Chitral was a princely state under the Mehtar Rulers from 1895 to 1969. Some of the attractions of Chitral include the Shahi Mosque, Shahi Qila, Polo Ground, Governor Cottage and Chitral Museum. The excitement and thrill of Chitral lies as much in the mountaineering, trekking and hiking opportunities and facilities that it offers as in the fishing and shooting potential that the valley and its surroundings hold for the tourists. The time to visit this fascinating valley is between April and September.
The streams and rivers are full of brown trout and there is an abundance of wild life. Yet another valley that has unfolded its magnificence and beauty to the tourists after rebuilding Karakorum high-way is Chitral. bordered by Afghanistan on its north, south and west. Chitral is also the gateway to Kafirstan – a series of remote mountain villages that are Nome to the attractive Kafir Kalash (‘Wearers of the Black Robe’), who cl
aim Greek ancestry. Handsome women wear long black dresses, with red and green embroidered trim, and an elaborate headpiece that qualifies as art – much of it ‘found art’ created from cowrie shells, bits of metal, watchbands, plastic flowers, tiny buttons. This once isolated tribe still retains many of its old customs and its animist beliefs in gods once preside over spirits and animals. And it’s a tribe that loves to dance. Births, marriages, deaths set them in motion. The Kalash are a joyful people keeping time to their ancient culture.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: We will make an early departure from designated spot in Islamabad for Dir at the foot of Lowari Pass, preferably crossed with 4-wheel drive vehicle. Winding over the Lowari Mountain is an interesting and rewarding experience. Lowari tunnel is alternative of Lowari pass but it’s operational for limited time of the day only. On the other side of the mountain, we again find asphalt road.
Day 2: Chitral Town is dominated by the view of distant Tirich Mir, the highest peak of Hindu Kush range of mountains. River Chitral is flowing through the town and offers superb views for photography. After breakfast we will leave for Garam Chasma, a sub valley of Chitral, famous for its Sulphur Springs and Trout fish. After spending sometime in valley, we head back to hotel in Chitral for night stay.
Day 3: we will leave for Kalash Valley and check in to hotel at Bamburet. Visit to Kalash graveyard and school made with the help of the people of Greece would be an interesting addition. Participants can meet and interact with community members, teachers and local kids in their traditional dresses. Night stay will be in Bamburet
Day 4: Participants will get free day to get relaxed and enjoy the breath-taking views of the valley. Kalash is an exotic feature of the region; these tribes are contrast to rest of the country. Their culture, religion, customs and habitat are unique and interesting. Optional trip to Rambur, another typical Kalash village can be organized.
Day 5: We will leave early morning from Bamburet for a long drive back to Islamabad. Participants will be dropped at the designated spot in Islamabad.
End of the Tour.
