Mani Rimdu Festival Trek

The Mani Rimdu Festival cultural tour in Tengboche follows the ancient traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, originally performed at Rongbuk Monastery in northern Tibet. The name “Mani Rimdu” comes from “Mani”, part of the chant dedicated to Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara), and “Rilbu”, which refers to small red pills that are blessed during the ceremonies and distributed to participants at the end.

At the start of the festival, monks create a beautiful and intricate sand mandala, a sacred diagram drawn with colored sand. It takes four days to complete this artwork, which is then covered and used as the focus for ten days of deep meditation.

Highlights of this festival is the performance of sacred mask dances, known as Cham. These consist of 16 symbolic dances, some of which include humorous interludes that entertain the audience. Performed by the Sherpa community, these masked dances reenact the establishment of Buddhism in the Himalayas by the great tantric master Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava).

On the final day, monks conduct a fire ceremony to dispel all worldly suffering and negativity. Mandala is then ritually dismantled, symbolizing impermanence, and the spiritual merit is dedicated to the benefit of all sentient beings.

In addition to the vibrant spiritual celebration, the trekking route offers breathtaking views of Himalayan giants such as Mount Everest (8,848 m), Ama Dablam (6,856 m), Kantega (6,809 m), Kwangde (6,194 m), Nuptse (7,879 m), Lhotse (8,511 m), Cholatse, Tawoche, Thamserku (7,600 m), and many other snow-capped peaks.

Mani Rimdu festival tour itinerary

Day 01 Pickup at Kathmandu Airport (TIA) and transfer to hotel.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, our airport representative or the company owner, Ammar Raj Guni, will receive you and provide a private transfer to your hotel in the Kathmandu Valley. After a warm welcome drink, you will check into your room. Later, we’ll discuss your trip itinerary in detail. If you’re interested, you can also take a short walk to explore the nearby city areas.

Day 0235 Minutes fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2,860m/9,383 Feet), 4 hours trek.

In the morning, enjoy a scenic 35-minute flight to Lukla, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. Upon landing, we begin our trek with a gentle walk toward Phakding, following the trail north along the Dudh Koshi River. After a relaxing day on the trail and lunch en route, we arrive in Phakding for an overnight stay.

Day 03Trek to Namche Bazar (3,550m/11,648 Feet), 4 hours

Today’s trek takes you along a stunning natural trail from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region. The journey takes around five hours and offers dramatic landscapes, suspension bridges, and distant views of Himalayan peaks. As you ascend, you’ll begin to experience the unique culture of the Sherpa community.

Day 04Short hike to Syangboche Viewpoint, 4 hours

Spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude. Take an optional short hike to Syangboche Viewpoint or visit the Everest View Hotel for breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. Explore the local market, visit the Sherpa Museum, and enjoy a relaxed day preparing for the days ahead.

Day 05Trek to Tengboche Monastery (3,870m/12,697 Feet), 5 hours

Today’s trek from Namche to Tengboche is both scenic and spiritual. Hike through rhododendron forests, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Upon arrival, visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, a serene Buddhist center surrounded by the towering Himalayas.

Day 6-8Watch the Mani Rimdu Festival in Tengboche Monastery.

Spend three unforgettable days immersed in the vibrant Mani Rimdu Festival at Tengboche Monastery. Witness sacred Buddhist ceremonies, colorful masked dances, and traditional rituals that reflect the deep cultural and spiritual heritage of the Himalayas.

Optional Extension: Trek to Kala Patthar & Everest Base Camp

After enjoying the festival, you may choose to continue your journey toward the legendary Everest Base Camp. This trek offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,463m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and over 25 other snow-capped Himalayan giants.

Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,363m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m) is the highlight of this adventure, with Kala Patthar known as one of the top three trekking viewpoints in the world. From Tengboche, allow at least 4 additional days for this side trip. It’s a must for those seeking deeper immersion into the Everest region.

Day 09Retrace to Jorsale (2,740m/8,989 feet), Approx. 6 hours.

Embark on a scenic return trek from Tengboche to Jorsale, passing through picturesque Sherpa villages and lush forests. The trail offers splendid views of the Himalayas and a peaceful journey through nature.

Day 10Return to Lukla airport, 5 hours.

Conclude your trekking adventure with a final hike from Jorsale to Lukla. As you walk through rhododendron and pine forests, enjoy the last glimpses of the mountains. Upon arrival in Lukla, reconfirm your flight tickets for the next morning to ensure a smooth departure.

Day 11Lukla to Kathmandu flight and transfer to hotel.

Start your day with a scenic mountain flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Upon landing, you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy incredible aerial views of the Himalayas as you return to the bustling capital city.

Day 12Good bye Kathmandu

Enjoy free time in the morning for rest or last-minute shopping. In the evening, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your international departure with a carrying home unforgettable memories of the Mani Rimdu Festival experience.

Mani Rimdu festival date in Nepal

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