Tiji Festival Trekking

Duration: 19 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration 19 Days
  • Trip Grade Fairly Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End KTM/KTM
  • Group Size 2-12
  • Max. Altitude 3800

Highlights

  • Embark on a vibrant and culturally rich festival trek in the remote and mystical kingdom of Upper Mustang.
  • Spend three nights in the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal, Lo Manthang, celebrating the Tiji festival.
  • Witness colorful dances, masked performances, and a grand display of traditional attire.
  • Explore Upper Mustang like never before and enjoy vibrant colors amidst barren hills and arid regions.
  • An adventurous trek through beautiful villages, crossing multiple passes and trekking along the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki
  • Enjoy arid landscapes, spectacular mountain views, unique rock formations, and lovely apple orchards.
  • Offbeat trekking in one the less crowded trekking regions in Nepal, perfect for travelers looking for solitary
  • Visit ancient monasteries and trek along mani walls, narrow streets, and mud-walled houses.
  • Learn about stories related to the Tiji festival that depicts the triumph of good over evil.

Tiji Festival Trekking Tour in Upper Mustang

The Tiji festival trek is one of the most culturally immersive treks in the Himalayas that is equally adventurous. Join our expert team on the Tiji festival trek 2023 departure for a smooth and safe journey to Lo Manthang, the last forbidden kingdom in Nepal.

Tiji festival is a vibrant and culturally rich festival in the remote and mystical kingdom of Upper Mustang, Nepal. The local people celebrate the festival to mark the victory of good over evil, and it is observed with great fervor and enthusiasm. The Tiji festival is celebrated over three days and features colorful dances, masked performances, and a grand display of traditional attire.

The Tiji festival trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the Upper Mustang differently. Even though the center of attraction on this trip is the Tiji festival, remember you will be trekking for multiple days before and after joining the celebration. With vibrant festivals, arid landscapes, and spectacular mountain views, the Tiji trek is an unforgettable journey for any traveler.

The Tiji festival trek is an incredible way to experience the unique culture and spectacular landscapes of the Upper Mustang. The trek begins with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom. You will trek through arid landscapes, rocky terrain, and deep gorges from here. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, known to be one of the deepest gorges in the world.

As you make your way through the rugged terrain of Upper Mustang, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and Nilgiri (7,061 m). The region is characterized by arid and barren landscapes, strikingly contrasting the brown, desert-like hills and the snow-capped mountains.

The major highlight of this trek is the Tiji festival. It is celebrated in the walled city of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Mustang Kingdom. The town is a maze of narrow streets and mud-walled houses, with the magnificent palace of the King at its center.

During the festival, the locals dress in their finest attire and perform ancient dances and rituals that have been passed down through generations. The festival is particularly famous for its masked dances, depicting good triumph over evil. The dances are performed by monks in elaborate costumes and masks, with each dance representing a different story or legend.U

The major attraction of the Tiji Festival trek

Tiji festival

The Tiji festival is a traditional Tibetan festival that is celebrated in the upper Mustang region of Nepal and parts of Tibet. The festival takes place annually and lasts for three days. During the festival, the region's people come together to celebrate the victory of good over evil. The festival is a vibrant and colorful event that is steeped in tradition and religious significance.

The Tiji festival is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Buddha's incarnation, Dorje Jono, over a demon named Man Tam. The story behind the festival is that Man Tam had created chaos in the world and caused suffering to the people. Lord Dorje Jono defeated the demon and brought peace back to the world. The Tiji festival is celebrated to honor this victory and commemorate the triumph of good over evil.

The celebration of the Tiji festival involves a series of rituals and ceremonies that the local people perform. On the festival's first day, a purification ceremony is held to cleanse the community of any evil spirits. The second day is the festival's primary day, which involves a series of dances and rituals the local community performs.

The dances are performed by masked dancers who represent the various characters from the story of the victory of Lord Dorje Jono over Man Tam. The Tiji festival is a time of grand celebration and rejoicing for the locals. The streets are decorated with colorful flags and banners, and the people wear traditional clothing and masks.

There is a lot of singing, dancing, and feasting. The Tiji festival is a time of great joy and happiness. It is a time for the community to come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil and honor Lord Dorje Jono's victory over the demon Man Tam.

Tiji Festival trekking route difficulty

The Upper Mustang trek route is offbeat and steep. The trail to Lo Manthang crosses many passes over 3,500 to 4,000 meters. Upper Mustang is a trans-Himalayan region, so the surroundings and views are barren, dry, and dusty. Expect strong winds, basic tea houses, long walking hours, and steep, uneven paths.

In terms of altitude, this trek is at most 5,000 meters, unlike the famous trekking routes like the Everest base camp and the Manaslu circuit. However, the trodden trail and remoteness of the region make the journey demanding.

Therefore, we recommend that you be in good shape for the Tiji festival trek. You have to trek 6 hours a day at minimum. The meals have an excellent variety, leaning much more towards Tibetan and Nepali dishes. Likewise, facilities like WiFi, hot showers, charging, etc., cost additional money or are unavailable in some places.

Overall, your endurance and mental persistence are essential to keep going.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is a common concern for trekkers in the Upper Mustang, particularly those who must be acclimatized to the region's high altitudes. Altitude sickness is also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). It is caused by a lack of oxygen at high altitudes and can be dangerous if left untreated.

Here are some symptoms and preventive measures for altitude sickness during the Tiji Festival Trekking:

Symptoms of altitude sickness

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Fatigue

Preventive measures for altitude sickness

  • Gradual ascent: It is recommended to ascend gradually to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitudes. Take your time and plan your trek accordingly.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or herbal tea, to prevent dehydration and help your body adjust to the altitude.
  • Proper nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with enough carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to fuel your body during the trek.
  • Rest: Take regular breaks and allow your body to rest and recover. Avoid over-exerting yourself.
  • Acclimatization: Take an acclimatization day to let your body adjust to the higher altitudes. Spend a day at a higher altitude and then descend to a lower altitude to sleep.
  • Medication: Consult a doctor or a trekking guide about taking medication, such as Diamox, to help prevent altitude sickness.
  • Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body and be aware of any symptoms of altitude sickness. If you experience any symptoms, descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Tiji Festival Trek preparation

Trekking in the Upper Mustang is a unique and unforgettable experience. However, it is essential to be well-prepared to make the most out of your trek.

Below are some tips for trek preparation for Upper Mustang:

Physical fitness

Trekking in the Upper Mustang involves walking several hours daily on rough terrain at high altitudes. Engaging in physical activities such as jogging, hiking, and cycling is recommended to prepare your body for the trek.

Trekking gear

It is essential to have the right gear for the trek. Some essential trekking gear includes sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, waterproof and windproof jackets, gloves, hats, and a backpack. You may also need a sleeping bag, mat, and a trekking pole.

Training

You do not have to do any rigorous training for this trek. Regular walking on steep hills, stairs, and uneven terrain will help you prepare your body.

Travel Insurance

It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation in case of any mishap during the trek.

Itinerary

Here, we have offered a detailed program for the Tiji Festival Trek for 19 Days. The 19-day itinerary includes

The Program is designed perfectly to experience the Trek in Nepal Himalayas and observe the festivals.

However, if you want to make it shorter or longer, it is possible. So, let us know your date and time, and we can offer you a customized program.

The Tiji festival trek is one of the most culturally immersive treks in the Himalayas that is equally adventurous.

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Once you enter the airspace of Kathmandu, you will be greeted by the jaw-dropping setting of the Himalayas.

After you land, complete the visa formalities and meet our team at the terminal gate, where we will be waiting for you to welcome you. They will drop you at the hotel and brief you on anything you should know. You have the remaining day of leisure.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

We have one full day in Kathmandu to explore some historical sites in the morning and later prepare for the trek. Our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel lobby after breakfast.

You will visit some tourist sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Monkey Temple. The guide will explain the monuments and the local markets around them.

Later in the day, we'll gather in our office to discuss the trek. We will introduce you to the mountain guide caring for you during the trek. We'll have a short briefing session and then pack the duffel bags. You can go for last-minute shopping and fill all the essentials.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

Today, we'll drive to Pokhara, the second biggest city in Nepal. We use a tourist standard bus for the commute. The ride will be comfortable and pleasant. You will have the company of beautiful lush green hills, waterfalls, and rivers.

The guide will drop you at the hotel upon reaching Pokhara. You can explore the surrounding area for the rest of the day. As we'll be staying in the popular tourist area in Pokhara, explore the Lakeside Market & enjoy the gorgeous sunset at Phewa Lake.

Note: You can take a short flight to Pokhara instead of driving.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude830

Our adventure in the western Himalayan Mountains begins today. Early in the morning, we fly to Jomsom from Pokhara. The flight will be short, thrilling, and offers spectacular mountain views. From Jomsom to Kagbeni, the trail is windy. We will trek along the Kali Gandaki riverbed as you ascend to Kagbeni for the night stay.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2810

From Kagbeni, the trail goes along the eastern bank of Kali Gandaki. We will trek in the north, enjoying arid landscapes and unique rock formations. On the way, visit Gompa Kang and some ancient caves. The trail goes through Tangbe village and ascends to Chhusang before arriving at Chele.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3050

Leaving Chele, we will be trekking on a steep uphill. The trail goes through the fields of buckwheat and rice. We will stop at Rachung Cave on the way. Today, we will cross four minor passes before we arrive at Syangbochen. Mountains like Annapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Nilgiri will accompany us throughout the trail.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3475

After a delicious breakfast, we will leave our tea house and trekking towards Yamada La (3,850 m). The views of mountains and valleys are extraordinary today. We'll pass by chortens, tea houses, and stupas.

Trekking through yellowish trees, we will reach Ghiling, where we'll stop for a quick lunch. From here, we continue walking via forests, brown hills, and barley fields to Nyi La pass (4,010 m). The trail further goes to Ghami La pass and descends to Ghami village.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3520

The trail from Ghami steeply descends following a rough track. We will walk past the longest Mani wall of the Mustang region. It is a short walk from Ghami to Tsarang. Today's trail carries the history of Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Crossing the Ghami Khola on a suspension bridge, we ascend, relishing the beautiful scenery.

The trail then gradually ascends to Tsarang La pass (3,870 m) and continues to Tsarang village. In this area, all we can see is barren land and desert with no sign of vegetation. As the Tsarang village is located on the top of Charang Chu Canyon with a massive fortress and an ancient red gompa, our time here will be very exciting.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3870

We will be trekking to Lo Manthang town on this day. From Tsarang, the trail descends to Charang Khola. We cross the river via a suspension bridge and ascend to Lo La pass (3,950 m). The landscapes of valleys and barren hills with snow-capped mountains at a distance dominating the skyline are out of this world. From Lo La, we will walk downhill and trek to the last forbidden kingdom of Nepal, Lo Manthang.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3730

We will spend the next three days in Lo Manthang, observing the Tiji festival and participating with the locals. Today is the first day of the festival. It starts with unrolling a three-storied Thanka painted with Padma Sambhava or Guru Rimpoche images.

The locals dance and do rituals. You can see the villagers in their traditional attire. Women wore antique jewelry. The cultural atmosphere will ultimately differ from what you may have experienced before.

As the rituals unfold, you will mask dance that portrays the mythical stories of the Tiji festival. At the dance's end, Lord Buddha's incarnation, Dorje Jono, kills the demon and relives the plague, bringing peace to the region.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3730

On the second day of the Tiji festival, we will see the traditional dance of Tibetan Lamas. This dance aims to chase away the hunger and evil spirits from the region. Lamas wear different outfits with masks and 12-foot horns. Other native things like yaks, pigeons, buttercakes, dogs, and others make the festival vibrant.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3730

Today is the last day of the Tiji festival. We will hike to Namgyal Gompa, which is situated at the hilltop. It is an ancient monastery of great importance to the locals. The monastery has been serving as the court for the local community.

Later in the evening, we will return to the village to join the festivities. On this day, the evil remains of the demons are destroyed. The demons attacked the old tiger skin with bows and arrows, old guns, and catapults.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3730

From today onwards, we set for the return journey. The experience and celebration over the last three days will be engraved in our memories. Leaving Lo Manthang, we'll gradually ascend to Chogo La pass (4,230 m), following a steep route.

From the pass, the trail descends to Ghar Gompa at 3,920 meters. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the Mustang region, dating back to the 8th century. The monastery is believed to fulfill the wishes of the visitors. From here, keep trekking on a downhill trail to Dhakmar.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3810

We begin the day early with a warm breakfast and lovely scenery. From Dhakmar, the trail to Ghiling sees strong winds in the afternoon. So, we'll begin trekking early. The trail is remote and tranquil. We primarily descend alongside streams and crossing passes.

Likewise, we will trek past Mani walls and walled fields. Further, the trail ascends to a ridge and drops down to Ghami village. We climb to Nyi La pass (4,010 m), descend through a dry plateau, and fields to Ghiling. The views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri are fantastic from Ghiling.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3800

We will be retracing the path from Ghiling to Chhuksand. The trail goes through beautiful Syanbochen village. We'll then walk to Samar village by forests of small trees and bushes. We will stop for lunch here and continue trekking, enjoying breathtaking mountain views and valleys.

The trail further crosses Dajori La (3,375 m) and Taklam La (3,624 m) passes. We'll reach Chele and trek on a downhill trail to Chhuksang village for the night stay. In this village, we relish lovely views of apple orchards, the Nilgiri Mountains, and a stretching view of the Kali Gandaki River.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3030

It is the last day of our trek. After breakfast, we leave the tea house in Chhuksang. From here on, we'll exist in the restricted area and join the famous Annapurna circuit. The trail ascends and descends to Kagbeni village. We will have our lunch in Kagbeni and continue walking towards Jomsom for the last night in the mountains. The landscapes are phenomenal, as usual.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2650

An early morning flight will take us back to Pokhara from Jomsom. The remaining day is free in Pokhara. So have plenty of rest and explore this beautiful city of lakes. We can organize a guided sightseeing tour later in the day if you wish or visit local markets and nearby tourist sites on your own.

  • MealsB, L
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude830

The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu is pleasant and comfortable. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will drop you at the hotel. For the rest of the day, relax and unpack. Go window shopping in Thamel and explore local markets. We'll meet you in the late evening for a farewell dinner.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

We hope you have a great time traveling with us. If you have any feedback for us, please do not hesitate to share. Our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport at the time of your flight departure. They will bid you our last goodbye!

  • MealsB

Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

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Map & Altitude Graph

Tiji Festival Trekking map

Inclusions

  • Airport Transfers
  • Three nights Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • Two nights Accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
  • 13 nights’ accommodation lodges/tea houses
  • Meals (18 breakfast, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners)
  • Conservation entry permits, special trekking permits, and TIMS permit
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • A guide and porters (1 porter for two trekkers)
  • Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (Pay by travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets if necessary and return after the trek

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals, not stated in the itinerary
  • Your personnel expenses
  • Entrance on a tour of Kathmandu
  • All the alcoholic and non - alcoholic drinks
  • Sweet things like chocolate
  • International airfare
  • Tips for the guide, porter & driver
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Add-Ons & Options

Skip long drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

You can skip the long drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by upgrading 30 minute flight at US $120.00

Skip long drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

You can skip the long drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by upgrading 30 minute flight at US $120.00

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