How do I get to the Kalash Valley?

Most travellers fly Islamabad to Chitral (about 1 hour) or drive via the Lowari Tunnel (about 12–14 hours), then continue 2–3 hours by road from Chitral to the valleys.

Is the tour private or group?

We run both festival departures and private trips. Private trips can start on the dates you choose.

What is the best time to visit?

May to October for open roads and greenery; May, August, October and December if you want a festival.

Do foreigners need a permit?

Foreign visitors register with local authorities in Chitral; we handle the paperwork with you. [CONFIRM: current NOC/registration rules]

Send us your dates and group size on WhatsApp (+92 327 395 0904) or through the form on this page. We reply with a written quote, usually within one working day, and confirm the booking in writing.

Kalash Valley Tour

A Kalash Valley tour takes you to Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir in Chitral, Pakistan, with local Kalash guides. Our standard trip is 5 days / 4 nights from Islamabad, by flight or road via the Lowari Tunnel, with transport, stays and guiding arranged locally and a written quote before you book.

Written by Saqib U Rehman, Founder, Kalash Tours (Chaqon Global Tours), DTS PR 6331

Last verified: October 2026

What does the 5-day itinerary look like?

Day 1 – Travel to Chitral: fly or drive from Islamabad, briefing on route, weather and cultural etiquette.
Day 2 – Chitral to Bumburet: travel via Ayun into Bumburet, guided walk through public village areas.
Day 3 – Bumburet culture day: public sites around Brun, Krakal or Batrik; on festival dates the day follows the community programme.
Day 4 – Rumbur or Birir: village walks, forest scenery and cultural interpretation.
Day 5 – Return: depart after breakfast towards Chitral and Islamabad.

Who does this tour suit?

First-time visitors who want a respectful introduction to Kalash culture
Festival travellers (Chilam Joshi, Uchaw, Phool, Chaumos)
Families and small private groups who want a flexible pace
Photographers who will follow local photography rules

What is included?

Local Kalash / Chitrali guide
Road transport from Chitral to the valleys and between valleys
Guesthouse or hotel stays in the valleys
Route, weather and festival-date checks before you travel
24/7 on-tour support
[CONFIRM: meals, flights and permit fees included or not]

How much does a Kalash Valley tour cost?

Packages start from [CONFIRM: price] per person. The final price depends on group size, travel dates (festival dates are busier), flight or road travel and hotel standard. We always send a written quote before you pay anything.

Which festival can I see in each season?

Spring – Chilam Joshi (Zhoshi / Chilimjusht), mid-May
Summer – Uchaw (Uchal), late August
Autumn – Phool (Phoo), mid-October, dates confirmed locally
Winter – Chaumos, December

Which valleys will I visit?

Bumburet is the largest and most visited valley, Rumbur is quieter with forest trails, and Birir is the smallest and most traditional. Read the full Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir guides linked below.

Frequently asked questions

Five days / four nights is enough for Bumburet plus Rumbur or Birir. Add one or two days for festival programmes, all three valleys or Chitral town.

Ready to plan your trip?

WhatsApp +92 327 395 0904

Free download

Plan my Kalash trip

Tell us where and when, and get our free Kalash Valley Trip Guide (PDF): best time, festival dates, packing list, etiquette and how to get there.