Discover the unique and enchanting culture of the Kalash community, one of the world’s endangered minority groups, on a 12-day trek through the breathtaking Kalash Valley in Chitral. The Kalash people, who reside in the three valleys of Bumboret, Rumbur, and Birir in the Hindu Kush region of Chitral, are the only non-Muslim group in the area.
As subsistence farmers, the Kalash herd goats in pastures and reside in villages situated just above their fields, at the base of rocky hills. Their flat-roofed houses are clustered tightly together. The Kalash religion is based on ancestor worship and revolves around the worship of 12 gods and goddesses, with Mahandeo being the primary deity.
The Kalash observe four major festivals, which commemorate seasonal changes and significant events in their agro-pastoral lifestyle. During these festivals, they offer sacrifices at altars to express gratitude to their deities. The Kalash people hold these religious rituals in high regard, as they believe in the existence of supernatural beings according to their mythology. Immerse yourself in the Kalash culture and traditions as you trek through their picturesque valley and experience their unique way of life.
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Maximum Altitude 540m
On the first day of your Kalash Valley Chitral Trek, a warm welcome awaits you as a member/guide from Spantik Pakistan greets you at the airport and accompanies you to the hotel. Take some time to relax and unwind in our partner hotel, where you will be staying in a comfortable twin-sharing room at either Chateau Royale or Prestige Residence (or an equivalent standard partner hotel, depending on occupancy) in Islamabad.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful welcome dinner with your fellow trekkers who are also part of the Nanga Parbat Base Camp group. Savor a sumptuous spread of meals that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with tea, coffee, and snacks to keep you energized for the adventure that awaits you in the coming days. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Kalash Valley in Chitral.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale (see pictures), Prestige Residence (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Islamabad.
Meals:
Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day two of the Kalash Valley Chitral Trek is all about embarking on a scenic journey to the beautiful valley. Our domestic/local participants are requested to join the group at our office at F-11 Markaz in Islamabad on time.
The adventure begins on the world-renowned Karakoram highway. We will decide later whether to take the Naran-Kaghan road or the Besham road to reach Chilas. After relishing a delicious lunch in either Naran or Besham, we will continue travelling alongside the magnificent Indus River on the Karakoram Highway, soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. We will reach our destination late in the evening, where a mouthwatering dinner awaits us.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Shangrila Raikot (see pictures), Shangrila Chilas (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Chilas.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
On day three of the Kalash Valley Chitral Trek, you will kick off the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading towards the enchanting Fairy Meadows. Participants will transfer to Tatu village on sturdy 4×4 jeeps, providing a thrilling experience as we traverse the rugged terrain.
Upon reaching Tatu village, we will hike for 2-3 hours to reach Fairy Meadows, where participants can unwind, relax and soak in the scenic beauty of the place. Take short hikes, interact with the friendly locals or simply stroll around the verdant meadows at your leisure. The mesmerizing views of the towering mountains and the lush greenery around you will leave you in awe.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing tent/cottage at Raikot Sarai (see pictures), Greenland Hotel Hotel (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Fairy Meadows
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
As day four of the Kalash Valley Chitral Trek begins, participants will embark on an exhilarating journey towards the Nanga Parbat Base Camp. After passing through the tranquil and serene Beyal campsite, we will encounter a more challenging but equally rewarding trail. The trek will take us through an alpine forest, which gradually transitions into an arid landscape surrounded by snow and ice blocks, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Upon reaching the Nanga Parbat Base Camp, participants will be greeted by the peaceful silence that is only interrupted by occasional avalanches. Spending quality time at the base camp, located under the majestic Himalayan Beast (8,126m), will be an unforgettable experience. The trek back to Fairy Meadows will be equally enthralling, with stunning views all along the way.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent (see pictures)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
On day 5, participants will enjoy a leisurely trek back to Fairy Meadows, taking in the stunning views and fresh mountain air. Once back at the camp, participants will have the whole day to themselves to unwind and explore the surrounding area. Whether you want to relax and reflect, indulge in some creative activities, or capture the picturesque landscape with your camera, there is something for everyone. Fairy Meadows is particularly renowned for its spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and full moons that illuminate the Himalayan mountain range in all their glory.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing tent/cottage at Raikot Sarai (see pictures), Greenland Hotel Hotel (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Fairy Meadows
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Leaving the picturesque Fairy Meadows behind, on this day we will head towards the breathtaking valley of Hunza in the Karakoram range. As we follow the Indus River on the Karakoram Highway, we will be welcomed by the Hunza River, which will accompany us on our journey. Along the way, we will cross several bridges and pass through charming villages of the Brusho and Shinaki people, offering us a glimpse of their unique culture and way of life. Finally, we will reach the capital of Hunza, Karimabad, where we will spend the night and indulge in the beauty and hospitality of this mesmerizing valley.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Hilltop Hotel Hunza (see pictures), World Roof Hotel (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Hunza.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
On day 7, we will have an early start with a spectacular view of the majestic Rakaposhi peak from the hotel in Karimabad. We will then visit the famous Baltit Fort (700 years old) and Altit Fort (900 years old), where guests can unwind and savor a cup of coffee in the royal gardens of Altit Fort. Later in the afternoon, we will take a short excursion/hike to the highest viewpoint, Duikar, in Hunza-Nagar to witness the mesmerizing sunset over the snow-capped peaks.
After this unforgettable experience, we will return to our hotel in Hunza for a comfortable night stay.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Hilltop Hotel Hunza (see pictures), World Roof Hotel (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Hunza.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
On this day, we will embark on an adventurous journey towards the Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border crossing in the world. Along the way, we will pass through the iconic Ganish Bridge and marvel at ancient rock carvings, before reaching the stunning Attabad Lake and the newly constructed Pak-China friendship tunnels. As we cross through the Wildlife Conservation Area in Khyber and enter the Khunjerab National Park, we might be lucky enough to spot wildlife such as ibex, snow leopards, and marmots.
Upon reaching the Pak-China border, participants will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking natural environment and perhaps even witness snow in the middle of summer. This border is also a meeting point for Chinese people, including soldiers, border police, and tourists. We will enjoy a packed picnic lunch on the border at 4,733 meters above sea level, before returning to Sost for some shopping time for Chinese goods such as electronics and watches.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Sarai Silk Route (see pictures), Passu Ambassador Hotel (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Passu.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep in Passu, we will embark on a short but thrilling hike. Our experienced guide will take us either to the suspension bridge walk or to Passu Glacier, depending on the group’s preference. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to visit local homes and fruit orchards, where we can try local delicacies, fresh fruits, and enjoy the company of the hospitable locals. This will be an excellent chance for participants to experience the culture and lifestyle of the people living in the mountains.
In the evening, we will return to our hotel in Passu for a cozy night’s stay.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Sarai Silk Route (see pictures), Passu Ambassador Hotel (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Passu.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
On this day, the guests will bid farewell to the scenic beauty of Passu and make their way back to either Besham or Naran, depending on the weather and other variables. If we take the road to Besham, we will drive through Chilas and Dassu, travelling along the Indus River on the Karakoram Highway. However, we will try to return to Islamabad via the Naran road, which will provide our guests with an opportunity to explore additional locations and take in more stunning views.
Naran
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Parhena Cottages (see pictures), Hotel deManchi (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Naran.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Besham
Accommodation: Twin-sharing tent/cottage at Besham Hilton Hotel (see pictures), PTDC Motel (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Besham.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Maximum Altitude 538m
After a thrilling trekking adventure, the journey back to Islamabad will commence either from Besham or Naran, depending on the travel arrangements. On the way, participants will have the chance to witness the stunning natural beauty of Pakistan and explore more towns, cities, and villages. Our domestic participants will bid farewell and be dropped off at Islamabad (F-11 Markaz) on this day.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale (see pictures), Prestige Residence (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Islamabad.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Accommodation: Standard hotel
Meals: included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Embark on a journey to explore the unique blend of modernity and history that the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have to offer. Witness the beauty of Faisal Mosque, Shakarparian Hills, and Islamabad’s vibrant markets. In Rawalpindi, stroll through the maze-like bazaars, indulge in traditional street food, and marvel at the stunning architecture of the colonial-era buildings.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale (see pictures), Prestige Residence (see pictures) or equivalent standard partner hotel (depends on occupancy) in Islamabad.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + tea/coffee and snacks
Meals: included: Breakfast
On this day, we sadly bid farewell to our cherished guests and assist with their transfers to the airport. Our team will ensure that the departure process is hassle-free, making sure that our guests have a pleasant journey back home. We hope that the memories created during their trip will last a lifetime and that they will leave with a desire to come back and explore more of Pakistan in the future.
Foreign travelers (non-Pakistani)
Domestic travelers (Pakistani Nationals)
Foreign travelers (non-Pakistani)
Domestic travelers (Pakistani Nationals)
❖ Road Condition:
➔ The road journey between Gilgit and Besham is quite lengthy and the road condition is not optimal.
➔ In the event that Babusar Top is open and the route through Naran-Kaghan valley is taken, the road condition is improved.
❖ Hot Water Timings in The North:
➔ There are three hours set aside in the evening (6:00 pm-9:00 pm) and three hours in the morning (7:00 am-10:00 am) for your convenience.
➔ In the North, many hotels do not have heaters, but you can request double blankets if needed. Some hotels may also provide heating mattresses.
❖ Immunization / Personal Medication:
➔ There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Pakistan. However, if you are taking medication for conditions like diabetes or heart problems, it is recommended that you carry the necessary medicines in your carry-on luggage to ensure that you have them with you in case your main luggage is delayed.
❖ Temperature:
➔ During the spring and autumn seasons, the average daytime temperature in Northern Pakistan is around 15-20 Celsius, while the average nighttime temperature is around 10-15 Celsius. In the summer, the average daytime temperature in Northern Pakistan is around 20-30 Celsius, while the average nighttime temperature is around 15-25 Celsius. In Islamabad, the average daytime temperature during spring and autumn can be 25-30 Celsius, while the nighttime temperature is around 15-25 Celsius.
❖ Money:
➔ Islamabad accepts credit cards such as Visa and Master Card, but it’s advisable to carry cash in Pakistani Rupee while traveling outside the capital. The official currency in Pakistan is Pakistani Rupees (PKR), and carrying a small amount of cash can come in handy while buying snacks, fruits, drinks, or souvenirs on the way. If you need to convert foreign currency, you can do so in Pakistan. However, it’s important to note that any US dollars issued earlier than 1996-2009 will be considered 15% less than their actual value. Also, torn, dirty, or stamped notes can decrease their value by at least 10%. Therefore, it’s recommended to bring US dollars issued after 2009 to avoid any inconvenience.
❖ Tipping Etiquette:
➔ When it comes to tipping, it is customary to give 4-5 USD per day to your local guide and driver in Pakistan. However, you are free to give more based on the quality of their service. Keep in mind that this amount may seem small to you, but it is highly valued by the locals. As for tipping hotel and restaurant staff, it is recommended to give at least 100 PKR directly to them if they have provided you with any additional services that have made your stay more enjoyable. Other tipping is at your discretion.
❖ Meals & Special Food Requirements:
➔ Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to savor the diverse and delicious food that the region has to offer. We provide breakfast and dinner during the tour, and the food menu is mostly similar to Indian cuisine. We offer a rotation of chicken, beef, mutton, vegetables, rice, and soups every day. We also provide local and Western breakfast options, along with tea. However, if you have a preference for certain foods or get tired of the same menu every day, we recommend bringing your comfort food such as sambal, canned food, or instant noodles.
❖ Voltage:
➔ In the region, the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. Type C (2 round pin) and type D (3 round pin) plugs are commonly used for electronic devices. It is recommended to bring appropriate adapters for your devices if they are not compatible with these plug types.
❖ Laundry service:
➔ You can find laundry facilities in many hotels and towns during the trip. However, it’s recommended to plan ahead and choose a two-night stop to ensure you have enough time to get your laundry done and returned to you in time.
❖ Altitude:
➔ The guided tour will take you to the highest altitude of approximately 4793 meters at the Khunjerab Pass – the border between Pakistan and China. The visit to this place will be limited to a maximum of one hour for photography. The average elevation in Northern Pakistan during the tour will be between 1000-2000 meters. The highest altitude during a Trekking Tour, on the other hand, will depend on the itinerary decided for the tour.
❖ Packing:
➔ We suggest bringing a small or medium-sized suitcase with wheels. For weight restrictions, if you are flying with Thai Airways for your international flight, you are allowed one checked bag of up to 25 kg and a carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg. For domestic flights with PIA Pakistan Airlines, you are allowed one checked bag weighing up to 20 kg and a carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg.
❖ Clothing:
➔ It’s important to wear comfortable and sturdy walking shoes with good support, particularly if you’re planning to explore the Northern regions of Pakistan. If you’re traveling during the spring, it’s advisable to bring along a windproof jacket, sweater, jeans, rain jacket, scarf, cotton socks, and comfortable walking shoes. It’s also recommended to pack some T-shirts with both long and short sleeves to protect yourself from the strong UV rays, as well as lightweight cotton trousers.
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
