Upper mustang tiji festival trek

Namaste and welcome to Kathmandu! Upon arrival in TIA Nepal, you will be picked up by our representative and transferred to hotel. As soon as we reach hotel, representative will give you a synopsis of plan and handover program agreement.  You can spend rest of the time at your leisure or explore the bustling city of Kathmandu.
Elevation: 1,400 meters / 4593 feet.

Enjoy an overview of Kathmandu city in the capital of Nepal. Guide take you to Swayambhunath stupa, Bouddha, Pashupatinath temple, Patan and Kathmandu durbar square for sightseeing and exploration. Kathmandu city has rich cultural and historical heritage. Full day guided sightseeing in Kathmandu covers major tourist attractions like famous Temple, stupa, monasteries, people and culture of Nepal. After exploring major sights of Kathmandu, we will drive to hotel and discuss about upcoming programs. You spent rest of the time for gear shopping, packaging, exploring streets of Thamel and try local cuisine.

This is an exciting day!  Today we drive or flight to Pokhara as per the budget, interest and booking deal. It takes 6 to 7 hours to cross 200 kilometers distance of Prithivi Highway in between Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you prefer flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara it takes about 25 minutes only.
Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is incredibly scenic, with breathtaking views of Himalayan mountains, waterfalls, picturesque scenery, Trishuli & Marshyangdi River. Along the road, you will pass through small towns and villages that give you a glimpse into the countryside of Nepal.
Once you reach Pokhara, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Annapurna range, serene Phewa Lake and beautiful Pokhara city. After checking into hotel you can take a rest or go to explore lakeside, boating and walk around beautiful Phewa Lake. Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara end but memories last forever.

Enjoy an early morning flight from Pokhara to Jomsom or Drive to Kagbeni Nepal. Pokhara to Jomsom flight is known for its scenic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range of Himalayas. It takes 25 minutes to reach by flight and total weight allowed for baggage is 15 kg per person.
Due to frequently changing weather of Jomsom, flights can be delayed or cancelled at short notice. In this way, it is highly recommended to use road transportation instead of flight to make safe and sure journey.
Safe, sure and easiest way to reach Kagbeni from Pokhara is by road via Jomsom. It is 182 km / 113 miles and takes about 6/7 hours to reach. Road pass along Kali Gandaki river valley observing beautiful mountain scenery and countryside, deepest gorge in the world etc. We arrange flight or jeep as per weather condition, needs and agreement.
From jomsom we can take a jeep or walk to reach Kagbeni village. The road is rugged and bumpy, but the views are breathtaking. If you choose to walk, the trail is mostly flat and easy to follow along Kali Gandaki River. It takes around 3-4 hours, depend on your pace.
Kagbeni is a small village situated at the edge of lower and Upper Mustang Nepal. It is famous for its religious point of view (pilgrimage), traditional houses, narrow alleys, and ancient monasteries. Pokhara to Jomsom to Kagbeni journey is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Your first steps on upper mustang begin from Kagbeni village. The trail winds its way northwards along the Kali Gandaki River. It offers stunning views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Dhampus and Tukuche peak of Himalayas and unique landscapes of Mustang. Chele itself is a fascinating destination, with a rich history, ancient monasteries, chortens, culture, traditional architecture influences by Tibetan Buddhism.
We traverse several ridges, farm land, apple orchard, picturesque mountain scenery and Tangbe villages to take a break at Chhusang village for lunch. Then after walk along the river observing unique rock formation, high cliff and sky caves of Nepal. Finally we cross the Kaligandaki River and short hike to reach Chele village of Mustang. This area become very windy and dusty after noon try to cross earlier as much as possible and use sunglasses, mask and windproof clothes. Kagbeni to Chele is a beautiful journey to experience the unique culture and beauty of the Mustang region in Nepal.

Start your day with a quick ascend following jomsom korala road then cross suspension bridge to visit Ghyakar village and avoid main road. Hiking from Chele to Ghiling will be hard compared to other days to cross two passes, Taklam La 3,624m and Dajori La 3,660m. Chele to Ghiling journey start from Chele and goes through beautiful villages, rocky trails, and narrow canyons.

You will get to witness the unique culture and lifestyle of the people living in Mustang. The trail passes through several small villages like Ghyakar, Samar to reach Ghiling. Samar is a beautiful village with traditional houses and ancient monasteries, well known common lunch stop of travelers. Along the way you will pass ups and down off-road trail in barren hills, rocky terrain via Chungsi cave of Mustang.

The trip ends at Ghiling where you can discover ancient monasteries, chortens, school, village and interact with local. Ghiling is a beautiful village with traditional Mustang houses located in the middle of barren meadow surrounded by mountains and agricultural field. Chele to Ghiling trek is a wonderful experience for those who want to explore the unique culture and landscape of Upper Mustang region.

This day will be spent hiking from Ghiling through Ghami, ending up in Dhakmar. Trail passes through beautiful landscapes, including arid desert-like terrain, deep canyons and impressive rock formations. There is a new walking path to connect two villages Ghiling and Ghami. We follow new walking route to avoid the road.

Along the way, we will visit ancient monastery of Ghami, which is one of the oldest monasteries of Mustang. Ghami village surrounded by the farm land and desert types hills, Ghami river supply water for whole valley. After lunch at Ghami we continue towards Dhakmar village famous for its unique red cliff and sky caves. The trek from Ghiling to Dhakmar is a scenic and rewarding experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Mustang.

This will be our final day to reach the highlights of upper mustang trip the wall city “Lo Manthang“. Dhakmar to Lo Manthnang distance offers stunning views of mountains, an opportunity to explore the culture, history and natural beauty of Mustang. Trail offers eye catching views of Himalayan range including two above 8000 meters’ peaks Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massif.

From the Lo la pass we get the first glimpse of Lo Manthang city, wide barren land in mustang valley. Famous wall city known for their traditional mud-brick houses, narrow alleys, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Finally, we reached ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang. At the Lo Manthang city we feel pure Tibetan culture, rich history, interact with Lowa people and know about their way of life. There are many things to see around Lo like historic royal palace, ancient monasteries, local markets, mani, chortens and prayer wheels that provides lifetime experiences.

The most awaited day is finally here. Today we discover the secret of Lo Manthang Nepal. Day trip starts with either horse riding, walking towards chhoser, garphu area. Chhosar village offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life, daily activities that they practice in upper mustang region.
Ancient monasteries like Garphu and Niphu, surrounding colorful rock formations and centuries old caves in rock cliff are really exciting sights to see in Chhoser area. Niphu monastery is an ancient cave monastery carved into the cliffs. Travelers impressed to visiting Jhong cave, Konchok ling cave & Ritseling cave in Chhoser valley in mustang district of Nepal.
Afternoon we will be back to Lo Manthang and spent rest of the day visiting the city’s ancient monasteries, palace, narrow alleys, stupas and the architecture of earthen wall city. Royal palace, three ancient monasteries, Amchi school and the local way of life are the highlights of Lo Manthang exploration.
Lo Manthang is a small town surrounded by towering mountains and arid landscapes. It is a fascinating place to explore, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty which make an epic journey into the Himalayas.

First day of Tiji festival begins with ceremonial lowering of thangka, a large religious tapestry depicting Guru Rinpoche “Padmasambhava”. Monks play Tibetan horns “Dungchen”, drums and cymbals at the same time. This ritual is believed to purify the town and its inhabitants of evil spirits and misfortunes.
After thangka is lowered, monks recite ancient Buddhist prayers and perform sacred dances, known as ” Tsa Chaam.” this dance tells the story of the birth of Dorje Jono and his battle with the demon.
These dances, performs with traditional music and colorful costumes, masks that represent mythical stories of triumph over evil forces and symbolize the victory of good over evil. It is a powerful and dramatic performance that leave a lasting impression for sure.

Second day of Tiji festival is most striking then fist day, it represents the battles between Dorje Jono deity and his demonic enemies. Tiji dance depicts the legendary battles fought by Dorje Jono to save the kingdom of mustang from drought, famine and destruction caused by demons.
The energetic movements and rhythmic beats of drums create an emotional atmosphere that attract audiences to witness ancient legends and mystical traditions.
Monks wear elaborate costumes and masks to preform mask dance representing the role of deities and demon’s, perform intricate dance dramas with precision and vigor. Each masked dancers symbolizing a specific character from the mythological tales.
The second day of festival is known as “Nga Cham” dance. It tells the story of Dorje Jono’s victory over the demon “Man Tam Ru” and his return to heaven. Festival immerse into the age-old traditions, vibrant dances, and mesmerizing rituals of Tibetan Buddhism.

The third or final day of Tiji festival is known as ” Ra Chaam “. Monks perform special ceremonies and local also comes together to offer prayers wearing traditional dress. Monks offer food, drink and other offerings to demon with the hope that he will satisfied, leave the people in peace and never back to mustang.
The atmosphere is filled with spirituality, devotion, rituals continuity and a sense of unity in between. The lowering thangka raised to signifying the conclusion of celebrations.
Mustangi people come together at the square of wall city for a grand procession. They carry thangka, accompanied by music, dance, and joyful celebrations with the belief of drive away evil spirits and bring good luck to the kingdom of lo. As soon as Tiji festival ends the thangka painting placed back in monastery, where it will remain until next Tiji festival.

Today , we embark on a journey to Yara, a village located at south east of Lo Manthang. It was quite long walking trail then previous days. Walking path is mostly flat, ups and down including vast grasslands and rocky terrain. You passed through beautiful landscapes on the way from Lo Manthang to Yara via Lo la 3950 meters, Dhi la 3950 meters, Dhi and Surkhang villages.
From the Dhi pass trail descends into the Kali Gandaki river and Dhi Khola valley. Dhi is a picturesque settlement with traditional houses and winding streets located at the confluence of these 2 rivers.
After this village, we eventually reached peaceful Yara village, a remote settlement surrounded by barren hills, rugged landscape and ancient ruins. Yara village, located at an altitude of 3,650 meters above sea level. This village famous for its traditional mud-brick houses, unique architecture and cultural heritage. It is one of the most well-preserved village in mustang region & worth to see.
Lo Manthang to Yara was a truly unforgettable experience because you were immersed with stunning landscape, rich culture and traditions of mustang in the Himalayas. Upon reaching Yara, we checked into our hotel and spent the rest of the day exploring the village and interacting with the locals.

Today trail ascends to explore the Luri Gompa a cave monastery of upper mustang built into a towering cliff face. Luri Gompa is a sacred Buddhist site located near Ghara village. Famous for its unique cave paintings, sculptures, culture and history. You feel deep sense of spiritual connection while visiting Luri cave monastery, stupa and surrounding nature.
Luri monastery is perched on a cliff face, and we climb up a steep staircase to reach it. The climb was worth it, though, as the views from the top were simply stunning. We spent some time exploring the monastery and chatting with the monks, who were incredibly welcoming and friendly.
There are 2 chambers inside cave monastery. Wall and ceiling of monastery decorated with many paintings in the 14th century or even earlier. Mysterious Luri monastery is one of the best place to achieved siddhi by meditation.
Chorten inside Luri cave monastery decorated with eight auspicious symbols and four guardian deities. The Dom contains paintings of Namgyal, Khadcheri, Vajrasattva and Lokesvara in 4 directions east, west, north and south respectively. There are many paintings of lama, eight siddhas and mandala also inside the monastery.
700-year-old “Luri Gumba” is one of the most stunning attractions, rich cultural and spiritual heritage of upper mustang a remote and rugged terrain in Nepal. Visit once in a life time to collect the lifetime memory.

The journey from Yara to Tangye began early in the morning. Walking trail relatively flat with some downhill sections towards the lower mustang Nepal. It passes through barren landscape of mustang, with its dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, Chortens, monastery and stunning rock formations. Finally, we reach Tangya village, a remote village with ancient ruins and a traditional way of life influences by Tibetan culture. Tangge village known for its unique architecture, with houses built out of stone and mud, and stunning surrounding scenery.

Local people of Tangge are largely subsistence farmers and rely on animal husbandry, traditional farming methods to grow crops such as barley, wheat, and buckwheat. They have a deep connection with their land, culture and great pride in preserving their traditions and way of life. Tangye village of mustang is a hidden gem that offers a rare opportunity to experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Unique architecture, breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Tangye make this area must visit destination to explore the remote corners of the world. Yara to Tangye trek is an unforgettable journey through the mystical mustang region of Nepal.

Today is a long day of walking, Tangye to Chhusang trek distance is a tough journey then previous days but the stunning landscapes keep us motivated to reach destination. Walking trail ascend gradually till Pa Bhanjyang then after descent towards Chhusang following Syerkothang Danda. Ultimately we reach Chhusang village located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki river and witness the daily life of local people who live in this remote part of the world.
Chhusang village is surrounded by towering red cliffs and eroded sandstone formations that have been shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion. The contrasting colors of the red cliffs and the greenery of the surrounding vegetation create a striking visual effect that is truly breathtaking.
You walk alongside the Kali Gandaki river, which is flowing gently and provides a serene atmosphere that helps to relax mind and soul. Tangye to Chhusang trek is an excellent choice for those who wants to experience the incredible scenery, fascinating history and unique culture of upper mustang. Stunning views of Himalayan range, natural beauty and spiritual heritage of this area, make it a memorable journey for forever.

On this day, we leave upper mustang and head back to Jomsom. Walking trail is easy with several flat stretches and gentle descents. After a few hours of walk you cross Tangbe village and reach Kagbeni. It is a small but charming village, famous as the gateway to upper mustang with traditional mud-brick houses, narrow alleyways and adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

From Kagbeni, trail gradually descend towards Jomsom, and the landscape or topography also began to change. The barren terrain give way to lush green vegetation and the mountains became even more majestic. You pass through several small villages like Tangbe, Kagbeni, Ekle Bhatti along Kali Gandaki river and eventually reached Jomsom. At the Jomsom you can roam around city, visit eco museum, apple orchards or take a rest at lodge to make good time.
Chhusang to Jomsom part of the trip provide an opportunity to see awe-inspiring view of mountains, desert-like landscape, cultivated fields, traditional village, people, culture and way of life. The journey from Chhusang to Jomsom is an incredible experience in Kali Gandaki valley where you witness the beauty of mustang closely.

Today is the day to say goodbye to Mustang, early in the morning, we will take a flight to Pokhara. Jomsom to Pokhara flight is a popular domestic route of Nepal. Plane passes through a gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, offers stunning view of snow-capped mountains and valleys below. Once you arrive in Pokhara, there are plenty of places to see and things to do. You can spend rest of the day in leisure or walk around the streets of lake city, souvenir shopping, boating in Phewa lake and experience nightlife in Pokhara etc.
The weather of Jomsom change in no time that affect Pokhara flight frequently. If the weather is not favourable, we’ll arrange jeep to drive back to Pokhara. We request you to plan some buffer time for this unexpected situations and be flexible to use alternative ways of transportation like jeep or helicopter to back to Pokhara.
Jomsom Pokhara travel by jeep is a great way to explore the beautiful scenery, countryside, waterfalls, people and culture of Nepal, the memories will remain forever.

Today we leave Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu by car, jeep, tourist bus or flight as per travel agreement. It takes 25 minutes by flight Pokhara Kathmandu road distance is 200 km / 124 miles; it takes 6-7 hours to reach by drive. Road follow Marshyangdi river and Trishuli river exploring countryside and beautiful scenery of the foothills of Himalayas. Upon arrival in Kathmandu city you will check into hotel, rest, relax and explore the street of Thamel for souvenir shopping. Enjoy typical Nepali dinner party with culture show to celebrate successful journey.

Today is the final day of Nepal trip! Our representative will drop you to airport 3 hours before schedule flight. “Wishing you a safe journey! We look forward to our paths crossing again someday.”