The Upper Mustang Tiji festival has its origin in Tibetan Buddhism, specifically in the Upper Mustang region of “Lo Manthang,” which was once part of the Tibetan Empire. The three-day annual Tiji festival is celebrated to commemorate the victory of good over evil. The three-day Tiji festival is based on the myth of Dorje Dono (also known as Vajrakila), a deity revered in Tibetan Buddhism. The Tiji Festival is a three-day annual celebration held exclusively in Lomanthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, Nepal. The Tiji festival is celebrated from May 14th to 16th, 2026.
” Lo-Manthang is a small walled city with about 160 houses, a palace, and a Monastery. Truly a fascinating place to foster the local culture and immerse yourself in the way of life. "Lost in the endless sands. Where will your next adventure take you"
How the Tiji Festival is Celebrated in Lo Manthang
In Lo Manthang, the Tiji festival is celebrated over three days with various programs each day. See below the celebration schedule on each day.
Tiji Festival Inauguration Day:
The inauguration of the Tiji festival officially starts at noon on the first day. The courtyard is filled with local participants and foreigners, waiting for the performance. When the sound of double-reed horns, drums, and Tibetan horns begins, the festival commences! The festival starts from Chhode Monastery and heads to the plaza for seating under the huge thanka paintings. The Tsa Chaam dance is performed by monks from Chhode Monastery in Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang. This is the secret dance that re-enacts the story of Dorje Jono's triumph over evil and establishes peace in Mustang.
Experience the blend of Tibetan Bon Culture and Tantric Buddhism in Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang, Nepal.
Tiji Festival Second Day Celebration
On the second day of the festival, monks perform the “Nga Cham” dance, performed by female monks. Dorje Jono tries to bring the demon back to the Tibetan Buddhist realm. All the female monks are well-decorated with jewels and traditional dresses.
Tiji Festival Closing Celebration on Day Three
The last day of the Tiji festival commences with ceremonial music followed by the 'Rha Chaam' dance. The square is full of locals and visitors. The Rha Chaam dance takes a vibrant beat, and the performance highlights the end of evil. In the closing ceremony, all the performers come out, the atmosphere filled with more music and soulful chanting emanating from the Monastery, with music, dance, and gunfire.
When is the Tiji Festival celebrated in 2026?
Tiji is a 3 days traditional festival celebrate in Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang, Nepal based on the Tibtan Lunar calendar. In 2026, Tiji festival will celebrate from 14th to 16th of May.
Tiji Festival Photography and Camera Fees:
The cost of photography camera fees is collected daily by local community. This is a new rule imposed by local communities since the 2024. The local festival committee collects a photography fee per person per day and charges for seating in front chair.
Per Camera per day fees: USD 25
Booking a seat per chair: USD 30
Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trip Cost and Itinerary for 2026 and 2027
The Upper Mustang Tiji Festival package starts from USD 1,750 per person. The price may vary depending on the trip duration, travel season, accommodation type, transportation, and group size.
Our standard 12-day itinerary begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal, featuring an overland private Jeep tour to Lo Manthang. The journey offers plenty of time to explore ancient monasteries, cultural heritage sites, and experience the vibrant Tiji Festival.
This itinerary is flexible and can be customized according to your interests and travel schedule. If you are looking for shorter itinerary, please check our 10 days Jeep tour itinerary.
Discovering peace in every step along the trail of Highland Dunnes, where the traditional Tibetan Culture meets in Upper Mustang, Lo Manthang, Nepal.
Upper Mustang Trek Permit Cost
Upper Mustang is located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, north of Jomsom. The area from Kagbeni to Lo Manthang is classified as a restricted area, The permit for the Upper Mustang Trek costs USD 50 per person per day. This rule replaces the previous system, which required a mandatory fee of USD 500 for 10 days. The key note are Solo Trekking is not allowed, at least 2 trekkers required to obtain Restricted Area Permit (RAP), you must go through local trekking company and guide.
| Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit | USD 50 per day per person. (minimum 2 days) |
| Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card | $17 USD per trekker for a single entry. |
| Annapurna Conservation Entry Permit | USD 27 per person for a single entry. |
Booking Procedures
Global Eco Trails is a government-registered trekking company based in Kathmandu, Nepal. Since individual trekking is not allowed in restricted areas like Upper Mustang, all trips must be organized through a government-registered trekking agency such as Global Eco Trails.
Booking an Upper Mustang Trek and Tour involves a few key steps. Once you confirm your trip plan, Global Eco Trails requires the following documents and information:
- A copy of a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- A 20% deposit at the time of booking (the remaining balance is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu)
- A digital photograph (for trekking permits)
- Nepal arrival flight details (if available)
- Once the deposit is received, the company will send you a trip confirmation invoice
After these steps are completed, Global Eco Trails will arrange all the necessary trekking permits, logistics, and services required for your Upper Mustang adventure.
Finally, you have the necessary info regarding the Tiji Festival. Even though you are physically and mentally prepared, you still need aGovernment registered trekking agency and a professional local guide to obtain permits holiday safe. Whether you seek cultural enrichment, adventure at high altitude or spiritual reflection, the Tiji Festival Tour serves as a powerful reminder of how ancient traditions continue to inspire and shape the present.
Global Eco Trails can be the best choice for the Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek and Tour. Join us to witness this rare and sacred celebration and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Upper Mustang.
