In addition to picturesque mountains, vistas of the Arabian Sea, major towns, well-established rural areas, valleys (such as the Kalash Valley), and much more, Pakistan is a melting pot of various cultures and customs.
In addition to picturesque mountains, vistas of the Arabian Sea, major towns, well-established rural areas, valleys (such as the Kalash Valley), and much more, Pakistan is a melting pot of various cultures and customs.
Kalash Valley: LOCATION
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Kalash Valley, often called "Kalasha Valley," is encircled by lush mountains. The Kalash people, also known as Kalashi or Kalasha, live in the three valleys of Bumburet, Rumbur, and Birir, which are collectively known as Kalash Valley.
The Kalash Valley has a population of 4,000 to 5,000 people altogether and a vibrant cultural environment.
Due to its distant location and the intimidating Hindukush Mountain range that surrounds it, Kalash Valley has historically been isolated from the nation's dominant religion, Islam. Due of the region's unique culture and breathtaking beauty, both local and foreign tourists are drawn here.
Valley of Rumbur
This is a mid-level valley with a few tiny villages that are less developed than Bumburet, with a Kalasha majority. The town lacks contemporary amenities despite being more popular with foreign visitors.
Valley of Birir
The bulk of the population there, as opposed to Bumburet, are Kalashas, and the rituals and traditions there are the most similar to those of the original occupants.
The valley is so far from Ayun and Chitral that it has incredibly little facilities. However, there are accommodations made in the locals' homes for guests.
Valley of Bumburet
When compared to the other two valleys, Bumburet is the largest Kalash valley. It is also recognized as the commercial hub of the area.
There are numerous intriguing places to visit in this region even if Kalashi culture and customs are less common. Here, Muslims and Kalashnikov owners coexist.
Kalash Valley Seasonal Festivals
Kalash is beautiful, but one of the reasons it is so well-liked by tourists is because of its vibrant festivals. There are several festivals hosted throughout the year, but these are the most well-known:
- Uchal
- Chilam Joshi
- Choimus
Festival of Uchal
The Uchal Festival, which takes place in August, is centred around cheese from the pastures. Once more, singing and dancing to folk music enhances its appeal to tourists.
Festival of Chilam Joshi
The celebrated Chilam Joshi festival, which is celebrated from May 13 to May 16, marks the arrival of spring. This is the busiest time of year in the valley, and there aren't many vacant spare rooms to rent.
Women in the Kalash Valley wear traditional black dress that is lavishly embroidered with vivid colors when they are dancing, praying, and socializing with other people. Men frequently choose their future brides while dancing during this event, which is another popular ritual.
Festival Choimus
Just two weeks before the winter solstice, there occurs the Choimus festival. Meeting Kalashis during these festivities is one of the trip's greatest highlights and is a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Vacation Spots in the Kalash Valley
There are many reputable hotels and guest homes in Bumburet. Renting guest rooms from locals is an option for those seeking a genuine experience.
In Bumburet, there are three communities that you can drive through or stroll through. One of its important landmarks is the old cemetery. Residents of Kalash used to bury their loved ones' bodies here together with their personal goods, such as jewellery, beds, and firearms.
Another interesting location to visit is the museum in Bumburet, where artefacts from the local heritage are on show.
How the Kalash Valley's Tourism Industry is Developing
Better tourism policies have been put in place to draw visitors to Pakistan's stunning northern regions. In recent years, Kalash Valley has seen a large influx of foreign tourists.
They travel here to enjoy the distinctive traditions and customs of the area, particularly during festivals. They might be asked to register at the police checkpoint, it should be mentioned.
