Inside Himalayas

High in the hidden kingdom of Upper Mustang, the Tiji Festival transforms Lo Manthang into a celebration of color, culture, and spirituality.

For three days, monks perform sacred masked dances and ancient rituals that tell the story of Dorje Jono defeating a demon to bring peace and harmony back to Mustang.
Passed down for centuries, this festival is one of the most meaningful cultural experiences in the Himalayas.

From the vibrant costumes to the spiritual atmosphere surrounding the ancient monastery, every moment of Tiji feels like stepping into a living tradition untouched by time.

Discover the story and significance behind Mustang’s most colorful festival here:
https://www.insidehimalayas.com/mustangs-colourful-tiji-festival/

Every year in Bhaktapur, the streets transform into a living stage of history, energy, and devotion as this centuries-old festival marks the Nepali New Year.

Legend tells of a cursed princess whose husbands died mysteriously—until one brave soul, guided by the goddess Bhadrakali, uncovered the truth: deadly serpents hidden within the curse. Their defeat gave rise to a festival symbolizing the victory of life over death.

With this history, Bisket Jatra lives on through powerful rituals:
-Chariots of Bhairab and Bhadrakali pulled through the streets
-Intense tug-of-war between communities
-The dramatic rise and fall of towering lingos

Raw, chaotic, and deeply spiritual, this is a festival you don’t just watch, you feel.

Photo Credit: Sujan Shrestha