A Thanksgiving in the Heart of Chitral Mountains
The Kalash tribe (also called Kalasha) is an indigenous ethnic group living in the high-altitude Chitral region of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Numbering between 3,000 and 4,000 people, they form the smallest ethnoreligious minority in Pakistan. Surrounded largely by Islamic communities, the Kalash are globally renowned for fiercely preserving an ancient polytheistic culture that has remained unchanged for centuries.The community is divided into three valleys of Chitral Bumburait,Berir & Rumbur,they speak Kailasha language along with khowar which is spoken all around Chitral.The tribe have been forced to migrate from Kafiristan to Chitral around 200 years ago.The valleys are about 2-3 hours drive by local Jeep,during the festival time a lot of international & domestic Tourists visit these valleys to witness the festival activities.
The Kalash , Kailasha tribes are said to the descendants of Alexander the great, as they have Greek features, fair skin & ancient animistic beliefs. They are the only non Muslim tribe in Chitral, who are allowed to make wine, drink, dance & make merry unlike other tribes.
The Uchal Festival (also spelled Uchau or Utchal) is a vibrant, ancient summer harvest and thanksgiving festival celebrated annually from August 20 to 22 by the indigenous Kalasha tribe. Living in the isolated Bumburate, Rumbur, and Birir valleys of Chitral within Pakistan’s Hindu Kush mountains, the Kalash people are famous for preserving a polytheistic, pre-Islamic heritage that dates back thousands of years. In 2018, UNESCO formally recognized their unique cultural practices as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
| Destination | Days | No of Pax | Price Per Pax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Islamabad – Chitral | 07 | 01 – 03 | € 1200 – 1100 |
| Bumburait – Rumbur | 04 – 06 | € 1000 – 900 | |
| Garam Chashama | 07 – 10 | € 800 | |
| Islamabad |
|
What’s included
What’s Excluded
How we will move forward
A 07-day Chitral,Kailasha valleys itinerary can emphasize the region’s cultural significance and natural beauty, dedicating days to explore Chitral town, visit the unique Kalash valleys (Bumburet, Rumbur), historical sites like the Shahi Masjid, and enjoy the hot springs at Garam Chashma, with fascinating experience of Uchal Festival ,the biggest festival of kailasha community.
Day 01
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad
We will initiate our exploration of Islamabad on the first day of this remarkable journey, commencing in the afternoon. A visit to the Heritage Museum will facilitate our understanding of the cultural tapestry of diverse nations residing in Pakistan. Lunch will be followed by a visit to the Pakistan Museum. Subsequently, we will proceed to the Faisal Mosque, a notable landmark, and then drive to Islamabad’s highest viewpoint (Pir Sohawa/Daman e Koh). Our itinerary also includes a visit to the Super Market or Centurus Mall for shopping & culminating in a traditional meal and a visit to a celebrated ice cream shop. Overnight stay in Islamabad
Day 02
Islamabad to Dir
Commencing our journey in the early morning via the Peshawar Islamabad motorway towards Dir, we will continue on the Swat Motorway until reaching Chakdara. En route, one can observe the lush green hills of Malakand and Chakdara. Upon reaching Dir, we will pause for lunch at a local restaurant, selecting from the available menu. Following a brief respite, we will proceed towards Lowari Pass. Winding over the Lowari Mountain promises to be an engaging and rewarding experience. Alternatively, traversing the Lowari Tunnel offers an adventurous journey, taking approximately 35 minutes to reach the opposite side. We anticipate arriving in Chitral by evening. Overnight stay in Chitral
Day 3
Chitral Town Sightseeing
Following breakfast, our exploration of Chitral Bazar will commence, featuring handicraft shops, interactions with the hospitable locals, and immersion in the cultural atmosphere. Chitral Town is notable for its view of Tirich Mir, the highest peak in the Hindu Kush range. The River Chitral flows through the town, offering excellent photography opportunities. Our next destination will be the iconic Shahi Mosque and Royal Fort, both remnants of Chitral’s past as a Princely state. The architectural fort of Chitral is a remarkable historical legacy.
Day 4
Garam Chashma (Hot spring) Valley
Following breakfast, we will embark on a journey to the breathtaking Garam Chashma valley, a three-hour drive from Chitral town. En route, one can take in the stunning views of surrounding villages, green streams, hills, and trees until we arrive at the valley. Initially, we will explore the nearby villages, renowned for their lush green fields, fruits, waterfalls, and spring water. Subsequently, we will take a rejuvenating hot bath in the natural hot spring, with each tourist having access to a separate bathroom. After completing our showers, we will visit the local bazaar to interact with the locals, experience their culture, and shop for souvenirs. Finally, we will enjoy a late lunch at a local restaurant before driving back to Chitral town. Overnight stay in Chitral
Day 05
Trip to Kalash Valley
To kick off our adventure, let’s convene at the breakfast table and set off early towards the enchanting Bumburait Valley, a journey of roughly 2.5 hours. During our drive, we will take pleasure in the scenic villages, lush green fields, and walnut trees, snapping photos to immortalize these moments.Our first significant stop will be the Ayon Valley, the largest valley before reaching Bumburait.
Upon arrival at the Kailasha entry point, we will be greeted by the sound of a roaring streamf lowing from the glaciers. After checking in at the hotel, we will take a short break before our local Kailash guide leads us on a tour of the villages. We will explore homes, meet the local inhabitants, learn about their way of life, and admire their traditional wooden houses. The locals are famous for their warm hospitality towards international tourists, often presenting them with homemade wine.
Day 6
Travel to Rumbur Valley
We will start our exciting trip to the second valley of Rumbur, it’s about 1.5 hour drive from Bumburait, once we reach there we will be amazed to see how peacefully the two communities Muslims & Kailasha are living together. Rumbur is smaller than Bumburet, but there are more Kailasha people in Rumbur, it’s less touristic than Bumburait. After taking lunch at river side we will b getting ready to prceed towards Ayon valley.
Overnight in Ayon
Day 07
Drive towards Islamabad, we will reach Islamabad around 7, drop at the airport.
End of the Tour
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