Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour 2026 Overview

The Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour is a unique cultural adventure that combines overland travel in a 4WD vehicle with the rare opportunity to witness the ancient Tiji Festival in Lo Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang. Tiji, meaning “prayer for world peace,” is a three‑day Buddhist festival celebrated by the local Tibetan community with masked dances, rituals, and vibrant ceremonies.

This 12‑day journey begins in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic flight (or drive) to Pokhara. You then travel by comfortable 4WD Land Cruiser or Mahindra Scorpio through the dramatic landscapes of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, crossing arid valleys, red cliffs, and ancient villages. Highlights include Muktinath Temple (sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists), the medieval village of Kagbeni, the sky caves of Chhoser, and the walled city of Lo Manthang.

During the three days of the Tiji Festival (14‑16 May 2026), you will witness monks performing ritual dances, chanting prayers, and creating intricate Torma (ritual cakes) in the courtyard of the king’s palace. You will also explore ancient monasteries, interact with locals, and enjoy the stark beauty of the Tibetan plateau.

Global Nepal Treks ensures a hassle‑free experience with all permits, experienced guides, comfortable lodge accommodation, and private 4WD transportation. This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Things That You Need to Know

Duration & Difficulty:

This is a 12‑day easy jeep tour. No trekking involved. Suitable for all ages, including seniors and families.

Festival Dates:

The Tiji Festival 2026 will be celebrated on 14, 15 and 16 May 2026 in Lo Manthang. The itinerary is timed accordingly.

Permits Required:

Upper Mustang is a restricted area. You need a Special Restricted Area Permit ($50 per person per day), plus ACAP and TIMS. Global Nepal Treks arranges all permits for you.

Transportation:

Private 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser or Mahindra Scorpio with experienced driver. Comfortable for rough mountain roads.

Accommodation & Meals:

Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, lodges/guesthouses with attached bathrooms during the tour. Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are included during the Mustang segment.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1Altitude: 1350mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Arrival in Kathmandu (9 May 2026)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Evening trip briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Hotel

Day 2Altitude: 822mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Fly/Drive to Pokhara (10 May 2026)

Morning flight (25 min) or scenic drive (6 hrs) to Pokhara. Half‑day sightseeing: World Peace Pagoda, Devi’s Fall, Mahendra Cave, International Mountain Museum. Evening free at Phewa Lakeside. Overnight in Pokhara.

Hotel

Day 3Altitude: 1190mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Drive to Tatopani (11 May 2026)

Morning drive to Tatopani (approx. 5 hours). Enjoy views of mountains, rivers, and local villages. Relax in natural hot springs. Overnight in Tatopani.

Lodge

Day 4Altitude: 2800mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Drive to Kagbeni via Muktinath (12 May 2026)

Drive to Muktinath Temple (3,800m) – sacred to Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the temple, 108 water spouts, and eternal flame. Continue to Kagbeni, a medieval village at the entrance to Upper Mustang. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Lodge

Day 5Altitude: 3570mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Drive to Charang (13 May 2026)

After permit checks, drive to Charang (3,570m). Explore the ancient monastery and the school for monks. Pass through villages like Chele, Samar, and Ghiling. Overnight in Charang.

Lodge

Day 6Altitude: 3800mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Drive to Lo Manthang & First Day of Tiji Festival (14 May 2026)

Morning drive to Lo Manthang (3,800m). Visit Lo Ghar Gumba (oldest monastery). Afternoon: attend first day of Tiji Festival at the king’s palace – witness masked dances and rituals. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Lodge

Day 7Altitude: 3800mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Explore Chhoser & Second Day of Tiji Festival (15 May 2026)

Morning drive to Chhoser village (1 hr). Explore ancient sky caves and Lowo Nyiphug Namdrol Norbuling monastery (cliff monastery). Return to Lo Manthang for second day of Tiji Festival. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Lodge

Day 8Altitude: 3800mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Third Day of Tiji Festival & Local Sightseeing (16 May 2026)

Morning explore monasteries and village of Lo Manthang. Afternoon attend final day of Tiji Festival – the concluding ceremony with special dances. Overnight in Lo Manthang.

Lodge

Day 9Altitude: 2743mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Drive back to Jomsom (17 May 2026)

Retrace route back to Jomsom (2,743m). Stop at villages along the way. Permit check‑out at Kagbeni. Overnight in Jomsom.

Lodge

Day 10Altitude: 822mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Drive to Pokhara (18 May 2026)

Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (approx. 7‑8 hours). Enjoy scenic views. Overnight in Pokhara.

Hotel

Day 11Altitude: 1350mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Fly/Drive back to Kathmandu (19 May 2026)

Morning flight (25 min) or drive (6 hrs) to Kathmandu. Free afternoon for shopping or relaxation. Farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Hotel

Day 12Altitude: 1350mTrekking: 0.0 hrs

Final Departure (20 May 2026)

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

Not included

Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour 2026