Located in northern Nepal near the Tibetan border, Upper Mustang is a remote trans-Himalayan region rich in history and culture. Formerly the Kingdom of Lo, it remained a restricted area until Nepal became a federal democratic republic in 2008. Though open to tourists since 1992, access to this historic region remains highly regulated to preserve its unique heritage.

The people of Upper Mustang, known as Mustangi, share close cultural ties with Tibetans. The Lower Mustang Valley, on the other hand, is home to the Thakali people, one of Nepal’s indigenous ethnic groups known for their rich culinary traditions and trade heritage.

A visit to Upper Mustang offers breathtaking sights, including the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,900 m) and the walled city of Lo-Manthang, a significant historical and spiritual center.

About the Tiji Festival

The Tiji Festival is a vibrant Tibetan Buddhist festival celebrated in Lo-Manthang. It remains an integral part of the local tradition. The name “Tiji” is derived from “Tenchi,” a shortened form of Tenpa Chirim, meaning “prayer for world peace.”

This festival, dating back over 300 years, symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It portrays the legend of Dorje Jono (Vajrakila), a deity in Vajrayana Buddhism, who defeated evil forces under the guidance of Guru Padmasambhava, ensuring prosperity in the region.

Held annually in May, the festival features special Vajrakila rituals performed by monks from the Chode Monastery. The event honors the spiritual legacy of Dorje Jono and Guru Padmasambhava.

The festival includes elaborate masked dances, sacred chants, and prayer ceremonies. The three-day event unfolds in distinct phases, culminating in the symbolic expulsion of evil spirits.

Tiji Festival Schedule (May)

Day 1: Opening Ceremony and Tsa Cham Dance

The festival commences in the afternoon with the resonating sound of Tibetan horns (dhungchens), double-reeded horns, drums, and cymbals. Monks and performers gather in a grand procession from the monastery to the main square, where a large thangka (sacred painting) is displayed on the southern wall.

The ritual dance Tsa Cham follows, narrating the story of Dorje Jono’s initial confrontation with evil forces.

Day 2: Nga Cham Dance

On the second day, monks perform the Nga Cham dance, which depicts Dorje Jono’s efforts to drive the demon back to the Buddha realm. Traditional female performers, adorned in elaborate jewelry and costumes, also take part in the ceremonies. The day’s events highlight celestial beings and the spiritual power that safeguards the region.

Day 3: Ra Cham Dance and Final Rituals

The final day of the Tiji Festival features the Ra Cham dance, an energetic performance symbolizing the ultimate defeat of evil. Performers wear elaborate masks representing deities and demons, bringing the legend to life.

The ceremony concludes with the destruction of an effigy made of tsampa (barley flour), symbolizing the banishment of negative forces. The event ends with joyous music, prayers, and gunfire, marking the restoration of harmony and peace.

Tiji Festival Trek Route

The Tiji Festival trek begins in Jomsom, the administrative center of Mustang. Travelers can reach Jomsom by a scenic flight from Pokhara or a 10-hour overland journey along the Kali Gandaki River.

Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making it an arid yet mesmerizing landscape. The trek offers panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m).

From Jomsom, the trek follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through remote villages such as Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Dhakmar, Lo Gekar, and Charang before reaching Lo-Manthang. The journey features undulating trails with altitudes ranging from 3,500 m to 4,200 m.

A side trip to Muktinath Temple (3,800 m), one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists, adds spiritual significance to the adventure.

Permits and Costs for Tiji Festival Trek

Upper Mustang is a restricted area requiring a special trekking permit. The regulations include:

Trekking must be arranged through a licensed trekking agency.

A minimum of two trekkers and a maximum of 30 are allowed per permit.

The cost of the license is USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, with an additional USD 50 per day thereafter.

The Tiji Festival trek offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience, making it one of Nepal’s most extraordinary journeys for travelers seeking history, tradition, and adventure.