The best time to go to Upper Mustang is during the occasion of Tiji festival. Tiji Festival (abbreviated form of Tempa Chhirim, which means “a prayer for world peace”) is one of Mustang’s most important and colorful events. It is celebrated in order to mark the end of dry season and to chase away “demons” (It is believed that the village is purified of evil spirits during this time).Lamas perform about 50 different religious dances wearing motley costumes and eccentric masks.
Itinerary for Upper Mustang with Tiji Festival:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu/ Transfer to Hotel.
Day 2: Full day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 820m/6-7 hours with tourist bus,
Day 4: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom 2720m and trek to Kagbeni 2800m/3-4 hours,
Day 5: Trek from Kagbeni to Tsaile 3100m/5-6 hours,
Day 6: Trek from Tsaile to Ghiling 3570m/6-7 hours via Ranchung Cave Monastery,
Day 7: Trek from Ghiling to Drakmar 3450m/5-6 hours,
Day 8: Trek from Drakmar to Lo-Manthang 3840m/7-8 hours via Ghar Gompa and Marang-La Pass
Day 9: Tenji Festival. Overnight at tented camp.
Day 10: Tenji Festival. Overnight at tented camp.
Day 11: Tenji Festival. Overnight at tented camp.
Day 12: Trek from Lo-Manthang to Tsarang 3560m/3-4 hours,
Day 13: Trek from Tsarang to Syangmochen 3500m/6-7 hours,
Day 14: Trek from Syangmochen to Chhusang 2980m/5-6 hours,
Day 15: Trek from Chhusang to Jomsom 2720m/6-7 hours,
Day 16: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara 820m and Half day Sightseeing in Pokhara with Guide.
Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu 1340m/6-7 hours in Tourist bus, passing the scenic river of Trisuli and then transfer to Hotel.
Day 18: Departure to International Airport