Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek – 18 Days

Exploring the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2024: An Authentic Cultural and Mountain Adventure

This 18-day trek into Nepal’s legendary Upper Mustang region is not your typical mountain hike. It combines an extraordinary blend of spectacular landscapes, ancient monasteries, and the vibrant Tiji Festival held in Lo Manthang. Offered by Himalayan Excursion Nepal, this journey promises a rare glimpse into the last “forbidden kingdom” of Mustang, where tradition and untouched scenery converge.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the culture during the festival, where monks perform ritual dances that tell ancient stories, making the experience both visually stunning and spiritually enriching. However, the trek’s remote terrain demands a moderate physical fitness level; if you’re not comfortable with long days of hiking on uneven paths, it might be a challenge.

This tour suits those who love adventure but also want a deep dive into local culture—ideal for seasoned trekkers, history buffs, and anyone craving a truly authentic Himalayan experience.

Key Points

• Unrivaled Cultural Experience: Witness the Tiji Festival with ritual dances performed by monks, adding a spiritual dimension to your trek.
• Breathtaking Landscapes: Expect jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas, including Damodar Danda, Yakawa Kang, and Tilicho Peak.
• Authentic Remote Living: Stay among Thakali and other local communities, gaining insight into their traditional lifestyles.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Carefully planned route with visits to ancient villages, monasteries, and the famed Lo Manthang.
• Incredible Value: At $2,500, the tour covers flights, permits, accommodations, meals, and expert guides, offering comprehensive value.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides make the experience more meaningful and safe, sharing insights into the region’s history and culture.

The Route: A Deep Dive into the 18-Day Trek

Day 1-3: Arrival and Kathmandu Exploration

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where a Himalayan Excursion Nepal representative will meet you at Tribhuwan International Airport. The hotel stay here is ideally arranged before you dive into the city’s UNESCO-listed sites. You’ll spend a full day exploring highlights like Basantapur Durbar Square, Monkey Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. These sites offer a glimpse into Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural fabric, making it a perfect warm-up before the mountain adventure.

On Day 3, a short scenic flight takes you from Kathmandu to Pokhara — a highlight itself. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, setting the tone for the trip ahead. In Pokhara, the relaxed lakeside atmosphere is perfect for unwinding, with options like boat rides on Phewa Lake and visiting Tal Barahi Temple. It’s a chance to soak in the mountain vistas from a different perspective and prepare for the upcoming trek.

Day 4-5: Journey to Kagbeni and the Mustang Gateway

Early morning, a 15-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom begins your trek. From there, you walk about 3-4 hours to Kagbeni, a village with a blend of Tibetan and Nepali influences. Kagbeni’s ancient Buddhist monastery and its role as the gateway into Mustang give it a quiet, mystical charm.

On Day 5, you trek to Tsaile, passing through traditional villages like Tangbe, Tetang, and Chhuksang. These stops are rich with local color — small markets, ancient monasteries, and traditional architecture. The trail here is relatively gentle, offering a good acclimatization period while immersing you in the landscape’s stark, rugged beauty.

Days 6-7: Into the Heart of Mustang’s Wilderness

The journey continues along steep, arid terrain—a signature feature of Mustang’s high-altitude landscape. You’ll climb above Samar village, crossing the Taklam La Pass at 3,624 meters, where panoramic mountain views await. The route passes through juniper forests and narrow gorges, culminating in the striking Ghiling village.

Next, you head to Dhakmar, known for its ancient monasteries and dramatic red rock formations. The views of Himalayan peaks like Damodar Danda and Tilicho Peak are spectacular here, making every step worth it. As one reviewer notes, the ancient monasteries and the unique landscape create a surreal setting, far from the busy tourist routes.

Days 8-11: Lo Manthang and the Tiji Festival

The highlight of this trek is reaching Lo Manthang, the walled city and former royal capital. The gentle ascent to the windy Lo Pass at 3,850 meters offers sweeping vistas of the city walls and surrounding mountains. Here, the Tiji Festival takes center stage, celebrated over three days with ritual dances performed by monks at Choedhe Monastery.

This is when the experience becomes truly special. One reviewer shared, “The rituals dance performances by monks made my dream come true,” emphasizing how this festival adds a layer of cultural depth few travelers get to witness. You’ll also explore Namgyal Gompa, Choedhe Gompa, and visit Tingkhar, giving you insight into the spiritual life of the region.

Days 12-14: Retracing the Trail and Visiting Ghar Gompa

The trek back involves different routes, including a visit to Chhosar Cave with its over 44 living rooms and ancient Buddhist monasteries. The cave’s rock paintings and the lore surrounding wishes at Ghar Gompa (over 1200 years old) add an element of historical intrigue.

Traveling via Gyakar village, the scenery shifts to more rocky landscapes, with the return journey offering new views and photo opportunities. The village exploration and the salt mine at Chhuksang add local flavor to your trek.

Days 15-17: Muktinath and Jomsom

Your trek continues towards Muktinath, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. The temple is a hub for both Nepali and Indian devotees, and the mountain views from here are undeniably stunning. The walk from Chhuksang to Muktinath is scenic and spiritually significant, offering an inspiring culmination to your trek.

Descending to Jomsom, you walk along the Kaligandaki River, a route praised for its easy terrain and spectacular vistas of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains. A 5-6 hour walk concludes at Jomsom airport, where a flight takes you back to Pokhara.

Day 18: Return to Kathmandu

The final day involves a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, followed by a farewell dinner featuring Nepali cultural dance. The transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport marks the end of this incredible adventure.

The Experience and Logistics

The itinerary’s structure is thoughtfully designed, balancing travel, acclimatization, cultural experiences, and festival participation. The inclusion of flights (Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Jomsom, and returning) minimizes long overland drives, saving time and energy.

Transportation within Kathmandu and Pokhara is via private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The trek itself involves walking daily, with some days reaching up to 6 hours of hiking. The trail is challenging but manageable with moderate fitness, especially since it includes some steep climbs like the Taklam La Pass.

Accommodation during the trek varies from teahouses to guesthouses, allowing for authentic living conditions. The package includes meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout, with variety and local flavors, which reviewers appreciated for their quality and authenticity.

The permits, including the upper Mustang restricted area permit, are included, simplifying planning. The guide team, highly praised in reviews, is composed of knowledgeable local guides who share insights into the region’s history, culture, and religious traditions. Guests have remarked on the professionalism, courtesy, and extensive knowledge of their guides, elevating the experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Tiji Festival is a rare spectacle; only a handful of travelers get to witness the ritual dances performed by monks, making this tour more than just a trek—it’s a cultural revelation. As a reviewer said, “They made my dream come true, beyond my expectations,” highlighting the profound impact of festival participation.

The landscape is another star of this journey. The dramatic high-altitude terrain, with towering mountains, ancient villages, and unique geological formations, offers endless photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time.

The value for money is notable, considering the included flights, permits, accommodations, meals, and expert guides. This all-inclusive approach minimizes unexpected expenses and ensures a smooth, well-organized adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trek is perfect for adventure travelers with a good level of physical fitness who crave an immersive cultural experience. If you’re interested in festivals, monasteries, and remote villages, and don’t mind a challenging but rewarding hike, this tour hits all the right notes.

It’s especially suited for those who want to witness a traditional festival in a setting that feels genuinely untouched by modern tourism. The inclusiveness of flights and permits also makes it convenient for international travelers seeking an all-in-one package.

However, if you prefer luxury accommodations or a more leisurely pace, this may not be the best fit. The route involves some rugged terrain, and the experience is designed to be authentic and immersive, not overly pampered.

Final Thoughts

The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek 2024 offers a compelling combination of breathtaking scenery, rich cultural exposure, and authentic Himalayan adventure. The guided experience ensures you’re in good hands while still leaving room for spontaneous exploration and cultural engagement.

For those with a sense of adventure and an interest in Tibetan Buddhism, ancient monasteries, and mountain vistas, this trek provides a rare and meaningful journey. The festival, in particular, turns the trek into a celebration of tradition and faith, making it a trip that stays with you long after the mountains are out of sight.

In this price range, you’re getting an all-encompassing experience—flights, permits, guides, and meals—delivering high value. Just remember, the rugged terrain calls for determination and good health. But if you’re ready for a true Himalayan adventure with a cultural twist, this is a journey you won’t forget.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for all fitness levels?
No, a moderate fitness level is recommended due to the hiking involved, especially with high-altitude climbs and steep sections.

Are flights included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Jomsom, and return flights, which are part of the package.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang, with ritual dances performed by monks in a centuries-old monastery setting, is the standout experience.

How many days does the trek actually involve walking?
The trekking portion spans most days, with some walking days lasting up to 6 hours, but it is broken up with cultural visits and acclimatization stops.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?
Basic but comfortable guesthouses and teahouses, offering authentic mountain lodging with local hospitality.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the trek, featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Is the festival participation guaranteed?
Yes, the itinerary is scheduled to coincide with the 19th Tiji Festival, but be aware that festival dates can sometimes vary slightly.

Do I need special permits?
Yes, the upper Mustang restricted area permit is included in the tour price, simplifying your planning.

What kind of guides will I have?
Experienced local guides known for their professionalism, knowledge of the region, and ability to enhance your understanding of the cultural sites.

When is the best time to do this trek?
The tour is scheduled for May 2024 to align with the festival dates, which are ideal for viewing the celebrations and enjoying good weather.

In essence, the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek offers a rare chance to combine mountain adventure with deep culture. Whether you’re captivated by the stunning vistas or the spiritual festivals, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.