Description

Chitral, also spelled Chetrar and interpreted as field, is the administrative centre of the Chitral Area, situated on the west bank of the Chitral River, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan. Chitral Valley at an elevation of 1128 meters has Afghanistan on its North, South and West. It is encircled by the Wakhan, Badakhshan, Asmar and Nooristan part of Afghanistan in the north, west and south-west. On its southern boundary lies Dir. Within the east lies Gilgit and Swat, and the thin strip of Afghan area, Wakhan, separates it from Tajikistan.

The recorded evidence of Chitral commences with the Tibetans invading Yasin Valley in the early 8th century AD, accompanied by the Chinese and the Buddhists in 900 AD. Later, the Kalash also ruled Chitral for many years. The culture of Chitral bears traces of Greek, Iranian, Tatar and Turkish influences because of its unique location and historical links with Central Asia and European countries. The Chitrali people call the land of Chitral “Kho” and their language is called Khowar.

Located within the mighty Hindukush hill range, Chitral is a valley which stands among the many wonders that Pakistan hosts. Chitral not only offers its beauty as a traveler hub, but also has rich cultural traditions which increase its value. Its positioning is historically significant, as many invaders passed through it to reach South East Asia. Chitral offers several attractions such as some of the world’s highest peaks, lush green valleys, and several glaciers. Travellers can reach Chitral via Shandur Pass, Lowari Pass, and by air. Chitral hosts numerous glaciers which provide trekkers a great opportunity to explore and satisfy their love of adventure.

Chitral is a pleasant place, filled with amazing views throughout. You can enjoy mountaineering, climbing, hiking, and walking in numerous places all over Chitral. It is a destination for adventurers and for those seeking peace at the same time.

Chitral is a beautiful city of Pakistan, better known for its most eye-catching places, including:

Chitral Museum

Among the prime sights of Chitral is its renowned museum, which holds great significance due to its rich traditions. Chitral Museum, with antiques, weaponry, and other artifacts from earlier times of the monarchy, provides great understanding of the history and culture of Chitral and the Kalash people.

Chitral Fort

A significant attraction in Chitral is its renowned Fort, whose history dates back many years. The Fort features exceptional structures and witnessed events that took place during wars in earlier times.

Chitral Top

This is a mountain top which connects Chitral to Dir. It is one of the four major passes used to visit Chitral and leads to other areas as well.

Shahi Masjid

Chitral holds another marvel of history, the Shahi Masjid. The structure of the building reflects the strong and rich traditions of Chitral, built by the Mehtar of Chitral. It was constructed by Shujaul Mulk, the Mehtar of Chitral (1895–1936). The mosque is well known for its strong and distinctive architectural style.

Garam Chashma

The hot springs popularly known as Garam Chashma are a distinctive attraction. Located 45 kilometers from the main Chitral city, the hot springs have long been a significant tourist attraction due to their natural healing properties. The area is also known for valuable stones, trout fish, and its clean environment.

Ayun Valley

Ayun Valley is bounded by mountains and the stunning Bumburet River. Lush green and marvelously beautiful, it is one of the most favorite spots among visitors for its natural splendor. Ayun Valley is located between Chitral Town and Kalash, on the bank of the Chitral River. The people of Ayun Valley are welcoming and hospitable, much like people in other areas of Chitral.

Kalash Valley

The Kalash Valley of Chitral is positioned in the southern gorges of the Hindu Kush mountain range in Pakistan’s KPK Province. The valley shares a 380 km boundary with Afghanistan to the north and west, with the Central Asian regions of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan often accessible from the region. To the east lies Gilgit, providing access to China’s Xinjiang Autonomous Region across the renowned Karakoram Highway. There are various theories about the origin of the Kalash people; however, it is believed that the Kalash migrated to Chitral from Afghanistan several centuries B.C.

Itinerary

Day 1

Pick up point Rawalpindi / arrive at Islamabad Airport, meet the local representative and drive through Motorway M1, Mardan, Dir, and head towards Chitral after crossing Lowari Top. Arrive in Chitral, check in and overnight stay at a local hotel.

Day 2

Open buffet breakfast. Prepare for the day’s excursion and visit Chitral Museum, Chitral Fort — a significant attraction in Chitral, Shahi Masjid — the building that reflects the strong and rich traditions of Chitral built by the Mehtar of Chitral, and Garam Chashma — the hot springs popularly known as Garam Chashma, a distinctive attraction. Overnight stay at Chitral hotel.

Day 3

Open buffet breakfast. Prepare for the day’s excursion to Ayun Valley, bounded by mountains and the stunning Bumburet River. Lush green and marvelously beautiful, it is one of the most favorite spots among visitors for its natural splendor. Ayun Valley is located between Chitral Town and Kalash.

Day 4

Open buffet breakfast. Prepare for the day’s excursion to Kalash Valley in the gorges of the Hindu Kush mountain range to explore local traditions. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 5

Open buffet breakfast. Prepare to drive back, check out, transfer, and final departure for Rawalpindi / Islamabad.

Terms & Conditions

• Duration: 04 Night(s) / 05 Day(s) (accommodation, twin share basis)
• Group Size: Family with 2 kids
• Private Transport with driver
• Daily Buffet Breakfast
• Airport transfers to/from Hotel
• Entrance Fees / Toll Taxes / Charged Car Parking at sightseeing sites
• Guided tours
• Experience the BBQ dinner / bonfire
• Photo opportunities and sightseeing

What’s Not Included

• Audio guides
• Tips and Porterage / Bakhshish, etc.
• Cable Car / Chair Lift Tickets / Entry tickets, etc.

Please Note

• Package price is based on twin sharing of hotel accommodation; any difference due to non-availability, New Year, Winter & Summer Holidays, or peak season will be charged accordingly.
• 50% payment is required at the time of booking.
• Children under 6 years stay free.
• Two weeks’ notice required for arranged bookings / trips.