive to Charang 3,570M (11,710Ft) - 6 Hours

31 May 2027: Drive to LO MANTHANG and explore the ancient Kingdom 3840M (12600Ft) - 4 Hours

1st June 2027: Explore the day-first TIJI Festival. (FESTIVAL BEGINNING) 3,840 m (12,600 ft)

2nd June 2027: Observe and experience a full-day TIJI Festival.

3rd June 2027: Day 3rd of TIJI Festival. (officially festival closing ceremony).

4 June 2027: Drive back to Marpha 2650M (8694 ft) - 6 hours

5 June 2027: Drive back to Pokhara - 7 hours

6 June 2027: Fly / Drive back to Kathmandu - 30 min / 8 hours

Seats are limited: Book today and make your place secure or customize your itinerary. Give us direct call or WhatsApp at +977 9851149890

upper mustang jeep tour

History Of the Tiji Festival

Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is one of the most fabulous trekking itineraries, which is compiled with two programs at a time. Travelers can trek to the Upper Mustang region throughout the year but to witness the Tiji festival is something different. Tiji is a 3-day festival that is observed in Lo-Manthang the capital city of Upper Mustang.

The history of the Tiji Festival can be traced back to Tibet and is related to Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as Tibetan Buddhism, introduced by Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche in Tibet in the 8th century AD. He is the founding father of to spread of Tantric Buddhism in Tibet and the Himalayas of Nepal. So, Vajrayana followers refer to him as the second Buddha after Shakyamuni Buddha.

The history of the Tiji festival can be traced back to the time when myths were more popular and universal than modern science. It was the time when people believed in tantric practice and meditation, through tantric gurus tried to find out the cause and effect and solution of their common suffering.

According to a famous myth, once a very powerful man-eating demon created havoc in the Mustang region due to a lack of live human flesh. This was so because tantric gurus were protecting the inhabited areas through their spells.

Tantric gurus were creating trouble for the demon through their powerful practice of tantrism, to take revenge demon created a shortage of water and spread unknown diseases in the valley of Mustang and the surrounding areas. Water is very important for human civilization and in the Mustang region, the main source of snow-melted water was limited due to its remoteness and the massif Himalayas surrounding the villages.

This incident led to trouble, and the death of animals and humans due to lack of water and diseases started increasing. Even the main gurus (spiritual teachers) were not able to stop the damage created by the demon.

Finally, they invited Dorje Jono who was a very powerful tantric spiritual teacher, to chase the demon from the region through his powerful spell of spiritual practice. Dorje Jono guarded the whole valley through his spell,l and the demon was not able to enter the region. This made the demon keep away from entering the valley and still does and the lifestyle remained normal to date.

To mark the victory over evil Tiji Festival is celebrated every year. It has now been observed in a broader sense, it is now a ritual ceremony for World Peace and Victory of Good over Evil. Native Americans believe the ritual 3-day ceremony will bring eternal blessing to all sentient beings.

Tiji Festival Tour Highlights:

  • Experience the traditional TIJI festival and get an opportunity to be part of it.
  • Explore the Himalayas of Nepal
  • Option to select the itinerary as per our interest
  • Enjoy being part of the unique Tantric ceremony of the Himalayas
  • Take a tour of Pokhara and explore the city of Lake
  • Witness the Kaligandaki George, the world's deepest
  • Travel to the land of mysticism
  • Explore the holy Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas
  • Experience being in the Tibet of Nepal and explore the culture and lifestyle of Tibetan
  • Take a journey with a panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayas
  • Observe the age-old monastery, caves, and culture of Tibetan Buddhism
  • Get an opportunity to take a dip into the natural hot spring

Time Schedule of Tiji Festival 2027

Tiji Festival is a very popular festival in the Upper Mustang region, which includes seven villages in the region. The main 3-day festival is observed with colorful ceremonies, dances, and ritual songs by the monks of the monastery in Lo-Mangthang.

The festival is guided by the royal family members of the kingdom, along with the villagers. It is a tantric dance by the monks, the main dancer/performers are chosen before three months of the festival and do all the training and ritual ceremonies until the final day of the festival.

Royal family members, villagers, and travelers from around the globe join to observe the colorful festival. It is believed that being part of the ceremony will lead one to eternal bliss.

The date for the Tiji Festival is not predictable. It is celebrated according to the Tibetan calendar, and the main monks of the surrounding monastery decide the date through ritual techniques. This year, the 3-day Tiji Festival 2027 will be celebrated from 1st June- 3rd June 2027.

Upper Mustang TIJI Festival Tour 2027 Itinerary

Day 1 28 May 2027: Fly or Drive to Pokhara - 30 min / 8 hrs

Your Tiji Festival adventure begins with a scenic journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. You can choose between a short 30-minute domestic flight or an approximately 8-hour drive, depending on your preference.

If you fly, enjoy beautiful aerial views of the hills and Himalayan landscapes before arriving in Pokhara. By road, the journey offers changing scenery as you travel through river valleys, countryside, and traditional settlements.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may explore the lakeside area or simply relax before continuing towards Upper Mustang.

Max Altitude: 822m (2,696ft)
Altitude Loss: Approx. 528 meters
Duration: Approx 6/7 hours
Distance: Approx. 200 km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3- Star Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Jeep

Day 2 29 May 2027: 4WD Jeep Drive to Jomsom 2,700 metres (8,900 ft) – 7 Hours

After breakfast, begin the scenic journey from Pokhara to Jomsom by 4WD jeep. The drive follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes, traditional villages, waterfalls, and dramatic river valleys. The route gradually enters the drier Himalayan landscape of Mustang, with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges along the way.

Upon arrival in Jomsom, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Jomsom is the administrative centre of Mustang and an important gateway to Upper Mustang.

Max Altitude: 2,700m (8,858ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 1878
Duration: Approx 5/6 hours
Distance: Approx. 160 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Mode of Transportation: 4wd Jeep

Day 3 30 May 2027: Explore Muktinath and Kagbeni and Drive to Charang 3,570M (11,710Ft) - 6 Hours

After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most important pilgrimage sites, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore the sacred temple area and its surrounding shrines before continuing to Kagbeni, a historic village at the gateway to Upper Mustang. Enjoy the distinctive Tibetan-influenced architecture, narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and spectacular Himalayan surroundings.

From Kagbeni, continue by 4WD jeep towards Charang, following the dramatic landscapes of the Upper Mustang region. The route passes through barren cliffs, deep valleys, and traditional mountain settlements. Upon arrival in Charang, check into your lodge and relax.

Max Altitude: 3,570m (11,712ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 870 meters
Duration: Approx. 5/6 hour
Distance: Approx.75–80 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge
Mode of Transportation: 4wd Jeep

Day 4 31 May 2027: Drive to LO MANTHANG and explore the ancient Kingdom 3840M (12600Ft) - 4 Hours

After breakfast, continue the scenic 4WD journey from Charang to Lo Manthang, the historic walled city and former capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. The drive takes you through spectacular high-altitude landscapes, barren cliffs, deep valleys, and traditional villages that reflect the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of Upper Mustang.

Upon arrival in Lo Manthang, check into your lodge and begin exploring the ancient town. Walk through the narrow lanes of the historic walled city and visit some of its ancient monasteries, including the centuries-old Buddhist monasteries that preserve the region’s rich religious and cultural heritage. You can also explore the traditional royal palace area and surrounding old settlements.

As the Tiji Festival begins the following day, the town will be preparing for the festival, creating an exciting atmosphere throughout Lo Manthang.

Max Altitude: 3,840m (12,598ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 270 meters
Duration: Approx. 4/5 hours
Distance: Approx. 20–25 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge
Mode of Transportation: 4wd Jeep

Day 5 1st June 2027: Explore the day-first TIJI Festival. (FESTIVAL BEGINNING) 3,840 m (12,600 ft) -

Today marks the first day of the Tiji Festival, one of the most important and colourful Buddhist festivals of Upper Mustang. After breakfast, head to the festival area in the heart of Lo Manthang and witness the opening ceremonies performed by monks from the local monasteries.

The festival features traditional Buddhist rituals, prayers, masked dances, music, and symbolic performances based on the ancient story of Tiji, which represents the victory of good over evil and the protection of the Mustang region from destructive forces. The colourful costumes, traditional masks, and powerful dances provide a fascinating insight into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the former Kingdom of Mustang.

Take time to explore the surrounding historic streets and interact respectfully with local communities as they gather to celebrate this important annual event.

Max Altitude: 3,840m (12,598ft)
Duration: Approx. 5/7 hours
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge

Day 6 2 June 2027 – Full-Day Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang (3,840 m / 12,600 ft)

Today is dedicated entirely to experiencing the second day of the Tiji Festival, allowing you to immerse yourself in one of Upper Mustang’s most fascinating cultural and religious celebrations. Spend the day at the festival grounds in Lo Manthang and witness traditional Buddhist rituals, colourful masked dances, chanting, music, and ceremonial performances by the monks.

The festival atmosphere becomes especially vibrant as local people gather in their traditional attire to participate in the celebrations. Throughout the day, you will have opportunities to observe the rituals closely, photograph the colourful performances, and learn more about the centuries-old traditions and beliefs of the Mustang community.

After the festival, return to your lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening in the historic walled city of Lo Manthang.

Max Altitude: 3,840m (12,598ft)
Duration: Approx. 6/7 hours
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge

Day 7 3 June 2027 – Final Day of the Tiji Festival & Closing Ceremony (3,840 m / 12,600 ft)

Today is the third and final day of the Tiji Festival, featuring the official closing ceremony. After breakfast, return to the festival grounds to witness the concluding rituals and spectacular masked dances performed by the monks. The final day traditionally includes the symbolic destruction or expulsion of evil, representing the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of peace and harmony.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere as local residents gather in their traditional dress and participate in the celebrations. This is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, rituals, music, costumes, and cultural heritage of the Mustang region.

After the closing ceremony, enjoy some free time to explore the historic streets of Lo Manthang, visit local monasteries, or relax at the lodge.

Max Altitude: 3,840m (12,598ft)
Duration: Approx. 5/7 hours
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge

Day 8 4 June 2027: Drive back to Marpha 2650M (8694 ft) - 6 hours

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back from Lo Manthang to Marpha by 4WD jeep. Retrace the spectacular Upper Mustang route through the high Himalayan desert, passing traditional villages, dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and the unique landscapes of Mustang.

As you descend towards the lower Mustang region, the scenery gradually changes from the barren high-altitude landscape to greener valleys and more vegetation. Continue through Kagbeni and Jomsom before reaching the beautiful village of Marpha, known for its traditional stone houses, narrow paved lanes, apple orchards, and Thakali culture.

Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the charming village.

Max Altitude: 2,650m (8,694ft)
Altitude Loss: Approx. 1,190 meters
Duration: Approx. 6/7 hours
Distance: Approx. 90–100 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge
Mode of Transportation: 4WD Jeep

Day 9 Drive from Marpha to Pokhara

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive from Marpha to Pokhara by private 4WD jeep. The journey follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes, traditional villages, waterfalls, and rivers before gradually descending into the greener foothills.

Enjoy the changing scenery as you leave the dry landscapes of Mustang behind and travel towards Pokhara. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may relax at the hotel or explore the lively Lakeside area.

Max Altitude: 822m (2,696ft)
Altitude Loss: Approx. 1,828 meters
Duration: Approx. 5/6 hours
Distance: Approx. 160 km
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Mode of Transportation: 4WD Jeep

Day 10 Fly or Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast, depart from Pokhara for Kathmandu. You can choose between a scenic 30-minute flight or an approximately 8-hour drive, depending on your preference. The flight offers beautiful aerial views of the Himalayan foothills and surrounding landscapes, while the road journey follows rivers, hills, and countryside settlements.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may relax after the journey or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Duration: Approx. 5/6 hour
Distance: Approx. 200 km
Meals: Breakfast
Mode of Transportation: 4WD Jeep
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Route Map & Altitude Chart

Price Per Person
US$2050
US$2295
  • 1 paxUS$2050
  • 2 - 6 paxUS$1850
  • 7 - 14 paxUS$1750
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Cost Details for the Upper Mustang TIJI Festival Tour 2027

Includes
  • Airport pick up and drop by our staff by private car
  • All ground transportation by comfortable AC car/jeep during the trek
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara domestic flight
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu Domestic flight 
  • Pokhara to Jomsom flight
  • Jomsom to Pokhara return flight
  • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • 2-night accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast  
  • All Meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) and accommodation during the trek
  • Seasonal fruits as a dessert after every dinner.
  • Walkie-talkie device phone for communication and safety.
  • Oxygen Cylinder
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekker’s Management System) required permit card
  • Restrict ( Special) Permit
  • A highly experienced government licenses holder English speaking mountain guide and a porter, the porter will be in the ratio of 2:1 ( 2 trekkers is to 1 porter)
  • Salary, accommodation, meals, insurance, equipment, transportation cost, etc for guide and porter
  • First Aids Kit for the entire team
  • Duffel Bag
  • Fingertip Oximeter to check the oxygen level of the trekkers frequently
  • 1 assistant leader for every 6 people
  • Attach toilet facilities if available in the particular trek
  • Toilet paper provided
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag to be returned after the trek.
  • Hot shower in available place during trek
  • Warm purified water as needed
  • Wifi in available places
  • Discover Altitude T-Shirt
  • Seasonal fresh fruits
  • All government taxes and office charge
Excludes
  • International Airfare and visa fees (can be obtained upon arrival at the immigration of the Tribhuwan International Airport)
  • Hotels and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (can be arranged upon request)
  • Domestic Airfare/ Tourist Bus ticket from Kathmandu to Pokhara/ Pokhara to Kathmandu (can be arranged upon request)
  • Personal expenses during the trek also include WiFi, a hot shower in the hotel, purified drinking water, alcoholic drinks, etc
  • Your travel insurance
  • Your personal trekking gears
  • Tips and gratitude (a way of expressing thankfulness) to your guide, porter, and driver
  • And those not mentioned in the included section

Dates & Availability

Select Departure Dates
May 2027
Start Date
End Date
Status
Price
Start Date
May 28, 2027
End Date
Jun 08, 2027
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$2050 US$2295
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The Tiji Festival is celebrated only once a year, so we offer a limited fixed departure for this special festival tour.

If the scheduled date does not suit your travel plans, we can arrange an Upper Mustang Trek privately on your preferred date throughout the year. Alternatively, you can contact us to check if a joining group is available for your preferred dates.

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Looking for a private tour, select your flexible date and trip of your interest, consult with our expert, and leave the rest to us to make a memorable experience.
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Useful Information

Best Time to Visit Upper Mustang Region

Travellers frequently ask questions about the best time to be in the Lo-Manthang or Upper Mustang region. Upper Mustang is the driest area of the Himalayas with almost no vegetation except some mountain grasses or bush but locals grow seasonal vegetables and potato is very famous.

Travellers can visit the region throughout the year. Due to its altitude and surrounding Himalayas, there is very little rainfall even during the monsoon which is June and July, and winter will be cold and get snow mainly in November, December, January and February.

During the extreme winter of December and January, fewer lodges and hotels are operated and fewer trekkers can be seen. Due to extremely chilling temperatures and snowfall locals descend to the lower altitude. But trekking is possible and is also done.

The best time to visit the Upper Mustang region will be August, September, October, November, February, March, April, and May. And when you are planning for the Tiji Festival 2027, it will be from 1st June to 3rd June 2027. Exploring the Upper Mustang and experiencing the Tiji Festival will be a two-in-one program for travellers. So don’t miss the opportunity which comes once a year.

Required Permits and Cost for Upper Mustang Trek along with Tiji Festival

Upper Mustang is a restricted area of Nepal but lower Mustang is easily accessible for trekkers. Upper Mustang is the remote area of the Himalayas bordering Tibet. So, foreigners need a special permit to visit this region.

Apart from the Annapurna Area Conservation Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Informations' Management System (TIMS), a Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required to enter Upper Mustang which costs 500 USD for foreign nationals. 

ACAP permit costs 30 USD and TIMS permit costs 10 USD each, but to inform our valuable travellers, a single entry is strictly prohibited in the Upper Mustang Region. So to obtain a special permit to enter Upper Mustang a minimum of two trekkers is mandatory and this can be obtained from the Nepal Immigration Office, through the authorized trekking agency of Nepal.

These three permits will cost 540 USD per person because the Tiji Festival is celebrated in Lo-Mangthang and falls under restricted areas. From Kagbeni special permit comes into effect and to the Lower Mustang ACAP and TIMS are mandatory to carry. 

Accommodations, Food, and other services in the Upper Mustang Trek

The Mustang region is a famous area not only for foreign nationals but also for Hindu and Buddhist followers. Holy pilgrimage site such as Kaligandaki River, Kagbeni, Muktinath, and Tatopani (hot water spring) is located in the Mustang region.

Apart from these, the region itself is the old trade route to Tibet, all this has made Mustang a very popular area for the local travellers. Keeping this in mind local tourism development committee of the Mustang area has been operating lodges, hotels, and even a resort in Jomsom. 

So it is very comfortable to trek in this region, but we can expect a basic lodge and hotel at the higher altitude and better at the lower altitude. Foods are basic but hygienic and the hotel and lodges are neat. 

ACAP also provides free cooking and hygienic training for the locals to make their business grow and maintain its standard by satisfying travellers. Hotels and lodges also provide refilled filtered water along with electricity and WIFI which can be obtained upon payment. In a nutshell, accommodation and food are satisfying.