Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2026

The Tiji Festival is a three-day event held at Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang. It tells the legend of Dorje Jono, who wins over his demon father, Ma Tam Ru, and saves Mustang from drought. Monks of Chhode Monastery perform masked dances that draw on the Sakya tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. 

The festival is celebrated in the month of May, but the date varies annually with reference to the Tibetan lunar calendar. It falls during the third Tibetan month, which generally coincides with the Buddha Jayanti. Chhode Monastery advertises the closing dates 4-6 weeks in advance. The tentative period for 2026 will be from May 14-16, subject to astrological review. 

Travelers will arrive in Kathmandu on May 8 2026 and depart for the festival on the following day.

To see this festival, visitors need to have an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit. Guided groups are allowed to enter the courtyard of Lo Manthang, where the masked dances take place. Tourists are advised to dress modestly, respect the rituals and follow the local etiquette. Photography is permitted but must be discreet and respect monastic boundaries. 

"Tiji" is derived from Tempa Chhirim, which translates into "Prayer for World Peace." The festival is a dramatic re-enactment of the battle between Dorje Jono and his demon father, Ma Tam Ru. Tsa Chham, Nga Chham, and Rha Chham are dances that tell the story of each of the three stages of the myth: the arrival of the demon, the battle, and the expulsion.

The festival dates back to the 15th century and was introduced by Sakya master Lama Lowo Khenchen. Chhode Monastery monks lead the rituals in Lo Manthang. The principal dancer observes a three-month retreat before the event, and some 65 monks participate in the choreography.  

Chhode Monastery is at the core of the festival. Located in the walled city of Lo Manthang, this is home to the dancing monks. The spiritual backbone of the festival is also supported by Thubchen Gompa, renowned for its prayer hall and murals, and Jampa Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Mustang.

Lo Manthang was nicknamed 'Walled City of the Himalayas' because it is surrounded by a mud-brick wall that dates back to the 14th century. Inside, the royal palace, Chhode Monastery, and traditional homes are mixed. The city's layout evidenced Tibetan urban planning: narrow alleys, shared courtyards, and fortified gates. 

The public Tiji is followed by a smaller private ritual, which takes place behind the royal palace courtyard. Only monks, the royal family and local elders attend. The ceremony is centered on it for lineage blessings and inner purification, and is not open to tourists or the general public. 

Upper Mustang is culturally distinct because of its history as the Kingdom of Lo, which was ruled by the Bista royals until 2008. The local language is Loba, and they follow Sakya Buddhism and Tantric rites. Unlike Annapurna or Everest, Mustang still has intact monasteries, seasonal festivals, and a living Tibetan culture. 

During Tiji, people wear woolen chubas, coral and turquoise jewelry, and silver amulets. Women often wear pangden aprons with conch shells and turquoise bead headdresses. Men carry khukurs or ceremonial daggers. Families gather in the courtyard and offer barley and butter lamps and enjoy thukpa, tsampa, and chang, a barley beer. 

The time taken by the Tiji Trek is normally 14 to 17 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization. Most of the routes depart from Jomsom and proceed north along the Kali Gandaki corridor to Lo Manthang. The trek is timed in accordance with the three-day festival, allowing trekkers to be privy to the entire ritual and explore the villages and monasteries. 

Upper Mustang has rare wildlife. Trekkers might see Himalayan Griffons, Lammergeiers, and Tibetan snow corks on ridges. Near Lo La and Ghar Gompa, blue sheep and marmots are common. Sometimes elusive species such as the snow leopard or Tibetan wolf occur in remote valleys such as Damodar Kunda and Chhuksang. 

Yarsagumba (Cordyceps sinensis) is found in Upper Mustang, particularly above 4000m in the area around Bhargaun, Samdzong, and the Damodar Himal. It begins to harvest in late May and has local collectors. The fungus is prized in traditional medicine for its energy-boosting benefits.

Along the trek, blue sheep, Himalayan marmots, and fox roam. Birds like choughs, snow pigeons, and lammergeiers glide above the valleys. Near Ghami and Tsarang, there are herds of domestic yaks and dzos. Tibetan wolves and snow leopards have been said to be sighted in remote areas.

To trek responsibly, take reusable items, avoid single-use plastics, and respect local ecosystems. Stay on marked trails to avoid erosion. Support local owned teahouses and purchase regional products. Do not overpack and dispose of waste responsibly. Practice leaves no trace guidelines and encourages others to do the same.

Carry a reusable water bottle, metal or bamboo cutlery, a cloth napkin, and dry bag for trash. Water purification tablets or a SteriPen are used to avoid plastic bottles. Use refill stations in Teahouses. Stay away from snacks that come in packages and choose local meals. A small tote bag eliminates the use of plastic during shopping.

When attending the Tiji Festival, please behave respectfully by quiet observation of rituals, no physical contact with monks, and no interruption during dances. Stand or sit where the locals stand or sit, and follow the lead of your guide. Never point feet at sacred things. Offer greetings with a slightly bowed or "Tashi Delek" and keep the conversation moderate.

Dress down: long sleeves, full-length pants, and neutral colors are preferred. Incredibly, try to avoid flashy outfits or exposed shoulders. Photography is permitted, but ask before taking close-ups, especially a monk or ritual. Drones are discouraged. Never take photographs inside temples without permission. Respect signs and verbal cues by locals and guides.

Useful phrases: "Namaste" (hello), "Dhanyabad" (thank you), “Khana cha?” (Is there food?), "Pani kata cha?" (Where is the water?), "Sanchai chhu?" (Are you well?). In Tibetan, "Tashi Delek" (greetings), "Thuk - je - che" (thank you) and "Kha - pa - re?" (What is this?) is helpful. Learning basic greetings is a way to show respect and develop trust.

For the Tiji Festival Trek in Upper Mustang, there are two permits that are required: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Upper Mustang and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The RAP goes for USD 500 for 10 days and is issued only from the registered trekking agencies. The cost of the ACAP is NPR 3,000 for foreigners. Both are checked at the entry points, such as Kagbeni and Lo Manthang.

Travel insurance is highly recommended for trekking in Upper Mustang. It is a requirement to get the Restricted Area Permit to join any organized trek. Insurance should be provided for high altitude activity (above 3,000 m), evacuation in case of an emergency, and medical treatment. Without valid insurance, you are unable to process your permit or confirm your booking.

Himalayan Trekkers usually accept payments through bank transfers, online payment gateways, or in cash in Kathmandu. A deposit (usually 20-30%) is required to confirm your booking, and the remaining balance thereof is paid before the trek starts. Payment instructions are traded by email, and receipts are issued for all transactions.

Himalayan Trekkers offers complete customization for your trip itinerary to visit the Tiji Festival as well. 

You can manage the duration of the trek, resting days, side trips (such as Ghar Gompa or Damodar Kunda), accommodation preferences, etc. Dietary requirements, porterage, and festival viewing can also be customized. Custom plans must be worked out prior to permit processing.

Bank transfers to Himalayan Trekkers will usually complete within 3 to 5 working days (depending on which country you are in and which bank you are with).

Once received, you'll have a confirmation email and invoice. For immediate bookings, let the agency know and provide a screenshot of the transaction.

Yes. A guide is compulsory for the Tiji Festival Trek because of the restricted status of Upper Mustang.

Solo trekking is not allowed. Guides ensure cultural sensitivity, safety, and compliance with permits.

The Upper Mustang Trek is moderately difficult. The terrain is dry and less forested than that in other parts, and elevations vary between 2,800 and 3,800 m. High ground requires long days, which require good stamina. Most sections are flat; however, the dry air and sun could be challenging.

The trek is non-technical: no ropes and ice axes are necessary. The path follows a set of trails and mule tracks. Nonetheless, it is sustained high altitude walking and so acclimatization and hydration are vital. Trekking poles provide balance as well as support for the joints. 

The route bypasses high passes such as Thorong-La or the Larkya-La, but the route is a steady climb. Lo Manthang sits at roughly 3,840 m. Hill climbing in sections, such as the climb to Ghami or the ridge above Tsarang, there are switchbacks and exposed sections, but with good pacing, this is more than achievable. 

The total distance of the Tiji Trek is between 120 and 160 km, depending on side trips. A typical itinerary from Jomsom to Lo Manthang and return by the eastern route - Tsarang, Yara, Tangge - will cover a distance of about 140 km in 10-12 days.

The trek is open to older people and kids who have some trekking experience. The dry and less slippery routes and support of mules make it family-friendly. Plan additional acclimatization days and don't go on long and continuous hikes. The cultural richness of Lo Manthang is a reward to multi-generational groups. 

Beginner trekkers can participate provided they are in reasonable condition for altitude and physically fit. The trail is well-marked and requires no technical ability. First-time trekkers should train with regular walks, seek advice about pacing, hydration, and rest days. A guided itinerary is a safe and cultural experience. 

Lo Manthang sits at about 3,840 m (12,600 ft). It is one of the highest permanent settlements of Nepal and is close to the Tibetan border. The altitude requires proper acclimatization, particularly for those trekkers who are coming from low elevations like Jomsom (2,700m) or Kagbeni (2,800m).

There is a moderate danger of altitude sickness on the Tiji Festival Trek. Symptoms may begin at above 2,500 meters, particularly between Ghami and Lo Manthang. Trek participants should ascend slowly, remain well hydrated, and take acclimatization days. Many guided itineraries include rest stops in Tsarang or Dhakmar to reduce the risk.

There are health posts in Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Lo Manthang. There is a basic clinic in Lo Manthang, which is manned during the festival season. Emergency evacuation by helicopter is possible but costly - travel insurance that covers high altitudes is strongly recommended. Guides are trained in first aid and are able to assist with minor conditions.

During the journey, the meals are simple and hearty. The foods are à la carte Menu. 

Teahouses offer Tibetan bread, thukpa, tsampa porridge, dal bhat, and momos. A typical menu would include black tea, butter tea, and seasonal veggies. Food is cooked fresh from local barley, buckwheat, and potatoes. Vegetarians are well served; the meat choices (yak, goat, chicken) depend on availability.   

Accommodation ranges from some basic teahouses to middle-range lodges. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, trekkers can book 3-star hotels or better. On the trail, there will be wooden beds with foam mattresses, communal dining, and pit latrines. Teahouses in Lo Manthang, Tsarang and Ghami provide comfortable accommodation including clean rooms, warm blankets and local food. Pack a sleeping bag to have additional warmth. 

Internet service is available at most places, perfectly at major stops such as Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Lo Manthang. 

Most guesthouses provide paid Wi-Fi, but the speed may not be as fast as in the cities. So, expect simple messaging and email, but not video calls. During the festival, connectivity is likely to be swamped by visitor traffic. 

Offline maps and downloads are recommended.

You may charge devices at most teahouses for a small fee - usually NPR 100-150 per device. The charging is done in dining halls or reception areas. Bring an adapter of type C, D, or M. Power banks are helpful in case of backup. 

In Lo Manthang, some lodges will provide free charging to their guests.

The best month to visit Mustang is in May. Springtime brings mild temperatures, clear skies and blooming flowers. The Tiji Festival coincides with this time, and it is an ideal time to go trekking and to experience the culture. April and early June are also good but May provides the most even weather. 

The Tiji Festival always falls in the 3rd month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, which usually falls in May. This timing is in accordance with the agricultural calendar and is a sign of summer. The weather is steady, trails are dry, and Lo Manthang is alive with pilgrims, monks, and villagers preparing the sacred dances. 

The experience of snow in Upper Mustang in the Tiji season is rare. Most of the snowfall occurs between December and February, particularly above Mui La and Ghar Gompa ridge. By May, trails are dry and open for use, although there may still be patches of snow on shaded slopes on mountains over 4,000m near Yara and Tangge.

The weather is dry, the sun is strong, and the temperature is between 12 °C and 20 °C during the day. Nights can be freezing cold at 0 degrees Celsius, particularly in Lo Manthang and Tsarang. The wind is prevalent in the Kali Gandaki corridor. No rain in May, but dust storms can be experienced in open valleys. Layered clothing and sun protection are essential.

Trekkers sight several Himalayan giants while trekking the Upper Mustang route. From Kagbeni and Jomsom lie Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Nilgiri (7,061m). Near Lo Manthang, the views are open towards the Damodar Himal and the Tibetan plateau. On clear days, the range of Annapurna is visible from passes above Ghami and Tsarang. 

Typical altitude sickness symptoms are headache, nausea and dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Mild cases are usually treated with rest, hydration, and, if necessary, short descent. Diamox (acetazolamide) can help prevent the signs. The severe cases demand immediate descent and oxygen support. Guides are trained to monitor the symptoms and change the plan if necessary.

A first aid kit for the trek should include Diamox, ibuprofen, rehydration salts, antiseptic wipes, bandages, blister pads, and altitude sickness information cards. Add sunscreen, lip balm, and water purification tablets. Include any personal medications and their insurance card copy. Trek agencies will usually carry group kits but personal supplies are essential.

But basic essentials will be included in the package itself, so you should carry purification tablets, personal medication, and SPF.

Toiletries for the Tiji Festival Trek should be biodegradable soap, toothbrush and paste, quick-dry towel, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, lip balm, and sunscreen (SPF30+). Add nail clippers, period products, and a small mirror. A roll of toilet paper and a zip-lock bag for waste are essential. Choose eco-friendly items that are compact to reduce bulk and environmental impact.

Electricity is available at most of the guesthouses on the Tiji Festival route, particularly at Kagbeni, Ghami, Tsarang, and Lo Manthang. Power is derived from solar panels or micro-hydro systems and is sometimes limited on cloudy days or peak hours. Charging is often conducted in common areas and may be limited to the evenings.

Essential electronics: headlamp, power bank (10000 mAh +), universal adapter, basic phone/camera. A solar charger is useful in remote areas. For documenting the festival, take additional SD cards and batteries. Don't go heavy on gear - light, durable gear is best. GPS watches and e-readers are optional but convenient.

NTC (Nepal Telecom) usually provides better coverage in Upper Mustang compared to NCELL. NTC works in Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Lo Manthang; however, the signal strength varies. NCELL may cover villages down below, but struggles beyond Ghami. Buy a local SIM in Pokhara or Kathmandu and turn on roaming / data before heading north.