Travel during the Grand Tiji Festival In the Upper Mustang Region:
Travelling during the Tiji Festival provides a rare opportunity to witness ancient traditions of the rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage in the Upper Mustang region.
Also known as the Tenchi Festival, the Tiji Festival is a grand and auspicious festival celebrated in the Upper Mustang. This annual sacred festival is a three-day-long celebration in the capital of the kingdom of Lo, Lo Manthang. The festival date varies somewhere between the late spring, as it follows the Tibetan Lunar calendar.
The festival showcases the unique Tibetan Buddhist traditions that revolve around the re-enactment of an ancient mythological myth symbolizing the achievement of good over evil. The mythology recounts the story of Dorje Jono, a deity who battles against his demon father to protect the kingdom and its people from destruction.
With elaborate rituals and colourful performances, the festival ends with masked dances on the third day of the festival, which is the main highlight. Known as Chaam, the monks from the Chhyode Gumba monastery perform sacred dances wearing intricately designed masks portraying various deities and demons accompanied by traditional music, chanting, and the rhythmic beating of drums and cymbals.
The local community gathers in the central courtyard of the royal palace in their traditional attire, expresses their devotion, seeks blessings, and prays for peace and prosperity. The festival portrays the vibrant Tibetan Culture and brings the community together, fostering a sense of unity and pride in their heritage and creating a mystical atmosphere.
Accommodation and Facilities During 17 Days of Upper Mustang Trekking In Nepal:
With the roadway all the way to Lo, there are descent teahouses available throughout the trek. Jomsom and Lo Manthang even have decent hotels.
Most of the teahouses have the option of both attached and shared bathrooms with hot and cold showers, being hot showers subject to additional cost. Wi-Fi and electricity are available but might cost you extra. Though charging points are available at your rooms in the teahouse in Jomsom, Kagbeni, other remaining places have a common charging area in the main dining hall. While, Dining hall is usually where the wooden heaters are, and a great place to gather.
Since you are travelling to the rain shadow area, there is a scarcity of drinking water. Usually, hot water will cost you additional, and we highly recommend taking hot water having your own sterilisation tablets/ life straw would be ideal.
There are quite a few options for food, and just like other facilities, you will find a comprehensive menu in Jomsom, Kagbeni and even in Lo. Don't be surprised if you get such options at other places, since the roadway has made it easy. But Dal Bhat with seasonal vegetables, Chatni for lunch and dinner, Tibetan bread with Salt tea for breakfast and a hot vegetable soup for snack time is the best for your diet while hiking at high altitude.
Overall, you will be served decent facilities with the warm hospitality of the locals during the trek to Upper Mustang.
Who can join this trek Upper Mustang Trek In 2024/2025:
The Upper Mustang trek is a moderate-level trek. Unlike the typical trekking trail in Nepal, the route does not have a winding path with steep ascending and descending steps. It takes you through a dry yet cold climate with less vegetation at altitudes ranging from 3,000 m to 3800 m, making travellers catch out of breath pretty quickly.
So, if you are active in daily life, a light preparation indulging in running, cycling, and swimming will be enough, and if you have issues regarding joints and breathing, we recommend consulting with your doctor before joining the trek.
Guide & Potters for the Upper Mustang Trekking:
It is compulsory to hire a guide during the Upper Mustang Trekking, and you will be trekking in a Restricted Region where solo travellers are not allowed.
Besides, it's always best to have one that will help you show you the proper route, educate you about the place, and make arrangements according to your needs and for your safety and security. The guide also acts as your mediator to remove the cultural and language barrier while travelling.
While hiring a potter will allow you to hike freely and comfortably. Not to forget that since you will be trekking in the dry & low vegetation region, travellers tend to catch out of breath pretty quickly. So having a pottery carry your loads will surely make your trip more leisurely.
Safety and Security During Upper Mustang Trek:
Friendly and helpful community, a guide by your side - it's all safe to travel to Upper Mustang. Also, since you are travelling to the Restricted Region, the region is guarded by friendly local officials.
The route is well connected by the roadways, so you can also opt for a vehicle, just in case you need to. Make sure you have your personal medication and travel insurance, and you are good to go on a mystical journey to Upper Mustang.
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