Yartung, which locals translate as the end of summer, marks the close of the farming season in the high valleys of Mustang. At Muktinath, people from Ranipauwa, Jharkot, Khingar and villages further afield gather near the temple, many on horseback, wearing traditional chubas, felt boots and turquoise jewellery. The celebrations usually coincide with the full moon of Janai Purnima, when Hindu pilgrims also visit Muktinath and Damodar Kunda.
The highlight is horse racing on the open ground near Ranipauwa, with riders galloping decorated horses and showing off tricks. Archery contests, shebru circle dances and plenty of local chhang and rakshi follow. Monks perform rituals at the gompas, and families visit the temple to pray for good harvests and health. The festival lasts around three days, and smaller versions are held in Lo Manthang and other villages.
For visitors, Yartung is a rare chance to see Mustang's horse culture and community life, and it falls in the monsoon, when the rest of Nepal is wet but Muktinath is fairly dry. The catch is travel: Jomsom flights are often disrupted in August and the road from Pokhara has landslides, so build in spare days. Dates change with the lunar calendar; check current status before you travel.
Tips
- Keep two buffer days in your plan for monsoon delays on Jomsom flights or the Beni–Jomsom road.
- Stand well back from the race track; horses run fast on rough ground and riders cannot always steer clear.
- Join the dances if invited, but go easy on local spirits at 3,700 m.
Questions travellers ask
When is Yartung festival?
Yartung is celebrated in August or early September, usually around the full moon of Janai Purnima, for about three days. The exact dates change each year with the lunar calendar and local decisions. We confirm them a few months ahead. Check current status before you travel.
What happens at Yartung festival in Muktinath?
Locals gather near Ranipauwa for horse races, archery, traditional shebru dances, feasting and drinking, and visit the temple and gompas to pray. Riders wear traditional dress and decorate their horses. Hindu pilgrims visit Muktinath at the same time for Janai Purnima, so the area is busy.
Can tourists attend Yartung?
Yes. Visitors are welcome to watch the horse races and dances and often get invited to join in. Respect local customs, ask before photographing people and stay clear of the racing ground. Book rooms in Ranipauwa or Jomsom early, as pilgrims and locals fill them.
Is August a good time to visit Muktinath?
It can be. Muktinath lies in a rain shadow and gets little rain, and Yartung and Janai Purnima make it lively. But monsoon cloud often cancels Jomsom flights and landslides block the road from Pokhara. Allow spare days or consider a helicopter, which flies on clear mornings.
