Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek
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.
AMT - TREK - 204
Spring
Moderate
Dhakmar (3,820m/12,529ft)
Teahouses/Lodges
Flight/Jeep or Bus
BB/Full Board
Any
Trekking Map
Trip Itinerary
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01Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 kmOur company representative will welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport and drive you by private vehicle to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)Accommodation Hotel -
02Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive
Distance: 200 kmEarly in the morning, your guide will pick you up from the hotel. On the way to Pokhara offers scenic views of the Nepali countryside, rivers, terraced hills, and local villages. The bus will stop for breakfast, lunch, and tea/snack breaks along the way. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and relax. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk around Phewa Lake.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
03Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni.
Duration: Approx.20-25 minutes flight and 2-3 hrs trek
Distance: Approx.7km (walking)Start your day with an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. Enjoy a scenic flight between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. After breakfast in Jomsom, begin your trek following the Kali Gandaki River. The moderate trail winds through a stunning desert-like landscape. Arrive at Kagbeni, a traditional Tibetan-style village, one of the oldest in the Himalayas. Explore the village with views of Nilgiri and surrounding peaks.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kagbeni (2,810 m/9186 ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
04Trek from Kagbeni to Chele.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 11.3 kmAfter breakfast, follow the east bank of the Kali Gandaki River through a wide dry valley with rugged Himalayan landscapes. After 2 hours, reach Tangbe, a charming village with whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and apple orchards. Continue on a trail with gentle ups and downs, passing red rock formations typical of Mustang. Arrive in Chele, a peaceful village offering your first taste of Upper Mustang's Tibetan culture and dry desert environment.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Chele (3,080m/10104ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
05Trek from Chele to syanbochen.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 11.5 kmToday’s trek involves a steep ascent westward and along a deep canyon. Climb rocky trails, descend steep sections, and ascend again to a pass with views of the Kali Gandaki River and Samar village. Visit the red-painted cave monastery, Rangchyung Chorten, believed to be visited by Padmasambhava and Atisha. Trek through gorges and high cliffs before reaching Syanbochen.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Syanbochen (3,475 m/11,401 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
06Trek from Syanbochen to Ghami .
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 9.2 kmCross three high passes today: Yanda La, Nyi La, and Ghami La. Pass through Geling village and terraced valleys, and visit red Gompas along the way. The landscape becomes more rugged as you continue. Finally, reach Ghami, the third-largest settlement in Mustang.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Ghami (3,520 m/ 11,549 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
07Trek from Ghami to Tsarang.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 11 kmBegin with a visit to Mustang’s longest Mani wall and a group of Chortens. According to legend, this wall is built on the remains of a demon. Ascend gradually to a pass, then walk through barren lands to reach Tsarang, home to the historic Tsarang Chorten and the palace of the former capital of Lo Kingdom.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Tsarang/Charang ( 3,560 m/ 11,679 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
08Tsarang to Lo Manthang.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 11.4 kmTrek through the Charang Chu canyon and climb steeply after crossing the river. Walk past ancient ruins and dry valleys to the windy Lo La Pass. From here, the walled city of Lo Manthang comes into view. Cross a small bridge and enter this fascinating town.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Lo Manthang (3,840m/12598ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
09Witness the Tiji festival starting in the afternoon.
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).
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Lo Manthang (3,730m/12,234ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
10Tiji Festival Day 2.
The monks of Lo Manthang's "Choedhe" monastery perform ritual dances during the celebration. “The birth of Dorjee Sonnu as the demon's son” in this day.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Lo Manthang (3,730m/12,234ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
11Teji Festival Day 3
The monks of Lo Manthang's "Choedhe" monastery perform ritual dances during the celebration. Then attempt to return the demon to Lord Buddha's realm (on the third and final day) are en-act during the performances.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Lo Manthang (3,730m/12,234ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
12Trek from Lo Manthang to Drakmar.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 17 kmTake a different route back via the Chogo La Pass. Descend gradually to Drakmar, stopping to explore the sacred Ghar Gumba, known for its rock paintings and spiritual significance.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Dhakmar (3,820m/12,529ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
13Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 kmTrek through high-walled gorges, traditional villages, and impressive Chortens. Reach Ghiling, a quiet village known for its monasteries and windy afternoons. Best time to explore is in the evening.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Ghiling (3,570 m/11,712 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
14Trek Ghiling to Chhuksang.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 17 kmContinue trekking through stunning desert landscapes and traditional settlements. Interact with locals and experience their warm hospitality. Arrive at Chhuksang for the night.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Chhuksang (2,980 m/ 9,777 ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
15Trek from Chhuksang to jomsom.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 22 kmTrek back to Kagbeni and rejoin the Annapurna Circuit trail. Continue on to Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang, known for its excellent facilities and views of Mount Nilgiri.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Jomson (2,720 m/8,924 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
16Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara.
Duration: Approx.20-25 minutes flight
Distance: Approx. 68kmTake an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Enjoy the short scenic flight between the Himalayas. Spend the day relaxing or exploring lakeside Pokhara.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)Accommodation Hotel -
17Drive or Fly back to Kathmandu.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive / 20-30 minutes Flight
Distance: Approx. 200 kmAfter early breakfast, we drive or flight back to Kathmandu. In drive the journey offers beautiful views of rivers, green hills, and rural villages. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)Accommodation Hotel -
18Final departure. Drop to inetrnation Airport as per flight schedule.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 kmOur representative will drop you at International Airport as per your flight schedule.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Tribhuvan Internation Airport (1,338 m/4390 ft)Accommodation -
Photo Gallery
Includes
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 2 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation (Flight/Private vehicle/Tourist coach – choose as per your Package type).
- 2 Night’s accommodation in Lake side Pokhara in BB Plan.
- Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara drive by Flight.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map.
- Trekking pole, Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- Upper mustang restricted area permit (Special permit).
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
Excludes
- International Airfare
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking)
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal expenses for bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages, hot shower and battery charge during the trek.
- Alcoholic beverage
- TIPS for Staff
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Clothing
Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.
Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).
Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.
Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.
Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.
2. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.
3. Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
4. Backpack and Accessories
Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.
Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.
Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.
6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.
Frequently asked question (FAQ'S)
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Customer Reviews
TripAdvisor 63+ Reviews
We began our Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek on April 26, 2025, and it was truly a journey of a lifetime. Huge thanks to Raj, Pralad, and the entire Adventure Mountain Trek team for taking such wonderful care of us throughout our Himalayan adventure. From the very beginning, we felt welcomed and well looked after. The team's warmth, knowledge, and professionalism made our 10-day trek not only smooth but incredibly enjoyable. We were absolutely spoiled — with hearty laughs, rich stories and history about the region, cozy accommodations, and most importantly, amazing food every step of the way! This trek will remain one of our most cherished travel experiences, and it's all thanks to this amazing crew. I will definitely be recommending Adventure Mountain Trek to my friends and loved ones. Nepal, we’re not done yet — I’ll be back for more soon! Thank you again for everything!
TripAdvisor
Excellent trek with Pralad to EBC Dec 2024 I did a 12 day Everest Base Camp trek with Pralad during December 2024. This was an amazing experience both regarding the stunning nature on display and how well Pralad guided the journey. I have trekked with Pralad before and hope to do so again in future - I highly recommend his services. In my experience he is very adept at adjusting to the needs of the circumstances and the personalities of the guests. Accordingly, he knows when to push the pace or when to slow down so that the trek runs very smoothly. He knows when to start a chat or give the space to let you work through the challenges of a trek. He remains flexible on the schedule too, which in my case meant the difference as things turned out between having a clear day at EBC and Kala Patthar (as we had) or having had terrible inclement weather (which would have been the case were he not attuned to this possibility). Finally, the accommodations he selected were all very comfortable and all served excellent meals. I have no hesitation to recommend Pralad and his business for your trek to Nepal.
I feel like we were extremely lucky on this trip taking into account all help we've got from Pradip and his team. Traveling in Covid times is hard enough on it's own, still we had problems occuring all the time. Pradip was very helpful on every step of the travel. Sometimes I even think he never sleeps))) He went above and beyond to help our groups with all necessary paperwork to get to Nepal. Transportation, guide, porters, everything was organised without any problems. But the most memorable thing for me was Pradip's personal involvement in situation when we needed to get to Kathmandu from our trekking ASAP due to lockdown restrictions. As well as get our PCR-tests in one of the hospitals in KTM. Everything went as smooth as it possibly could on this journey. And who travelled to Nepal at least once, knows that something unexpected may happen suddenly at any moment:) Pradip was always in touch checking every step of our journey. I highly recommend hiring Pradip and services of his agency! I've tried services of couple travel agents in Nepal and have something to compare to. He is safe, supportive and very reliable partner in Nepal. And what else do you need to have great adventure.
TripAdvisor
Oct 2024 I booked EBC with 2 pass(Chola and Renjola Pass) trek. They arranged everything from Kathmandu to Kathmandu in a very efficient way. The guide they allotted Mr. Bhim Rai was an excellent and experienced guide. I am impressed and do recommend Adventure Mountain Treks for trips in Nepal.
Pralad is the best guide one could ask for! We did EBC trek, beginning of December feels like best period to do this.
TripAdvisor
EBC Trek with Helicopter Return Oct 2022 • Friends A great trip. Well organised, our Guide Shyam had been very helpful. One of us ended up needing a horse and it was promptly managed. Starting from accomodation, food and helicopter ride back to Kathmandu, everything was pretty seamless. There were some places which could have been improved, but overall a reliable and fantastic trekking service which I will definitely recommend. All the best to future endeavours for Adventure Mountain Treks.
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