Mustang Tiji Festival Jeep Tour 2026
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.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Drive to Pokhara (18 May 2026)
Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (approx. 7‑8 hours). Enjoy scenic views. Overnight in Pokhara.
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.
Final Departure (20 May 2026)
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Airport transfers as per itinerary
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara on BB plan
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu (or drive as per option)
- 4WD jeep (Toyota Land Cruiser or Mahindra Scorpio) for Pokhara – Lo Manthang – Pokhara
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the Mustang segment (Days 3‑10)
- Accommodation in lodges/guesthouses (twin sharing) during the tour
- All necessary permits: Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, TIMS
- Professional English‑speaking guide (trained in Buddhist culture)
- Experienced 4WD driver, salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag (refundable after trip)
- Medical first aid kit
- All government and local taxes
Excluded
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees (US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except where noted)
- Travel insurance (mandatory, covering medical emergencies and evacuation)
- Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water
- Extra night accommodation due to early arrival, late departure, or early return
- Personal gear and expenses (phone calls, laundry, Wi‑Fi, battery charging)
- Tips for guide, driver, and support staff
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the upcoming Tiji Festival 2026?
The Tiji Festival 2026 will be celebrated on 14, 15 and 16 May 2026 in Lo Manthang.
What is the physical requirement for this jeep tour?
No trekking is required. The tour involves easy walks and sitting in a 4WD vehicle for several hours each day. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
What kind of vehicle will be used?
We use 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser or Mahindra Scorpio, well‑maintained and driven by an experienced driver.
What permits are required for Upper Mustang?
You need a Restricted Area Permit (US$50 per person per day), ACAP, and TIMS. Global Nepal Treks arranges all permits for you.
What is the best season for this tour?
The tour is best in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). The Tiji Festival is fixed in May, so spring is ideal.
What is the accommodation like in Upper Mustang?
Basic but comfortable lodges with attached bathrooms in most places. Twin sharing, clean bedding provided.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes, travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is mandatory.