JOMSOM: Upper Mustang’s Lo Manthang has seen a strong influx of foreign tourists as hotels in the area have been filled following the ongoing Tiji festival celebrations.

Hotels in Lo Manthang–5, the walled capital of Lo Manthang, have been operating at full capacity since Wednesday, with visitors arriving to observe the historic and religious festival. The crowd of tourists has filled nearly three dozen hotels in the area.

According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), 307 foreign tourists entered Lo Manthang on Wednesday to observe the festival.

ACAP chief Umesh Paudel said that around 350 foreign tourists closely observed the 600-year-old Tiji festival, which reflects Tibetan Buddhist culture.

The three-day festival, celebrated with prayers for peace and prosperity, began on Wednesday with Buddhist monks performing rituals and recitations.

Local residents also take part by presenting traditional dances as part of the cultural celebrations.

Authorities said domestic tourist arrivals have also remained significant alongside the growing number of foreign visitors during the festival period.