11-Day Kalash Valley Adventure: Chilam Joshi Festival, Shandur Pass, and Gilgit-Baltistan Tour

Arrive in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and rest after your long journey. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the Shah Faisal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, or head to Daman-e-Koh for a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding Margalla Hills.

After a hearty breakfast, you will embark on an early morning departure from Islamabad for Chitral, located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The journey takes you through the scenic Dir valley and the Lawari Tunnel, which connects the Chitral region to the rest of Pakistan. The drive is filled with beautiful views of mountains, rivers, and lush greenery. After approximately 8-10 hours, you will reach Naghar Fort Chitral. Check into your hotel, and take the rest of the evening to relax or explore the charming town.

This morning, you will drive from Chitral to Kalash Valley, a 2-hour scenic journey. As you make your way through the valleys, enjoy the stunning views of terraced fields and traditional villages. Upon arrival, you will check into a local guesthouse in the Bumburate Valley, the largest of the three Kalash valleys. Spend your day exploring the quaint villages, meeting the friendly Kalash people, and learning about their fascinating culture and traditions. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk around the valley or relax in the tranquil surroundings.

Today marks the beginning of the vibrant Chilam Josh Festival, a three-day celebration of the Kalash people’s traditions and the arrival of spring. You will attend the opening ceremony of the festival, which includes traditional Kalash music, colorful folk dances, and prayers to celebrate the season. The community will share in the festivities, wearing traditional costumes and engaging in joyful celebrations. In the evening, you can participate in a community feast, where you will enjoy local Kalash dishes, followed by a bonfire ceremony marking the end of the day’s events.

On the second day of the festival, continue to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Kalash people. The day is filled with traditional dances, music, and ceremonies that showcase the vibrancy of their heritage. You will have the opportunity to learn about their spiritual beliefs, and witness the locals performing ancient rituals that have been passed down through generations. As the evening approaches, the festivities will continue with a celebratory bonfire and dance, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

On the final day of the Chilam Josh Festival, experience the culmination of the celebrations. You will enjoy the last of the traditional performances, including music, folk dances, and local games. This is the day when the Kalash people give thanks to their gods for the harvest and the arrival of spring. Participate in the final rituals and dances as the festival concludes, and enjoy one last communal feast with the Kalash people. This will be a day to remember, filled with colorful performances and a deep sense of community and tradition.

After breakfast, begin your journey from Kalash Valley to Mastuj, a town located in the upper Chitral district, approximately 4-5 hours away. The drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes, where you will pass through lush green valleys, rivers, and mountain ranges. Stop along the way to enjoy the incredible scenery and capture stunning photographs. Upon arrival in Mastuj, you will check into your hotel and have the evening free to relax in this peaceful mountain town.

This morning, you will set off early for the iconic Shandur Pass, located at an altitude of 3,700 meters. The journey will take approximately 3-4 hours, and as you ascend towards the Shandur Polo Ground, the views become more majestic with every passing minute. Known as the world’s highest polo ground, Shandur is famous for its annual polo tournament, and today, you will witness the serene beauty of this remote region. After exploring the Shandur Pass, continue your drive towards Gilgit, a journey of about 4-5 hours, passing through beautiful valleys like Phandar and Gupis. Arrive in Gilgit by the evening, check into your hotel, and enjoy the night at leisure.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Gilgit to Skardu, a journey of approximately 4-5 hours. The route takes you along the Indus River, passing through valleys with spectacular views of Nanga Parbat, one of the world’s highest peaks. Along the way, you will experience the rugged beauty of the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Upon arrival in Skardu, the capital of the region, you will check into your hotel. In the evening, you can relax and explore Skardu Bazaar or enjoy the serene beauty of Shangrila Resort or Upper Kachura Lake.

This morning, you will board a domestic flight from Skardu to Islamabad, taking in spectacular aerial views of the surrounding mountains. Upon arrival in Islamabad, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. You will have the remainder of the day free to explore the capital city, shop for souvenirs, or visit the Pakistan Monument and Museum. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve experienced.

On your final day in Islamabad, after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight back home. Take with you unforgettable memories of the stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of the people you met throughout your journey.