Nepal is a land of rich cultural and ritual diversity. One of its most unique regions, Upper Mustang, lies to the north of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, along the Kali Gandaki corridor. The region is home to Loba people and a variety of vibrant festivals that reflect the deep spiritual traditions and unique lifestyle of its people. Upper Mustang Trekking is another major activities to experience the geographical landscape, monastic life and cultural festival. Below are some of the major festivals celebrated in Upper Mustang:
Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang
Tiji Festival Closing Ceremony, Upper Mustang, Nepal
The Tiji Festival is one of the most important and vibrant festivals in Upper Mustang. Celebrated over three days in Lo Manthang, this ritual symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is believed to bring peace and prosperity to the region. The festival begins at Chhode Monastery and unfolds in the main square beneath a massive Thangka (religious painting), accompanied by chants, music, dance, and spiritual rituals.
Day 1: The festival begins at Chhode Monastery, where monks perform the Nga Cham dance in the main plaza beneath the grand Thangka.
Day 2: The monks enact the Tsa Cham dance, portraying the mythical struggle of Dorje Jono, who attempts to banish a demon back to the Buddhist realm.
Day 3: Closing Ceremony: The final day features ceremonial music and the powerful Rha Cham dance, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The ceremony concludes with a dramatic gesture — a monk throws an effigy of the demon, made of dough, signifying its defeat.
Yartung festival (Horse Festival)
Preparing for Yartung Festival, Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang
The Yartung Festival is another key celebration in Upper Mustang, held annually and lasting three days. It is held during the full moon in August, which falls on the 28th/ 29th and 30th of August, 2025. These three-day festival celebrations mark the end of summer and preparation for the harvest.
Day 1 is marked by ceremonies and activities led by the local King.
Day 2 is reserved for monks and nuns to perform spiritual rituals.
Day 3 brings excitement and joy with horse racing, archery, battle singing, and traditional dancing, reflecting the region’s warrior spirit and communal unity.
Festival in Ghar & Luri Gumba
Ghar and Luri Gumpa, Upper Mustang, Kali Gandaki Corridor
Held twice a year — in spring and autumn — this festival gathers people at Ghar Gumba and Luri Gumba for seasonal Poojas (prayers). These ceremonies are performed to bless the community with good health, prosperity, and spiritual well-being. The festival is celebrated just before winter starts.
Tibetan Lhosar Festival
According to the Tibetan lunar calendar, the people of Upper Mustang, known as Loba, celebrate two Lhosar festivals each year: Chhegu Emma and Chhegu Semma.
Each Lhosar is a three-day celebration involving gatherings in public spaces, exchanging food and blessings, inviting guests into homes, and performing traditional dances in colorful ethnic attire.
Muktinath Darshan and Kagbeni Pitri-Pooja
Among the four major Hindu pilgrimage sites (Badrinath and Kedarnath in India, and Pashupatinath and Muktinath in Nepal), Muktinath holds a special significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. Devotees believe that bathing in its 108 natural water spouts washes away sins and impurities.
Muktinath Pilgrimage, Lower Mustang
Nearby, Kagbeni is another significant site where people perform Pitri Pooja (ancestral rituals) at the confluence of the Mukti River and Kali Gandaki River. This offering is made in honor of deceased loved ones, seeking the liberation of their souls.
