Chilam Joshi Festival Kalash – Cultural Tour Chitral | Pakistan Explorer
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Chilam Joshi Festival Kalash/Chitral

Witness the vibrant spring festival of the Kalash people — music, dance, and ancient traditions in the heart of the Hindukush.

Overview

Known to have descended from the Greeks, many historians believe that Kalaasha were part of the raging armies of Alexander of Macedonia who decided to settle in this part of the world.

These tribes are pagans and have retained their culture and traditions through thousands of years. The open Graveyard, Kalash Museum, old Mosque and the beautiful lush green valleys of Hindukush are a treat for the visitors. Tirich Mir at 7708m — one of the highest peaks of Hindukush Range standing tall in the background of mesmerizing Karakul valley.

One of the world renowned festivals celebrated in Kalash is the Chilam Joshi festival during the month of May. The Kalasha believe that the pastoral god Sorizan protects their herds during autumn and winter, and so they host a winter festival to thank the God, Sorizon. Their other God, Goshidai protects the herds during summer and spring seasons and is thanked at the Chilam Joshi festival.

Quick Facts

  • Fly from ISB to Chitral (subject to weather)
  • By road via Lowari Tunnel
  • 07 Days & 06 Nights
  • Route A/B with slight variation
  • Difficulty: Evening walks
  • Ideal Time: First week of May

Tour Itinerary

A 7-day journey into the heart of Kalash culture and the stunning Hindukush.

Day 1

Arrival in Islamabad

Airport Transfer • Hotel check-in • Overnight stay in Islamabad

Day 2

Islamabad to Chitral

Breakfast • Hotel Check-out • Departure for Chitral via Swat Motorway/Lowari Tunnel (10 hours journey) • Arrival in Chitral • Hotel Check-in

Day 3–4

Rumbur / Bumbureet / Kalash

Breakfast at 0700hrs • Departure for Kalash Valley • Exploring Rumbur/Bumbureet/Kalash • Witness the splendor of Chilam Joshi Festival cultural dances, music and folklore • Visit of Historic Mosque, Graveyard, Museum • Night stay at Karakul Campsite

Day 5

Chitral Exploration

Breakfast • Departure for Chitral • Visit of Chitral Gol National Park • Lunch enroute • Evening in Chitral Bazaar and Market places • Hotel Check-in

Day 6

Return to Islamabad

Breakfast • Departure for ISB • Lunch enroute • Arrival in ISB • Overnight stay in Islamabad

Day 7

Fly Home

Departure from Islamabad — end of tour

Pricing

Choose the option that best fits your travel style.

2 Persons
$1,000 USD
Independent Group
2 Persons
$800 USD
Combined Group
4 Persons
$800 USD
Independent Group
4 Persons
$750 USD
Combined Group
6+ Persons
$600 USD
Independent Group

Cost Includes

  • All meals Breakfast/lunch/dinner throughout the tour (2-course Local/Continental as per choice)
  • Air-conditioned luxury Coaster (22-seater)
  • All 4×4 Jeep travel with fuel
  • All hotel accommodation 2 to 3 star (double/triple sharing)
  • On-board snacks and drinks (ice box) during long travels
  • Licensed Tour Guide from Ministry of Tourism
  • Toll taxes/NOC/Entry tickets/Permits other taxes
  • All transportation from and to Islamabad Airport

Cost Does Not Include

  • Air tickets (national or International)
  • Visa fee
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal clothing
  • Extra refreshments apart from itinerary
  • Laundry
  • Rescue/evacuation

Essentials to Bring Along

Warm clothing, fleece, jackets
Sunglasses UV protective
Sunblock SPF 60+
Gloves, headgear

Terms & Conditions

Pakistan Explorer Disciplinary Policy

  • • • In wake of unexpected scenarios (heavy rains/landslide/road blockage/security concerns), PE management will take appropriate measures to continue or disengage the tour.
  • • • Hotel rooms on double sharing • Camps on double sharing
  • • • Guests must respect local community/houses and their privacy
  • • • Guests are strictly advised to use life jackets while swimming or engaging in water sports
  • • • Guests must follow instructions of the team leader/guide

Cancellations

  • • • All cancellations must be notified in writing
  • • • Bank charges for both sides from the advance will be paid by the client
  • • • No refund on unutilized services if canceled after commencement
  • • • Government rules applied for refund of Trekking Fee/climbing permits

Reservations and Advance Payment

  • • • All provisional reservation must reach us in writing well in advance
  • • • USD 300/= per pax advance payment required for confirmation
  • • • Scan/copy of passport along with two passport size photographs required

Payment Details

Account Title: Pakistan Explorer

A/c #: 001005077804

Branch Code: 0131

IBAN: PK75ALFH0131001005077804

Bank: Bank Alfalah F-10 Markaz, Islamabad

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Witness one of the world's most unique cultural festivals. Limited spots available.

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