Choimus Festival (15-22 December)
Overview
Kalash Valley, nestled in the Chitral District of Pakistan, is a unique cultural treasure, renowned for its vibrant traditions and stunning natural beauty. The valley is home to the Kalash people, who are known for their distinct customs, colorful attire, and rich heritage.
The Kalasha people celebrate three vibrant festivals: Chilam Joshi, Uchal, and Choimus. Chilam Joshi, held 13-16 May, marks the arrival of spring with lively dances and music. A visit to Kalash during the Uchal Festival is an unforgettable experience for tourists. Uchal Festival, held 20-22 August every year, celebrates the harvest with lively dances, music, and traditions that highlight the unique Kalash culture. Choimus, the winter solstice festival in December 15-22, is the most sacred, involving purification rites, singing, and dancing to welcome the new year. These festivals are a deep expression of Kalasha culture and provide a unique glimpse into their rich traditions.
Highlights
- Visit Bumburat valley and interact with locals
- Visit other Kalash Valleys (Rumbur and Birir) and experience the daily life style of the locals
- Chitral Gol National Park
- Early weak up and experience the beautiful view of sunrise from the beautiful mountains
Itinerary
• Departure from Islamabad to Chitral (08 hours) depending on speed
• Drive through Dir, enjoy and explore the beautiful landscapes on your way
• Pass through Lowari Tunnel
• Arrival in Ayun Chitral
• Night stay in Chitral
• Leave for Kalash Valley early (01 hour 30 minutes)
• Visit Bumburat valley and interact with locals
• Observe the unique rituals and ceremonies that are central to Kalash culture
• Enjoy the local cuisine prepared specially for the festival
• Night stay in Bumburat
• Visit other Kalash Valleys (Rumbur and Birir) and experience the daily life style of the locals
• Explore the beauty of the valleys
• Drive back to Bumburat
• Night stay in Bumburat
• Drive to visit Chitral Gol National Park (rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes)
• The park is famous for being home to the endangered Kashmir Markhor, the national animal of Pakistan, as well as other wildlife like snow leopards, ibex, and a variety of bird species
• Explore and drive back to Chitral
• Night stay in Chitral
• Early weak up and experience the beautiful view of sunrise from the beautiful mountains
• Departure for Islamabad
• Arrival in Islamabad and drop at your desired place
• Wishing you an unforgettable adventures
FAQs
Pakistan prioritizes the safety and hospitality of its visitors, despite occasional security concerns. Travelers often enjoy positive experiences, thanks to the warmth and friendliness of locals. Renowned for their hospitality, Pakistanis enhance the tourism experience with their kindness and cheerful demeanor. The country values and welcomes tourists, offering diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. While Pakistan is considered safe compared to other destinations, travelers should stay informed about current events before their journeys
We accept cash as the quickest mode of payment. Alternatively, you can also deposit the amount into our bank account, which we will provide once you book your tour.
Our head office is located in the scenic city of Gilgit, with a branch office situated in the vibrant capital, Islamabad.
“Our refund policy for tour cancellations stipulates a 12% charge on the deposit amount. If you choose to postpone your tour, your payments will remain valid for the next year, excluding any bank fees.
Please note, a 12% cancellation fee will be applied if clients cancel the tour before 15 days. For cancellation requests made after this period, the company will assess them on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all relevant circumstances at that time.”
For travelers considering a visit to Pakistan, the optimal season spans from April to November. During these months, visitors can revel in favorable weather conditions, characterized by spring blooms, summer abundance, and autumnal hues, depending on the specific month of travel. Whether exploring the northern regions or other popular tourist destinations across the country, travelers can anticipate an exceptional journey during this period. Conversely, winter months bring harsh cold weather, rain, and snowfall to the northern regions, making it less conducive for travel. However, this season presents an opportune time to explore the southern parts of Pakistan.
In the Northern areas of Pakistan, the weather varies significantly throughout the year:
During the summer months (May to September), daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). This period offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities such as trekking and hiking. However, temperatures can drop considerably at night, especially in mountainous regions.
In the winter season (November to February), temperatures decrease substantially, with daytime highs ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Nighttime temperatures often fall below freezing, accompanied by heavy snowfall and icy conditions, particularly in higher altitudes. Winter enthusiasts can enjoy activities like skiing and snowboarding during this time.
It’s important for travelers to pack appropriate clothing for both warm and cold weather conditions when visiting the Northern areas of Pakistan, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the year.
Yes, Indian U.S. citizens can visit Pakistan, though obtaining a tourist visa might be more complex for individuals with an Indian background. While it is not impossible, applicants in this situation should provide accurate and complete information as required. To enhance the likelihood of visa approval, it is important to follow all guidelines carefully and submit all necessary documentation thoroughly.
Certainly, U.S. citizens are warmly welcomed in Pakistan, similar to visitors from other nations. U.S. citizens must obtain a valid visa from the Pakistani Embassy before traveling. It is important to have the appropriate visa to avoid penalties, detention, deportation, or imprisonment.
“When visiting Pakistan, it’s important to respect local customs and cultural norms. Modest attire is appreciated, especially in religious sites. Always greet others with courtesy and use the right hand for gestures or offering items. Avoid public displays of affection and refrain from consuming alcohol in public areas, as it’s prohibited in Islam. Additionally, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home. Demonstrating sensitivity and respect for Pakistani traditions will enhance your experience as a visitor.”
The processing time for a tourist visa to Pakistan typically varies, but it generally takes between 7 to 10 business days. However, the duration can depend on several factors such as the applicant’s nationality, the completeness of the application, and the specific requirements of the Pakistani consulate or embassy where the application is submitted. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to accommodate any potential delays.