Mustang Tiji Festival Tour | 2024 Tiji Festival Tour in Mustang

Altitude : 4090 m
Transportation : Car/Jeep?Plain
Meals : Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Best Season : May
Trek Hour : 7
Accommodation : Hotel and Trekking Lodge

Cost From

USD 2136 per person

Trip Highlights

2023 Tiji Festival Journey leads you into the ancient historic places and hidden valley of Upper Mustang.
Visit the beautiful “Forbidden Kingdom", the focal point of the unique and culturally rich Tiji Festival.
See all three days of religious and spiritual ceremonies aimed at chasing away the demons from the area.
The Lo Manthang is an ancient “city” immersed in Tibetan Buddhist beliefs and traditions.

Mustang Tiji Festival Tour in 2024!

“Mustang Tiji Festival Tour is the unique privilege to witness the dances and rituals performed by the people. The tour generally starts from Jomsom and the trails lead to Tiji Festival takes place in Lo Manthang village. Along the way, you pass through several villages such as Kagbeni, Chele and Ghilling. During your hike, you will see colourful Buddhist shrines and have a great view of some highest mountains in the world.”.

The Tiji Festival Tour in Upper Mustang is the largest Buddhist religious festival in the region. The Tiji Festival Tour in 2024, on the other hand, has not a set date. Mustang Tiji Festival Tour takes you into the ancient historic places hidden valley of Upper Mustang to Northern Nepal. The “Forbidden Kingdom” and the focal point of the unique and culturally rich Buddhist Tiji Fest. Previously Mustang has been locked away from the outside world. However, in 1992 was opened up for trekking and since then has attracted a growing number of external visitors to this area.

Most trekking agencies in Nepal offer expeditions to the Mustang Region but have tended to ignore the Tiji Festival. Pure Adventure in Nepal We Best Nepal Trek provides a trip to the Lo Manthang Tiji Festival. The festival duration is just three days. The purpose of religious and spiritual rites and ceremonies is to send the devils out of the area. The majestic peaks of Tukuche, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri surround the area, with Annapurna close. The religious ceremonies and rituals are colourful and precise and retell the myth of the casting out of wicked demons from the people and the “city”.There is no doubt that the Tiji Festival invites happiness and delight to witness the expulsion of these strong, evil spirits.

We Best Nepal Trek are happy to invite you to participate in this fourteen-day experience incorporating the three days of the Tiji Festival. The festival very important trip, you will reach an altitude of 4,200 meters and you’ll also visit many interesting places. In short, the path is a moderate-grade route and staying in a lodge or camping. We have already briefed about the tour it’s very interesting and quite important to get knowledge of Buddhism culture and fest presents each year.

When you arrive in Kathmandu, our representative will pick you up from Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your respective hotel. You will have enough time for rest and our guide will brief you about the package and, in the evening, welcome dinner.

We need a special permit for the Upper Mustang Trek, so, therefore, this is the day for preparing the permit. After your breakfast, our city guide picks you up from the hotel in a private vehicle and takes you to the world heritage sites of Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Bauddhanath Stupa, and if there is still time, then takes you to the Kathmandu Durbar Square and back to the hotel with the Best and Breakfast plan.

Our journey towards Pokhara will start early in the morning. A tourist bus will take about 7-8 hours to reach there. The distant view of mountains along the way and beautiful green hills will entice you throughout the journey. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will be taken to the respective hotel near Phewa Lake, where you can enjoy the beautiful evening scenes of Phewa Lake and its surroundings.

After an early breakfast, drive to Pokhara airport and 20 flights to Jomsom (2,734 m.). Jomsom is a windy valley district headquarters for Mustang. The morning flight presents you with beautiful scenic of the Annapurna range and the world's 7th highest mountain, which is known as Mt. Dhaulagiri. After landing at Jomsom, the trek begins slowly, 3 hours to Kagbeni. The trails lead along the Kali Gandaki River bank. The river comes from the upper part of the Mustang. Kagbeni is the old town and a beautiful scenic village known as the entrance gate of the Upper Mustang. After exploring the village of Kagbeni, we spent the night at the trekking guest house.

After your regular breakfast, your journey starts toward Chele (3,050 m.), following the Kali Gandaki riverbank, passing through Tangbe and Chhuksang villages. This is a fantastic, picturesque day. You can enjoy the buckwheat terrace field, apple garden, and mud houses. From Chhuksang you will cross Kali Gandaki, from where the dwindling waters came. Then, you will ascend to the Chele. Overnight at a trekking lodge, you can see real Tibetan culture and the lifestyle of the locals.

Today's trek begins to ascend to Samar La pass and then gradual flat till you reach Samar village, where you will go to stop for early lunch. Along the way, you can see many Mani walls, Tsorten, and natural colorful landscapes, which make for gorges to the Upper Mustang. After lunch, we continue to Ghilling with uphill and downhill through the lower trails. There are two trekking trails, but the lower one is more beautiful, and you can visit Chhungsi cave, where the Guru Padma Shambaba meditated. Then continue to ascend to Shyangbochen and continue to your final destination, Ghilling. Overnight at a trekking guest house.

Today also, our trek begins to ascend to the pass and then gradual down to Ghami village, where you will go to stop for early lunch. Along the way, you can see many Mani walls, Tsorten, and natural colorful landscapes, which make for gorges to the Upper Mustang. After lunch, we continue to Charang, which is a beautiful village with historical Jhongs and monasteries. Overnight at a trekking lodge.

After breakfast, our journey starts to ascend to the very old and historical Monastery of Lo-Ghyaker (Ghar Gumba). Today we had a very normal lunch here because there is just a normal kitchen for the mongs. So after visiting the monastery and having some lunch, we continue to Lo-Manthang through the upper trails and we reach the beautiful pass which presents amazing views of the Upper Mustang valley. From the pass, we descend to Lo-Manthang and overnight at the trekking lodge.

You must visit the Namgyal monastery, where the festival will begin, very early in the morning.

On this day also, you have to follow the scheduled program.

On this final festival day, you also have to follow the scheduled program.

We return to Jomsom after the routine morning meal by way of the lovely village of Kagbeni. In Kagbeni village, you can buy some souvenirs for the family and friends and continue to drive to Jomsom, where you will overnight at a guesthouse.

After breakfast, take a flight back to Pokhara, where you'll get a spectacular view of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri, the entire Annapurna range, and Mt. Fishtail. After reaching Pokhara, we will wait to fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to a hotel with B.B. Plan.

You will be returning to your home filled with adventure memories during your stay in Nepal and trek in the Annapurna Region. Our representative will help you with your departure to your homeland.

Cost Includes

The airport picks up and drops off with private vehicles.
hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara accommodation with a B.B. plan.
All necessary special permit park fees and "TIMS" cards, etc.
Experience guides their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance staff.
breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and tea or coffee during the trek.
All ground transportation for the tour is a private vehicle.
Jomsom and Jomsom-Pokhara flight tickets.
and a clean twin-sharing room during the trek.
Farewell dinner in a cultural restaurant in Kathmandu
First Aid kit and all government taxes.
Office service charges, etc.

Cost Excludes

Food for lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Your international airfare and Nepal Visa fees
Any alcoholic beverages, mineral water, soft drinks, snacks, etc.
Your personal medical or evacuation expenses, including travel insurance, which includes rescue.
All accommodation on flight cancellation due to bad weather if in case of helicopter charter.
Is there any extra cost for horse riding and natural disasters?
Extra porters cost US$18 per person per day.
Tips for trekking crews: guide and porter.

The Mustang Tiji Festival is a vibrant and culturally significant event that takes place in the Mustang region of Nepal. Here's some useful information about the festival and touring the region:

Tiji Festival: The Tiji Festival is a three-day ritual celebrated by the people of Mustang to mark the victory of good over evil. It showcases colourful masked dances, religious ceremonies, and vibrant cultural performances. The festival usually falls in May and draws a significant number of tourists.

Location: Mustang is a remote region located in the north-central part of Nepal, bordering Tibet. It is known for its stunning landscapes, ancient caves, and unique Tibetan Buddhist culture. The main town in Mustang is Lo Manthang, which is the focal point of the Tiji Festival.

Permits: To visit Mustang, you need to obtain a special permit called the "Restricted Area Permit" from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Additionally, you'll require an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits ensure that the region is preserved and regulate the number of visitors.

Getting there: The most common way to reach Mustang is by flying from Pokhara to Jomsom, the main gateway to the region. From Jomsom, you can either trek to Lo Manthang or take a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The trek usually takes around 7-10 days, depending on the route chosen.

Accommodation: The accommodations in Mustang are relatively basic, with guesthouses and teahouses being the main options. It's recommended to carry a sleeping bag as the facilities may not always provide enough warmth. Accommodation options can be limited during the festival season, so it's advisable to book in advance.

Weather: The best time to visit Mustang is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. However, note that the festival takes place in May, so expect larger crowds during that period.

Altitude and health considerations: The Mustang region is situated at a high altitude, with some parts exceeding 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). It's crucial to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. It's recommended to consult with a doctor before undertaking the journey and to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Packing essentials: When visiting Mustang, it's important to pack appropriately. Some essential items include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a water bottle, basic medical supplies, and some cash, as ATMs might be scarce.

Cultural respect: The Mustang region has a strong Buddhist influence, and it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. When attending the Tiji Festival, be mindful of the sacredness of the event and follow the instructions of the locals. It's also advisable to dress modestly and seek permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites.

Local customs: The people of Mustang have a rich cultural heritage and hold their traditions close to heart. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with some basic cultural norms, greetings, and customs before visiting. Showing respect and appreciation for their culture will enhance your experience and interactions with the locals.

Remember to plan your trip well in advance, especially if you intend to visit during the Tiji Festival, as it is a popular time for tourists. Enjoy the unique cultural experience and the breathtaking beauty of the Mustang region!

Sure! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour:

Q: What is the Mustang Tiji Festival?

A: The Mustang Tiji Festival is a vibrant and culturally significant festival celebrated in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. It is a three-day ritual-based festival that showcases ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions and rituals.

Q: When does the Mustang Tiji Festival take place?

A: The dates for the Mustang Tiji Festival vary each year, but it generally falls in the month of May. It is recommended to check with local tour operators or the Nepal Tourism Board or local travel agents for the specific dates of the festival for the year you plan to visit.

Q: How can I reach the Mustang region?

A: The Mustang region is located in northern Nepal and can be reached either by a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Jomsom or by a road journey from Pokhara to Jomsom. From Jomsom, you can trek or hire a jeep to reach the village of Lo Manthang, where the Tiji Festival takes place.

Q: Do I need a special permit to visit Mustang and attend the Tiji Festival?

A: Yes, a special permit called the "Restricted Area Permit" is required to enter the Mustang region. It can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal, and you will also need to have a licensed guide accompanying you.

Q: How long does the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour usually last?

A: The duration of the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour can vary depending on the itinerary you choose. Typically, it lasts around 10 to 12 days, including trekking days, festival participation, and travel to and from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Q: What should I expect during the Mustang Tiji Festival?

A: The Mustang Tiji Festival is a colourful event filled with ancient rituals, masked dances, music, and cultural performances. The main highlight is the reenactment of the Tiji myth, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.

Q: What kind of accommodation is available in Mustang?

A: Accommodation options in Mustang are basic and limited. Tea houses and guesthouses are available along the trekking route, providing basic amenities such as a bed, shared bathrooms, and simple meals. In Lo Manthang, where the festival takes place, there are a few guesthouses with slightly better facilities.

Q: Is prior trekking experience necessary for the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour?

A: Yes, prior trekking experience is recommended for the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour. The trek to Lo Manthang involves walking in high-altitude terrain with rugged trails. It is advisable to have a good level of fitness and some experience of trekking at altitude.

Q: What should I pack for the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour?

A: Some essential items to pack for the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing (including layers), a good-quality sleeping bag, a backpack, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, and basic first aid supplies. It's also important to carry some cash, as ATM facilities may not be available in the region.

Q: Are there any health concerns or altitude-related risks in Mustang?

A: Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk when visiting Mustang due to the high elevation. It is important to acclimatize properly and ascend gradually to minimize the risk. It is recommended to consult with a travel doctor or medical professional before the trip and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Please note that the specific details and requirements may change over time, so it's always a good idea to consult with a reliable tour operator or the Nepal Tourism Board for the most up-to-date information regarding the Mustang Tiji Festival Tour.

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