Nestled beyond the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range, Upper Mustang is high altitude desert landscape situated at west of Nepal, 220km to the himalayan from Lake City-Pokhara. From the ancient times, Upper Mustang remains its own kingdom, rule by their own regulations and follows Tibetan Buddhism. Being its own rules and regulation, no public was allowed to enter to the territory. Being restricted area, Its own Culture, Tradition, Festivals, Ancient Monastries, Caves are preserved from the very long times. Being isolated for many years, the Upper Mustang is called as "The Last Forbidden Kingdom". After 1990s, The Kingdom was open for public as tourism hub to see those preserved culture and ancient history. Once the independent Kingdom of Lo, this arid, high-altitude desert is home to one of the most vibrant and secretive festivals in the Buddhist world—the Tiji Festival.
What is the Mustang Tiji Festival?
The Tiji Festival is special dance performed by Monks of Upper Mustang which lasts for three days. The festival is based on the legend of Dorje Jono, a deity who fought against his demon father to save the Mustang kingdom from destruction. The TIJI FESTIVAL is celebrated by monks in Chhode monastery with colorful monks dress with colorful face marks and ritual dance. The Tiji Festival holds deep spiritual significance and attracts visitors from around the world.
The Tiji Festival, also known as the "Prayer for World Peace," is a three-day event that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The festival traces its origins to the 17th century, commemorating the myth of a deity named Dorje Jono, who battled against his demon father to save the kingdom from destruction and drought. Today, the festival is celebrated with the same fervor and dedication, featuring ritualistic dances performed by monks dressed in elaborate costumes and masks.
Essential Info: Tiji Festival 2026 Dates
The Tiji Festival is a celebration to symbolize the victory of good over evil. So it is celebrated every year. The festival is usually falls on MAY month as per the Tibetan Lunar Calender. For 2026, the date is finalized from 13th MAY to 15th MAY as per Tibetan Lunar Calender. During these three Days, the monks performance different ritual performance, dance, Cultural reflecting music and many more.
Due to annually celebrated festival in the wall city - Lomanthang, it is recomended to book your trip and hotel accommodation in as soon as early. There are only few hotels which offers quality service for high end clients and also it is necessary to reached to destination one day earlier to see complete festival.