Mustang & Dolpo · Lo Manthang
Tiji
तिजी
Tiji is Lo Manthang's great three-day festival, held each May in the square before the old royal palace. Monks of Chhoede gompa perform masked dances that tell how the deity Dorje Jono defeated a demon who brought drought and suffering to Lo, purifying the land for the year ahead.
Tiji is the most important festival of Upper Mustang. It is held over three days in the third month of the Tibetan calendar, which usually falls in May; in 2026 it ran from 14 to 16 May. The lamas of Chhoede gompa, the main working monastery of Lo Manthang, set the dates each year. Families from across Lo arrive in the walled city in their finest clothes and jewellery, and every rooftop around the palace square fills with spectators.
The dances tell a legend. A demon born in Lo brought drought, disease and misfortune to the land, and the deity Dorje Jono took on the task of defeating him. Over three days, masked monks in brocade costumes dance the story to the sound of long horns, drums and cymbals. Each day has its own dances, building to the final day, when the demon's effigy is destroyed and Lo is purified for the coming year.
Under the kingdom, the king of Lo presided over Tiji from the palace. Since the end of the monarchy in 2008, the festival has carried on, and members of the former royal family still attend. For visitors, Tiji is the busiest and most rewarding time to be in Lo Manthang. Lodges are booked months ahead, and the restricted area permit and flights to Jomsom need early planning.
Tips
- Arrive in Lo Manthang at least a day before Tiji begins to acclimatise at 3,840 m.
- Find your place in the palace square early each morning and bring a cushion, sun hat and warm layers.
- Never step into the dance area, keep flash off and follow the stewards' instructions.
Questions
When is the Tiji festival?
Tiji is held over three days in the third month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, usually in May. In 2026 it took place on 14–16 May. The dates are set each year by the lamas of Chhoede gompa in Lo Manthang, so they move against the Western calendar. Check current dates before you travel and book early.
What happens at Tiji?
Monks of Chhoede gompa perform masked dances in the palace square of Lo Manthang over three days. The dances tell the legend of Dorje Jono, who defeats a demon that brought drought and suffering to Lo. On the final day the demon's effigy is destroyed, symbolising the purification of the land for the year ahead.
How do I get to Tiji in Lo Manthang?
Fly Pokhara–Jomsom, then drive 6–7 hours by jeep or trek 4–5 days from Kagbeni to Lo Manthang. You need an Upper Mustang restricted area permit, arranged through a registered agency for at least two people with a licensed guide. Plan at least 10 days from Pokhara, with spare days for flights.
Is Tiji crowded?
By Mustang standards, yes. Lo Manthang's lodges fill up, and the palace square is packed with local families, monks and visitors, especially on the second and third days. It is still small compared with festivals in Kathmandu. Book lodges and permits four to six months ahead, and arrive early each morning for a good spot.