Tiji Festival in Mustang Nepal- Festival Date June 1- 3, 2027

Tiji Festival in Mustang

The Tiji festival in Mustang is the most exciting and new, mainly celebrated in the upper Mustang. Samdup Rabten Mustang started this festival during the 17th century. He invited the king of other districts to come to Lo Manthang. After that, many kings gather in Lo Manthang to perform a special ritual in the Chhode monastery.

People offer prayers and rituals for the well-being of all living beings and people from the negative energy. Since then, people and monks have performed these Chhode monastery rituals. They serve his festival for three days, including the religious dance. During the 17th century, people celebrated Tiji in the twelfth month of the Tibetan calendar, whereas nowadays, Tiji falls in the third month of the Tibetan month.

The exciting part of the Tiji festival in Mustang is the Tsowo dance, which starts three months before the main Tiji festival. Earlier on this festival, the Mustang royal family members and all the users’ villagers participated in the dance and enjoyed it. Another essential part of the Tiji festival is the traditional meditation practice. Mediation during the Tiji festival is practiced in two different ways: – the first one is the peaceful dance by the subjugation of negative energy, and the second one is the actual mediation in the middle of the mountain ranges.

Tiji Festival Trek Highlights

• You will learn a new culture and participate in the Tiji festival’s rituals.
• I am observing and knowing the importance of traditional dance and music to the people there.
• The trail from Jomsom to the upper Mustang is very adventurous, as various boulders are coming.
• Exploring the Mustang Valley and visiting temples and monasteries during the festival is relieving.
• Tiji festival is the most important and sacred festival in the Mustang region, and different somewhat spiritual beliefs can be observed during this festival.
• Tibet greatly influences the Tiji festival’s rituals, as Mustang is often called mini Tibet.
• The surroundings of Chhode Monastery are full of landscapes and cultural sites.
• Enjoying the Tiji festival in the middle of the mountain ranges is exhilarating.
• Mustang is primarily famous for the apple and apple wine, Marpha.
• Muktinath temple is the highest altitude temple in the world, and in addition, it is the holiest place for pilgrimage.
• I was going through the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki, and getting an aerial view of the great city of Pokhara.

History of the Tiji Festival in Mustang, Nepal

There are different stories about the significance of the Tiji festival. People started celebrating the Tiji festival since Dorje Shonu killed the deity and saved the lives of people. Since then, Tiji has been very popular in Nepal and some parts of India. Padmasambhava, a Buddhist monk, started this tradition in Tibet in the 8th century. After that time, people began celebrating Tiji in the Tibetan way. Padmasambhava taught the dance moves to the monks of Chhode and Rinpoche monastery. Monks are dressed in a different form of the incarnation of Lord Buddha to perform this dance. However, the trekking season made the Tiji festival more famous in the 17th century.

Every year, thousands of people visit the Chhode monastery to pray for the well-being of their family and friends. People from all over Mustang come to offer their prayers in Chhode monastery.

The ritual dance of the Tiji is three stages; the first stage is the dance of 15 steps. The second stage of the dance shows the generation of deities of the two steps, and the last stage is the dance to clear the eternal negative views and to provide the festival’s auspiciousness. The dancer performs different positions and gestures to show the mediation process. Each small and big dance step during the Tiji festival in Mustang has its meaning. People believe the steps taken during the Tiji dance cleared the obstacles in people’s lives. Mustang area is a remote area on the side of Tibet. The wide Himalayan range and the snowy trail add beauty while celebrating the Tiji festival.

How to get there?

People of the Mustang region celebrate the Tiji festival, which is also the top destination of the people. To get to Mustang Valley, you must arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, where our team will pick you up and escort you to the hotel. The next day, you will fly to Pokhara, which has extraordinary views of the high mountains and cultural places. After getting to Pokhara, you will have a short break; after that, you will fly to Jomsom. Jomsom is also popularly known as the gateway to Mustang.

Flight to Jomsom or drive

An alternative flight to Jomsom is the 10-hour road drive via Kali Gandaki. You will also have an aerial view of Kali Gandaki on the way. After landing at Jomsom, you will be starting your actual trek. The route to Mustang goes through the barren landscape. On the way, you will also see the ancient Wall Town, the upper Mustang. It takes three days from the Jomsom to reach the upper Mustang. It would help if you crossed many villages, including Kagbeni, Chele, Zhalte, Syangboche, Dhakmar, Lo Gear, and Charang, to reach Lo Manthang.

Both local people and tourists are very fond of the Tiji festival. Most tourists find the dance very fascinating. Therefore, you will have enough time to explore nature and the culture during your stay. The festive hike to Lo Manthang is a delightful trek that is gaining the attention of many people. Mustang is a beautiful place in the northern corner of the great Annapurna range. On this festive trek to Lo Manthang, you will get a clear view of the mesmerizing view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Muktinath is widely famous for its numerous Buddhist monasteries and historic buildings. Muktinath temple is the highest-altitude temple in the world.

Trekking to  Tiji Festival Mustang in Nepal

Tiji festival is the main festival for the people in Mustang. Monks in the monastery dance with a lot of power and eagerness. The dance moves represent the forms of the incarnation of Lord Buddha for establishing peace in the world. Tiji festival shows the victory of god over the Demon. People have celebrated Tiji in Mustang since the 17th century, and it has gained much popularity among tourists. People from all around the world come to enjoy this festival and observe the Tibetan culture.

During the three days of the Tiji festival, the head of the monastery chooses the dancers among the monks of Chhode Monastery, considering various factors. Monks decorate the monastery with colorful thanka pictures, and the monastery’s route includes Buddhist flags. On the day of the Tiji festival, the whole Mustang chants songs and prays at once.

On the first day of Tiji, villages on lo Manthang are crowded with people from the nearby villages at the tourist. It was challenging to walk the barren landscape, but now, small jeeps can go to Chhode monastery. Tiji is the most awaited festival for the people of Lo Manthang; they clean their houses and prepare various food items. For trekking who wants to trek Mustang, the middle of May is perfect. During the Tiji festive trek to Lo Manthang, you can observe the Mustang’s topography and beauty variation. You must book your trek early as May is the peak season for trekking to Mustang.

Tiji Festival 2027: Important Travel Information

The Tiji Festival in Mustang, Nepal is a three day celebration in Lo Manthang, the ancient settlement of Upper Mustang. Local families, monks and visitors come for religious ceremonies, traditional dances and community celebrations.

If you are planning to attend the Tiji Festival 2027, it is a good idea to organize the main details early. Transport to Upper Mustang is limited, and rooms in Lo Manthang can become difficult to find around the festival dates. Booking ahead also gives you more time to prepare for the altitude and the journey itself.

Lo Manthang is in a remote part of Mustang, so the journey takes more planning than a visit to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Whenever possible, arrive before the first ceremony rather than trying to reach the town on the same day. Flights, roads, and weather in the mountains do not always follow a fixed schedule. Before travelling, check the festival dates and the latest permit and transport information with your tour operator or local contact.

Altitude Sickness during Tiji Festival Trek

People perform rituals in the Buddhist monastery of the upper Mustang region, so it is pretty standard to have altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a medical condition in which your body does not get enough oxygen. This problem mostly happens while trekking in higher altitude areas. Altitude sickness is not that scary, and the risk can be prevented by taking some precautions. It would help if you did the Tiji festive trek with proper acclimation and healthy food.

It would help if you took necessary precautions while trekking to the upper Mustang for the Tiji festival; you have to avoid stiff drinks and slow the pace of the trek in a high-altitude place. People of all ages with good physical ability can go on the Tiji festive trek. Your most elevated point on this trek is 4,200 meters. If you have a positive attitude, you can do this trek easily.

Tiji is the Most exciting festival in the Himalayas.

This festival is exciting in the Mustang region. Tiji festival lasts for about three days. These three days are full of dance culture and exploring the culture. The rituals of the Tiji festival are ancient Tibetan culture. People remember the savior of the Mustang kingdom from the great destruction. Tiji comes from the Tibetan word “tempa Chirim,” meaning “devote or prayer for world peace.” All the people and the monks pray to god for the well-being of their families and loved ones.

However, some people also believe that the significance of the Tiji festival is the victory of “Dorje Sonnu,” the incarnation of Lord Buddha over the Demon. The Demon was a massive creature that fed on human beings and caused destruction in people’s lives. The Tiji festival takes place in the middle of May and lasts for three days. The monks of Chhode Monastery perform different rites and rituals.

Dance is the central part of celebrating the Tiji festival, so Buddhist monks perform different forms of dance during the Tiji festival. “Tsa Chham” and “Nga Chham” are the traditional dances performed by the monks during the Tiji festival. People perform Tiji’s rituals only in the Chhode monastery. However, Rinpoche monastery, being the head and old monastery, supervises Chhode, a much smaller monastery. At least sixty-five monks are required to perform the dance and the rituals.

The Rituals and the Festival

Almost all the festivals in Nepal have specific historical and cultural significance. Rituals make the festival enjoyable and meaningful. Tiji festival celebrates the victory of good over evil and spreads positive thoughts among people. Since Tiji lasts for three days, here are the rituals of Tiji festivals.

• Day 1, June 01, 2027

Day one is the opening day of the Tiji festival; people gather to celebrate and enjoy Tiji at Chhode Monastery. Monks perform the traditional dance “Tsa Chaam.” This dance shows in the story of Dorji Son Am. Monks dress as the different incarnations of Lord Buddha. While dancing, the monks chase away the demons.

• Day 2, June 02, 2027

Day 2 is widely known as the dance of Nga Chaam. People make different types of food and distribute it to monks. People also hold feasts in their houses and enjoy the second day of Tiji.

• Day 3, June 03, 2027

Day 3 is the final day of the Tiji festival. On this day, monks perform the most sacred dance, “Rha Chham.” Damp Hu and Dhayngrya are the musical instruments used in this dance. People believe “Rha Chham” bans deities and evil energy. One monk dresses up as Dorje Sonam and leads this dance. Lastly, in the evening, ending rituals are practiced, and people provide Prasad to the people and offer prayer to the god.

What to Pack for the Tiji Festival Trek

The climate in Lo Manthang is very different between the morning and afternoon. You might enjoy warm sunshine during the day, but once the sun goes down, the temperature can drop. Because you will probably spend several hours outdoors observing the festival, it is always good to carry a few extra layers instead of a single thick jacket.

Here are some of the things we would recommend when you visit Tiji Festival:

• Warm clothes: A fleece or warm jacket are helpful, especially in the early morning and evening.
• Shoes: Use a pair that you have used before and that you are comfortable using. The floor may be uneven and dusty.
• Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and lip balm are useful under Mustang’s bright sunshine.
• Personal medicines: pack your personal medicine which you need to take.
• Water bottle: Keep water with you when travelling or spending time outside.
• Small backpack: This is useful for carrying water, snacks, your jacket, and other items you may need during the day.
• Camera or phone: You might be interested in capturing the festival and the scenery around. All you have to do is remember to ask about the possibility of taking pictures in ceremonies beforehand.
• Cash and travel documents: Have your ID and necessary permits with you, and bring a small amount of cash to spend in the country.

Your final packing list will vary depending on the season, the length of your itinerary and whether you will be traveling mainly by road or walking between villages. Once you have decided on your route, a local guide or tour operator can give you more specific advice.

What Else Can You See in Lo Manthang During Tiji Festival?

The Tiji Festival in Mustang is the main reason for many visitors to come to Lo Manthang, but there is more to see there than just this. If time permits, spend some time exploring the town and learning about the history and lifestyle of Upper Mustang.

A walk through the traditional settlement gives you the chance to see its distinctive buildings and narrow lanes. Depending on the opening arrangements, you may also be able to visit local monasteries and other historic places. Your guide can advise you about which sites are accessible during the festival period.

The landscape outside Lo Manthang is just as distinctive. Dry valleys, weathered rock formations, and wide mountain views make Mustang very different from Nepal’s greener hill and mountain regions. Even a short walk outside the town can give you a better sense of the surrounding environment.

If you plan to add cultural sightseeing to your Tiji Festival Mustang trip, speak with your guide before the journey. Please respect local customs, ask permission before photographing people, and follow any instructions given at monasteries or other religious sites.

How Many Days Do You Need for the Tiji Festival Trek?

The answer depends on your route and the way you plan to travel. Some visitors use a combination of flights and road transport, while others include a longer walking route in their Tiji Festival Trek. In either case, the three festival days are only part of the trip. You also need time to reach Lo Manthang, adjust to the altitude, and make the return journey.

Trying to fit the whole experience into a very short visit can make the trip unnecessarily stressful. A little extra time gives you room for overnight stops and allows your body to adjust gradually. It is also useful if a flight is delayed or a road section takes longer than expected.

There is no fixed number of days that suits every traveller. When comparing Tiji Festival Trek itineraries, look at the full schedule rather than counting only the festival days. A sensible itinerary should include travel time, rest, acclimatization, and some flexibility for mountain conditions.

Tiji Festival Permit:

Generally, a ten-day itinerary costs per person for the upper Mustang trek. However, during the Tiji festival, since you will be spending only three days, it will cost US$150. US$50 increase daily if you want to extend your trek on the upper Mustang. Upper Mustang is the only place where single trekkers are not allowed; you must have at least two people in your group to get the permit. You will need a password copy (if foreign), a citizenship copy (for Nepalese), and photos. You can get this permit from the Kathmandu Tourism Board or Pokhara.

Tiji Festival 2027/2028 Date:

This year, 2027, the Tiji festival will be celebrated from June 01-03 . During these three days, you will explore the mountains, culture, snow, and lifestyle of local people. If you are lucky enough, you can observe the snowfall in the mountains.

Tiji Festival Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

The first time experience of Tiji Festival can be an enjoyable event especially when the traveller is not familiar with the Upper Mustang. The trip requires certain planning, and some knowledge about local traditions can be of use in your trip.

• Book in advance: Before you get to Lo Manthang, you had better make reservations on the place you are going to stay, and how you are going to get there.
• Always be able to change your schedule: Mountain traveling does not necessarily follow the plan. Allow yourself more time to travel back.
• Be careful at high altitude: give yourself time to acclimatize and be aware of how you feel. If you have any symptoms of altitude sickness, do not ignore them or continue your ascent.
• Be mindful during ceremonies: The festival has deep cultural and religious meaning for local people. Watch respectfully and follow any instructions given by the organisers.
• Consideration of taking photographs: There might be restrictions on certain ceremonies or religious places. It is always better to ask first.
• Check entry requirements: Before departing, ensure you have the existing permits and fees to visit Mustang Upper.
• Learn from local guides: A guide can help you understand the traditions behind the festival and make it easier to navigate an unfamiliar area.

In Above the Himalaya we advise our guests to relax, appreciate the local culture, and experience what we have to offer at the leisurely pace. The festival is an opportunity to learn about Mustang’s cultural heritage as well as to witness its celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tiji Festival 2027

Is it possible to visit just one day of the Tiji Festival?

Yes, we will assist you to organize your visit into one of the festival days, depending on your travel plan. But you will miss ceremonies of the other days. We suggest that you spend three days here to have the complete celebration.

Is it possible to bring children or elder family members to the Tiji Festival?

Yes, but the journey to Upper Mustang and the high altitude require careful planning. When planning your trip with us, you should take into consideration travel time, walking distance, rest intervals and comfort of each family member. Our team will be happy to talk with you about making appropriate travel arrangements and then booking.

Is it possible to purchase food and everyday needs in Lo Manthang?

In Lo Manthang, you will find basic food and necessities available but there is not much choice. Bring what you need and let our team know in advance if you have any special dietary requirements.

What are the local customs at the festival?

The Tiji Festival is a great religious and cultural festival of the local community. We advise our guests to wear decently, not to disrupt ceremonies and obey the instructions of the organisers. When you go to a religious place, be sure to inquire about any special restrictions.

Is it possible to take pictures at the Tiji Festival?

Photography can be permitted in certain locations, but can be limited during certain ceremonies. Before taking pictures, we suggest you should inquire with your guide or the organisers of the local event, particularly when capturing pictures of religious events or when capturing pictures of local residents.

Is it necessary to organize a guide before I visit Upper Mustang?

We suggest you plan your trip beforehand, especially when you are not so familiar with Upper Mustang. Our team can help with the traveling arrangements and guide you on what to expect when visiting Lo Manthang. It is also advisable to check the current entry requirements prior to departure.

What will I do in case of bad weather?

Travel delays may occur in mountainous areas due to weather and road conditions. We suggest padding your itinerary out. We can advise you of suitable travel arrangements and there should be plenty of time to get back before your other flights or other connections.