Pakistan's Premier Inbound Adventure Tourism Company
The Last Pagan Kingdom of the Hindu Kush
From
RsΒ 98,000
7 Days
Duration
3,700m
Max Elevation
2β16 pax
Group Size
Chitral District
Region
The Kalasha people of the Chitral valleys are one of the most extraordinary ethnic communities in the world β a pre-Islamic polytheistic people of possible Greek or Indo-Aryan origin who maintain their ancient religion, unique language, distinct costume, and seasonal festivals in three remote valleys of the Hindu Kush: Bumburet, Rumbur, and Birir. Women wear elaborately embroidered black robes and headdresses of shells, buttons, and woollen pompoms. Festivals (Chilam Joshi in May, Uchal in August, Choimus in December) are spectacular cultural events of music, dancing, and feasting. This tour also visits Chitral town and the dramatic Shandur Pass (3,700m) β site of the world's highest polo ground.
Kalash people β unique pre-Islamic polytheistic community of the Hindu Kush
Three Kalash Valleys (Bumburet, Rumbur, Birir) β each with distinct character
Kalash Cultural Museum β traditional dress, tools, religion explained
Chitral Fort and Royal Palace of the Kator dynasty
Shandur Pass (3,700m) β world's highest polo ground (July festival)
Tirich Mir (7,708m) β highest peak of the Hindu Kush visible from Chitral
Islamabad β Chitral (fly or road via Lowari Tunnel)
Fly to Chitral (45 min) or drive via Swat Expressway and Lowari Tunnel (8β9hrs). Chitral town orientation walk. Sunset view of Tirich Mir (7,708m) from Chitral Fort.
Chitral Heritage β Fort, Palace & Shahi Mosque
Chitral Fort and Royal Palace β the seat of the Kator dynasty for 500 years. Shahi Mosque (ornate timber interior). Chitral bazaar for local crafts and polo sticks. Optional: Golen Gol waterfall and forest trail.
Bumburet Valley β Main Kalash Valley
Drive 2hrs to Bumburet Valley β the most accessible and populous Kalash valley. Visit Anish village, the Kalash Cultural Museum, and traditional wood-carved houses and shrines. Meet local families. See traditional Kalash dress (black robes, shell headdresses).
Rumbur Valley β Authentic Kalash Experience
Drive to Rumbur Valley β quieter and more traditional than Bumburet. Walk between villages. Visit the Jestak Han (assembly and festival hall) β the spiritual heart of Kalash life.
Birir Valley β Most Traditional Valley
Drive to Birir β the smallest and least visited Kalash valley, maintaining the strictest traditional practices. Interaction with elders and traditional craftspeople. Taste local grape wine (legal under Kalash custom).
Shandur Pass (3,700m) β World's Highest Polo Ground
Scenic drive over Shandur Pass (3,700m) β site of the annual polo festival each July when Chitral and Gilgit teams compete at the roof of the world. Enjoy the dramatic highland scenery. Alternatively: Mastuj Fort or Yarkhun Valley extension.
Chitral β Islamabad (fly or road)
Return flight or road journey to Islamabad.
What is the best time to experience a Kalash festival?
Chilam Joshi (May β spring sowing festival) and Choimus (December β winter solstice, the most spectacular) are the most significant. Uchal (August) celebrates the cheese harvest. The Shandur Polo Festival (July) is a separate but equally spectacular event.
Are the Kalash valleys respectful of photography?
The Kalash are generally welcoming to photographers, especially at festival times. Ask permission before photographing individuals. A small donation for community projects is appreciated.
8 people booked this trip this month
Price Calculator
$350 USD Β· 4β5 persons
Toyota Hiace / Coaster. Comfortable, most popular.
3-star hotels & clean guesthouses. En-suite bathrooms.
Includes guide, all meals, permits & accommodation.
Custom quote β info@wonderland-tours.com
Payment Methods
30% deposit to confirm. Balance due 30 days before departure.
MAY
23
23 May 2026
18 total spots
JUN
6
6 Jun 2026
18 total spots
SEPT
19
19 Sept 2026
18 total spots
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