How should I behave at Kalash festivals?
Follow your guide's guidance, ask before photographing anyone and respect restricted areas.
8-day itinerary
8-Day Chitral & Kalash Culture Trail
A slow, culture-first journey into the Hindu Kush and the Kalash valleys.
8 days ModerateSpring · Summer · AutumnMid-range
Route
Islamabad → Dir → Chitral → Kalash valleys → Chitral → Islamabad
Day by day
- 1
Islamabad to Dir
Drive north through Malakand.
- 2
Dir to Chitral
Lowari Tunnel crossing and arrival.
- 3
Chitral town
Fort, mosque, bazaar and museum.
- 4
Bumburet
Transfer into the Kalash valley, village introduction.
- 5
Rumbur
Walk between villages with a Kalash guide.
- 6
Birir
Quietest of the three valleys, terraced walks.
- 7
Back to Chitral
Tirich Mir viewpoint and free afternoon.
- 8
Return
Long drive or seasonal flight to Islamabad.
Highlights
- Bumburet and Rumbur valleys
- Tirich Mir viewpoints
- Chitral Fort and bazaar
- Optional festival timing
What's included
- Transport
- 7 nights accommodation
- Breakfast
- Local cultural guide
- Valley entry fees
Not included
- Flights
- Most meals
- Festival-period surcharges
- Insurance
Accommodation
Simple guesthouses in the Kalash valleys and a comfortable hotel in Chitral.
Transport
4x4 vehicles — valley roads are rough in places.
Gallery
FAQs
Where you might stay
Recommended hotels on this route
Hindu Kush Guesthouse
Chitral town
Quiet garden guesthouse near Chitral Fort with Tirich Mir views.
Guesthouse$$GardenHome-cooked meals
From (demo)
$50 / night
Malam Jabba Alpine Resort
Malam Jabba, Swat
Ski-in comfort at Pakistan's best known winter resort.
Resort$$$Ski accessEquipment hire
From (demo)
$120 / night