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.
Enjoy the blend of vibrant Tiji festival with the breathtaking landscape of Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang, 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 the 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, soulful chanting emanating from the Monastery, with music, dance, and gunfire.

When is the Tiji Festival celebrated in 2026?
The annual Tiji festival will be celebrated from May 14th to 26th, 2026. The Tiji festival date for 2027 has been released publicly. Please keep in contact with us.
Tiji Festival Photography and Camera Fees:
The cost of photography and camera fees is collected daily. This is a new rule imposed by local communities since the 2024 Tiji festival. The local festival committee collects a photography fee per person per day and charges for seating.
Per Camera per day fees: USD 25
Booking a seat per chair: USD 30
Lo Manthang Tiji Festival Trip Cost and Itinerary for 2026 and 2027
The Upper Mustang Tiji festival package trip costs start from USD 1750/. The price varies depending on Trek duration, Trip Season, Level of Hotel, Mode of transportation, and number of participants. However, our 12-day Tiji festival tour costs start from 1750/ USD per person. Please see below for the complete itinerary and costs included and excluded.
All our itineraries are meticulously planned, focusing on scenic viewpoints, local villages, and cultural sites. This is a private group joining a Jeep tour, which starts and ends in Kathmandu. Our itinerary also includes visits to Yara, Ghara, and Luri Gumba. If you have any suggestions regarding the proposed itinerary to suit your requirements, please let us know. You can combine the Upper Mustang Tour with the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Please, contact us for the full version of the trip itinerary.
Trekking through breathtaking landscape of Upper Mustang Nepal-14 days
Embark on Lomanthang Trekking for unforgetable trip through the mystical landscape of Upper Mustang, where traditional Tibetan Culture meets the amazing Mountain vista of Nepal.
Upper Mustang Trek Permit Cost
Upper Mustang lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. An Annapurna Conservation Entry Permit, TIMS-Card, and Upper Mustang Restricted Area permits are required. Solo and individual travelers are not allowed to go alone. Every traveler should book a trip through a government-licensed company like Global Eco Trails.
Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit | USD 500 for the first 10 days and USD 50 per day thereafter. |
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. |
The Tiji festival concludes with Rha Chaam dance and mass chants fade in the mountain breeze, what else is left rather than memory? Tiji festival is more than just a cultural celebration; it’s a living tradition that sticks forever. From the remote desert valley to the secret halls of Lo Manthang, this journey offers an experience like no other. Whether you are looking for cultural bliss, Adventure in high altitude, or spiritual insight, the Tiji Festival Tour is a powerful reminder of how ancient culture and tradition continue to shape the present. Join us to witness this rare and amazing festival and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Upper Mustang.