Yartung Festival in Mustang – A Celebration of Culture, Horses, and Community

The Yartung Festival is one of the most exciting and culturally rich celebrations in Mustang, Nepal. Held every year on the full moon day of Janai Purnima (August/September), this festival marks the end of summer and the completion of the harvest season. It is especially grand in Lo-Manthang, the walled capital of Upper Mustang, and in Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. In 2026, the Yartung Festival is expected to take place on 17th, 18th, and 19th August 2026.

The word Yartung means “end of summer,” and Mela means “festival.” Together, Yartung Mela symbolizes a time when local people celebrate the good life that summer has brought, thank Buddha for blessings, and seek good fortune for the future. Traditionally, the senior Lama of the village sets the most auspicious dates for the festival, taking into account the completion of crop harvesting. After months of hard work in the fields, families finally get the chance to rest, celebrate, and come together as a community.

The festival lasts for three days, and each day has its own theme and significance. On the first day, events are centered on the King or local leaders, reflecting Mustang’s long history as the former Kingdom of Lo. The second day is dedicated to the monks, who conduct prayers, rituals, and blessings for peace, prosperity, and good harvests. The third day belongs to the local people, who celebrate with full enthusiasm, music, and merrymaking. This order reflects the cultural values of Mustang—respecting authority, honoring religion, and strengthening community ties.

The most exciting and famous part of the Yartung Festival is the horse racing competition. Men and women from different villages compete, showing off their speed, strength, and skill on horseback. For centuries, horses have been an important part of life in Mustang, and during Yartung, this bond is celebrated in the most thrilling way. Locals gather in large crowds, cheering for their favorites, while riders display bravery and passion. Alongside the races, there are also traditional dances, singing, feasts, and drinking, creating a vibrant atmosphere where everyone joins in the joy.

But Yartung is more than just entertainment. It carries a deeper cultural meaning. It is a way for the people of Mustang to express gratitude for the harvest, strengthen their unity, and pass on traditions to younger generations. The festival also reflects their Buddhist faith, with prayers, rituals, and blessings woven into the celebrations. For visitors, witnessing Yartung is like stepping into a world where ancient culture and traditions are still alive, preserved by the remoteness of Mustang and the strong spirit of its people.

For travelers, attending the Yartung Festival is an unforgettable experience. The combination of Mustang’s stunning landscapes, its medieval walled city of Lo-Manthang, and the energy of the festival offers a rare chance to truly connect with the spirit of this unique Himalayan region. More than just a festival, Yartung is a living expression of Mustang’s heritage, unity, and resilience, proudly celebrated against the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas.