Tiji Festival & Upper Mustang

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Kathmandu (1400m)

On arrival at Kathmandu airport, a Back Track representative will greet and transfer you to the Kantipur Village Hotel.

Day 2

Kathmandu Sightseeing (1400m)

This morning, we'll embark on a private guided walking tour of the old town of Kathmandu. This fascinating two-hour stroll through ancient markets, narrow laneways, and sacred temples will give you a sense of Kathmandu's rich history and your first taste of Nepalese culture. In the afternoon, we'll gather for a pre-trek briefing at the hotel before our welcome dinner – a chance to get to know the group and share what's ahead. (B, D)

Day 3

Flight to Pokhara (900m)

This morning, we depart Kathmandu for our flight to Pokhara (exact flight time will be confirmed at last night's briefing). Our hotel sits within easy walking distance of the city centre, giving you time to explore this bustling gateway to the Annapurna region. (B) Flight time: 1hr

Day 4

Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)

We take a 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and begin our trek to Kagbeni via Marpha. Today we follow the Kali Gandaki River, passing through traditional Thakali villages and the apple orchards of Marpha. As we approach Kagbeni, you'll start to notice the Tibetan influences that shape this region. (B, L, D) Flight time: 25 min, trekking time: 6 hrs

Day 5

Chele (3,050m)

Chele marks the starting point of the Upper Mustang trek, perched on the eastern bank of the Kali Gandaki River. Today's trek takes you along scenic cliffs with expansive views of the Mustang landscape, and you'll meet locals along the way – glimpsing daily life in these cultural villages. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 5 hrs

Day 6

Trek to Syangmochen (3,800m)

This small, whitewashed village with its chortens and prayer flags is a vital waypoint. The terrain here is striking – caves and desert-like hills create a landscape unlike anywhere else on the trek, offering views that reward every step. The Chungsi Caves are nearby and deeply significant to both Hindu and Buddhist communities, who believe Lord Shiva stopped here on his way to Mt Kailash, resident monks still inhabit these caves. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 6 hrs

Day 7

Trek to Dhakmar (3,500m)

Dhakmar is a striking village framed by unique red cliffs and rock formations – the result of iron oxide in the soil – that create a dramatic contrast against the vivid blue sky. The cliffs themselves hold intricate carvings and paintings from Buddhist mythology. The homes here are built from mud brick, designed to withstand the harsh mountain climate. The people of Dhakmar, of Tibetan descent, are known for their warmth, and for their traditions of horse riding, archery, and dancing. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 6 hrs

Day 8

Trek to Charang (3,600m)

Charang has stood since the 14th century, when it served as an important trade centre between India and Tibet. The village is home to several historical buildings, including Tsarang Palace – a beautiful example of traditional Tibetan architecture. The main draw is the Red Gompa monastery, built in the 14th century. Inside, the walls are adorned with intricate frescoes, statues, mandalas, and murals. It's considered the oldest and most important monastery in the Upper Mustang region. Trekking time: 5 hrs

Day 9

Trek to Lo Manthang (3,720m)

Today you reach Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Lo. Restricted from outside access until 1992, it remains one of the most well-preserved regions in the world. The 15th-century mud-brick walls still encircle the village, and traditional Tibetan-style houses line the narrow streets. For the next three days we will be at the heart of one of the Himalaya's most profound cultural celebrations - The Tiji Festival. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 6 hrs

Day 10

Tiji Festival Lo Manthang: Day One

The Opening Blessings and Awakening: The festival opens with soulful chants and ceremonial dances performed by the monks of Lo Manthang. The 400-year-old hand-crafted thangka (scroll painting) is unveiled during morning meditations and prayers. Long copper horns, cymbals, and drums welcome the sacred artwork as dancers process through the palace courtyard. The energy builds, awakening the gods and purifying the earth. You'll feel the weight of centuries in every movement – this is tradition brought to life. (B, L, D)

Day 11

Tiji Festival Lo Manthang: Day Two

The Battle and the Dance: The second day draws you deeper into the festival’s cultural heart. Masked monks, beautifully adorned, bring to life the ancient legend of Dorje Shunu’s struggle to protect the region against destructive forces. A second thangka is revealed, and the dancing becomes more dynamic and combative. Weapons and animal masks are added to the performance as the story unfolds. The square fills with colour, movement, and cultural energy - an unforgettable highlight for visitors. (B, L, D)

Day 12

Tiji Festival Lo Manthang: Day Three

The Closing Blessings and Harmony: The final day features the symbolic banishment of negativity, through meaningful rituals, including the destruction of an effigy representing victory of good over evil. Monks dressed as animals perform ceremonial dances that build in energy, sometimes continuing late into the evening. Locals in traditional dress gather, families come together, and you're welcomed into a shared moment of peace, gratitude, and cultural connection. As the final rituals fade, what remains is a quiet shift within you – a subtle, enduring feeling of spiritual renewal. (B, L, D)

Day 13

Trek to Ghami (3,500m)

After the intensity and joy of the festival, we resume our trek along the scenic trails of Upper Mustang. Ghami is an ancient village with a remarkable feature: an underground channel system called "kulos" that brings water to the fields for irrigation. These channels also power a unique water-driven prayer wheel near the village entrance – a beautiful blend of practicality and spirituality. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 5 hrs

Day 14

Trek to Samar (3,620m)

The hills surrounding our trek today are grey and dramatic, showing the signs of how the weather has affected this ancient environment. Our day ends with the contrast of the green oasis that is Samar, a welcoming village, whose fertile terraces and shaded groves provide a welcome respite from the days trek. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 6 hrs

Day 15

Trek to Chhusang (2,980m)

Chhusang sits where the Narshing River meets the sacred Kali Gandaki River. This picturesque village is framed by red cliffs and ancient sky caves, and it's known for its rich blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures. The local cuisine reflects this fusion – you'll taste momo’s with yak meat, buckwheat bread, and potato pancakes – simple, flavourful dishes that tell the story of this unique place. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 6 hrs

Day 16

Jeep to Muktinath (3,700m)

Today, we journey to Muktinath by vehicle, giving you a full day to explore one of the Himalaya's most revered spiritual sanctuaries. Hindus worship this as the gateway to moksha – the belief that those who visit with a pure heart are released from the cycle of rebirth. Buddhists revere it as Chumig Gyatsa, a sacred site and powerful natural mandala representing purity and compassion. For visitors of all backgrounds, it's deeply moving. Spend time at the peaceful Vishnu temple, feel the purifying spray of the 108 Mukti Dhara (sacred waterspouts), and witness the eternal flame – honoured by both faiths as a symbol of divine balance, a place where body, mind, and karma can be purified. (B, L, D) Drive time: 3 hrs

Day 17

Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)

Today marks your final day on the trail. You descend back into the Kali Gandaki Valley, following the riverbed directly to Jomsom. The path avoids the dusty main road used by buses and jeeps, offering instead views of Mt Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri – a fitting finale to your time in these mountains. You'll spend the night in Jomsom, where you can rest and reflect on the journey. (B, L, D) Trekking time: 6 hrs

Day 18

Fly back to Pokhara

An early morning flight takes you back to Pokhara, flying through the Kali Gandaki Gorge – a final chance to see the landscape from a new perspective. After landing, we transfer you to your hotel, leaving the rest of the day free to explore this gateway city at your own pace. (B) Flying time: 20 min

Day 19

Fly to Kathmandu

This morning, we fly back to Kathmandu. The day is yours to rediscover the city on your own terms – wander the colourful markets, breathe in the scent of spices, feel the energy of the bustling streets. It's a dynamic contrast to the mountain silence you've just left. The day culminates in our farewell dinner – great food, warm company, and a final celebration of everything you've experienced among the Himalayas before your departure tomorrow. (B,D) Flying time: 1 hr

Day 20

Kathmandu airport transfer

Our journey concludes after breakfast at the hotel. If you're departing Kathmandu today, we'll transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

2026 Pricing

$6,195 per person, twin share

$520 single supplement (Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel nights only)

Tiji Festival Details

13–15 May 2026

Day One – The Opening Blessings and Awakening

The festival opens with soulful chants and ceremonial dances performed by the monks of Lo Manthang. The 400-year-old hand-crafted thangka (scroll painting) is unveiled during morning meditations and prayers. Long copper horns, cymbals, and drums welcome the sacred artwork as dancers process through the palace courtyard. The energy builds, awakening the gods and purifying the earth. You’ll feel the weight of centuries in every movement – this is tradition brought to life.

Day Two – The Battle and the Dance

The second day draws you deeper into the festival’s cultural heart. Masked monks, beautifully adorned, bring to life the ancient legend of Dorje Shunu’s struggle to protect the region against destructive forces. A second thangka is revealed, and the dancing becomes more dynamic and combative. Weapons and animal masks are added to the performance as the story unfolds. The square fills with colour, movement, and cultural energy – an unforgettable highlight for visitors.

Day Three – The Closing Blessings and Harmony

The final day features the symbolic banishment of negativity, through meaningful rituals, including the destruction of an effigy representing victory of good over evil. Monks dressed as animals perform ceremonial dances that build in energy, sometimes continuing late into the evening. Locals in traditional dress gather, families come together, and you’re welcomed into a shared moment of peace, gratitude, and cultural connection.

As the final rituals fade, what remains is a quiet shift within you – a subtle, enduring feeling of spiritual renewal.

Tour Inclusions

3 x Meals per day on the trek
Twin share, Tea House accommodation throughout the trek. (Note: Single rooms reservations are not available at Tea Houses)
Experienced local guides
Duffle Bag Supplied & Porterage of your gear and equipment during the trek – you only carry a day pack containing items necessary for the day.
4 nights B&B hotel accommodation in Kathmandu/Pokhara
All National Park entry fees and trek permit fees
Trekking Certificate – at end of journey
All local flights – Kathmandu/Pokhara/Jomsom/Pokhara/Kathmandu and road transportation within itinerary
Arrival & departure transfers* – Kathmandu Airport to tour to hotel
Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
24-hour emergency contact while on holiday
All local taxes and government fees
Luggage storage for items not carried on the trek (held at our Kathmandu hotel)

Exclusions

International flights
Passport and visa expenses
Personal clothing and expenses
Medical expenses
Travel Insurance
Meals/snacks outside of stated meal inclusions
Any costs incurred due to weather-caused delays or disruptions, adverse trail conditions, client’s ill health, flight delays or cancellations or events beyond Back Track’s control.
Any costs incurred due to client’s emergency rescue, evacuation, hospitalization, etc.
Any other expense not mentioned in the ‘inclusions’ column.
Any costs incurred due to early cessation of the trek (for any reason) outside the scheduled itinerary.
Personal medical kit
Boiled/Bottled water and other beverages not included with meals.
Off-itinerary transfers
Additional pre-/post-tour accommodation

Trekking Nepal's Forbidden Kingdom

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