Our
services in Pakistan
Chitral
Travel Buearu
Shahi Masjid Road
Director
Said Harir shah
E.mail: harirchitral@hotmail.com
CHITRAL
In
the northwestern region of Pakistan lies the remote
and peaceful valley of Chitral. Lying in the midst of
Hindukush Range, it is one of the world’s most
beautiful regions. Chitral offers enchanting scenery
in the shadow of majestic Trich Mir, which, at 7,708m
is the highest peak of Hindukush Ranges. The people
of Chitral, the “Kho”, show traces of Persian
and Turkish ancestry. They are known for their peaceful,
uncomplicated character and unique culture.
Chitral is more famous, however, for the Kalash people
who inhabit the southwestern part of the region. The
“Kalash Country” is spread over three Valleys;
Bomboret, Birir and Rumbur. The Kalash have always fascinated
anthropologists and historians by their obscure origins,
colourful festivals, and curious customs and rituals.
Another interesting place near Chitral is Birmoglasht,
the summer residence of the former Mehters (rulers).
About 45 Kms north of Chitral Town are the famous hot
springs Garam Chashma, known for their curing properties.
A day trip to Buni gives further interesting insights
into Chitrali rural life, plus views of beautiful Bunizom
Mountain.
Polo, the “Game of the Kings” is best seen
here in its land of origin. Played by skillful, daring
participants in traditional style, Polo tournament is
held every year in July near Chitral at Shandur Pass
between Arch rivals Gilgit & Chitral.
Wildlife such as Marco Polo Sheep (ovis amon polis),
Markhor or Ibex (caprafalconeri), Snow Leopard and Brown
Bear are found in the heights of the Hindukush Mountains
and are protected species.
Chitral is easily accessible by a 50-minute flight daily
from Peshawar, or by road from Peshawar to Dir and then
over the Lowari Pass (3,088m), a spectacular journey
of approximately 15 hours.
CHITRAL WALKING TOUR - Half Day
Shahi
Mosque, a beautiful white structure built by the former
rulers of Chitral, is one of the most interesting buildings
in Chitral. In its courtyard are buried former rulers
and members of their families. Nearby is the historic
Fort of Chitral where a small contingent of the British
Army was besieged for almost thirty days. From the fort
is an awe-inspiring view of Trich Mir Mountain with
the Chitral River flowing nearby. The winding street
of the Chitral bazaar has shops selling household objects,
antiques and handicrafts obtained from the remote valleys.
BIRIR (Kalash Valley) - Full Day
About
34 Km southwest of Chitral is the narrow valley of Birir,
where the Kalash community is gathered together. The
main village of Guru is perched on a hillside as if
stuck to the steep slope. The main attractions are the
women in their long black robes and their attractive
headgear, skillfully made entirely of cowrie’s
shells and buttons. An interesting site included in
the tour is the dance hall, which during the winter
is used for religious performances. Also included is
a visit to a Kalash home - a unique experience.
BOMBORET VILLAGE (Kalash Valley) - Full Day
Larger
and wider than Birir, the scenic valley of Bomboret
lies 40 Km from Chitral. The excursion includes a visit
to Brun where the Kalash deities are accommodated as
well as stops at the graveyard where fully dressed corpses
can be seen lying in their coffins, the unique cattle
houses, and a visit to the village of Shaikande where
a Moslem minority from Nuristan lives. Of special interest
here are the Nuristani carvings, handicrafts and motifs
used to decorate the houses.
Pak Afghan Trading
48 3D Floor P.M.C
Khayber Bazar Peshawar
Tel. 2565640
Fax.2567640
Mobil-03008599367
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