Tiji festival trekking is one of the colorful and sacred festivals of Nepal celebrated in Lo Manthang, the capital city of Mustang. Tiji festival is observed annually at the beginning of the spring season. The festival features a three-day ritual known as the ‘chasing of demons’. According to the story, a deity named Dorje Jono who must battle against his demon father to save the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction. His father used to give the problem to the people of Mustang by creating a water shortage whereas Mustang is extremely arid land and water is the most precious life-sustaining resource. Dorje Jono ultimately defeats the demon and banishes him from this area. During the festival, monks wearing masks and colorful costumes enact the story of Dorje Jono. They perform different dances. The major goal of Tiji festival trekking is to view this colorful festival. Apart from it, you get an opportunity to discover a vast dry valley which looks similar to the Tibetan plateau and culture, architecture, traditions exist in this forbidden land. The interesting thing is still 2008, the time prior to Nepal becomes a republic, Mustang had a king. The last king is Jigme Dorjee Palbar Bista. He and his family still stay at the royal palace of Lo Manthang. He is still highly regarded and respected by the locals. Another fact is Upper Mustang was only opened to foreigners in March 1992 for traveling.

Tiji Festival Trekking 2019 ( May 12, 13, 14 )

May 12, 2019: Morning opening ceremony and masked dance by monks.

May 13, 2019: The second day morning start offering and praying to Vajrakila, masked dance more aggressive style typical weapons and animal form and finally doing the act of Dhakey. After throwing the air the evil of the religion the second day is finished.

May 14, 2019: The third day morning also similarly start offering and praying to Vajrakila and monk mask dance and destruction the effigy evil of the religion cut the head and buried in a fort of the Palace’s main entrance. Finally, finish with monk dance.