Upper Mustang Taiji Festival

USD

Accomodation
Hotel / Tea house
Max. Altitude
4200m
Group Size
2+
Activity Per Day
Trekking, cultural sightseeing, Taiji workshops, cave exploration
Transporation
Flight, Private Drive
Grade
Moderate

Overview

Upper Mustang is one of the Nepal's oldest heritages closely associated with Tibetan culture.  In this stark landscape trekkers encounter medieval town, surrounded by a huge wall with some of the oldest scriptures.

The last resort of Upper Mustang Trek is Lo Mangtang that is believed to be the old Buddhist kingdom. There is an old 4-story royal palace with Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains in the background.

Itinerary

    • Accommodation:

      Hotel

    • Arrival in Kathmandu where an Orbit Nepal Adventure representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Overnight at hotel.

    • Accommodation:

      Hotel

    • Meals:

      Breakfast

    • This day we will gives you the diteals information about trekking program and coordinate any last-minute arrangements. After/before the staff meeting, we will take you sightseeing with a tour guide to visit the highlights of Kathmandu - Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, Swaymbhunath and Patan Durbar Square. Overnight at hotel.

    • Accommodation:

       Hotel

    • Meals:

      Breakfast 

    • Today we will take a bus or flight to pokhara, driving is about 7 hours and flight is about 20min. After you arrived at pokhara you will have free time to explore pokhara city. you can enjoy you evening walk around Phewa Lake

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • Altitude:

      2800mtr 

    • On our fourth day we will take an early morning flight getway to mustang reason Jomsome, Flight is about 25min. Then Begein Trek along Kali Gandaki Valley towards Kagbeni. The trail offers striking desert-like landscapes and views of Nilgiri Peak. Kagbeni’s medieval alleyways, monasteries, and Tibetan-influenced architecture mark your first entry into Mustang’s unique culture.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • This is the day to enter the restricted Upper Mustang area. After a permit check we enjoy trek along dusty riverbeds, canyon walls, and windswept cliffs with its a great introduction to Mustang’s arid landscapes. Our second overnight at chele which is first night on restricted area.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Berakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • After delicious Breakfast at Cheke today we trek crosses two scenic passes—Taklam La (3,624 m / 11,887 ft) and Dajori La which offering panoramic views of canyons and snow-covered peaks. The trail also passes caves, chortens, and traditional resting points used by Mustang villagers for centuries. we arrive at syangboche which has open landscapes and peaceful local settlements

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • We begin our trek route with climbs toward the Nyi La Pass (4,010 m / 13,156 ft), one of the highest points on the trek. Stunning views of Mustang’s dry plateau and rugged hills stretch in every direction. Descend gradually to Ghami, a picturesque village surrounded by fields, whitewashed houses, and ancient Mani walls.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • After breakfast we walk past the longest Mani wall in Mustang—a sacred Buddhist structure lined with carved prayer stones. The trail continues through red cliffs, eroded canyons, and wide valleys. Reach Charang, an old settlement featuring a massive white dzong, ancient paintings, and a monastery rich in Mustang history and Tibetan culture.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • Ascend gradually toward Lo La Pass (3,950 m), from where you get your first breathtaking view of Lo Manthang—the walled kingdom of Upper Mustang. Enter the historic capital through its stone gate and explore the old streets, monasteries, royal palace, and vibrant cultural atmosphere.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • The Tiji Festival begins with opening rituals led by monks of Chode Monastery. Witness the vibrant procession, traditional costumes, and ceremonial music. The first sacred dances reenact the struggles of Dorje Jono against evil forces. This day sets the spiritual foundation of the festival, drawing locals from all Mustang villages.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • The second day features powerful masked dances representing the battle between Dharma and demons. Monks perform mesmerizing movements accompanied by drums and horns, symbolizing purification of negativity. The atmosphere is filled with spiritual energy as villagers gather in traditional attire. Enjoy the cultural depth and ancient myths portrayed through expressive ritual performance.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • The festival concludes with the dramatic ritual of driving away evil spirits. Monks use sacred arrows, powerful chants, and symbolic effigies to represent victory over obstacles. The final ceremony brings blessings for prosperity, peace, and protection. This is the most visually striking day, filled with vibrant energy and deep cultural significance.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • Spend the day exploring Lo Manthang’s monasteries—Jampa, Thubchen, and Chode—each rich in murals, statues, and ancient history. Optionally ride horses or hike to Choser’s remarkable sky caves carved into cliffs. Learn about Mustang’s royal lineage, meet local residents, and enjoy the unique blend of Tibetan culture and Mustang traditions.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • With the delicious breakfast we will retrace part of the trail before taking a scenic alternate route through isolated villages. The landscape showcases dramatic red cliffs and untouched desert valleys. Drakmar is famous for its crimson rock formations and mythic stories. It’s a peaceful stop offering a close connection to Mustang’s ancient geological formations.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • we start early this day to avoid afternoon winds. Trek across passes and long valley stretches with magnificent Mustang scenery. Ghiling is a quiet village surrounded by cultivated fields and traditional homes. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and visit the local monastery for insight into everyday Mustang life.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • After breakfast to day we will star walking  along open landscapes and cliffside trails. Enjoy the views of Nilgiri and neighboring Himalayan peaks. The route passes small settlements and ancient cave dwellings. Chuksang welcomes you with its traditional houses and calm river views, making it a comfortable stop toward lower Mustang.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • we will walk along the Kali Gandaki River, often accompanied by afternoon winds. The trail gradually widens as you approach Jomsom, where the landscape becomes greener. Celebrate your successful Upper Mustang adventure with warm local meals and a relaxing evening in the bustling but scenic town.

    • Accommodation:

      Hotel

    • Meals:

      Breakfast , Dinner 

    • We take a morning flight back to Pokhara. You will have a full day to relax by Phewa Lake or enjoy sightseeing around the city’s lakeside area. This is the perfect day to unwind with good food, spa treatments, or souvenir shopping. Reflect on the incredible journey you completed in Mustang’s restricted region.

    • Accommodation:

      Hotel

    • Meals:

      Breakfast

    • we will Return to Kathmandu by flight or by bus and enjoy last-minute shopping or cultural tours. Depending on your schedule, visit heritage sites or relax in cafés. Your Upper Mustang journey concludes with unforgettable memories of remote landscapes, Tibetan culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Orbit Nepal adventure offer you a beautiful cultural Dinner this day.

    • Meals:

      Breakfast

    • We will drop you at the international airport 3 hours before of your flight

Inclusion

What's Included
    • International airport pick-up and drop service by private coach.
    • 2 night's accommodation with breakfast at 3-star Standard Hotel in Kathmandu
    • 2 night's accommodation with breakfast at 3-star Standard Hotel in Pokhara
    • 3 means (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with Tea and coffee during the upper Mustang trek with Muktinath.
    • Accommodations during the trek on the best available tea house
    • All experiences of trekking Guide and porter including food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and transportation.
    • Round trip Flight ticket from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Jomsom with airport tax.
    • Annapurna conservation area permit and TIMS card.
    • Upper Mustang Restricted area permit charge.
    • Water purification tablets
    • All tourist service chargees, VAT, and our service charge
What's Not Included
    • International airfare and Nepal entry visa fee
    • Nepal Travel insurance
    • Meals whilst in Kathmandu and Pokhara
    • Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry
    • Expenses occurred due to unavoidable events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays, etc.
    • Tips for guide and porter (it is expected after completing upper Mustang trekking with Muktinath)
    • All monastery entrance fees, JEEP drive, and Hors ride

Other info

Taiji Festival in Lo Manthang

FAQ's

  • When is upcoming Festival ?

    Festival time (usually late May or early June) . we will update it soon 

  • How difficult is the Upper Mustang Taiji Festival Trek?

    The trek is considered moderate in difficulty. Daily walking hours range from 5–7 hours on dry, well-defined trails. No technical climbing is required, making it suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and some hiking experience.

  • What makes the Taiji Festival Trek special?

    The trek is unique because it offers:

    • Exclusive access to the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang

    • A chance to witness the rare Taiji Festival

    • Stunning views of the trans-Himalayan desert landscape

    • Deep immersion in Tibetan Buddhist culture

  • What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

    Accommodation consists mainly of teahouses and local lodges. In Lo Manthang, facilities are basic but comfortable, offering twin-sharing rooms and traditional meals.

  • Can beginners join the Upper Mustang Taiji Festival Trek?

    Yes, fit beginners can join with proper preparation. Since the trek is not technical, anyone with good health, determination, and basic hiking experience can enjoy this cultural adventure

  • Why book the Upper Mustang Taiji Festival Trek in advance?

    The festival season is popular, permits are limited, and logistics are complex. Booking early ensures permit availability, better accommodation, and confirmed festival dates.