- Discover the Vibrant Kalash Valleys: A Journey Through Culture and Tradition
- The Kalash Valleys—Rumbur, Birir, and Bumburet—are located 32-36 km from Chitral in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. These valleys are home to the last 3,000 remaining Kalash people, known for their distinct cultural heritage and unique architecture. The Kalash live in houses built from local stone and wood, stacked along the hillsides, with the roof of one house serving as the terrace for the one above. The valleys are famous for their vibrant festivals, with the three most celebrated being Chilam Joshi (spring), Uchal (summer), and Choimus (winter).
- Chilam Joshi: The Spring Festival of Renewal
- Chilam Joshi, the Kalash spring festival, is one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year. It is a time of gratitude, during which the Kalash people honor their gods and pray for the protection of their fields and livestock before the harvest season begins. The festival starts with “Milk Day,” when milk saved for 10 days is offered to the gods as a blessing. This ancient tradition reflects the deep spiritual connection the Kalash have with nature and their belief in purity and peace.
- The week leading up to Chilam Joshi is marked by ritual purification. Men and women prepare by taking ritual baths and participating in cleansing ceremonies, ensuring they are spiritually pure when Balomain, a revered spiritual figure, is believed to visit the valley. One key ritual involves men standing throughout the day before a sacrificed goat’s blood is sprinkled on their faces, symbolizing purification. During this festival, men also play a central role in baking special bread, which is then shared among the three Kalash valleys.
- A Celebration of Music, Dance, and Tradition
- Chilam Joshi is not only a religious festival but also a time for joy, music, and dancing. Kalash men and women, dressed in their vibrant traditional attire, gather to sing and dance in circles to the rhythmic beats of drums. Women don colorful dresses, adorned with gold and silver jewelry and elaborate headpieces, while men wear traditional shalwar kameez paired with woolen waistcoats. The dances and songs carry a deeper significance, as young men and women often find their future spouses during the festivities, announcing their partners at the festival’s conclusion.
- The energy of Chilam Joshi attracts tourists from all over the world, including visitors from France, Italy, Germany, Australia, and Thailand, who come to witness the rich cultural traditions of the Kalash people. The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Tourism Corporation of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ensure that visitors are well-accommodated, making the experience smooth and memorable for all.
- Immerse yourself in the heart of Kalash culture by joining this colorful celebration of life, spirituality, and community.
Included/Excluded
- Private Transport
- Hotel Accommodation
- Professional Licensed Guide
- Toll, Parking, Museum & National park entrance taxes
- Airfare (International flight)
- Pakistani visa fee
- Personal expenses
- Personal travel insurance
Tour Plan
Day 1
Early morning departure for Chitral via Lawari Pass (3118 m) ➔ Night stay in hotel
| Days | Program | Major Attractions | Mode of Travel | Travel
Time |
| Day. 01 |
|
|
Van | 1 hr |
Day 2
Departure for Kalash Valley (Bamburet) ➔ Night stay in hotel
| Days | Program | Major Attractions | Mode of Travel | Travel
Time |
| Day. 02 |
|
|
Van | 10 hrs |
Day 3
Walk and talk with Kalash people ➔ Night stay in hotel
| Days | Program | Major Attractions | Mode of Travel | Travel
Time |
| Day. 03 |
|
|
Jeep | 2- 3 hrs |
Day 4
Visit museum and cemeteries ➔ Departure for Rumbur Valley ➔ Drive back to Chitral ➔ Night stay in hotel
| Days | Program | Major Attractions | Mode of Travel | Travel
Time |
| Day. 04 |
|
|
Walk | 4-5 hrs |
Day 5
Drive back to Islamabad through the Lawari Tunnel (10.5 km) ➔ Night stay in hotel
| Days | Program | Major Attractions | Mode of Travel | Travel
Time |
| Day. 05 |
|
|
Jeep | 6- 7 hrs |
Day 6
Islamabad & Rawalpindi (the Twin Cities) ➔ Farewell dinner ➔ Evening drive to the airport ➔ Fly back to your home destinations ➔ Dream your journey
| Days | Program | Major Attractions | Mode of Travel | Travel
Time |
| Day. 06 |
|
|
Van | 8-9 hrs |
Day 7
Explore the Twin Cities ➔ Savor a Farewell Dinner ➔ Journey to the Airport ➔ Fly Home with Unforgettable Memories
| Days | Program | Major Attractions | Mode of Travel | Travel
Time |
| Day. 07 |
|
|
Van | 1 day |
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