Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang – Forbidden Kingdom – 13 Days

13 days

5.0 (12 verified reviews)

Himalaya, Mustang et spiritualité

An exclusive 13-day cultural pilgrimage into Upper Mustang, the forbidden ancient Tibetan kingdom of Lo. Hidden behind the Himalayan giants of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, this dramatic arid landscape has preserved its ancestral customs untouched by time.

Witness the sacred three-day Tiji Festival inside the walled city of Lo Manthang as lamas perform ancient masked ritual dances, and explore cliffside cave monasteries carved into thousand-foot canyons.

Trip Highlights

3 full days of immersion in the sacred Tiji Festival inside the walled kingdom of Lo Manthang.
Witness the masked ritual dances of Tibetan lamas and ancient spiritual ceremonies.
Exploration of Upper Mustang's stark mineral canyons, ochre cliffs, and centuries-old sky caves.
Visits to legendary monasteries in Kagbeni, Tsarang, and the secluded Chhoser cave valley.

Is this trip right for you?

Wildlife & Tracking

Nature & Adventure

Culture & Local Life

Relaxation & Scenery

Evenings & Social

Pace & Effort: Moderate

Detailed Itinerary (13 days)

Day-by-day itinerary led by our native master trackers and certified expedition guides.

Day 1

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome at airport, private transfer to hotel, expedition briefing, and special Mustang permit processing.

Day 2

Day 2 – Kathmandu Valley Heritage

Visit sacred Buddhist sites: Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath, preparing for the spiritual journey ahead.

Day 3

Day 3 – Drive to Pokhara

Scenic road transfer to Pokhara along mountain rivers. Evening stroll along Lake Phewa.

Day 4

Day 4 – Drive to Kalopani via Kali Gandaki Gorge

Enter the world's deepest gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, reaching the pine forests of Kalopani.

Day 5

Day 5 – Drive to Ancient Kagbeni

Drive through Jomsom and Marpha to Kagbeni, the medieval fortified gateway to Upper Mustang.

Day 6

Day 6 – Enter Upper Mustang to Ghami

Cross high passes with views of red cliffs, ancient sky caves, and mani walls to reach the village of Ghami.

Day 7

Day 7 – Drive to the Walled Capital: Lo Manthang

Traverse stunning desert canyons to reach the historic walled city of Lo Manthang, seat of the King of Mustang.

Day 8

Day 8 – Lo Manthang – Opening of the Tiji Festival

Witness the dramatic opening day of the Tiji Festival: sounding of long horns, unrolling of the giant Thangka, and masked sacred dances.

Day 9

Day 9 – Tiji Festival Celebrations & Chhoser Caves

Attend second day dances symbolizing the victory of dharma over demons. Afternoon visit to the multi-story Sky Caves of Chhoser.

Day 10

Day 10 – Drive South to Sacred Muktinath

Journey south to holy Muktinath (3,710m), sacred pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus with eternal natural flame.

Day 11

Day 11 – Descend to Tatopani Natural Hot Springs

Scenic drive descending the gorge to Tatopani. Relax in natural thermal hot springs beside the river.

Day 12

Day 12 – Drive to Pokhara & Fly to Kathmandu

Drive to Pokhara and connect with a short scenic flight to Kathmandu. Celebration dinner.

Day 13

Day 13 – Farewell & International Departure

Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your journey home.

What is included in your expedition

Included in the rate

✓All accommodations (selected boutique eco-lodges & traditional heritage hotels)
✓Full-board in the jungle (3 healthy and locally prepared meals daily)
✓Domestic flights & private ground transfers specified in the itinerary
✓Official National Park conservation permits & entry fees
✓Mentoring by certified native master trackers (Pawan / Kiran)
✓Dedicated 24/7 personalized assistance from Robin & local concierge

Not included

✕International flights (Home country – Kathmandu)
✕Nepalese tourist visa fees (approx. $30 to $50 on arrival)
✕Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
✕Mandatory personal travel & medical evacuation insurance
✕Discretionary tips for local trackers, camp staff, and drivers

Verified Explorer Reviews

100% authentic verified explorer feedback on Google Reviews.

★ 5.0 Google Reviews

Adrien Noat

Verified Explorer • Safari Bardia & Babai

★★★★★

“An unforgettable experience with Pawan and Robin. Observing a wild Bengal tiger on foot in complete safety remains the greatest travel moment of my life. Everything was perfectly orchestrated.”

Jean Tramoy

Verified Explorer • Expédition Bivouac

★★★★★

“The bivouac nights in the heart of Babai Valley are pure magic. The trackers' naturalist expertise is astounding. An authentic, deeply respectful journey into raw nature.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book an expedition?

Once you select your expedition, our team will send your booking confirmation by email.

To confirm your reservation, a 30% deposit is required upon registration.

The remaining balance is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu.

Can I customize my trip?

Absolutely! Our local team crafts bespoke private itineraries tailored to your dates, preferences, and pace. Simply let us know what you envision.

Are there group discounts available?

Yes, we offer special rates for small private groups and families. Contact us for custom pricing.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, you must hold personal travel insurance covering safari activities, remote wilderness, and medical evacuation.

What is included in the expedition price?

Our expeditions include boutique eco-lodge accommodations, all meals in the field, private transport, certified master trackers, and all official national park permits.

How many travelers per group?

Our expeditions are strictly limited to 4 to 10 travelers to preserve the silence required for wildlife tracking and guarantee safety.

What is the physical difficulty level?

This trip is rated Moderate. Our master trackers adapt the walking pace to ensure everyone enjoys the expedition safely and comfortably.

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