Chitral Valley, in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, with diverse flora and fauna that make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This 5-day itinerary crosses the Lowari Pass, explores Chitral town beneath the Hindu Kush giant Tirich Mir, visits the sulfur springs of Garam Chashma, and spends two nights among the Kalash people of Bamburet.
Tour Itinerary
- 1
Day 1 β Islamabad to Chitral via Dir (430 km, 11β12 hrs)
Early departure from the designated spot in Islamabad for Dir, at the foot of the Lowari Pass β best crossed in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Winding over the Lowari mountain is an interesting and rewarding experience; the Lowari Tunnel offers an alternative but operates only for limited hours each day. On the far side, asphalt road resumes and we arrive in Chitral in the evening for hotel check-in and overnight stay.
- 2
Day 2 β Chitral and Garam Chashma excursion (100 km, 4 hrs)
Chitral town is dominated by the distant view of Tirich Mir, the highest peak of the Hindu Kush range, with the River Chitral flowing through the town and offering superb photography. After breakfast, drive to Garam Chashma, a sub-valley of Chitral famous for its sulfur springs and trout fish, then return to the hotel in Chitral for the night.
- 3
Day 3 β Chitral to Bamburet, Kalash Valley (30 km, 2.5 hrs)
After some time in Chitral, leave for the Kalash Valley and check in to the hotel at Bamburet. A visit to the Kalash graveyard and the school built with the help of the people of Greece makes an interesting addition β meet community members, teachers and local kids in their traditional dress. Overnight in Bamburet.
- 4
Day 4 β Free day at Bamburet
A free day to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley. The Kalash are an exotic feature of the region β tribes whose culture, religion, customs and habitat stand in striking contrast to the rest of the country. Optional trips to Rambur, another typical Kalash village, can be arranged.
- 5
Day 5 β Bamburet to Islamabad (440 km, 12β13 hrs)
Leave Bamburet early morning for the long drive back to Islamabad, with drop-off at the designated spot.
What's Included
Price includes
- Private air-conditioned transport
- Jeep for Lowari Pass (in case the tunnel or road is closed)
- Accommodation in standard hotels
- Daily breakfast
- Guide for the complete tour
- Basic first aid kit
Price excludes
- Late checkout, if different from standard checkout time
- Personal insurance of clients/luggage
- Meals other than breakfast
- Laundry, beverages, phone calls or other personal expenses
- Extra expenses due to acts of nature, political reasons, etc.
- Medical aid, evacuation or extra expenses in emergencies
- Any item not mentioned above