Trip Details
- Duration
- 18 days
- Location
- Mustang Lo Manthang
- Trip Grade
- Demanding
- Maximum Altitude
- 4000m
- Group Size
- 12
- Activities
- Trekking, cultural exploration
- Best Time
- September-November
- Starts/Ends
- Kathmandu
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
Lomanthang
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$2399-4%
Total$2399
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Overview
Encompasses a Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is one of the most exclusive cultural treks in the Himalayas, with the harsh landscapes of the Upper Mustang region meshed with the Tiji Festival, an ancient and pervasively important Tibetan Buddhist ritual staged in the walled city of Lo Manthang in celebration of the victory of good over evil once each year.
The trek is well-timed with a three-day Tiji Festival in May and will take you into a largely unexplored culture in a Himalayan kingdom influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and desert-like landscapes. The kingdom was known as Lo.
Why pick the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek (17-19 Days)?
The ideal duration for a Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is 17 to 19 days, but 18 days is the most balanced and preferred duration.
This is important for the following reasons:
Tiji Festival goes for three full days in Lo Manthang
There are additional acclimatization days needed in mountainous as well as arid areas
Side valleys and ancient monasteries near/around LO MANTHANG also require proper explorations.
Flights, particularly to Jomsom, and delays are a regular occurrence in the Mustang region
This would mean that a shorter itinerary would imply the possibility of missing out on activities within the festival, or even rush through the cultural experiences, while an 18-day itinerary would also ensure immersion.
Best Time for Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
Month: May
Dates of Festival: Mid-May, usually around May 13–15
Weather: Dry, stable, and perfect for trekking
Upper Mustang is located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, and that makes it suitable even during late spring.
Permits Required for Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
Restricted Area Permit (Upper Mustang)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Minimum group size: 2 trekkers; solo trekking is not allowed.
All permits must be arranged through a licensed trekking agency.
Who Is This Trek Best For
Cultural travelers and photographers
Experienced trekkers seeking unique destinations
Travelers interested in Tibetan Buddhism and Himalayan festivals For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime cultural trek in Nepal,
Trip Description
Three-day Tiji Festival celebration in Lo Manthang
Ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture and rituals
Explore the walled city of Lo Manthang, the ancient capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang
Visit centuries-old monasteries like Ghar Gumba and Chhoser Cave Monastery
Witness the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture preserved in its purest form
Trek through stunning arid landscapes, colorful cliffs, and dramatic Himalayan canyons
Enjoy panoramic views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other Himalayan peaks
Experience the restricted Upper Mustang region, once off-limits to outsiders
Discover Niphu and Garphu cave villages, carved into the cliffs of the remote north
Scenic flights between Pokhara and Jomsom over the Himalayas
Authentic teahouse trekking experience in a culturally rich environment
Walk along the ancient salt trade route that once linked Tibet and Nepal
What to Bring
Footwear
Warm trekking socks (wool or technical fabric) Regular hiking socks Liner socks (optional) Waterproof trekking boots Ice cleats or micro spikes (Recommended from November to March) Casual shoes or sandals Gaiters (light for dust, heavy for snow)
Essential Gear (General)
Four-season sleeping bag rated to 0°C (Rental available: USD 35) Insulated down or synthetic jacket (Rental available: USD 35) Daypack (35–45L) with rain cover Sleeping bag liner
Upper Body Clothing
Moisture-wicking base layers (lightweight for warm seasons, thermal for cold seasons) Quick-dry short-sleeve shirts (2) Quick-dry long-sleeve shirts (2) Waterproof and windproof outer shell Fleece jacket or insulated mid-layer
Lower Body Clothing
Thermal base layer (seasonal) Trekking pants (2 pairs) Comfortable pants for evenings or teahouses Waterproof and windproof trousers Trekking shorts
Head & Hand Accessories
Head Accessories Sun hat or cap Warm beanie or woolen hat Headlamp with spare batteries UV-protection sunglasses Hand Wear: Lightweight liner gloves (wool or technical fabric) Insulated outer gloves for colder conditions
Undergarments and Sleepwear
Quick-dry underwear Sports bras (for women) Pajamas or sleepwear Note: Clothing quantities can be adjusted based on personal preference and trip length
Personal First Aid and Medications
Sunscreen Lip balm Personal medications Basic ointments or creams (Guides carry group first aid kits, but personal items are strongly advised.)
Optional Items
Power bank or spare batteries Camera or smartphone Book or playing cards Binoculars Trekking poles Whistle Thermos flask for hot drinks (Most trekking gear can be purchased in Thamel, Kathmandu, at reasonable prices.)
Travel Daily Essentials
Passport, ticket Extra passport-size photos Reusable water bottle Toiletry kit Water purification tablets or UV purifier Lightweight towel Pillowcase Toilet paper (2 rolls) High-energy snacks (nuts, protein bars) Dry bags for documents and money
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Altitude Chart
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Itinerary
Explore our comprehensive 16-day trek itinerary with daily activities, accommodations, and highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Trek briefing, permit preparation, and equipment check.- DurationHalf Day hours
- LocationTribhuvan International Airport
- Altitude1300m
- ActivitiesArrival welcome
- AccommodationHotel
- Meals IncludedDinner
Day 2 Kathmandu to Pokhara
Day 3 Pokhara to Jomsom – Trek to Kagbeni
Day 4 Kagbeni to Chele
Day 5 Chele to Syangboche
Day 6 Syangboche to Ghami
Day 7 Ghami to Tsarang to Lo Manthang
Day 8 Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang
Day 11 Explore Lo Manthang
Day 12 Trek to Dhakmar or Nyphu Valleys
Day 13 Dhakmar to Yara
Day 14 Yara to Samar
Day 15 Samar to Chhuksang – Jomsom
Day 16 Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 17 Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 18 Departure
Complete Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Trek briefing, permit preparation, and equipment check.
Altitude: 1300m
Duration: Half Day hours
Location: Tribhuvan International Airport
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara
The objective for the day is to head towards Pokhara. We have the option of either going there by air or by land. The flight lasts for 30 minutes whereas the drive takes about 6 hours. Pokhara is a beautiful valley located in western Nepal. This valley is famous for providing amazing views of the Annapurna Mountains and Machhapuchhre (6997m). There are many other tourist attractions like the Davis Falls, and World Peace Pagoda. Overnight in Pokhara.
Altitude: 820m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotels
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Pokhara to Jomsom – Trek to Kagbeni
Early morning flight to Jomsom with dramatic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Begin trekking toward Kagbeni, the historic trading village and official entry point to Upper Mustang. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River through arid landscapes.
Altitude: 2810m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Pokhara – Jomsom – Kagbeni
Accommodation: Tea House, Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Kagbeni to Chele
Enter the restricted Upper Mustang region after permit verification. Trek through narrow riverbeds, eroded cliffs, and traditional villages influenced by Tibetan culture. Strong winds are common in the afternoon, typical of Mustang’s dry terrain.
Altitude: 3050m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Kagbeni – Chele
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Chele to Syangboche
Cross high ridges with panoramic views of Tilicho Peak and Nilgiri. Pass ancient chortens and prayer flags while gradually ascending through dry Himalayan landscapes.
Altitude: 3800m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Chele – Syangboche
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Syangboche to Ghami
Trek across plateaus and descend into Ghami village, home to one of the longest mani walls in Nepal. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic with red and ochre cliffs.
Altitude: 3520m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Syangboche – Ghami
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Ghami to Tsarang to Lo Manthang
Trek past Tsarang Monastery and fertile farmlands before reaching Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo.
Altitude: 3840m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Ghami – Tsarang – Lo Manthang
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang
Two full days dedicated to the Mustang Tiji Festival, a sacred Tibetan Buddhist ceremony held annually in May. Monks perform masked Cham dances depicting the triumph of good over evil. Visitors observe rituals inside the royal courtyard and interact with local communities.
Altitude: 3840m
Duration: 2 Full Days hours
Location: Lo Manthang
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Explore Lo Manthang
Guided exploration of Lo Manthang including the Royal Palace, Jampa Monastery, Thubchen Gompa, and traditional villages.
Altitude: 3840m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Lo Manthang
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Trek to Dhakmar or Nyphu Valleys
Day hike to remote valleys featuring ancient cave monasteries, red cliffs, and isolated settlements.
Altitude: 4000m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Upper Mustang
Accommodation: Lodge / Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Dhakmar to Yara
Trek eastward through lesser-visited terrain, passing farming villages and unique geological formations.
Altitude: 3650m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Lo Manthang – Yara
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Yara to Samar
Descend gradually through wind-carved landscapes and traditional Mustang villages.
Altitude: 3570m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Yara – Samar
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Samar to Chhuksang – Jomsom
Final trekking day in Upper Mustang. Exit the restricted region and return to Jomsom.
Altitude: 2700m
Duration: Full Day hours
Location: Jomsom
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: Jomsom to Pokhara
Morning flight to Pokhara. Rest and leisure time.
Altitude: 850m
Duration: Half day hours
Location: Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 17: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Return to Kathmandu by flight or drive. Farewell dinner with cultural performance.
Altitude: 1350m
Duration: full Day hours
Location: Pokhara – Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Farewell dinner
Day 18: Departure
Transfer to airport for onward international departure.
Altitude: 1350m
Duration: Half Day hours
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation: -
Meals: Breakfast
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Cost Detail
What's Included
Water bottle on travelling- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Trekking accommodation in teahouses or lodges
- Trekking Permits (TIMS, National Park fees)
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Meals during the trek (breakfast,lunch,dinner)
- Transportation by Clean & AC vehicles
- First aid kit carried by the guide
- Insurance for guide and porter
- Government taxes and service charges
- Accommodation in 3–4 star hotels and eco-lodges
What's Not Included
International airfare and visa fees- Travel and medical insurance
- Meals in any place (unless specified)
- Personal expenses (laundry, snacks, drinks, etc.)
- Extra accommodation due to delays or early return
- Optional activities(sightseeing, cultural etc)
- Monument Fees
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Location
sdadas
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek FAQs
Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek?
The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is a guided cultural trekking experience in Nepal’s Upper Mustang region, timed to coincide with the annual Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang. The trek combines high-desert Himalayan landscapes with three days of sacred Tibetan Buddhist rituals and masked dances.
How long is the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek?
The best standard duration is 17–19 days, with 18 days being ideal. This allows trekkers to attend all three festival days, acclimatize properly, and explore surrounding valleys and monasteries without rushing.
When does the Tiji Festival take place?
The Tiji Festival is held once a year in May, usually in the second or third week. In 2026, the festival is expected around May 13–15, though exact dates follow the Tibetan lunar calendar.
Where is the Tiji Festival celebrated?
The festival is celebrated exclusively in Lo Manthang, the ancient walled capital of the former Kingdom of Lo in Upper Mustang, Nepal.
Is Upper Mustang restricted for tourists?
Yes. Upper Mustang is a restricted area. Travelers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). A licensed guide is mandatory, and solo trekking is not permitted.
What is the altitude of Lo Manthang?
Lo Manthang sits at approximately 3,840 meters (12,600 feet). The itinerary includes gradual ascent days to support acclimatization.
How difficult is the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek?
The trek is considered moderate. There are no technical climbing sections, but trekkers should be comfortable walking 5–7 hours per day at altitude in dry, windy conditions.
Is this trek suitable for international travelers?
Yes. The Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is popular with international travelers seeking cultural experiences, photography opportunities, and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Prior trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory.
What type of accommodation is used during the trek?
Accommodation is primarily local teahouses and lodges. In Lo Manthang, the best available lodges are used. Private rooms are limited and subject to availability during festival time.
Why is the Mustang Tiji Festival Trek more expensive than other treks?
Costs are higher due to the restricted area permit fee, limited infrastructure, mandatory guide requirements, and increased demand during the festival period.
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