• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
  • Meals Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Max. Altitude 4,700 meters
  • Seats in 1 Jeep 4 passengers
  • Vehicle Type Toyota Landcruiser/Hilux or Mahindra Scorpio
  • Difficulty https://himalayanexcursionnepal.com/img/difficulty.jpg https://himalayanexcursionnepal.com/img/difficulty-angle.png

Starting Price

$2100

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Tiji Festival Tour by 4WD Jeep

The Tiji festival tour by 4WD Jeep is an excellent way to explore the remote and mystical Upper Mustang region while attending one of the most vibrant and culturally rich festivals in Nepal. The Tiji Festival, usually held in Lo Manthang (the walled city), is a three-day Tibetan Buddhist celebration that typically takes place in May month, featuring ancient rituals, masked dances, and prayers to drive away evil spirits and bring peace and prosperity. Tiji festival dates are confirmed based on the Tibetan lunar calendar. Journey through the striking, arid terrain of the Upper Mustang region marked by deep gorges, red cliffs, and panoramic views of the Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.

Besides Tiji festival travellers will visit centuries old monasteries including Thubchen Gompa and Jampa Lhakhang Gompa, filled with sacred relics, murals and spiritual ambiance. Explore ancient cave dwellings and mediation chambers carved into cliff, some dating back over a thousand years. You will get chance to engage with the local Tibetan influenced communities, learn about their traditional way of life and gain insight into their food, clothing and customs.

 
Trip Highlights:
  • Scenic overland journey by 4wd Jeep. 
  • Travel through the forbidden Kingdom of Mustang.
  • Witness the Tiji Festival cultural experience.
  • Experience Tibetan Lifestyle and taste authentic tibetan cuisine.
  • Explore Ancient monasteries and Discover mysterious sky caves.
  • Spectacular Himalaya views including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Tukuche peaks.
Date for Tiji Festival 2026 is announced, the festival will be celebrating 13th May to 15th May 2026.
Itinerary

Altitude: 1400 meters/4,600 feet 
Our company representative will meet you in Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel. If you arrive early in the morning, you can enjoy sightseeing around Kathmandu valley, visiting some of its historic and cultural landmarks. Overnight at hotel with Bed & Breakfast basis.

Drive Time: 6/7 hours,       Distance: 200 km approx.           Altitude: 822 meters/2,697 feet 
We start our upper mustang tour from Kathmandu in the early morning after our breakfast at hotel. It will take approx. 6-7 hours drive to Pokhara. We will drive through enjoying the view of beautiful landscapes and mountain villages. On the way you will visit beautiful Bandipur village. Pokhara has exotic views of the Annapurna Mountain range Beautiful lakes, hills, forests, and rivers. Reach Pokhara and relax. Overnight at hotel with bed and breakfast basis.

Drive Time: 7/8 hours,       Distance: 170 km approx.           Altitude: 2804 meters/9,199 feet 

Today after an early breakfast at hotel in Pokhara, we begin our adventure overland journey toward Kagbeni. The drive takes us along scenic routes, with changing landscapes from lush valleys to arid highlands. We follow the gurgling Kaligandaki river, passing through various beautiful villages like Kusma, Beni, Tatopani, Marpha, Kalopani, Ghasa and Lete, before entering the rain shadow zone beyond Jomsom. During our journey routes offers breathtaking views of the Majestic view of Mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. We will reach Kagbeni by late afternoon. Kagbeni boasts ancient alleys, traditional mud-brick houses and incredible views of Mount Nilgiri and Tukuche peaks. Check-in at guesthouse, explore Kagbeni village and soak in the unique Tibetan influenced culture. Overnight at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner basis. 
 

Drive Time: 6/7 hours,       Distance: 70 km approx.           Altitude: 3520 meters/11,548 feet Ghami    

After hearty breakfast, we will complete the permit formalities at the check point and enter restricted area of Upper Mustang region. The journey ahead offers a stunning blend of dramatic landscapes, ancient culture and remote Himalayan beauty. First we will drive to Muktinath temple - a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both both Hindus and Buddhists. After short visit to Muktinath temple, our routes takes us through Chhusang village nestled along the banks of the Kaligandaki river, and then to Chele, from where the road becomes noticeably arid and desert like. We pass through winding roads and high passes like Dajori La and Bhena La. Also we pass through beautiful village Samar and Syangboche, stopping for lunch break. We reach Ghami by late afternoon. Ghami village is surrounded by fields and dramatic cliff, Ghami is home to ancient monasteries and longest Mani wall. Overnight at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner basis.

Drive Time: 2/3 hours,       Distance: 30 km approx.           Altitude: 3840 meters/12,598 feet Ghami   

Today, we leave the tranquil village of Ghami and drive towards the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang. The scenic drive takes us through dramatic landscapes, traditional Tibetan villages and along ridges with sweeping views of the barren yet majestic Mustang terrain. Upon arrival in Lo Manthang, you'll have time to explore this enchanting town with its narrow alleyways, traditional mud-brick houses and centuries old monasteries. Afternoon, we attend the first day of Tiji festival, held in the courtyard of the Royal palace. Overnight at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner basis.

Today, after breakfast we will visit 3 major monasteries of Lo Manthang which are known for its impressive ancient murals and historic significance. Three major monasteries are Jampa Lhakhang monastery, Thubchen Gompa and Chodey Gompa. Afternoon we will drive half an hour to Jhong cave - Ancient five story cave dwelling used for mediation and shelter; offers panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and canyons. On the way we will exlore Chhosar village and interact with villagers and observe Tibetan style farming life. After spending great time at Chhosar we will drive back to Lo Manthang and attend the 2nd day of Tiji festival. Today's ceremony symbolizes the battile of good vs evil, featuring the main deity Dorje Jono' performance. Colorful costumes, local and internatonal guest crowds and vibrant festive atomosphere makes festival more intersting. Overnight at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner basis.

Today after breakfast, take a short scenic drive to local golf course at 4700 meters altitude. Relax, take photo, and soak in the panoramic views of the barren cliffs, snow capped peaks and ancient lo Manthang village. After spending previous time at golf course return back to guesthouse for tea/coffee, head to the royal courtyard of Lo Manthang to observe the final day of the Tiji festival. This day marks the culmination of the sacred ritual, where monks perform the symbolic destruction of the demon through intricate masked dances and chants. After Tiji festival return back to guesthouse and have dinner. Overnight at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner basis. 

Drive Time: 7/8 hours,       Distance: 150 km approx.           Altitude: 2,670 meters/8,760 feet 

After an early breakfast, begin our drive from Lo Manthang, retraing the rugged tail back through the breathtaking Upper Mustang landscape. We will drive back to Marpha with same routes. During journey we drive crossing beautiful villages like Tsarang, Ghami, Syangboche, Samar, Chhusang, Kagbeni and Jomsom, enjoying panoramic views of Mount Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. We will have lunch break at Kagbeni or Jomsom bazar, depending on time and pace. Reach Marpha at late afternoon, a charming Thakali village renowned for its apple orchards, narrow stone paved alleys and white washed houses. We will visit ancient Marpha monastery, explore beautiful village and taste locally made apple brandy and fresh apple pie/cake. Overnight at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner basis.

Drive Time: 7/8 hours,       Distance: 170 km approx.           Altitude: 822 meters/2,697 feet 

After breakfast in Marpha, begin our drive back towards Pokhara city. We will drive through the Kali Gandaki river passing through beautiful village Tatopani, Ghasa, and Beni bazaar. Enjoy views of Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Nilgiri along the route. We will stop for lunch break at a local restaurant and continue the drive along the Baglung highway, passing through terraced fields, lush hillsides and riverside villages. Arrive in Pokhara by late afternoon, check into your hotel. During your free time relax, massage, shop for souvenirs or enjoy dinner at lake side restaurants. Overnight at guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner basis. 
 

Drive Time: 6/7 hours,       Distance: 200 km approx.           Altitude: 1400 meters/4,600 feet 

After breakfast we will have scenic drive along the Prithvi highway, passing river, terraced hillsides and local villages. En route we will stop for tea/coffee and lunch break at highway restaurant. We will arrive Kathmandu at late afternoon, check in hotel and free time explore Thamel market and enjoy shopping. Overnight at hotel with bed and breakfast basis.

Enjoy breakfast at hotel in Kathmandu. After breakfast complete your final packing. A pre-arranged transfer will pick you up from your hotel 3 hours before your flight time and transfer to international airport for your final departure. The drive from hotel to airport typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic condition.

Includes/Excludes
    • Airport pickups and drops in a private car.
    • 2 nights 3 star hotel accommodation on twin sharing basis in Kathmandu.
    • 2 nights 3 star hotel accommodation on twin sharing basis in Pokhara.
    • Private 4wd vehicle with experienced driver throughout the tour.
    • Upper Mustang restricted area permit (USD 500 per person).
    • Annapurna conservation area permit.
    • Accommodation in guesthouse/lodge en route to Upper Mustang.
    • Meals: 3 times a day breakfast, lunch and dinner en route to Upper Mustang.
    • Professional license holder english speaking guide for entire trip.
    • Food, accommodation, salary and insurance for all supporting staff.
    • First aid kit and necessary safety equipment.
    • All government taxes and service charges.
    • International airfare and necessary airport taxes.
    • Nepal entry visa fees at present USD 30 for 15 dats and USD 50 for 30 days.
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
    • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara because of early from Upper Mustang or late departure.
    • Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
    • Travel insurance which covers emergency rescue & evacuation.
    • All personal and bar expenses for entire trip.
    • Personal expenses (mobile top up, laundry, liquor etc).
    • Tips for guide and supporting staff (tipping is expected).
    • Any other expenses which are not mentioned above.
Trip Map
Tiji Festival Tour
Faq

Yes, our company representative will be there to greet you. He will be displaying your name outside the airport terminal. You will be transferred to your hotel by our private vehicle.

Yes, travelers require an Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits are arranged as part of the tour package.

The tour lasts for 11 days, covering approximately 1200 to 1400 kilometers, depending on the program itinerary.

Accommodation will primarily be in local guesthouses or lodges, which are simple but comfortable. Rooms are usually twin-sharing, and basic amenities are provided.

The Upper Mustang region is at high altitude, and there is a possibility of altitude sickness. We design the itinerary with gradual acclimatization in mind, but travelers should stay hydrated and inform the guide if they feel unwell.

Yes, we can customize the itinerary, duration, and services based on your preferences and group size.

You can book the tour directly through our website or contact us via email or phone for assistance. 20% advance payment of total trip cost is required to secure your booking, and the remaining amount can be paid before the tour begins.

We provide 4WD vehicles such as Toyota Land crusier Prado, Toyota Hilux or Mahindra Scorpio. The vehicle provided depends on your trip budget and your preferences. Let us know which vehicle you prefer and we will arrange accordingly.

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