Multi-day tour
An 8-day tour from Islamabad over the Lowari Tunnel to the Kalash Valleys of Bumburet and Rumbur for the Chilam Joshi spring festival, ending in Chitral.
The Kalash Valley is one of Pakistan’s most unique cultural treasures, home to the indigenous Kalasha people, a small ethnic group known for their ancient traditions, vibrant festivals and distinct way of life. Nestled in the mountains of Chitral, the three Kalash Valleys (Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir) offer breathtaking landscapes, rich history and warm hospitality.
The Kalasha follow a polytheistic religion, different from the surrounding Muslim communities, and their festivals, music and rituals reflect their deep connection to nature. They celebrate three major festivals each year: Chilam Joshi (spring, 13–16 May), Uchal (summer, 20–22 August) and Choimus (winter, 15–22 December). This tour focuses on the Chilam Joshi Festival, offering a rare glimpse into the Kalasha’s most colourful event.
Chilam Joshi Festival: Sacred dances, rituals and communal feasts with traditional Kalash food.
Village walks: Kalash settlements, graveyards with wooden effigies and artisan workshops.
Cultural immersion: Learn Kalash mythology, try on traditional attire and visit a Kalash home.
Scenic drives & nature: Cross the Lowari Pass, visit the Chitral Museum and spot wildlife in Chitral Gol National Park.
Photography: Lush valleys, sunrise over the Hindu Kush and the turquoise Chitral River.
You will be welcomed at Islamabad International Airport by our driver and transferred to your hotel to check in and settle in. Enjoy a restful evening in the capital. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
A scenic drive from Islamabad towards Ayun along the Chitral–Dir Road, passing through Shringal and Upper Dir. Cross the famous Lowari Tunnel, an engineering marvel, before arriving in Ayun, a peaceful village near the Kalash Valleys, for the night.
Depart for Bumburet Valley, the largest and most accessible Kalash settlement, and visit the villages of Bron, Anish and Krakal to witness daily Kalasha life and the Chilam Joshi celebrations, including dancing and rituals. The day also includes a visit to Rumbur Valley, the local museum showcasing Kalasha artefacts and history, and the unique Kalasha graveyard with its wooden effigies. Spend the evening walking around the town centre and meeting locals. Overnight stay in Bumburet.
A full day dedicated to the Chilam Joshi Festival, with traditional dances, music and rituals performed by the Kalasha people. Visits to their prayer hall (Jestak Han), morgue hall and dance hall give deeper insight into their customs. Interact with the Kalasha, taste local food and drinks, and buy handmade souvenirs and traditional outfits. Overnight stay in Kalash.
Drive to Rumbur Valley, another key Kalasha settlement, to attend the festival once again and explore its mesmerizing landscapes. Walk to the town centre to experience the unique Kalasha lifestyle and enjoy a traditional lunch in a local home. Drive back to Bumburet or Ayun for the night.
Head to Chitral Gol National Park, known for its stunning mountain views, stopping at Birmoghlasht Fort, a historic royal residence. Explore the park’s scenic trails and wildlife, then return to Chitral Town to enjoy the cool mountain weather and night views. Overnight stay in Chitral.
Depart for Islamabad, retracing the journey through the Lowari Tunnel. On arrival in Islamabad, you will be transferred to your hotel for the final night.
You will be dropped off at Islamabad International Airport as per your flight schedule, marking the end of a memorable adventure in the north.
FromPKR 132,000per person
Price per person sharing a twin room. The final price depends on group size, travel dates and hotel category; we confirm it before you pay anything.
The route is approximate. Trekking sections are on foot and won't show as a road on the map.
5 out of 5 from 1 review
We timed the trip for Chilam Joshi and were welcomed to watch the dancing in Bumburet and Rumbur. Our guide explained what we could and could not photograph, which made us feel comfortable. The drive through the Lowari Tunnel was easier than I expected.
It depends on the festival you wish to experience. For the Chilam Joshi Festival, plan your trip around 13–16 May, when the spring weather is pleasant. The Uchal Festival (August) and Choimus Festival (December) are also great times to visit, but road conditions may vary.
Comfortable trekking shoes, warm layers for chilly evenings, sun protection, modest clothing, a camera, and basic medications and personal essentials.
Yes. Always ask permission before photographing locals, dress modestly, avoid touching ritual objects or entering sacred spaces without guidance, and women should cover their heads in certain areas such as the Jestak Han temple.
The journey involves mountainous terrain and long drives. The Lowari Tunnel connecting Dir to Chitral is well maintained, but some roads in the valleys may be rough. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for comfort and safety.
Yes. Visitors are welcome to observe and sometimes join in the dancing and festivities. Certain rituals are sacred, so follow your guide’s instructions. You can also try local food, buy handicrafts and interact with the Kalasha people respectfully.
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