Muktinath: Yartung Festival

Experience the Yartung Festival in Muktinath, a celebration held in the Manang and Mustang districts of Nepal, featuring horse racing and various traditional activities. Occurring over three days during the full moon of August each year, locals take a part in various activities such as horse racing, arrow throwing, dancing and singing etc to mark the end of summer.

Begin the festival with a ceremony led by the senior monk of the village. On the first day, honor the head of the village, followed by monk-led celebrations on the second day. Finally, the third day is open for all other men and women who are interested in participating in horse racing.

The Yartung Festival provides locals with an opportunity to demonstrate the strength of horses as well as the skill of horse riding. At the end of the festival, locals pray to Lord Buddha, make offers, and receive blessings from the seniors.