Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour – 14 Days
Tiji Festival
Trip Highlights of Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour – 14 Days
- Tiji Festival: Vibrant masked dances and rituals.
- Lo-Manthang: Explore the walled medieval city.
- Upper Mustang: Dramatic cliffs, canyons, and deserts.
- Muktinath: Sacred temple at 3,800 m.
- Jeep Adventure: Scenic 4WD through Kali Gandaki.
- Mustang Villages: Traditional culture in Samar & Tsarang.
- Tatopani Hot Springs: Relax after your journey.
- Scenic Flights: Annapurna and Dhaulagiri views.
- Photography: Festivals, landscapes, and culture.
Itinerary of Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour – 14 Days
Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu where you will be transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take time to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, you may stroll through the lively streets of Thamel for dinner, currency exchange, or last-minute shopping.
Day 2 – Kathmandu Sightseeing & Tour Preparation (1,400 m)
Spend the day exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, or Patan Durbar Square. Meanwhile, your Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and ACAP permit will be processed. Attend a detailed trip briefing and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 3 – Kathmandu to Pokhara (822 m)
Travel to Pokhara by a scenic flight or a picturesque drive through rivers and rolling hills. Upon arrival, enjoy the relaxed Lakeside atmosphere, walk along Phewa Lake, and admire views of the Annapurna Range. The lower altitude also supports gradual acclimatization.
Day 4 – Pokhara to Jomsom to Muktinath (3,760–3,800 m)
Take an early morning flight to Jomsom, flying through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge with breathtaking Himalayan views. Continue by jeep to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Visit the temple and the 108 holy water spouts before resting at this higher altitude.
Day 5 – Muktinath to Samar (3,660 m)
After breakfast, drive via Kagbeni and Chele, officially entering the restricted Upper Mustang region. The route showcases red cliffs, barren landscapes, and Tibetan-style villages. Arrive in Samar and enjoy panoramic valley views.
Day 6 – Samar to Tsarang (3,560 m)
Continue your journey across high passes and dry canyons toward Tsarang. Along the way, enjoy sweeping Himalayan landscapes and scattered settlements. In Tsarang(Charang), visit the ancient monastery and historic palace ruins before settling into your lodge.
Day 7 – Tsarang to Lo-Manthang (3,840 m)
Drive along a gentle trail to Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang. After check-in, explore narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and centuries-old monasteries. Prepare for the upcoming Tiji Festival celebrations.
Day 8 – Lo-Manthang – Tiji Festival Day 1 (3,840 m)
Attend the opening day of the Tiji Festival, held in the royal courtyard. Witness sacred Cham masked dances, ritual music, and prayers performed by monks. The vibrant atmosphere offers a deep insight into Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Day 9 – Lo-Manthang – Tiji Festival Day 2 (3,840 m)
Experience the main festival performances depicting the triumph of good over evil. Between ceremonies, explore Jampa Lhakhang, Thubchen Gompa, or nearby caves and viewpoints. Interact with local Mustangi communities.
Day 10 – Lo-Manthang – Tiji Festival Day 3 (3,840 m)
Observe the final rituals and closing ceremonies of the Tiji Festival, including blessings and concluding dances. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing or walking along the city walls, enjoying the unique desert mountain scenery.
Day 11 – Lo-Manthang to Tatopani (1,190 m)
Begin a long yet scenic descent by 4WD jeep through the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Tatopani. As altitude decreases, the climate becomes warmer and greener. In the evening, relax in the natural hot springs, perfect for rejuvenation.
Day 12 – Tatopani to Pokhara (822 m)
Drive to Pokhara through waterfalls, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by Phewa Lake, with optional boating or lakeside dining.
Day 13 – Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Return to Kathmandu by flight or road. Spend your final evening shopping for souvenirs, visiting heritage sites, or enjoying a farewell Nepali dinner with cultural music and dance.
Day 14 – Departure
Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule, departing with unforgettable memories of Upper Mustang, the Himalayas, and the vibrant Tiji Festival.
Tiji Festival Jeep Tour – FAQs
Tiji is a sacred 3-day Buddhist festival in Lo Manthang, celebrating the victory of good over evil with masked dances, rituals, and monastery ceremonies.
Usually in May (sometimes late May or early June) based on the Tibetan lunar calendar.
A jeep tour is:
• Faster and easier
• Less physically demanding
• Suitable for families and all ages
• Covers more places in less time
Typically 6–8 days from Pokhara or 7–10 days from Kathmandu, including travel and festival days.
Around 4–7 hours per day, depending on road and weather conditions.
Yes, but it is rough and off-road. We use experienced drivers and 4WD vehicles for safety and comfort.
Yes. Upper Mustang requires:
• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• ACAP permit
We arrange all permits for you.
Lo Manthang is 3,840 m. Mild altitude symptoms are possible. We include gradual acclimatization stops.
Mostly teahouses/guesthouses:
• Private rooms (basic but comfortable)
• Attached bathrooms sometimes available
• Hot showers and Wi-Fi in some places
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at local lodges:
• Nepali, Tibetan, and simple Western food
• Veg options available
•Warm layers (cold mornings/evenings)
•Comfortable clothes
•Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
•Personal medicines
•Cash (no ATMs in Upper Mustang)
Yes. Tiji attracts many visitors. Booking early is recommended for rooms and jeeps.
Yes, but:
• Be respectful
• Follow monastery rules
• Avoid flash during rituals
Yes, it’s ideal for those who cannot trek but still want to experience Upper Mustang.
Limited. Some towns have Wi-Fi, but connection is slow. Expect partial or no signal in remote areas.
Spring season:
• Clear skies
• Mild days
• Cold nights
• Very little rain (dry desert climate)
Yes, we can add:
• Muktinath visit
• Monasteries & caves
• Extra nights in Lo Manthang
• Trekking side trips
Usually 3–4 passengers + driver for comfort.
Yes, we strongly recommend insurance that covers high altitude travel and emergency evacuation.
Rooms, jeeps, and permits fill quickly. Early booking ensures:
• Better accommodation
• Confirmed festival dates
• Smooth logistics