Nepal: Tiji Festival Trek in 2025, Upper Mustang Trek/ Drive

Travel enthusiasts looking for a journey that combines vibrant culture, dramatic landscapes, and spiritual discovery will find the Tiji Festival Trek in Upper Mustang an exceptional option. Organized by Getaway Nepal Adventure, this 25-day experience offers a rare glimpse into the Tibetan Buddhist traditions, set against the backdrop of some of Nepal’s most striking desert-like terrains. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a culturally curious traveler, this tour promises memorable sights and meaningful connections with local communities.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to witness the Tiji Festival, a vibrant three-day celebration filled with sacred dances and rituals that symbolize the victory of good over evil. Second, the opportunity to explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, a place that feels like stepping back in time. One consideration? The trek involves some challenging high-altitude passes and basic accommodations, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level and an adventurous spirit.

This journey is ideal for travelers who crave authentic culture, stunning views of the Himalayas, and a bit of spiritual reflection. If you’re eager to see an off-the-beaten-path region while participating in a lively festival, this trek could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Witness the Tiji Festival, a rare and vibrant Buddhist celebration rooted in Mustang’s traditions.
• Stunning Landscapes: Traverse the red cliffs, desert-like plains, and ancient monasteries of Upper Mustang.
• Historical Highlights: Visit the fortified city of Lo Manthang, the heart of the festival and a medieval wonder.
• Trekking Adventure: Bali through remote villages and rugged terrain, with a mix of moderate and high-altitude passes.
• Comfort & Practicality: Included accommodations, guided tours, and necessary permits offer a well-organized trip.
• Value for the Price: At $2,094, this 25-day adventure covers nearly every aspect, from permits to medical supplies, making it a comprehensive choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Cultural and Scenic Journey in Nepal

This tour promises more than just a scenic trek — it’s a chance to step into a Tibetan Buddhist world that feels worlds away from busy Kathmandu. We love how the trip combines cultural festivities with awe-inspiring landscapes. The idea of witnessing the Tiji Festival, with its sacred dances and rituals, is especially appealing for those wanting to see Nepal’s spiritual side in action. Plus, the opportunity to explore Lo Manthang, a city carved out of history and legend, adds a layer of depth.

One of the best aspects? The trek takes you through desert-like terrain that’s visually striking — think red cliffs and ancient monasteries perched on craggy hills. The journey is designed with a good balance of trekking, cultural visits, and rest days for acclimatization. That said, travelers should be prepared for basic accommodations and some physically demanding passes, like Gyu La at 4,077 meters. So, a decent level of fitness and a sense of adventure are recommended.

This tour is perfect for those who want a deep dive into Himalayan culture, combined with scenic marvels and a lively festival atmosphere. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences over luxury, and who are ready to embrace some rugged beauty along the way.

Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1-2: Arrival and City Tour in Kathmandu

Starting in Kathmandu, you’ll have time to get acquainted with the city’s lively streets, bustling markets, and serene temples. The guided tour includes entrance to major monuments, giving a taste of the city’s spiritual and cultural heartbeat. It’s a good chance to stock up on last-minute gear and prepare mentally for what’s ahead.

Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara

A scenic 5-6 hour drive takes you from the capital to Pokhara. This route offers a chance to see the transition from urban hustle to peaceful lakeside scenery. In Pokhara, you might enjoy the tranquil views of the Himalayas reflected in Phewa Lake, giving a peaceful preview of the mountain landscape to come.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Pokhara to Jomsom via Drive and Trek to Kagbeni

Travel to Jomsom, a gateway town at 2720 meters. The drive itself offers dramatic mountain scenery, especially as you approach the arid Mustang region. From Jomsom, a trek to Kagbeni follows, a quaint village with old stone houses and a medieval feel.

Days 5-7: Exploring Mustang Villages and Monasteries

The trek continues through Samar, famous for the Chungsi Caves, and heads towards Ghami and Charang, where ancient monasteries and cave dwellings reveal the region’s spiritual history. These villages are less touristy, where locals still follow traditional lifestyles, making the journey deeply authentic. Expect a mix of seven-hour days and some ascent to higher elevations, all with stunning vistas of barren mountains and red cliffs.

Days 8-10: Lo Manthang and the Tiji Festival

The highlight: arriving in Lo Manthang just in time for the festival’s first day. The city’s imposing walls and ancient palaces set the scene for three days of rituals, sacred dances, and colorful costumes. Watching the festival rituals unfold gives insight into the spiritual beliefs that have shaped this region for centuries. Travelers have described the experience as “mesmerizing,” with vibrant costumes and sacred dances that are unlike anything found elsewhere.

Days 11-13: Trekking to Dhakmar, Ghiling, and Chhusang

Continuing the trek, you’ll visit Dhakmar, known for its red cliffs and ancient monasteries. Exploring Ghiling reveals more about local monastic traditions, and the journey to Chhusang takes you through dramatic, high-altitude terrain. Expect long trekking hours, but the views of rugged mountains, caves, and traditional villages will make every step worthwhile.

Days 14-16: Muktinath and Return to Jomsom

Crossing the Gyu La Pass (4077 meters), the scenery shifts from barren plains to lush valleys, with Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists alike, appearing as a spiritual highlight. The descent into Jomsom marks the close of your trek, with a drive back to Pokhara. Here, you’ll have time to relax, reflect, and enjoy the mountain vistas that make this journey so special.

Day 17-18: Return to Kathmandu and Departure

Flying back to Kathmandu, you’ll transition from the remote wilderness to the vibrant city life. The trip concludes with a farewell dinner, celebrating your adventures and new perspectives gained.

What Makes This Trek Unique and Valuable

The Tiji Festival is a rare experience. Unlike many Himalayan festivals, it’s centered around the theme of triumph of good over evil, with sacred dances and rituals performed in ancient monasteries and city squares. Travel reviews highlight the colorful costumes and spiritual energy as “mesmerizing,” offering a glimpse into Mustang’s vibrant spiritual life.

The ancient city of Lo Manthang is another standout. Unlike most trekking destinations, this city remains largely unchanged for centuries, with its fortified walls, palaces, and monasteries feeling remarkably authentic. Visiting here during the festival elevates the experience to a cultural celebration, not just a scenic stop.

The landscape itself is stunning — the arid, desert-like terrain of Upper Mustang offers a stark contrast to the lush valleys of Nepal’s more familiar routes. The red cliffs, caves, and monasteries carved into the hills create a landscape that looks more like Mars than the Himalayas, making every day’s scenery a visual treat.

From a practical standpoint, the tour’s inclusion of permits, accommodations, and local guides simplifies what could otherwise be a logistical challenge, especially for a remote region like Mustang. The small group size (up to 12) ensures a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides and locals.

Price and Value

At $2,094 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers all necessary permits, local transportation, guided sightseeing, accommodations, and medical supplies. Considering the length and depth of the experience, it’s a solid value, especially as it includes the costs of permits and permits processing — often a hidden expense in remote trekking regions.

The medical supplies and insurance coverage for staff add peace of mind, making it suitable for travelers who want a well-organized, hassle-free experience. The welcome and farewell dinners add a nice touch of hospitality, letting you start and end your journey with a taste of Nepalese cuisine.

Final Thoughts

This trek is best suited for travelers who seek cultural authenticity, spectacular scenery, and are comfortable with some basic amenities. It’s not a luxury tour, but the authentic experiences and breathtaking vistas more than compensate. The festive atmosphere of the Tiji Festival makes it especially appealing for those interested in Tibetan Buddhism and local traditions.

The trip’s blend of adventure and cultural discovery makes it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers. Whether you’re looking to witness a rare festival, explore ancient monasteries, or simply enjoy spectacular mountain views, this journey offers it all at a reasonable price for its scope and depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special permit to visit Upper Mustang?
Yes, you will need a special permit, which is included in the tour package.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
It requires a moderate level of fitness, mainly due to high-altitude passes and some long trekking days.

What is included in the price?
The package includes ground transfers, accommodations in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and tea houses during trekking, permits, guided tours, medical supplies, and some cultural dinners.

What meals are not included?
Meals (excluding the welcome and farewell dinners), beverages, and alcoholic drinks are not included.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or children under 1 year.

How do I get to Kathmandu?
You will need to book your international flights to and from Kathmandu separately.

What should I bring on the trek?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and a daypack are recommended.

Will I have a guide during the trek?
Yes, experienced, licensed guides will accompany you throughout the journey.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, 3-star hotels with breakfast are provided. During trekking, accommodations are in tea houses, which are basic but clean and charming.

What is the best time to do this trek?
The tour is designed to coincide with the Tiji Festival dates, which happen annually in May. The weather is generally clear and stable during this period.

To sum it up, the Nepal Tiji Festival Trek offers a compelling mix of culture, stunning scenery, and adventure. It’s tailored for those eager to experience a less-traveled Himalayan region during one of its most lively festivals. For travelers who appreciate authentic traditions, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a touch of spiritual discovery, this journey stands out as a deeply rewarding choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: