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The Upper Mustang region, situated in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, is a land of stark beauty and deep cultural significance. Known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," this area boasts a unique blend of Tibetan-inspired traditions and dramatic landscapes, including ancient monasteries, Cliffside caves, and barren desert valleys framed by towering snow-capped peaks. Central to its cultural heritage is the Tiji Festival, a grand three-day celebration held annually in the walled city of Lo Manthang. This festival showcases traditional masked dances, Buddhist rituals, and communal festivities, offering an immersive experience that combines spiritual enlightenment with a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the Loba people.
History of the Upper Mustang & Tiji Festival is origins of the Tiji Festival date back to the 15th century, deeply rooted in the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. It commemorates the myth of Dorje Jono, a divine figure who defeated a malevolent demon that spread chaos and drought. The festival's name, derived from "Tenchi," means "prayer for world peace," reflecting its spiritual purpose. Established by monks of the Chhoede Monastery in Lo Manthang, the festival features elaborate rituals, including sacred masked dances symbolizing the banishment of evil. Over centuries, the Tiji Festival has become an integral part of the Loba community; preserving their rich traditions while fostering unity and hope among participants and visitors alike.
The primary inhabitants of Upper Mustang are the Loba people, an ethnic group with Tibetan roots. They maintain a unique identity shaped by centuries-old traditions, a distinct dialect, and a lifestyle influenced by Buddhism.
The culture of Upper Mustang is deeply intertwined with Tibetan Buddhism. Monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens dot the region, symbolizing spiritual devotion. During the Tiji Festival, the vibrant culture comes alive through rituals, storytelling, and traditional dances performed by monks.
Cuisine in Upper Mustang reflects Tibetan and Himalayan influences. Common dishes include thukpa (noodle soup), momos (dumplings), barley bread, and butter tea. Local food often incorporates locally grown barley, yak products, and a variety of herbs.
Accommodation options range from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges in Lo Manthang. While facilities are modest, they are clean and provide essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay in this remote region.
The lifestyle in Upper Mustang is simple, deeply spiritual, and harmoniously attuned to nature. Agriculture and animal husbandry are the main livelihoods, with seasonal trading across the Tibetan border adding to their economy. The Tiji Festival exemplifies their communal harmony and reverence for tradition.
Upper Mustang experiences a semi-arid climate with dry conditions. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best seasons to visit, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies. During the Tiji Festival, typically held in May, the weather is warm and ideal for travel.
Upper Mustang is surrounded by stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri mountain ranges. The stark contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the arid valleys creates a breathtaking spectacle.
Visiting Upper Mustang requires special permits due to its restricted status. Travelers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and be accompanied by a licensed guide. The RAP costs approximately USD 500 per person for a 10-day trek, with additional charges for extra days.
Embarking on a journey to Upper Mustang during the Tiji Festival promises an unparalleled blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and spiritual enrichment.
The Upper Mustang region, situated in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, is a land of stark beauty and deep cultural significance. Known as the "Last Forbidden Kingdom," this area boasts a unique blend of Tibetan-inspired traditions and dramatic landscapes, including ancient monasteries, Cliffside caves, and barren desert valleys framed by towering snow-capped peaks. Central to its cultural heritage is the Tiji Festival, a grand three-day celebration held annually in the walled city of Lo Manthang. This festival showcases traditional masked dances, Buddhist rituals, and communal festivities, offering an immersive experience that combines spiritual enlightenment with a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the Loba people.
History of the Upper Mustang & Tiji Festival is origins of the Tiji Festival date back to the 15th century, deeply rooted in the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. It commemorates the myth of Dorje Jono, a divine figure who defeated a malevolent demon that spread chaos and drought. The festival's name, derived from "Tenchi," means "prayer for world peace," reflecting its spiritual purpose. Established by monks of the Chhoede Monastery in Lo Manthang, the festival features elaborate rituals, including sacred masked dances symbolizing the banishment of evil. Over centuries, the Tiji Festival has become an integral part of the Loba community; preserving their rich traditions while fostering unity and hope among participants and visitors alike.
The primary inhabitants of Upper Mustang are the Loba people, an ethnic group with Tibetan roots. They maintain a unique identity shaped by centuries-old traditions, a distinct dialect, and a lifestyle influenced by Buddhism.
The culture of Upper Mustang is deeply intertwined with Tibetan Buddhism. Monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens dot the region, symbolizing spiritual devotion. During the Tiji Festival, the vibrant culture comes alive through rituals, storytelling, and traditional dances performed by monks.
Cuisine in Upper Mustang reflects Tibetan and Himalayan influences. Common dishes include thukpa (noodle soup), momos (dumplings), barley bread, and butter tea. Local food often incorporates locally grown barley, yak products, and a variety of herbs.
Accommodation options range from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges in Lo Manthang. While facilities are modest, they are clean and provide essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay in this remote region.
The lifestyle in Upper Mustang is simple, deeply spiritual, and harmoniously attuned to nature. Agriculture and animal husbandry are the main livelihoods, with seasonal trading across the Tibetan border adding to their economy. The Tiji Festival exemplifies their communal harmony and reverence for tradition.
Upper Mustang experiences a semi-arid climate with dry conditions. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best seasons to visit, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies. During the Tiji Festival, typically held in May, the weather is warm and ideal for travel.
Upper Mustang is surrounded by stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri mountain ranges. The stark contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the arid valleys creates a breathtaking spectacle.
Visiting Upper Mustang requires special permits due to its restricted status. Travelers must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and be accompanied by a licensed guide. The RAP costs approximately USD 500 per person for a 10-day trek, with additional charges for extra days.
Embarking on a journey to Upper Mustang during the Tiji Festival promises an unparalleled blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and spiritual enrichment.
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Win HImalaya Treks & Expedition. From there, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by a private vehicle. In the evening, we’ll have a short briefing session to go over the trip details.
You’ll take an early morning flight or drive to Pokhara, a scenic city surrounded by stunning landscapes. If flying, enjoy panoramic views of the capital city and the surrounding Himalayas. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Afterward, a half-day sightseeing tour will include visits to the World Peace Pagoda, Devi’s Falls, Mahendra Cave, and the International Mountain Museum. Enjoy an evening stroll around Phewa Lake, or opt for a boat ride (additional activity).
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your drive to Tatopani, enjoying views of mountains, local villages, and rivers along the way. Upon arrival, relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani, a perfect way to unwind after the drive.
Today, you will drive to Kagbeni, passing through the villages of Marpha and Jomsom. On the way, you’ll visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore the temple, along with the surrounding monasteries and natural gas flames at Jal Devi, before continuing to Kagbeni for the night.
Start the day by checking permits at Kagbeni, and then drive towards Charang. Along the way, you’ll pass through several Tibetan villages, witness unique monasteries, and enjoy breathtaking views of red-orange cliffs and sky caves. Explore the tranquil village of Charang and immerse yourself in the local culture.
After breakfast, you will explore Lo Ghar Gumba, one of Nepal’s oldest monasteries, before continuing to Lo Manthang. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy the start of the Tiji Festival, a vibrant event with traditional Tibetan dancing and rituals, and interact with locals. End the day with dinner and rest at your lodge.
In the morning, you’ll visit Chhoser village, known for its sky caves and Buddhist school. After exploring, return to Lo Manthang to continue celebrating the Tiji Festival. Immerse yourself in the cultural festivities, watch the monks perform sacred dances, and celebrate with the locals.
This is the last day of the Tiji Festival, where you’ll get the chance to witness the final rituals and dances performed by the monks. Explore more monasteries in Lo Manthang, engage with the locals, and enjoy the last moments of the vibrant festival before returning to your lodge.
Today, you will retrace your journey back to Jomsom, passing through the beautiful villages of Tsarang, Ghami, and Samar. After a permit check at Kagbeni, continue to Jomsom where you can relax and explore the local market.
Leave Jomsom and drive back to Pokhara, enjoying the scenic drive along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax or explore the lakeside area before settling into your hotel for the night.
Take a short flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, or opt for a scenic drive if you prefer. Once in Kathmandu, enjoy a relaxed evening or explore the local markets before your final day.
Your adventure concludes today. Spend your free time shopping or packing before being transferred to the airport for your final departure.
The Upper Mustang & Tiji Festival Tour takes you to one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions, Upper Mustang. The tour includes a visit to Lo Manthang, the walled city, and offers an opportunity to experience the vibrant Tiji Festival, which celebrates Tibetan Buddhist culture with traditional dances and rituals.
The Tiji Festival is a religious and cultural event held annually in Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang. The festival honors the triumph of good over evil, featuring elaborate rituals, dances, and ceremonies performed by monks. It is one of the most important festivals for the local Tibetan community.
The Tiji Festival is usually held in May, and the dates vary each year based on the Tibetan lunar calendar. For 2025, the festival will take place from May 24th to 26th, providing an exceptional opportunity to experience the unique culture of Upper Mustang.
Key attractions include the ancient monasteries of Lo Manthang, the scenic desert landscapes, sky caves of Chhoser, Muktinath Temple, and the vibrant celebrations of the Tiji Festival. You will also explore Tibetan culture, including traditional Tibetan dances and ceremonies during the festival.
You can reach Upper Mustang by a scenic flight or a jeep ride from Pokhara to Jomsom, followed by a jeep tour to Lo Manthang. The tour typically includes visits to local villages like Kagbeni, Marpha, and Chhoser, offering insights into the lifestyle of the Tibetan communities.
Yes, the tour is suitable for people with moderate fitness levels. While there are some high-altitude areas, the majority of the trip involves jeep travel and gentle walks. The adventure is perfect for those seeking cultural experiences without intense trekking.
The best time to visit Upper Mustang is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, pleasant weather, and an excellent chance to experience the Tiji Festival, held annually in May.
To visit Upper Mustang, you’ll need several permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, and the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, which allows access to this protected region.
Pack warm clothes for chilly nights, light clothing for daytime, trekking shoes, a good quality camera, sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. It’s also recommended to bring a sleeping bag, and a duffel bag (provided by the tour operator) for the trek.
The tour includes three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the trip, except in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Local Nepali, Tibetan, and continental dishes are typically served in guesthouses and lodges during the journey. You can also enjoy tea, snacks, and refreshments at various stops along the way.
Please, Read Win Himalaya Treks and Expedition (P) Ltd Terms and conditions
Before booking your Trip. Win Himalaya Treks and Expedition (P) Ltd, a Nepal Government Tourism Department fully registered and authorized company of Nepal, a leading and rising trekking and adventure local company with our head office in Kathmandu, operating all types of tourism-related trips within Nepal-Tibet and Bhutan destinations. A trustworthy company where you will be insecure and friendly hand with a complete trip package of great interest to exotic destinations Himalayan holidays of your choices and interest and before you book with us with the trip of your interest please read and follow our norms and conditions
Down Payment:
Paying your deposit with us:
Credit Card (visa & master) by Phone, wire transfer, all the payment options subject to charge additional bank service fees on top of the sum.
Please call us at
Pay Online:
https://www.winhimalayatreks&expeditions.com
Email: Info@winhimalayatreks&expeditions.com
Last Minute Booking
We accept your last minute booking with 100% payment (07 days before tour starting date ONLY IN CASES OF NEPAL TRIPS, but LAST MINUTE BOOKING WILL NOT BE ACCEPTABLE FOR INDIA, BHUTAN AND TIBET TRIPS).
Refund:
No refund will be made for a 20% deposit amount in case of cancellation of trip for any other reason. Having paid the full amount of any trip, you’re entitled to incur a refund in case you want to cancel your trip. Still, the cancellation charge is invoiced to you. Written notification of your cancellation should be made to cancel any trip. Nevertheless, you’re imposed cancellation charge as advised below: -
For Tour, Trekking, and Hiking:-
Expedition and Peak climbing:-
Supplement Charge: On our adventure and holiday tour with trekking packages, rooms in the lodge on route or tents are provided on twin sharing basis. For a single room supplement charge will be imposed on the client who does not have another tour participant to share room/tent with.
Incomplete Tour:
No refund will be made to clients who drop out or quit from the journey regardless of whatever portions remain unused in the itinerary.
Amendment in Tour Cost: We reserve the right to revise the pricing rate mentioned at our website, under any circumstances, or on the pressure of various external factors that are further than our control, for instance, changes in the exchange rate, government action, etc. But, we put forth an effort to keep at the present rate.
Unforeseen Circumstances:
If the company cancels your trip due to unforeseen circumstances like bad unfavorable weather, natural disasters, conflict, trail bad condition (landslides), etc., we will refer you to an alternative trip of a similar standard. Even if this doesn’t fit your interest, all payments paid by you to our company will be refunded. But remember, any other expenses incurred by you as a result of the booking are entirely your responsibility.
Clients' Responsible:
A tour/trekking guide who represents Mountain Eco Treks deserves all authority during your trips. If you commit any unlawful act, you are compelled to leave the tour. No refund will be made in such a case.
Impact on your journey:
The company extends its best hand to see your convenience at all times, as this is an Adventure Travel Holiday and you will be traveling into a remote Himalayan Destination, weather conditions in the Himalaya can be unpredictable sometimes. Local availability of porters/yaks or any other means of transport vehicle breakdown, road condition, or local strikes can contribute to the need for change or even delays at times in the itinerary.
However, we will do everything in our capacity to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible on such events: which are beyond our control. As such, no claim of refund will be entertained including early return from the trip or change in the itinerary due to unforeseen reasons. All your return expenses including Hotel bills where applicable or extra transport costs will have to be borne by yourself.
We put every effort to ensure comfortable traveling of yours, but it is a must to understand that what you might be accustomed to in the western affluent countries, the Himalayan countries can’t afford such facilities. Weather is another factor that directly impacts your journey. Hence, patience in mind, enthusiasm, and proper preparation before the head is must venture into the journey.
Travel & Medical Insurance:
You must obtain a comprehensive travel & medical insurance package against natural calamity, helicopter evacuation, personal accident, trip cancellation, etc. This is strongly suggested to all esteemed booking clients.
Tour Amendment:
To make alterations of any trekking/tour itinerary, prior notice is requested. You’re advised to stay in touch with us thus. Occasionally, you may be obliged to do so on the route under certain circumstances for instance bad weather, etc.
Your personal belongings:
On any account, we’re answerable for any loss or damage of your luggage or property belonging to you even when shouldered by porters, vehicles,
Papers & Documents:
All necessary documents should be presented in sequence for example to issue visas, necessary permits, etc. We’re not accountable in case of any trip formality not completed in time before the trip departs in the absence of essential papers and documents.
Risk & Responsibility:
Your safety and satisfaction is our prime concern. We, therefore, carry out our responsibility honestly & sincerely to ensure your holiday trouble-free, as well as you, have desired. Nevertheless, unless stated otherwise, the trip may be changing under uncertain and inherent circumstances such as landslides, road blockage, flood, snow political unrest, cancellation of flight, delay arrival, sickness or accidents, etc. Any extra cost incurring there is your responsibility and should be borne on the spot.
Flight Delay / Cancellation:
There is more or less possibility of flight delay or postponement for unpredictable weather in Himalayan regions which could happen, in particular, Everest region (Lukla), Kanchenjunga area at Taplejung, Mustang area at Jomsom and far northwest, Dolpa, Simikot, and Jumla region, etc. if the flight is canceled or get delayed, mountain eco treks is not responsible for the extra expenses, we can manage alternative arrangement on request which may demand other extra costs.
Age Group:
No bar on ages, however for children of below 16 years require family, guardian, or parents to accompany which includes for elderly people of 60 -70 yrs of age, this is only for short moderate treks and tours. For longer treks, elderly people should refer to their doctors with a medical certificate to book for the trek if one is physically and medically fit.
Taking Photos:
The company might use photos of you on trekking or other holidays with us, for promotion of the company by any means of media, in this case, please allow us with or without your permissions.
Please read all above-mentioned terms and conditions before the bookings. Thank you.
Because it is so simple, we suggest that you obtain your tourist visa upon arrival. You must have a valid passport and one passport-size photo with a light background to get your visa on arrival. Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, a visa can be obtained. It is also available at Kakarvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki, and Kerung on the Nepal-India and Nepal-China sides of the border.
Note:
From January 5, 2016, Chinese nationals applying for a tourist visa to Nepal will receive a "gratis tourist visa" from the following Nepali missions in the People's Republic of China, according to an official circular from the Nepal Embassy in Beijing, China.
Nationals from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine and Afghanistan should acquire visas from Nepal Consulates or Political Missions in their particular nations, as they don't get a visa on landing in the movement section of Nepal.
Trekking Essential Equipment are:
One thing you definitely don't want to forget is your toiletries! Teahouses are unlikely to supply these things. For your ease and comfort make sure you pack all these before you leave on trek
Sunscreen and a hat will protect you from UV rays at altitude or anywhere else
Don’t forget your camera and chargers, batteries and correct plug for Nepal.
Flashlights are essential while trekking. Electricity may be unreliable at some teahouses. You may also need to hike early in the morning or late evening. Better to carry a flashlight with extra batteries.
E A large back pack is essential for all your trekking needs, clothes, sleeping bag etc. Your porter will carry your large backpack. You may wish to carry a smaller one with daily essentials for the day including water bottle camera, jacket etc.
Water bottle and Water purifier are the most essential things that you need during trekking. Drinking water will need to be purified to make it drinkable.
A light weight poncho is useful for rain showers while on trek.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles, one or two depending on the terrain and how much support you might need, are very useful for assistance with walking rhythm and stability on rough terrain. They are essential equipment which you must carry during trekking.
Wraparound sunglasses offer the broadest protection against UV damage because they block more of the light that hits your eyes from the sides. Sunglasses with large lenses and wide temples provide the next-best protection.
SPF measures sunscreen protection from UVB rays, the kind that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend using a SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen during trekking trails.
The warmest GORE-TEX gloves available are made to keep your hands comfortable and supported for longer. The insulation layers are engineered to provide maximum possible warmth and comfort, even when you're out in cold temperatures for extended periods.
GORE-TEX product technology brand for the highest quality lightweight, pack able and waterproof jackets. This lightweight jacket and pants are essential during trekking . They make you feel comfortable while you are in journey as well as protect you from air and cold.
A down jacket or puffer jacket is a quilted, padded jacket filled with down feathers (usually duck or goose down). This material is usually used to insulate an Outer layer which is usually some synthetic fibre such as nylon or polyester. During trekking there may be some rain as well as snowfall, so to be protected from cold and keep your body warm you need a down jacket.
A fleece sweater, or just a fleece, is a lightweight casual sweater made of synthetic polyester wool such as polar fleece. It will provide thermal insulation but is not usually weatherproof, so wind and rain will not be effectively kept out. For trekking during the daytime it is fine. Long underwaer and track pants for night wear and under trek pants if cold during the day.
While trekking you need long some good quality woollen hiking socks which provide warmth as well as comfort. We recommend you to buy some extra pairs of woollen socks for your journey.
Sandals, sneakers or crocs are used to go to the bathroom and toilet during overnight stays at the tea house.
Hiking (walking) boots are footwear designed specifically to protect the feet and ankles during outdoor walking activities including hiking. These are the most important items of your hiking gear, since their consistency and longevity will decide a hiker's ability to walk long distances without injury. Hiking boots are built to provide comfort on rough terrain for walking considerable distance.
WIN Himalaya is a specialist in slower and more relaxed trekking in the NepalHimalaya, and our guides and porters have many years of experience betweenthem. There are wonderful destinations in Nepal at higher and lower altitudes,whether trekking or touring, and we cater for various levels of fitness. Our style oftrekking and sight-seeing is designed to attract people of all ages, from older age group sthrough to younger families.What is the secret of trekking slowly? It is the safest way to trek at higher
altitudes.
WIN Himalaya guides you slowly to your Himalayan destination, takingtwo days where usuallypeople takeonly one.If you wish to trek to the higher levelsof the Everestor Annapurna regionsfor example,we will make sure that your slower pace of ascent minimises the possibility of altitude sickness and is more manageable.Trekking this way ensures that you have a successful trip. Importantly this style of trekking also gives you time to see all the interesting sites along the way. You will experience stunning mountain views, the village people and their tea houses, gardens and farms, the monasteries with their rich and colourful culture, as well as the beauty of the natural world and its plants and animals.
On WIN Himalaya treks you have your own personal porter who carries your back pack and walks with you, keeps you safe and answers any questions along the way.Importantly, we always look after our portersensuring that they are paid well and have proper insurance while working for us, as well as warm clothing and good trekking shoes. Why not try the WIN Himalayastyle of trekking? Make your experience in Nepal an unforgettabletrekking adventure where friendlystaff look after all your needs
and introducing you to their country and culture and the wonderful Himalaya.
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