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Overview
- Duration:9 hours 0 minutes
- Travelers:1 - 25 guests
- Tour Type:Daily tour
- Language:English, French, German, Italian
What Is the Mustang Tiji Festival?
The Tiji Festival refers to a three-day Tibetan Buddhist festival that takes place in the ancient capital of Upper Mustang, which is Lo Manthang, every year. It is popularly known as “Tenchi,” which is, in fact, an abbreviation of the phrase “Tempa Chirim” that means “prayer for peace in the world.” Thus, we can understand that this festival has an important spiritual meaning apart from being visually appealing.
During this festival, the monks of the Chhoede Monastery perform their unique masked dances. All the time, Lamas keep playing drums, cymbals, long horns, etc. Nevertheless, the Tiji festival is among the most popular cultural experiences in the surrounding Himalayan region that people try to attend.
Mustang Tiji Festival 2027 Dates
The Mustang Tiji Festival is scheduled to occur from June 1 to June 3, 2027, in Lo Manthang. As the festival observes the Tibetan lunar calendar rather than the Gregorian, its dates change every year, with Chhoede Monastery verifying them months in advance using astrological methods. Importantly, the festival of 2027 occurs later in the season as opposed to the festival of 2026, which was conducted in the middle of May. Thus, whoever had visited previous years must not set the same time window. Most trekking companies suggest travelers to be arriving in Kathmandu from May 26 to May 28, 2027, so that travelers could be accustomed to the climatic surroundings and find their way to Lo Manthang within that period. Later, travelers have their two to three extra days to explore the villages around before going to Pokhara or Kathmandu.
The Meaning Behind Tiji: A Story of Good Over Evil
According to a local myth, a being named Dorje Jono fought with his father, the demon who intended to bring drought and destruction to the kingdom of Mustang. Dorje Jono managed to defeat his adversary and bring order and water back to the land. Ever since, the inhabitants of Lo Manthang have been celebrating their victory with a ritual dance every year.
Each of the dance sequences during the festival represents a certain stage of the mythical battle. Moreover, local monks regard this dance as an active rite for the protection of the community instead of just a historical event. Thus, the combination of myths, spirituality, and performance makes the Mustang Tiji Festival more than just a tourist attraction — it is truly a living religious practice.
Where the Tiji Festival Takes Place: Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang
Lo Manthang is situated in the Trans-Himalayan rain-shadow region of Nepal at around 3,840 meters of elevation just close to the border of Tibet. In the past, it used to be the capital of a Buddhist kingdom, which is why it features outstanding monasteries, palaces, and terrific mud-brick houses that are typical for the culture of the country.
The area surrounding the town appears as a desert-like landscape known for stunning red rocks, eroded canyons, and sky caves. Besides, the neighboring settlements of Chhoser, Tingkhar, and Dhakmar are wonderful for excursions before or after the festival.
How to Reach Lo Manthang for the Tiji Festival 2027
Lo Manthang can be accessed by three primary routes, each of which is ideal for a certain type of travel style and budget.
By Jeep
Jeep journeys are available from Pokhara to Lo Manthang through Jomsom. The journey usually takes two to three days and is ideal for frame-restricted travelers.
By Trekking
Trails for classic trekking are through Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, and Ghami before arriving in Lo Manthang. This will require around seven to ten days of the trek and provide the trekkers with close-up views of Mustang’s amazing terrain.
By Helicopter
Helicopter services from Pokhara to Lo Manthang take less than one hour and thus are the preferable option for people who are short of time and don’t have sufficient experience in trekking.
Permits You Need for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival
Upper Mustang is classified as a region where visiting is restricted by the Nepali government; therefore, all visitors must obtain an additional Restricted Area Permit (RAP) along with the standard Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The authorities have created this procedure in order to maintain a fragile nature and unique tradition of the Loba group of people.
Moreover, make sure that you join with other trekkers, as it is impossible to get an upper Mustang permit without having a companion. Also, remember to have a passport copy, two passport-sized photos, and the trekking program when applying to the agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Since each guesthouse in Lo Manthang can accommodate only a few visitors, consider applying for the permit 4−6 months before you get the confirmation of the festival dates.
What to Expect During the Three-Day Festival
In 2027, Tiji Festival consisted of several days, each representing a separate event from the heroic journey of Dorje Jono as depicted in sacred dance of Cham, an integral part of the festival.
Day One: Tsa Chham
The first day of the Tiji Festival is known as Tsa Chham. Monks will open the day's celebrations with prayers, revealing a big thangka painting, and performing a dance representing the emergence of evil in the region.
Day Two: Nga Chham
During the second day, which is known as Ngah Chham, the struggle of Dorje Jono in his fight against the demon continues. During this day, dancers will wear specially painted masks representing deities, demons, and spirits, and the local residents will gather to watch the event.
Day Three: Rha Chham
The final day (Rha Chham) of the festival will conclude with the defeat of the demon and the restoration of peace. During Rha Chham, ceremonial dances performing the end of the demon and beginning of peace will be performed throughout the town.
Best Mustang Tiji Festival Trek Packages for 2027
Mustang Trekking presents pre-organized itineraries that coincide with the 2027 festival dates. These packages offer an exceptional trekking journey through the Upper Mustang region, taking travelers to the key destinations, including Kagbeni, Lo Manthang, Chhoser, and Muktinath.
Since festival seasons are packed with visitors and accommodations and permits get pre-booked fast, booking early is imperative. Contact our team to secure a place in the Mustang Tiji Festival trek.
Tips for Attending the Tiji Festival
- Make your booking early. There is limited accommodation in Lo Manthang and the festival season is often booked well in advance.
- Get used to the climate! Try and spend at least the extra night in either Jomsom or Kagbeni before heading up.
- Be prepared for the climate. June is closer to the monsoon season than May, which means that one must pack for the rain and any colder nights.
- Be respectful of locals. Always ask whether it is okay to photograph monks or ceremonies closely.
- Carry money with you. There is no ATM in Lo Manthang so make sure that you have enough cash with you for your whole stay.
Highlights
- Experience the colorful Tiji Festival, one of the most authentic Tibetan Buddhist festivals.
- Explore the remote and culturally preserved region of Mustang.
- Trek through dramatic desert landscapes and Himalayan scenery.
- Gain insight into ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions and spirituality.
- Enjoy a rewarding blend of trekking, culture, and adventure.
Itinerary
Expand allDay 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,400m
Activity Duration: Airport transfer 30–45 minutes
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, your guide will assist with permit arrangements, gear inspection, and a detailed trek briefing.
You may spend the rest of the day exploring Thamel or preparing for your journey into the ancient Kingdom of Mustang.
Trek Permit & Preparations
Altitude: 1,400m – 1,400m
Activity Duration: 4–6 hours
Today is reserved for processing the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. Your guide will review the itinerary, cultural etiquette, weather conditions, and festival schedule.
Enjoy free time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing before departure.
Flight to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
Altitude: 1,400m – 2,720m – 2,800m
Flight Duration: 20–25 minutes
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Take an early morning flight to Jomsom with spectacular views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Begin trekking along the Kali Gandaki River to Kagbeni, a fascinating medieval village and gateway to Upper Mustang.
Explore its narrow alleys, ancient monastery, and traditional Tibetan-style architecture.
Trek from Kagbeni to Chele (3,050m)
Altitude: 2,800m – 3,050m
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Follow the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley through colorful cliffs, desert landscapes, and ancient cave formations. Pass traditional villages before reaching Chele, perched above a deep canyon with beautiful mountain views.
Day 5 : Trek from Chele to Syangboche (3,800m)
Altitude: 3,050m – 3,800m
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Cross several scenic passes, including Taklam La and Dajori La, while enjoying magnificent views of Mustang’s rugged terrain. Pass through Samar and sacred cave sites before reaching Syangboche.
This gradual ascent provides excellent acclimatization.
Day 6 : Trek from Syangboche to Ghami (3,520m)
Altitude: 3,800m – 3,520m
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Trek through dry valleys, juniper-covered hills, and traditional Mustang villages. Pass ancient monasteries and one of the longest mani walls in Nepal before arriving in Ghami.
Day 7 : Trek from Ghami to Lo Manthang (3,810m)
Altitude: 3,520m – 3,810m
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Continue across vast plateaus and historic trade routes, visiting ancient gompas and traditional settlements along the way. Arrive at Lo Manthang, the legendary walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang.
Day 8 : Tiji Festival – Day 1 (3,810m)
Altitude: 3,810m – 3,810m
Activity Duration: Full Day
Witness the opening ceremonies of the Tiji Festival, Mustang’s most important cultural and religious event. Monks perform sacred masked dances depicting the victory of good over evil, accompanied by traditional music and rituals.
Day 9 : Tiji Festival – Day 2 (3,810m)
Altitude: 3,810m – 3,810m
Activity Duration: Full Day
Experience the second day of celebrations, featuring elaborate cham dances, colorful costumes, and ancient Buddhist ceremonies performed within the royal square of Lo Manthang.
Day 10 : Tiji Festival – Day 3 (3,810m)
Altitude: 3,810m – 3,810m
Activity Duration: Full Day
Attend the grand finale of the Tiji Festival, where sacred rituals symbolize the banishment of negative forces and the restoration of harmony and prosperity.
This is a unique opportunity to experience one of the Himalayas' most authentic cultural festivals.
Day 11 : Trek from Lo Manthang to Dhakmar (Alternate Route) (3,820m)
Altitude: 3,810m – 4,010m – 3,820m
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Begin the return journey via a scenic alternate route through Ghar Gompa, one of Mustang’s oldest monasteries associated with Guru Rinpoche. Cross high ridges before descending to the striking red cliffs of Dhakmar.
Day 12 : Trek from Dhakmar to Chhusang (2,980m)
Altitude: 3,820m – 2,980m
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Descend through Ghami, Geling, and dramatic canyon landscapes. Pass ancient villages, colorful rock formations, and fertile river valleys before reaching Chhusang.
Day 13 : Drive to Jomsom and Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Altitude: 2,980m – 2,720m – 822m – 1,400m
Drive Duration: 2–3 hours
Flight Duration: 20–25 minutes (Jomsom–Pokhara) + 25 minutes (Pokhara–Kathmandu)
Drive through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Jomsom and take scenic flights via Pokhara back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 14 : Final Departure or Onward Travel
According to your international flight schedule, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang, its spectacular landscapes, and the extraordinary Tiji Festival celebration.
Includes/Excludes
- Private/tourist vehicles for airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu.
- Private/tourist vehicles transfer as per itinerary to access the trailheads.
- 3 Nights 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with bed & breakfast basis.
- 1 Night 3 star hotel in Pokhara with bed & breakfast basis.
- All Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner with tea & coffee) during the trekking Period.
- Upper Mustang restricted Area permits (Issued by Department of Immigration)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits.
- Local Government entry permits.
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permits.
- Professional and experience License holder trekking guide salary & insurance.
- Porter salary, equipments & insurance.
- First aid medical kit for emergency support.
- International Flights
- Visa Fees
- Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
- Personal Expenses
- Meals & Beverages In Kathmandu
Cancellation policy
Tour maps
Open in Google MapsFrequently asked questions
When is the Mustang Tiji Festival in 2027?
Why does the Tiji Festival 2027 fall later than the 2026 dates?
Do I need a permit to attend the Tiji Festival?
How many days does the Mustang Tiji Festival trek take?
What do the three days of the Tiji Festival represent?
Extra Services
Childcare services
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Photography
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