How To Plan Your 18 Days Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek (Music, Dance, Cultures)

Are you looking for a unique and enriching travel experience? Look no further than the 18 Days Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek, where you will have the opportunity to witness the Tiji Festival – a three-day event of music, dance, and cultures that takes place in Upper Mustang. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan and prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Overview

The 18 Days Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek is an unforgettable journey that will start and end in Kathmandu. You will spend your first few days in Kathmandu adjusting to the Nepali time zone and exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath.

Afterward, you will take a scenic flight to Jomsom and start your trek to Lo Manthang where you will witness the Tiji Festival. This three-day festival celebrates the victory of Lord Buddha’s incarnation over a demon, and it is celebrated with colorful costumes, traditional dances, and music performances.

What’s Included

The following is a detailed list of what’s included with the 18 Days Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek:

• Arrival / Departure transfers on both domestic and international flights.
• Standard Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu / Pokhara on a twin share b&b basis as per the itinerary.
• Tourist Coach Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
• International Airfare to and from your country
• Nepal entry visa
• Travel & Health Insurance- Emergency Helicopter Rescue Insurance (Most recommended)
• Accommodation in local lodges/tea houses during the trek
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
• English-speaking trekking guide
• Porter/s for carrying luggage and equipment during the trek (1 porter for 2 guests)
• All necessary permits – Upper Mustang trekking permit, ACAP permit, and TIMS card
• Domestic flight Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu with airport tax.
• Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, and other factors.

Meeting and Pickup

Our airport representative will receive you from Kathmandu International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. Your guide will meet you either on the same day upon your arrival or next day morning an hour before the trip begins. The pickup points and times will be confirmed by the tour operator after booking.

What To Expect

You can expect a physically demanding trek through breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrain, and varying altitudes. It is essential to have prior trekking experience, excellent physical fitness, and proper gear, such as trekking shoes, warm clothing, and a backpack with essentials. The trek’s highest point is the Lo La Pass at 3950m, and you will spend many days above 3500m.

The Tiji Festival is an extraordinary celebration of culture, religion, and history. You will have the opportunity to witness the rituals, dances, and music performed by the local monks and people. Please respect the cultural norms and be mindful of your behaviors during the festival.

Additional Info

Please note the following additional information before booking this tour:

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
• Operated by Os

Booking Information

Ready to embark on this adventure of a lifetime? Book the 18 Days Upper Mustang Tiji Festival Trek by visiting the link here. We hope you have a safe, memorable, and fulfilling experience in Upper Mustang.

An Insider’s Guide to Kathmandu: Exploring Its Hidden Gems, Cuisine and Culture

As the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is a bustling metropolis that’s bursting with culture and history. While tourists flock to the popular temples, markets, and squares, there are plenty of hidden gems and offbeat experiences that truly capture the essence of this fascinating city. In this guide, we’ll share some insider tips that’ll help you explore Kathmandu like a local.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While there are plenty of popular tourist attractions like the Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa, there are also lesser-known gems that are worth exploring. One such place is the Kathmandu Durbar Square, located in the city center of Kathmandu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples that were once the residence of the Nepalese royal family. Another hidden gem is the Boudhanilkantha Temple, which is home to a magnificent 5-meter long statue of Lord Vishnu in a reclining position, also known as ‘Sleeping Vishnu.’

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine and Culture

Kathmandu is famous for its delicious cuisine, which blends Nepalese, Indian and Tibetan influences. One must-try dish is momos: steamed or fried dumplings with a savory filling. There are plenty of local momo spots, but if you’re looking for a unique experience, head to ‘The Momo Man,’ a street food vendor located near the entrance of Pashupatinath Temple. He sells 35 types of momos, including some with chocolate and cheese fillings. Another must-visit spot is Khasi Ko Bhutan, a tiny eatery that serves bhutan, a spicy goat meat stew, with rice and lentils, a Nepali staple.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself In Local Culture

Kathmandu is a city rich in culture and tradition. One way to immerse yourself in the local culture is by visiting the Kumari House in the heart of Kathmandu. The Kumari is a young girl believed to be the living embodiment of the Hindu goddess Taleju. Visitors can watch the Kumari appear at her window and get a glimpse of her divine presence. Another cultural experience not to miss is the music and dance performances at the Patan Museum. Every Saturday and Sunday night, the museum comes alive with live performances of traditional Nepalese music and dance.

Local History: Uncovering Captivating Stories

Kathmandu is a city that’s steeped in history. Besides the popular attractions like the Hanuman Dhoka Palace and the National Museum, several fascinating stories are worth exploring. For instance, the traditional Newar houses in the historic alleys of Kathmandu’s old city are a testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage. A fun fact about these houses is that their doors are tiny, even for Nepalese people, and the residents must bow to enter their homes as a sign of respect to the gods.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experiencing Kathmandu’s Unique Charm

If you’re looking for unique experiences, try the following. Firstly, attend a blessing ceremony by living goddess, Kumari, that happens nearby Patan Durbar Square. Secondly, visit the Kathmandu Forestry Office where you can see an elephant brought from the Chitwan National Park for various tasks is washed and cared for. Thirdly, you can live with a Nepalese family and immerse yourself in Nepalese culture through homestay experiences.

In conclusion, Kathmandu is a city of contrasts and surprises packed with history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. From hidden gems to traditional experiences, this guide will help you delve deeper and explore the city beyond the typical tourist spots. By the end of your trip, you will undoubtedly fall for Kathmandu’s unique charm and spirit that will stay with you forever.