The Teeji Festival—also spelled Teeji—is one of Nepal’s most culturally and spiritually significant events, held each year in Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. Rooted in the ancient Bon shamanistic traditions that predate Buddhism, Teeji has been celebrated for over 600 years. The name “Teeji” is short for Tempa Chhirim, which translates to Prayer for World Peace.
This vibrant, three-day festival centers on sacred ritual dances performed by the monks of Chhyode Monastery, re-enacting the legendary triumph of Dorje Sonam (a deity believed to be an incarnation of Buddha) over the evil demon Ma Tam Ru Ta, who threatened to destroy the Mustang region. The dances are rich in symbolism and pageantry, with elaborate costumes and choreography that have remained unchanged for centuries. Months of preparation and purification lead up to this colorful and moving celebration.
For the people of Mustang, Teeji is a time of joy, reunion, and prayer. Locals dress in their finest traditional attire, and the whole region comes alive with music, color, and communal spirit. For visitors, it’s a rare chance to witness an authentic Tibetan Buddhist festival in one of the most isolated and culturally preserved regions of the Himalayas.
Mustang, located in north-central Nepal at the headwaters of the Kali Gandaki River, is a high-altitude desert valley that feels more like Tibet than Nepal. The area is defined by dramatic, wind-eroded cliffs, color-banded canyons, and ancient whitewashed villages—all set beneath the towering peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The people of Upper Mustang speak Tibetan and maintain a rich heritage of language, art, and religion.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition (HV Treks) offers a specially curated Teeji Festival Trek each May to coincide with the festival dates. The journey begins with a scenic flight to Jomsom, followed by a 9-day trek through the arid, awe-inspiring landscapes of the Upper Mustang. The route climbs in and out of the Kali Gandaki Valley, offering unforgettable views and insights into traditional mountain life.
Horses can be hired for part or all of the trek (luggage is carried by horses or mules throughout).
Jeep transport is available on certain sections for those who prefer less walking.
The dates of the Teeji Festival are set according to the Tibetan lunar calendar by the head lama of Mustang. In 2025, the festival will be held from May 14 to May 16.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness one of the most extraordinary cultural celebrations in the Himalayas—where legend, ritual, and the stark beauty of Mustang converge.
08 May 2026 – Departure (23 May 2026 from Europe)
Day 01: 08th May 2026 Arrival in Kathmandu(1337m)
Day 02: 09th May 2026 Kathmandu-Pokhara (827m)
Day 03: 10th May 2026 Pokhara- Jomsom (2720m) – Kagbeni (2810m)
Day 04: 11th May 2026 Kagbeni to Chele (3050m)
Day 05: 12st May 2026 Chele to Shyangbochen (3800m)
Day 06: 13nd May 2026 Syangboche-Ghami (3520m)
Day 07: 14rd May 2026 Ghami – Charang (3560m)
Day 08: 15th May 2026 Charang to Lo-Manthang (3810m) Festival
Day 09: 16th May 2026 Lo Manthang observe Teeji Festival
Day 10: 17th May Lo Manthang to Ghami (3520m)
Day 11: 18th May 2026 Ghami to Samar (3660m)
Day 12: 19th May 2026 Samar to Kagbeni (2810m)
Day 13: 20th May 2026 Kagbeni drive back to Pokhara by local (7 to 8 hours transport)
Day 14: 21th May 2026 Pokhara to Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 15: 22st May 2026 Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 16: 23st May 2026 Departure from Kathmandu(1337m)
Important Information:
At Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition, the safety and security of our guests is our top priority. Please be aware that the HV Treks leader has the authority to modify or cancel any part of the itinerary if deemed necessary for your safety. Unforeseen circumstances, such as adverse weather conditions, health concerns of a group member, or natural events like landslides, may require adjustments to the planned schedule. While we will make every effort to adhere to the original itinerary, we ask for your flexibility in such cases. Our experienced team is fully prepared to respond promptly to emergencies, including evacuation, 24 hours a day.
Flight Delays:
The Jomsom Airport is located at a high altitude, and flights in and out of the area are susceptible to weather-related delays. During the rainy or cloudy season, flights can sometimes be postponed or even cancelled until conditions improve. Please ensure your travel schedule allows for these potential delays and that you have some flexibility in your plans. In case your flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is cancelled or delayed, an alternative option is available: you can travel by jeep from Jomsom to Pokhara, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. This scenic drive ensures you can continue your journey without significant disruption.
Travel Insurance:
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires all trekking and expedition guests to have comprehensive travel insurance. Your insurance should cover the costs of emergencies, including altitude sickness, injuries, and evacuations. It is essential to bring a copy of your insurance policy (or relevant details) with you to Nepal. We will need a copy for our office records. We also recommend informing your insurance provider about your travel itinerary, including any trekking, climbing, or hiking activities, to ensure your coverage is sufficient for the adventure ahead.
Day 01: 08th May 2025 Arrival in Kathmandu(1337m)
Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, celebrated for its rich historical monuments, sacred Hindu temples, and serene Buddhist stupas and monasteries. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be there to greet you, holding a Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition placard with your name on it. After a warm welcome, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and drop off your luggage before beginning your adventure.
Day 02: 09th May 2025 Kathmandu-Pokhara (827m)
Seats will be booked on the comfortable, air-conditioned Tourist Bus that runs from Kathmandu to Pokhara on the Prithvi Highway. A distance of 200km, it takes generally 6 hours including rest and meal stops. On the way there are views of Ganesh Himal, Lamjung Himal and Annapurna, as well as the Trishuli River Valley. In the more rugged areas of the Valley there are rapids with kayaking/rafting to be seen. In the evening, your Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition guide will give a briefing about the next day’s trek.
Day 03: 10th May 2025 Pokhara- Jomsom (2720m) – Kagbeni (2810m)
We fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, a short 20 minute, early in the morning, in a small 14seater plane. Jomsom is an entirely different, drier landscape than Pokhara, and we head for the Kagbeni region after tea/coffee. Kagbeni Village is the beginning of Upper Mustang area, the dress of the people is Tibetan, and prominent is a Buddhist Gumpa (monastery).
Day 04: 11th May 2025 Kagbeni to Chele (3050m)
From Kagbeni we walk the riverbed of the Kali Gandaki River. Along the way as we go towards the village of Chele, we pass through Buddhist villages with their Gompas. Coming to Chele, the Gandaki River flows quite amazingly through a natural rock tunnel. Chele is a village of people originally from Tibet, and they speak Tibetan.
Day 05: 12th May 2025 Chele to Shyangbochen (3800m)
Today, we cross 4 passes. The first one is Taklam La (3624m), the second one is Dajori La (3735m), the third one is Bhena La (3860m) and the 4th is Yamda La (3860m). The scenery is of vistas of mountains and barrens. We reach Shyangbochen where there are lodges. Telephone and mobile service is available here.
Day 06: 13th May 2025 Syangboche-Ghami (3520m)
We walk first uphill, then on flat land, and lastly downhill. We visit the village of Geling, with a Gompa, beautiful Stupas, chortens and mani walls. We cross Nyi La pass at 4025m. From the pass, before us are Mustang valley, the Annapurna Range and Mt. Neelgiri. On the way to our destination, the medieval village of Ghemi, we cross a pass called Ghemi La (3765m). It is an isolated, deserted place.
Day 07: 14th May 2025 Ghami – Charang (3560m)
From Ghami to Lo Gekar there is a rough road we follow, built by the Chinese. We continue to Charang. Charang is one of the bigger villages in Mustang. Its white houses with their fluttering prayer flags are beautiful against a background of steep cliffs and peaks. On a ridge above a deep gorge rises a magnificent fortress of five floors – one of the old palaces of the king of Mustang – and opposite is a big red painted Gompa. We spend the night in Charang. Telephone, internet services are available here. Here too is the white north side of Nilgiri, one of the peaks of the Annapurna massif, which rises steeply from the Tibetan plateau. We will tour the Gompa and Palace, led by the Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition guide.
Day 08: 15th May 2025 Charang to Lo-Manthang (3810m) Festival
We arrive in Lo Manthang today. We cross a pass called Lo La (3950m) before reaching Lo Manthang. The capital city of Mustang Kingdom, Lo Manthang is surrounded by a high wall with square towers at the corner points. Only the white palace and three red colored Gompa can be seen above the wall. Our camp is outside the city wall. Lo Manthang has many Buddhist stupas, Gompas, and chortens. The color of prayer flags abounds. Internet, telephone, and mobile facilities are available here.
Day 09: 16th May 2025 Lo Manthang observe Teeji Festival
Today we observe or witness the Teeji Festival which is celebrated for three days that marks the end of the dry season and the victory of good over evil. The festival is celebrated with Mask dancing, with the musical rhythm of drum, gyaling, cymbal with colorful costumes. The festival is based on the mythical story of Dorje Jono, who fought his demon father to save the Mustang kingdom from water shortages. The festival’s name, “Tiji”, comes from the phrase “Ten Che”, which means “hope of Buddhism prevailing in the world for peace”.
Day 10: 17th May Lo Manthang to Ghami (3520m)
We leave Lo Manthang and walk up over the Marang Chogo La Pass (4230). The views of Upper and Lower Mustang Valley into Tibet from the Pass are magnificent. We return to Ghami.
Day 11: 18th May 2025 Ghami to Samar (3660m)
From Ghami, we cross Ghami La Pass (3765m). Later, we cross Nyi La Pass (4025m). We come down to Samar Village, where we spend the night. The weather after midday is windy in this area.
Day 12: 19th May 2025 Samar to Kagbeni (2810m)
We head to Chhusang, a beautiful village along the Kali Gandaki River. We first go over Dajori La Pass (3735m) and Taklam La pass (3624m). From Taklam La we go steeply downhill to the village of Chele and to the bank of Kali Gandaki River. From Chele we go to Chhusang. From Chhusang, we head to Kagbeni for the night. Kagbeni is beautifully situated between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges on the Kali Gandaki River where it is joined by a tributary.
Day 13: 20th May 2025 Kagbeni drive back to Pokhara by local (7 to 8 hours transport)
We have a choice. We can either fly to Pokhara or travel by jeep/bus. If we go by jeep, the road is slow and sometimes rough, Tatopani is a favorite as there are hot springs for bathing. The hot natural mineral baths are restorative to our bodies, which by this time no doubt is weary from the long trek. If we go by air, we reach Pokhara within 30 minutes.
Day 14: 21th May 2025 Pokhara to Kathmandu (1337m)
We take the pleasant and comfortable Tourist Bus back to Kathmandu. Arriving about 4pm, a Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff member will meet us and drive us to our hotel. The rest of the day is unscheduled and you are free to spend it as you like.
Day 15: 22 May 2025 Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu (1337m)
This day is free too. If you wish, a sightseeing trip to the ancient temple/king’s seat of the world heritage site of incredible Bhaktapur can be arranged. The tour lasts 4 hours, and will cost an additional upcharge. In the evening, a Farewell Dinner is given by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition.
Day 16: 23 May 2025 Departure from Kathmandu(1337m)
Today, we check the list of all necessary documents and goods of our guest. We confirm the flight tickets before 72 hours of departure flight. We advise our guest to put passport and tickets at their handbag for convenience. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye. It will be not only goodbye, but also the welcome for next visit to Nepal.
Included in the Cost
Number of participants
Minimum number of participants: 4
Maximum number of participants: 14
Max Altitude: 4760 meters
Best Season: Sep – Nov and Mar-May
Difficulty Level: Moderate
December , January, and February
Winter in Nepal brings a unique charm, especially in the mountainous regions. Above 4,300 meters, snowfall is common, painting the Himalayas in white. However, hiking is still very much possible below 4,500 meters during this season, making it an excellent time for trekkers seeking quieter trails and serene landscapes.
Despite the colder nights, winter often offers clear days, blue skies, and breathtaking views. The sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning, with unobstructed vistas that capture the natural beauty of the Himalayas. This season also sees fewer tourists, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful trekking experience.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition warmly invites tourists looking for a short holiday to enjoy the splendor of nature during winter. We offer specially curated family tours that combine short hikes with cultural exploration, providing an ideal blend of adventure and tradition.
This season is also ideal for homestay tours, where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and rituals. Popular homestay destinations include:
Sailung Temal Homestay
Temal Homestay
Tamang Heritage Homestay
Ghalegaon Homestay
March, April, and May
Spring is one of the most popular trekking seasons in Nepal, known for its pleasant weather and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. A smooth wind and gentle breeze sweep across the country, while sunny days and clear skies create perfect trekking conditions. Though occasional clouds may appear, bringing brief showers, the overall weather remains favorable for travel and exploration.
Spring is also the prime season for expeditions and high-altitude climbing. Many climbers from around the world visit Nepal during this time to summit peaks over 7,000 meters. Recognizing this demand, Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition offers expertly organized tours and climbing journeys during this period, extending through to June.
This season is renowned not only for its mountain clarity but also for its vibrant natural beauty. As the hills and mountains come alive with blooming flowers, the rhododendron—Nepal’s national flower—paints the landscape in brilliant shades of red, pink, and white.
With perfect trekking conditions, breathtaking scenery, and excellent opportunities for mountaineering, spring is truly a magical time to explore Nepal. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is here to help you experience it to the fullest with carefully crafted adventure and climbing programs tailored for this season.
June, July, and August
The rainy season in Nepal, marked by heavy monsoon rains, is also known as the crop-growing and harvesting season. While the frequent rainfall can make trekking trails more challenging, this time of year brings a different kind of beauty to the landscape.
For botany enthusiasts and nature lovers, the monsoon transforms Nepal’s higher valleys and meadows into vibrant displays of blooming wildflowers and lush greenery. The rain nourishes the land, creating breathtaking scenery that’s rich in biodiversity.
Although trekking in many regions becomes more difficult due to wet and muddy trails, there are still excellent options available. Trekking in rain-shadow areas—regions protected from rainfall by the high Himalayan peaks—offers a great alternative. Destinations such as Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Leh Ladakh (India), and Tibet remain relatively dry during the monsoon and provide incredible trekking experiences.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition specializes in organizing tours and treks during this season, focusing on these dry regions. Whether you’re looking for cultural exploration or remote high-altitude adventures, we offer well-planned itineraries to ensure a safe and rewarding journey even during the monsoon.
September, October, and November
Autumn in Nepal is widely regarded as the best time of year for trekking, mountaineering, and cultural exploration. With moderate temperatures, clear skies, and spectacular mountain views, this season offers ideal conditions for every kind of outdoor adventure. While short snowstorms may occasionally occur at high altitudes, they rarely impact trekking plans significantly.
Autumn is also a season of vibrant festivals and cultural celebration. Major festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath are observed during this time, filling the country with joy, color, and religious devotion. Temples and sacred sites are especially popular to visit during this season, and long national holidays allow locals and visitors alike to celebrate.
Nature adds to the beauty of the season, with marigolds in full bloom, decorating homes, temples, and public spaces. This is considered the flower season in Nepal, enriching both urban and rural landscapes with vibrant colors.
Autumn’s dry weather, sunshine, and pleasant temperatures make it the peak season for treks and tours. Trails across Nepal come alive with trekkers from around the world, and the routes to peaks ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 meters are particularly favored for climbing expeditions.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition warmly welcomes travelers during this majestic season to experience the breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Nepal. Whether you seek challenging climbs, scenic hikes, or immersive cultural journeys, autumn is the perfect time to explore all that Nepal has to offer.
Equipment & Packing List
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to ensure you have all the necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
Important documents and items
Head
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Sleeping
Rucksack and Travel Bags
Medical
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
Practical Items
