+92 342 5017535 hello@passagetopakistan.pk
+92 342 5017535 hello@passagetopakistan.pk

Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival – 8 Days Spring (September)

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Tour Details

Visit one of the most beautiful capitals in the world and discover a mix of cultural, historical, and religious sites across Islamabad. Take in the beauty and majesty of the Faisal Mosque, which is nestled at the foothills of the Margalla Hills, and lose yourself in the treasured history of the Ghandaran dynasty at Taxila Museum.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Kalash Valley, where travelers come from far and wide to see how this indigenous tribe keeps their customs and rituals alive by showcasing their heritage through traditional dress and folk music. Join the people of Kalash in celebrating the Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival, a highlight of the region, which takes place every spring to seek protection for their crops. The Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival is an integral part of Kalash culture, offering a unique experience for visitors to engage in the vibrant traditions of the Kalash people.

Explore the hidden jewel in North Pakistan that is Chitral, with its striking architecture and emerald green valleys nestled in the foothills of the snow-tipped Hindu Kush Range. An unspoiled paradise with eye-catching structures and a history that is bound to fascinate all, especially during the time of the Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival.

Departure & Return Location

Islamabad (Google Map)

Price Includes

  • All accommodation (private groups have the option of Standard/Luxury)
  • All breakfast and dinner
  • All land travel
  • All tolls/attraction tickets
  • Local English speaking guide
  • Driver/guide expenses
  • Private transfers to and from the Airport

Price Excludes

  • Flights (unless domestic flights have been outlined in the itinerary)
  • Visas + Travel Insurance (mandatory on the guests to secure these)
  • Lunch is at personal expense
  • Recreational activities such as horse riding, parasailing etc. will incur an additional charge
  • Tips (optional and completely at the guests’ discretion)
  • Any other personal expenses
THINGS TO CONSIDER:

+ The vast majority of our hotel partners have a 12-noon checkout policy.

+ All hotels outlined in the itinerary are subject to availability and in the event of
any overbookings, a hotel of the same/similar standard will be arranged.

+ When arranging your international flights, it is best practice to confirm the dates
and timings with Passage to Pakistan prior to booking.

{Please note the below itinerary is intended as a working guide only. Although every effort will be made to ensure full adherence, changes may be made because of weather and traffic conditions and any other unforeseeable events which fall beyond the scope of Passage to Pakistan’s control. Changes to the itinerary, if any, will be communicated at the earliest opportunity.}

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at the Meeting Point/Islamabad Airport where you will be received by one of our representatives and transferred to your hotel. After some rest and relaxation, we will head into Islamabad to see some of the sights the capital has to offer such as the Faisal Mosque, which is nestled at the foot of the Margalla Hills and inspired by strong Islamic cultural characteristics. Time permitting, we will visit Daman-e-Koh, a viewing point offering stunning panoramic views across Islamabad. In the evening, we will have a briefing ahead of the Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival trip during the welcome dinner. Overnight stay in Islamabad.

Day 2

After breakfast, we will make our way to Swat Valley, arriving at Marghazar in the afternoon, a hill station set at the centre of some of the country’s most scenic mountain valleys and forestry. After exploring this landscape, we will head to the White Palace located on Marghazar Hill and once used by the Wali of Swat as his summer residence. Cut from the same marble as the Taj Mahal, this grandiose building sits in beautiful gardens and has a rich history that was enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth II on a visit to Swat Valley. Overnight stay in Swat.

Day 3

After breakfast, we will make our way to the beautiful Bumburet Valley, the largest of the 3 Kalash Valleys with its sparkling streams, shady meadows, and wide mountain vistas. Spot animals grazing nearby and be mesmerized by its lush green plains as you make your way through the valley. From here, we will make our way to the center where we will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the people of Kalash, an indigenous tribe who are said to be descendants of Alexander the Great. Travelers come from far and wide to see the rich ancient culture and rituals of this minority pagan tribe and we will join in on their festivities as they showcase their distinctive culture through music and dance during the Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival. The celebrations will continue till late at night as we dance around large bonfires on the beats of the drums and witness the natives as they pray for the safeguarding and protection of their fields. Overnight stay in Bumburet.

Day 4

This morning, we will head to the Kalasha Museum which is a must in order to get to grips with this unique culture and its fascinating roots. We will then visit the Kalash Graveyard where death is a celebration and is reminiscent of a time when the local tribe would sing and dance around the bodies of their loved ones before burial.

After exploring the main town, we will make our way to the center where we will participate once again in the festivities. We will join the people of Kalash celebrating the Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival, which is a colorful swirl of traditional dance, food, and prayers that request protection for their crops. Here, we will learn about the culture, interact with the locals, and enjoy nature at its very best. In the evening, we will head to the town of Chitral where we will check into our hotel for the night. Overnight stay in Chitral.

Day 5

Today, we will be exploring the hidden jewel in North Pakistan that is Chitral, home to the Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival. With its cool climate and unique architecture, this is becoming an increasingly popular destination for those looking to take in a land that has been well preserved and secluded from the rest of the country.

First, we will head to the majestic Chitral Fort, which holds a strategic position on the Chitral River and was believed to have been built in 1774. This fort has witnessed the glories and ruins of history for centuries and has been the subject of major invasions, most famously the 1895 siege which is much celebrated event in British history. From here, we will visit the nearby Shahi Mosque, which was built towards the latter part of the 19th century and is known for its remarkable eye-catching structure. After having lunch in Birmoghlast, which is situated on a mountain top, we will take a wander through the ancient markets of Chitral where the locals sell their finest wares. Overnight stay in Chitral.

Day 6

After breakfast, we will leave for Swat Valley where an early check-in will allow room for some rest and guests will have the option of spending the evening at their leisure. Overnight stay in Swat.

Day 7

Following breakfast, we will make our way back to Islamabad whilst taking in the staggering mountain scenery, the rough terrains of the road, and the welcoming people in the neighboring villages. On arrival, we will visit Taxila Museum, which houses artefacts dating back to the 1st century and where you can unfold the chapters of the lost Ghandaran dynasty. In the evening, we will head to Pir Sohawa to enjoy a farewell dinner at the famous Monal restaurant, which offers the finest views of Islamabad from a stunning vantage point. During the journey, you will have the opportunity to experience the Chilam Joshi Kalash Festival. Overnight stay in Islamabad.

Day 8

After a hearty breakfast and a bittersweet farewell, you will be transferred to Islamabad Airport/Departure Point where our trip will come to an end.

Map

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