Chilam Joshi Festival & Chitral Valley Tour

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Dir, Ayun, Kalash, Chitral, Booni Mastuj & Shandur

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Starting from $599/- Per Person

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7 Days, 6 Nights

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From Islamabad to Islamabad

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Details & Itinerary

Join us on a 7-day unforgettable trip to the beautiful Chitral Valley and the lively Kalash Valleys. Take part in the Chilam Joshi Festival, where the Kalash people celebrate spring with traditional music, dancing, and colorful rituals. Visit historic sites like Chitral Fort, enjoy the hot springs at Garam Chashma, and see the stunning Tirich Mir mountain. This tour is the perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure, giving you an experience you’ll never forget.

Trip Costs

Single Person
- $1199/- per person – From Islamabad
Couple / Twin Sharing Basis
- $899/- per person – From Islamabad
3/4 Persons Sharing Basis (Groups Only)
- $599/- per person – From Islamabad

Trip Highlights

Scenic Drive Through the Majestic Lowari Tunnel
- Journey through breathtaking mountain landscapes as you pass the iconic Lowari Tunnel on your way to Chitral.
Stay at Historic Gahirat Castle Hotel
- Experience authentic Chitrali hospitality in a historical fort blending tradition and comfort.
Explore the Enchanting Kalash Valleys
- Visit the colorful valleys of Bumburet, Rumbur, and Birir, home to the unique Kalash tribe and their vibrant culture.
Immerse in the Vibrant Chilam Joshi Festival
- Celebrate the arrival of spring with traditional Kalash music, dance, and rituals in an unforgettable cultural experience.
Panoramic Views from Ayun Fort Inn
- Stay amidst breathtaking views of the Hindu Kush mountains and the serene beauty of Ayun Valley.
Discover Chitral’s Historical Treasures
- Visit the majestic Chitral Fort, Shahi Mosque, and the Chitral Museum to dive deep into the region’s rich heritage.
Wildlife Adventures at Chitral Gol National Park
- Spot the endangered Markhor and other wildlife while exploring the park’s scenic hiking trails.
Relax in the Therapeutic Hot Springs of Garam Chashma
- Unwind in natural hot springs renowned for their healing properties amidst stunning landscapes.
Marvel at Tirich Mir, the Crown of the Hindu Kush
- Witness breathtaking views of Pakistan’s highest peak in the Hindu Kush mountain range.
Explore the Roof of the World at Shandur Top
- Visit the legendary Shandur Lake, famous for hosting the world’s highest polo ground and its serene alpine beauty.

Services Included

Luxury Air-conditioned transport (Private Coaster/Grand Cabin – Latest Model – for the whole Trip – from Islamabad to Islamabad)
All the tolls and taxes
All the Hotel stays (3/4 person sharing basis)
All standard meals on the Trip as mentioned
BBQ and Bonfire at the hotel
Services of a Tour Manager throughout the trip
Basic medical aid

Services Not Included

Jeep/Prado ride charges (divided equally among all participants)
Personal Clothing and activities
Entrance tickets of any historic place
Medication, evacuation, and rescue in case of emergencies
Personal insurance of clients
Laundry, beverages and phone calls or other expenses of personal nature
Extra expenses due to natural or political reasons etc.
Tea, Snacks, Lunch, or mineral water during travel
Anything not mentioned in the Services Include area

Day 1: Islamabad to Chitral (May 12)

Distance: ~365 km (8-9 hours) via Lowari Tunnel

Highlights:

Depart from Islamabad early morning for your Chitral Valley tour.
Quick stop at Dir for refreshments.
Pass through the scenic Lowari Tunnel, offering breathtaking views of the Hindu Kush mountains.
Arrive in Chitral by evening and check-in at Gahirat Castle Hotel—a historical fort offering a blend of Chitrali culture and comfort.
Relax, explore the nearby village, and enjoy traditional Chitrali cuisine at the hotel.
Experience the charm of Chitral’s ancient forts and local bazaars.

Overnight: Gahirat Castle Hotel

Day 2: Chitral to Kalash Valley (May 13)

Distance: ~90 km (2-3 hours) to Ayun

Highlights:

Breakfast at Gahirat Castle, then head towards the scenic Ayun Valley.
Check-in at Ayun Fort Inn, surrounded by panoramic views of the Hindu Kush range.
After settling in, visit the nearby Kalash Valley to witness the vibrant preparations for the Chilam Joshi Festival.
Stroll around the colorful Kalash villages like Bumburet, meeting locals and experiencing the unique Kalash culture.
Capture stunning photos of Kalash Valley’s traditional wooden houses and handcrafted souvenirs.

Overnight: Ayun Fort Inn

Day 3: Chilam Joshi Festival in Kalash Valley (May 14)

Highlights:

Full day immersed in the Chilam Joshi Festival, one of the most vibrant cultural festivals in Kalash Valley.
Participate in the celebrations with traditional Kalash music, dancing, and rituals as they welcome spring.
Explore the villages of Bumburet, Rumbur, and Birir—each offering a unique cultural perspective.
Try local Kalash dishes and shop for handcrafted Kalash souvenirs.
Meet the Kalash tribe, known for their rich heritage and colorful attire.

Overnight: Ayun Fort Inn

Day 4: Ayun to Chitral & Explore Chitral Town (May 15)

Distance: ~90 km (2-3 hours)

Highlights:

Depart from Ayun Fort Inn after breakfast.
Enjoy the scenic drive back to Chitral Town.
Check-in at Chitral Fort Inn, offering modern comforts with a touch of local heritage.
Visit the Chitral Fort, a historical gem showcasing royal heritage.
Explore the Shahi Mosque of Chitral, known for its distinct architecture.
Visit the Chitral Museum to learn more about local history and culture.
Take a stroll along the Chitral River, capturing scenic views of the valley.
Evening visit to the Markhor Viewpoint to catch a glimpse of Pakistan’s national animal in its natural habitat.
Relax at the hotel with local Chitrali cuisine and a serene ambiance.

Overnight: Chitral Fort Inn

Day 5: Day Trip to Garam Chashma and Chitral Gol National Park (May 16)

Distance: ~45 km (2 hours)

Highlights:

After breakfast, head towards Garam Chashma, famous for its hot springs and natural beauty.
Enjoy a dip in the therapeutic hot springs.
Visit the Tirich Mir Viewpoint to see the highest peak of the Hindu Kush range.
Return towards Chitral and stop by Chitral Gol National Park.
Explore the park’s rich biodiversity, including sightings of Markhor, Snow Leopards, and a variety of bird species.
Hike through scenic trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Chitral Valley.
Visit the Birmoghlasht Summer Fort, offering a historic insight and stunning views over Chitral.
Return to Chitral in the evening for a relaxed dinner.

Overnight: Chitral Fort Inn

Day 6: Explore Booni, Mastuj, Shandur Top, and Shandur Lake (May 17)

Distance: ~80 km to Booni (2 hours) and onward to Shandur

Highlights:

Depart for Booni, a charming town offering stunning views of the Shandur Pass.
Visit Mastuj Fort, a historical fort with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Continue towards Shandur Top, famously known as the “Roof of the World.”
Explore Shandur Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Enjoy the cool breeze and panoramic views at Shandur, the site of the famous Shandur Polo Festival.
Return to Chitral by evening.

Overnight: Chitral Fort Inn

Day 7: Chitral to Islamabad (May 18)

Highlights:

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Islamabad.
Stop at Timergara for a quick meal and enjoy the last views of the Chitral Valley.
Arrive in Islamabad by late evening, concluding the trip with beautiful memories of the Kalash Valley, Chilam Joshi Festival, and Chitral’s cultural heritage.