The Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m), you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to rest from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist area in Kathmandu. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Your Journey begin. Early Morning, You will be taken to beautiful city of Pokhara by jeep. Enjoy a scenic 6–7 hour drive with beautiful hills and rivers. The rest of the day is free to rest from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Lakeside, a popular tourist area in Pokhara. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Enter Mustang region; relax in natural hot springs if you stay in Tatopani.

Early Morning, start your journey to Kagbeni. Along the way you will visit Muktinath temple, beautiful highland desert vibes.

Get into the wild Mustang terrain — red cliffs and old gompas.

Arrive at the majestic walled city, check into a lodge. The rest of the day is free to rest from your journey or explore village area.

After breakfast, head to the monastery courtyard where the Tiji Festival commences. Witness sacred Cham dances performed by monks in vibrant masks and costumes. Learn the legend of Dorje Jono, the deity who defeats evil to bring peace and rain to the region. Free time in the afternoon to explore more of the old city or nearby caves.
Overnight at lodge in Lo Manthang.

Watch the continuation of ritual dances, representing the banishment of demons and cleansing of negative forces. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as locals gather in their finest traditional attire. Afternoon: Optional Guided Meditation Session. Visit the 1300-year-old Jampa Monastery, one of the oldest and most revered in Mustang.

The final act of the Tiji Festival takes place, symbolizing the defeat and destruction of evil. Monks burn effigies to purify the region and protect it from misfortune. Interact with locals and celebrate the end of the sacred ceremony. In the afternoon, begin preparations for return journey. Overnight at lodge in Lo Manthang.

After an early breakfast, bid farewell to the mystical city of Lo Manthang. Begin your scenic drive back through the dramatic Mustang landscapes, retracing your route along ancient salt trade paths. Descend with a heart full of memories.

Enjoy comfort again by the lake.

Wrap up your journey and relax.

Farewell and airport drop.