Forbidden The Kingdom Mustang and the Tiji Festival: a unique adventure!
This not just trekking – it’s a journey into a world that seems like a dream: Mustang monasteries clinging to the rock faces, the palace in Lo Manthang surrounded by a desert wall, prayers by Buddhist monks, which echo through the gorges where time has no hold.
Mustang – formerly the Kingdom of Lo – was cut off from the outside world for hundreds of years. Today, it remains one of the most isolated and magical places in the Himalayas. During this expedition you’ll experience that authenticity, whilst wandering through sacred mountain passes, meeting wandering monks, and taking part in the region’s most important event – Tiji Festival.
What’s in store for you in Kathmandu?
Even your first few days in Kathmandu will introduce you to Nepal’s extraordinary cultural mosaic. With a professional local guide, you’ll visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) with a view of the city, mystical Pashupatinath, an ancient district Patan, and Boudhanath – the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal. You’ll see a world where Hindu and Buddhist traditions coexist in everyday life.
The journey to Chuksang – entering the Kingdom
From Kathmandu, you’ll fly to Pokhara, and then travel by jeep along the Kali Gandaki Valley – one of the deepest in the world. The trek begins in Chuksang – and that’s where your adventure in Mustang begins.
Trekking – days full of discoveries
Over the next few days, you’ll trek along mountain paths, cross forgotten mountain passes and visit hidden villages: Samar, Geling, Tsarang – each of these places has a rhythm all of its own, surrounded by desert valleys, colourful prayer flags and rock-cut temples. Many of these routes have remained unchanged for hundreds of years. This living museum spirituality, nature and tradition.
A real gem! The Tiji Festival!
After a week’s trek, you’ll reach Lo Manthang – the kingdom’s besieged capital, where the atmosphere of centuries past still prevails. You’ll visit the royal palace, 14th-century monasteries and narrow streets where nothing has changed for generations.
We’ll be spending three full days here, taking part in the Tiji Festival – an event which, for the locals, has greater spiritual significance than New Year.
In the monastery, against the backdrop of the rugged mountains, monks in ceremonial masks and robes perform the Tsam ritual dance, re-enacting the ancient legend of Vajrakila – the deity who defeated the demon that was destroying the world. This isn’t theatre. This is a true celebration of living culture. A time when spirituality merges with mysticism, and everything takes place in an atmosphere of respect, ritual and contemplation.
This is a unique opportunity – to be in this place, at this time, right at the heart of tradition.
The Tiji Festival, is an ancient Buddhist festival; its name, an abbreviation of „Tenpa Chirim”, means „a prayer for world peace”. The festival is a colourful and captivating tale of the struggle between good and evil, based on the legend of Vajrakila – a deity who saved the kingdom from destruction. During the three days of celebrations, Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang, becomes the setting for mystical rituals and mesmerising dances, which form the culmination of the annual festivities.
Our trek is an excellent choice for those who want to venture off the beaten track whilst gaining a deep understanding of the local culture. It’s the perfect trip for lovers of history, religion and extraordinary experiences. The trek isn’t technically difficult, so it’s suitable for anyone who enjoys being active. Experience the magic of Mustang before modern life takes over.
Continuing the journey and reflections
After the festival, the trek takes you across the pass Morang La (4,230 m) – the highest point of the trek, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. You’ll stop at Ghami, and then you’ll return by jeep to Chuksang.
The final day of the trek involves an ascent to Muktinath – a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is there that fire, water and earth come together in a single temple – a unique conclusion to your spiritual journey through Mustang.
Pokhara – a chance to catch your breath and take in the beauty
From Muktinath, you’ll fly back to Pokhara – a colourful, peaceful town on the shores of Lake Phewa. A relaxing day awaits you: boat trip, a visit to The Stupa of Peace, The Mountain Museum, caves, waterfalls. After the Himalayas – a rest in a green valley.
Updates and Important Information
We offer a tried and tested programme that is highly appreciated by our guests. Bearing in mind the rapidly changing situation in the region, the route has been modified to ensure you get the very best experience and to avoid sections of road that are undergoing major development. The itinerary below was updated in spring 2025 based on additional information from our guides, so you can be sure you’ll be travelling on the most optimal itinerary.
We warmly invite you to join us on an unforgettable journey to the Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang! It’s an incredible adventure just waiting to be experienced!
