Renting a Jeep for Tiji Festival, Upper Mustang: Everything You Need to Know
Renting a Jeep for Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang is a great way to explore the region and witness the vibrant cultural celebrations.
Renting a Jeep to explore the remote and rugged region of Upper Mustang during the vibrant Tiji Festival is an unforgettable experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this captivating area of Nepal.
Navigating the steep, winding mountain roads in a sturdy, all-terrain Jeep is the ideal way to access the isolated villages and ancient monasteries that dot the dramatic landscape, providing you with an up-close look at the centuries-old traditions that are the foundation of the Tibetan Buddhist way of life here.
As you bump along the unpaved tracks, you’ll be surrounded by the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, with each turn in the road revealing another breathtaking vista. Once you reach your destination, you can park the Jeep and wander the colorful streets of the medieval town of Lo Manthang, the former capital of the Kingdom of Lo, where you’ll be welcomed by the smiling faces of locals performing ritual dances and ceremonies during the lively Tiji Festival.
Upper Mustang, a remote region in Nepal, is known for its rugged terrain and stunning mountain views. The roads leading to Mustang are often difficult to navigate, with rough terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to rent a Toyota Land Cruiser for the trip.
About Tiji Festival
Tiji Festival is the grand Tibetan-Buddhist festival celebrated in the Lo-Manthang City of Upper Mustang. The festival remains endemic to the people of Upper Mustang. The term “Tiji” stands for “Tenchi.” Both of these are the short forms of Tenpa Chirim, which means prayer for world peace.
This annual three-day event celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and you’ll have a front-row seat to observe the mesmerizing masked dances, hear the rhythmic chanting of monks, and sample the delicious local cuisine.
Tiji Festival
There are two ways to travel upper mustang by drive or walking. Limited people visit upper mustang by helicopter also. Upper Mustang, also known as the Kingdom of Lo, is a remote and mystical region in Nepal.
Upcoming Tiji festival dates are announced from 24th, 25th and 26th May 2025 in King Place Lo-manthang.
Rent a Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota Land Cruiser hire in Nepal is the most popular jeep rental service that we provide in Nepal. Land Cruiser is a comfortable jeep for any types of road. The 4WD drive is best option for the off-road transport in Nepal.
We are Kathmandu based vehicle rental agency and offer affordable Land Cruiser rental service all over Nepal. Our vehicles are new, clean and comfortable enough.
Rent a Toyota Land Cruiser
If you are planning for the off-road trip to Upper Mustang, then Toyota Land Cruiser is the prime option for your safe and comfortable journey. The first thing to do before heading out on the road to see a tiji festival is checking your jeep is fit for the journey.
Driving Route
Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kalopani – Kagbeni – Charang – ( 3 days at Lomanthang, Upper Mustang) – Chhuksang – Muktinath – Jomsom – Pokhara – Kathamndu.
Road Travel Itinerary
Day 01 – 19th May 2025: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02 – 20th May 2025: Drive to Pokhara ( 6hrs drive).
Day 03 – 21st May 2025: Drive to Kalopani – (5 hours ) 130 Km.
Day 04 – 22nd May 2025: Jeep Drive to Kagbeni via Muktinath. (Drive 4/5 hours / around 80 kms.)
Day 05 – 23rd May 2025: Drive to Charang. (7 hours 40 km).
Day 06 – 24th May 2025: Drive to Lomanthang and explore first day TIJI Festival. (FESTIVAL START).
Day 07 – 25th May 2025: Celebrate second day TIJI Festival.
Day 08 – 26th May 2025: Third day TIJI Festival. (FESTIVAL END).
Day 09 – 27th May 2025: Drive back Jomsom. (Drive 5/6 hrs / around 70 kms).
Day 10 – 28th May 2025: Drive back to Pokhara. (7/8 hours – 158 Km).
Day 11 – 29th May 2025: Drive back to Kathmandu. (200Km – 6 hours).
Day 12 – 30th May 2025: Final Departure.
Toyota Land Cruiser Rental Price
The rental price for a jeep is USD 2190 / Per Jeep for 12 days.
Trek Guide Compulsory: USD 80 / Per Day.
Price Includes:- Fuel, parking charges, driver’s salary, driver’s meal and his hotel/lodge expenses.
Price does not include:- Restricted area permit, ACAP Fees, Your all meals, all hotel expenses.
Essential Permits
As an international traveler, you are required to obtain two permits to enter the Upper Mustang trekking region. Get a detailed idea of each permit through the description below:
- Restricted Area Permit.
The RAP allows you to enter the restricted region of the Upper Mustang. This is a special permit that cannot be obtained independently. You must carry out the process of acquiring it through a registered trekking agency. It is issued by the Department of Immigration of Nepal located in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Moreover, it cannot be issued unless the application for at least two foreigners is handed in together. The Permit $500 for the first 10 days (An additional $50 for each extra day). - Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is a must to enter Upper Mustang because it lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area. And, anyone who passes through the conservation area must have a permit to enter the region. Moreover, you can get the permit either from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara or from the ACAP counter in Pokhara. The permit cost for international traveller NPR 3000 (Around $25).
Conclusion
When considering renting a Jeep for the Tiji Festival in Upper Mustang, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to book your Jeep rental well in advance to ensure availability during the festival period. Secondly, make sure to confirm the details of the rental agreement, including the cost, insurance coverage, and any additional fees.
Renting a Jeep for Tiji Festival allows you to witness the surreal desert-like terrain, deep gorges, and high-altitude passes of Upper Mustang in comfort. Carry sufficient warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
Finally, the experience of driving through Upper Mustang to attend the Tiji Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines cultural immersion with the thrill of off-road travel.
