Experience the Mystical Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang by Jeep- 2025 and 2026
Discover the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang, a remote region in Nepal that preserves the essence of ancient Tibetan culture. Often called the "forbidden kingdom," this secluded area is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, mysterious caves, and centuries-old monasteries. The Tiji Festival, Upper Mustang’s most treasured cultural event, is celebrated annually in the walled city of Lo-Manthang. Scheduled from May 24 to May 26, 2025, this three-day festival brings to life the legendary story of Dorje Jono, an incarnation of Buddha, defeating a demon that brought suffering to the region. Monks in elaborate masks perform vibrant ritual dances accompanied by powerful chants, creating an unforgettable spiritual atmosphere.
The 2025 Tiji Festival Jeep Tour offers a seamless way to experience this cultural marvel. Running from May 18 to May 31, the tour makes the remote Upper Mustang region accessible via four-wheel-drive Jeep, blending the comfort of modern travel with rich cultural exploration. Highlights include witnessing sacred rituals at Chode Monastery, where the festival originated in the 14th century, and journeying through the breathtaking landscapes of one of the last Tibetan cultural strongholds. Rooted in Guru Rinpoche's Vajrakila practice, the festival unites local communities and global visitors in a profound prayer for world peace and harmony.
This tour goes beyond cultural immersion, offering a rare chance to connect deeply with an ancient way of life. From the vibrant Tiji celebrations to the serene beauty of Upper Mustang, every experience captures the essence of history, spirituality, and nature. Engage with locals, admire intricate torma creations, and explore a land that feels frozen in time. The Tiji Festival promises a timeless celebration of resilience, culture, and peace, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival 2026: Scheduled from arrival in Kathmandu on May 10 to May 23, 2026. This trip is also already open for reservations.
Join us for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour 2025 or 2026, where you will journey through the stunning landscapes of Mustang in comfort and style. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the rich culture and history of this mystical region without the strain of trekking.
Tour Route | Distance (Kilometers) | Duration (Hours) | Altitude (Meters) |
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Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara | 205 | 25 to 30 Minutes | 822 |
Drive from Pokhara to Tatopani | 110 | 5 to 6 | 1200 |
Drive from Tatopani to Kagbeni via Muktinath | 85 | 5 to 6 | 3710 |
Drive from Kagbeni to Charang | 40 | 4 to 5 | 3560 |
Drive from Charang to Lo-Manthang | 14 | 2 to 3 | 3810 |
Drive from Lo-Manthang to Jomsom | 70 | 5 to 6 | 2720 |
Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara | 158 | 7 to 8 | 822 |
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu | 205 | 8 to 9 | 1400 |
Tiji Festival Year | Tiji Festival Dates |
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2025 | 24, 25, and 26 May 2025 |
In 2026, the Tiji Festival will occur from May 13th to May 15th. Key highlights include:
Dance of the Thunderbolt: Witness the sacred dance symbolizing Dorje Jono's fight against evil forces, performed by monks in colorful costumes.
Chanting and Rituals: Participate in the spiritual ambiance created by the chanting of prayers and performance of religious rituals.
Exploration: Discover the unique landscape of Upper Mustang, with its ancient monasteries and dramatic mountain vistas.
Himalayan Dream Team will pick you up at the international airport in Kathmandu for your transfer to the hotel. As a welcome you will have a typical Nepalese dinner with some of the staff members. Learn about momo's and Dal bhat and do not forget to try our typical Nepalese drink with great mood of cheers.
After breakfast, we'll take you on a tour of Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Durbar Square offers insights into the lives of royals in ancient times. Pashupatinath Temple holds great significance as a pilgrimage site for Hindus. Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the world's largest stupas, are both iconic landmarks.
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before heading to the domestic airport for a scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara. As you embark on the Tiji Festival Upper Mustang Jeep Tour, you'll be treated to breathtaking views from your window seat, capturing the stunning Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre mountain ranges that encircle the Pokhara valley. Upon arrival, a professional from our office will manage your airport pick-up and transportation to the hotel.
Pokhara, renowned for its magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, and the five peaks of Annapurna, serves as the gateway to numerous adventurous treks. Known as the "City of Lakes," Pokhara boasts several beautiful lakes, with Fewa Lake being the most accessible and picturesque. In the afternoon, you can take a boat ride on Fewa Lake, enjoying its serene beauty. Spend your time exploring, relaxing, and dining by this tranquil lake. In the evening, indulge in some shopping along the vibrant streets lining the lake, filled with colorful shops and lively atmosphere.
After breakfast at the hotel, begin your Mustang Tiji Festival journey with a four-wheel jeep drive from Pokhara. The drive takes you along winding roads with views of mountains, local lifestyles, farms, rivers, and gorges. In the evening, unwind and relax at the natural hot spring of Tatopani.
Start your day with breakfast in Tatopani, followed by a jeep drive to Kagbeni. Along the way, visit Marpha village, the local market in Jomsom, and the Muktinath Temple. Muktinath is a revered religious site for both Hindu and Buddhist communities, symbolizing the religious harmony of Nepal and India. After exploring the Muktinath temple and surrounding town, return to Kagbeni for an overnight stay.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before exploring the Kagbeni Monastery and Buddhist School. After immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Kagbeni, your guide will check your special Upper Mustang permit, signaling the beginning of your journey deeper into this mystical region.
Your drive begins by crossing the Kali Gandaki River near Chhusang village, followed by an ascent through a series of picturesque villages: Chella, Samar, Syangboche, Bhina, and Ghiling. Each village offers a unique glimpse into the traditional Tibetan culture, with stunning landscapes unfolding before you at every turn, especially from the vantage points in Syngboche (3800M).
This private tour is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to stop whenever you wish to capture the breathtaking scenery or simply take in the serene environment. Along the way, you'll pass traditional farmer houses, observe yak caravans, and experience the vibrant local life, all culminating in your arrival at the charming Ghami village.
Today, you'll set out on an enriching journey to Lo-Mangthang, beginning with a visit to the renowned Mustang Lo Gager Ghar Gompa, a significant monastery in the region. Your day will include a tour of the Charang Monastery before heading to the historic city of Lo-Mangthang.
In Lo-Mangthang, explore the "Jampa Gompa," the oldest monastery built in the early 15th century, also known as the "God House." Visit the impressive "Thubchen Gompa," a large red assembly hall and monastery from the late 15th century, and the "Chodey Gompa," now the main city gompa, along with the Monastic Museum.
Throughout your day, you'll encounter domestic yaks and cattle caravans, marvel at the stunning mountain views and landscapes from the passes, and immerse yourself in the local culture through visits to a Buddhist school, traditional arts, the king's palace, and observing local activities.
In the evening, experience the vibrant Tiji Festival, a highlight of your journey, celebrating with the locals and enjoying the rich cultural heritage of Mustang.
On the second day of the Tiji Festival celebration, start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to visit many notable monasteries and temples. Lo Manthang beautifully captures the essence of Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions. Hiking is the best way to explore the hidden areas of this incredible city, which is nestled among desolate terrain.
In the morning, take a scenic drive to Chhoser village (3,860m), approximately an hour from Lo-Manthang. Along the way, you may spot blue sheep or other wildlife. In Chhoser, explore the village's Buddhist school and the fascinating sky caves. The village of Chhoser, home to about 130 families, thrives on agriculture and animal husbandry. Locals grow crops like wheat, barley, and buckwheat and raise livestock such as yaks, goats, and sheep. Known for its woolen handicrafts, the village also offers unique products to tourists visiting the area. After your visit, return to Lo-Manthang to experience the vibrant Tiji Festival, which usually begins around noon.
On the third and final day of the Tiji Festival, you will continue to explore Lo-Manthang's rich heritage. Begin your day by touring the city's monasteries and Buddhist schools, soaking in the sights of this predominantly Buddhist region, home to the Lhoba and Bon tribes.
Visit the Champa Lhakang, a significant Buddhist temple featuring a massive Buddha statue and intricate Mandala paintings on the walls. Then, take a short stroll to the Namgyal Gompa, a nearby courthouse that also serves as a place of worship.
Join the locals in celebrating the last day of the Tiji Festival after 12 PM. Engage with the community, observe the traditional dances and ceremonies, and experience the local customs firsthand.
After the festival, return to your guest house for dinner and an overnight stay, cherishing the memories of this unique cultural event.
After an energizing breakfast, your Tiji Festival Jeep Tour in the Upper Mustang will begin the journey back to Jomsom with the expert guidance of the Himalayan Dream Team. The drive will take you through the picturesque landscapes and quaint villages that define this unique region.
As you travel, you'll pass through the charming villages of Tsarang, Ghami, Ghiling, Samar, and Kagbeni. Each of these villages offers a unique glimpse into the local culture and stunning natural beauty. At Kagbeni, your special Upper Mustang permit will be checked one final time before you continue on your way.
Upon arriving in Jomsom, you'll be allocated rooms where you can unpack and relax after the day's journey. Take some time to unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere of Jomsom. Once settled, you're free to explore the market area of Jomsom. Stroll through the vibrant streets, interact with the locals, and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs to remember your adventure.
As evening falls, return to your accommodation for a well-deserved dinner. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you've gathered during your Tiji Festival Jeep Tour in the Upper Mustang. Enjoy a restful night, rejuvenating for the next leg of your journey with the Himalayan Dream Team.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we'll set off on the final leg of our journey back to Pokhara. Retracing our steps, we will drive along the same scenic route that brought us to Jomsom.
As we travel, we'll have the opportunity to revisit any interesting sightseeing spots or landmarks that captured our attention on the way up. The beauty of the return trip is the flexibility it offers—we can stop whenever something catches our eye, allowing us to capture photographs and savor the moments that make this journey so special.
The drive to Pokhara takes approximately 7-8 hours. Upon arrival, we'll check into our hotel, where you can relax and unwind after the day's travel. Enjoy the comforts of your accommodation and perhaps take a leisurely stroll around Pokhara, reflecting on the incredible adventure you've had in the Upper Mustang region.
We'll start the day with a leisurely breakfast in Pokhara. Afterward, we'll head to the World Peace Pagoda, which offers sweeping panoramic views of Pokhara city and Phewa Lake. This serene location provides a perfect backdrop for taking in the stunning scenery.
After descending from the pagoda, we'll enjoy a boating excursion on Phewa Lake. The colorful boats and the stunning reflection of the snow-capped Annapurna range offer fantastic opportunities for relaxation and appreciation of nature's beauty.
We'll end the day with dinner in the bustling town of Pokhara before heading back to the hotel. This day promises to be delightful, capturing the serene beauty and the enchanting atmosphere of Phewa Lake.
Short 25 min. flight to Kathmandu after which you will be transported to the hotel. Rest of the day for free spending.
After breakfast or lunch, depending on your flight time, we will transfer you to the international airport or if you leave by evening, you can put your luggage at the Hotel and enjoy the city one final day.
SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
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1 | 2025-05-18 | 14 Days | Available | Book Now |
The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour is a 14-day adventure through Nepal’s remote Mustang region, where you can experience the vibrant Tiji Festival and explore ancient monasteries, caves, and stunning landscapes while traveling in a comfortable jeep.
The Tiji Festival 2025 will be celebrated from May 24 to May 26, 2025, and in 2026, it will take place from May 13 to May 15, 2026, in the ancient walled city of Lo-Manthang.
The tour offers a rare opportunity to witness the Tiji Festival, an ancient Tibetan Buddhist festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. This cultural experience is combined with jeep travel through the dramatic landscapes of Upper Mustang, making the tour both comfortable and culturally immersive.
The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour lasts for 14 days, providing ample time to explore the region and experience the three-day Tiji Festival in Lo-Manthang.
No, the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour is considered an easy-grade trip with light trekking involved. The majority of the travel is done by jeep, making it suitable for most travelers.
Key highlights include witnessing the Tiji Festival, exploring Lo-Manthang, visiting the sacred site of Muktinath, driving through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, and enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas.
The Tiji Festival is a three-day celebration that commemorates the myth of Dorje Jono defeating a demon that brought destruction to the Mustang region. The festival involves ritual dances, mask performances, and prayers for world peace.
Yes, travelers need a special Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, which will be arranged by the tour operator as part of the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour package.
Accommodation during the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour includes comfortable hotels and teahouses, with all meals provided during the jeep tour and breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
The tour starts in Kathmandu with a flight to Pokhara, followed by a scenic jeep ride through Tatopani, Kagbeni, and Lo-Manthang, the heart of the Upper Mustang region.
You can expect to immerse yourself in the Tibetan Buddhist culture of Upper Mustang, visit ancient monasteries, witness colorful religious rituals during the Tiji Festival, and explore local villages that retain traditional Tibetan customs.
The best time to book the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour is several months in advance, especially for the 2025 and 2026 festival dates in May, as this is a peak travel season for Mustang.
Yes, tourists are welcome to observe and participate in the Tiji Festival celebrations. It is a unique opportunity to learn about the Tibetan Buddhist traditions and witness the elaborate ritual dances performed by monks.
For the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour, pack comfortable clothing for both warm days and cool evenings, trekking boots, a warm jacket, personal essentials, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural events.
Joining the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour offers a convenient way to experience the rich culture and history of Mustang without extensive trekking. It provides a perfect blend of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and adventure in a short timeframe.
All You Need to Know About the Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour
Spring (March to May): Mild weather with daytime temperatures of 16-22°C and cooler nights dipping below freezing. Perfect for enjoying pleasant conditions and vibrant landscapes.
Summer (June to August): Protected by the rain shadow of the Himalayas, Upper Mustang remains dry during Nepal’s monsoon. Daytime temperatures range from 16-25°C, with cool nights. The Yartung Festival in August adds a cultural highlight.
Autumn (September to November): Crystal-clear skies and stunning mountain views. Daytime temperatures range from 12-20°C, while nights are colder, between -4°C and -8°C. Ideal for photography and scenic exploration.
The Mustang Jeep Tour is suitable for travelers of all ages. With accessibility and comfort in mind, this journey allows seniors and those unable to trek in the Himalayas to experience the beauty of Upper Mustang. Past participants as old as 84 years have enjoyed this adventure, proving it’s an enriching and inclusive way to explore this hidden gem.
Meal Type | Available Dishes |
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Breakfast | Common Tibetan Bread, Chapati, French Toast, Corn Flakes, Hash Browns, Fried Eggs, Scrambled Eggs, Boiled Eggs, Pancakes, Porridge, Muesli, Vegetable Dishes, Hot Beverages |
Lunch | Thukpa (Noodle Soup), Dal and Bhat, Momos (Dumplings), Tibetan Chapati Bread, Macaroni, Spaghetti, Sherpa Stew, Steaks, Potatoes, Sandwiches, Rice with Curry, Spring Rolls, Burgers, Pizza, Yak Steak, Desserts |
Dinner | Momos (Dumplings), Thukpa (Noodle Soup), Dal and Bhat, Chapati, Macaroni, Spaghetti, Various Soups, Steaks, Potato Dishes, Sandwiches, Pizza, Rice with Curry, Spring Rolls, Ramen Soups, Burgers, Yak Steak, Dessert Items, Hot and Cold Drinks |
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