Tour Photo Gallery
Step into the awe-inspiring Northern Pakistan wilderness with genuine captures from our journeys.
Tour Overview & Experience
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Custom pacing, private certified native guides & tailored group itineraries.
Every trip helps support Conservation
Fair-wage porter insurance, Leave-No-Trace practices & local community aid.
Seamless travel, every detail perfected
All permits, deluxe accommodations, private transport & 24/7 expert logistics.
Kalash People
The Kalash believe they are originally from Tsiam, although no one yet knows where that is. It is more likely they are descendants from Indo-Aryans (about 2000BC). Many historians believe the Kalash are descendants of the soldiers of Alexander the Great.
The kalash valleys of Rumbur, Bumburet and Birir are within Chitral District of Pakistan. The kalash people are the only non-Muslims for hundreds of miles. They may be a little wary of strangers, but usually do welcome who wants to become acquainted with the kalash way of life.
The 3500 Kalash of the valleys live in unique houses made of local stone and wood which are stacked on top of one another at steep hillsides. The roof of one house is the verandah of another, on top of the lower house. They make their living with staple crops like lentils or wheat and by goat herding. Life is very traditional, like in many parts of the world, and the work division between men and their women is elaborate. Family life, cattle herding and harvesting form their main livelihood with the occasional distraction of a festival or two. Women move into a Bashaleni house when giving birth and also when they are menstruating. Many aspects of the society are both communal and segregated and typically, marriages are made by arrangement.
Festival
The festival is celebrated to welcome the arrival of the New Year. All the Kalash people remain indoors and outsiders are not allowed to enter their settlements for 7 days. The people have a merry time by free wine drinking and they sacrifice goats. People show their thanks by dancing and singing together, enjoying every moment.
During the festivals prayers, a procession is made to a high plateau outside the village in Balangkuru where the long night of dancing begins. The festivals continue for many more days moving on to different locations within the valleys.
Choimus Festival: Held annually in December (usually the first to third week) in the Kalash valleys. Dates may vary slightly each year. The festival lasts up to two weeks, with the main celebrations occurring around the winter solstice . Book early as accommodations fill quickly .
Winter Weather: December in the Kalash valleys is cold, with temperatures dropping to minus 12 degrees Celsius and regular snowfall . Pack warm layers, a heavy jacket, gloves, and a hat.
Kalash Valley: The Kalash are a unique pagan tribe. Respect their culture and always ask permission before photographing people or their homes. During Choimus, some areas may be restricted to non-Muslims .
Tooshi Wildlife: The best time for markhor sightings is early morning or late afternoon. Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens for photography .
Flight to Chitral: The Islamabad-Chitral flight is weather-dependent and operates intermittently . If cancelled, the journey will be made by road via the Lowari Tunnel, which keeps Chitral accessible year-round .
“Along the ancient Silk Road, every fortress, stone bazaar, and welcoming mountain hearth tells centuries of timeless history and vibrant living heritage.”
Tour Highlights
- Islamabad City Tour – Visit Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument & Daman-e-Koh
- Lawari Pass (3,118m) – Cross this scenic pass into Chitral (if driving)
- Shahi Qila (Chitral Fort) – Visit the historic fort and museum
- Kalash Winter Festival (Choimus) – Experience the most important festival of the Kalash people
- Kalash Girls' Dance – Witness the famous traditional dance performances
- Winter Rituals – Observe fire purification ceremonies and ancient prayers
- Kalash New Year – Join the celebrations welcoming the new year
- Bumburet Valley – Explore the largest of the three Kalash valleys
- Rumbur & Birir Valleys – Visit the other Kalash valleys to witness different celebrations
- Kalash Culture – Observe the unique traditions and lifestyle of the Kalash tribe
- Traditional Kalash Houses – Visit local homes and learn about their way of life
- Tooshi Wildlife Excursion – Spot the magnificent markhor in its natural habitat
- Chitral – Explore the former princely state and its historic bazaar
Day-by-Day Itinerary (11 Days / 10 Nights)
(10th DEC) Arrival Islamabad – City Tour
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Meet and greet by Hunza Adventure Tours representative, then transfer to hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, visiting Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, Saidpur Village, and Raja Bazaar. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 540m | Distance: 30 km | Drive: 1 hour
(11th DEC): Islamabad – Chitral (Fly or Drive)
Fly to Chitral (weather permitting) or drive via the scenic Swat and Dir valleys, crossing the Lowari Tunnel. Arrive at Chitral, the capital of the former princely state, surrounded by the mighty Hindukush range. Check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 1,500m | Flight: 1 hour / Drive: 10-12 hours
(12th DEC): Chitral – Bumburet, Kalash Valley
After breakfast, drive to Bumburet, the largest of the three Kalash valleys, about 2 hours from Chitral. Set up camp and explore the valley. Visit traditional Kalash houses to observe their unique lifestyle and traditions. In the evening, experience the first glimpses of the festive atmosphere. Overnight in Hotel/Guest House. Altitude: 2,000m | Distance: 40 km | Drive: 2 hours
(13th-22nd DEC) Kalash Winter Festival (Choimus)
Five full days to immerse yourself in the Kalash Winter Festival (Choimus/Chawmos) — the most important and impressive festival of the Kalash people.
About Choimus:
Choimus is celebrated each December around the winter solstice, marking the end of the harvest year and welcoming the Kalash New Year . The festival lasts for up to two weeks and is the largest religious festival of the Kalash tribe . It features ancient rituals, music, dance, animal sacrifice, and communal feasting .
Daily Activities Include:
Kalash Girls' Dance – Witness the famous traditional dance performances in colorful traditional dress adorned with cowry shells, coins, and beads
Traditional Music – Listen to elders chanting legends with drum accompaniment
Winter Rituals – Observe fire purification ceremonies and prayers to the gods of nature
New Year Celebrations – Join the Kalash people in welcoming the new year with hopes for prosperity
Animal Sacrifice – Witness the traditional sacrifices of goats for men and sheep for women
Valley Exploration – Visit the valleys of Rumbur and Birir to witness different celebrations
Cultural Immersion – Interact with the Kalash people and learn about their unique way of life
Photography – Capture the vibrant colors, dances, and traditions of the festival
Overnight in camp. Altitude: 2,000m
(23rd DEC) Bumburet – Chitral – Tooshi Wildlife Excursion
After breakfast, drive back to Chitral. In the afternoon, visit Tooshi for wildlife watching and photography. Tooshi is a community-managed conservation area famous for its markhor population — the world's largest wild goat. It is located about 30 minutes from Chitral town on the Garam Chashma road . The markhor descend to the river for water at sunset and sunrise, offering excellent viewing opportunities . With luck, you may also spot other wildlife. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 1,500m | Distance: 40 km + 20 km | Drive: 2 hours + 1 hour
(24th DEC) Chitral – Islamabad (Fly) – City Tour
Fly to Islamabad (weather permitting). Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon city tour of Islamabad, visiting Shah Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, and Daman-e-Koh for panoramic views. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 540m | Flight: 1 hour
(25th DEC) Departure
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward destination.
What's Included & Excluded
Package Inclusions
- Transport & Transfers: All domestic flights and ground transportation included.
- Accommodations: Twin-sharing hotel stays and high-grade trekking camps (including D3V sleeping tents, toilet tents, and shower tents).
- Meals & Catering: Full board (daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner) prepared by our dedicated camp cook and kitchen staff.
- Permits & Official Fees: Complete government trekking permits, official paperwork, bridge tolls, campsite fees, and mandatory waste management dues.
- Logistics & Camp Gear: Comprehensive trekking logistics, communal gear, and non-personal equipment.
- Dedicated Crew: Licensed professional mountain guide, kitchen assistants, and porters (up to 15 kg personal luggage allowance per guest).
- Safety & Emergency Support: Comprehensive first-aid medical kit and satellite phone connectivity for emergency communication.
Package Exclusions
- Travel & Visas: International airfare, airport departure taxes, and Pakistan visa fees.
- Insurance: Comprehensive personal travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance.
- Accommodations & Upgrades: Single room supplement (available upon request).
- Separate Transfers: Airport transfers for participants arriving or departing outside the group schedule.
- Personal Gear & Expenses: Sleeping bags, room service, laundry, phone/internet charges, beverages (soft drinks, mineral water, and alcoholic drinks), and items of a purely personal nature.
- Custom Activities: Optional excursions, extra sightseeing, or custom deviations from the fixed itinerary.
- Gratuities: Tips for mountain guides, camp staff, porters, and drivers.
- Unlisted Services: Any expense or service not explicitly specified in the "Included" section.
Trek & Route Map
Interactive geographical route & terrain map for Kalash Winter Festival(CHOIMUS 15th-22nd December)
Terms & Conditions
Hunza Adventure Tours promulgates its terms and conditions for all tours, treks, expeditions, and safaris operated by the company in Pakistan.
Reservation & Advance Payment Requirements
- 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation to secure permits, hotel rooms, transport, and certified mountain guides.
- The full balance settlement must be cleared upon arrival in Pakistan before departure.
- Advance deposits can be directly wired to our official corporate bank account at Bank Alfalah.
Official Corporate Bank Account Details
Direct all international wire transfers to our official account at Alfalah Bank Pakistan:
A 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation. Deposits are non-refundable in case of client cancellation, but 100% refundable if the company encounters unforeseen logistical impediments.
All tour packages provide hotel rooms on a twin-sharing basis. A single room supplement charge applies for single occupancy requests.
No refunds will be made to participants who voluntarily leave the tour before completion for any unused nights, transport, or meals.
Our certified tour directors hold complete operational authority. Disruptive or unlawful behavior may result in immediate dismissal from the tour group.
All participants are advised to secure comprehensive international travel insurance covering emergency medical expenses and trip cancellation prior to arrival.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. We issue official DTS-licensed LOI documentation for the Pakistan online eVisa portal within 24 hours of booking.
Packing & Travel Essentials
- Sturdy trekking boots / trail walking shoes
- Comfortable slip-on shoes for camps & lodges
- 3-4 pairs of wool/synthetic socks
- Thermal base layers & warm fleece jacket
- Waterproof & windproof outer shell
- Sun hat, warm beanie, and lightweight gloves
- High SPF 50+ sunscreen & polarized sunglasses
- Camera / action cam with extra batteries
- Portable power bank & universal adapter
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize Trips?
We loves to customize personal trips for you, your friends, or organization. Our published land costs are typically based on number of individuals, so the number in your party may affect your land costs. Just give us a call/contact us and let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll do our best to Make It Happen.
What if i want to arrive earlier or depart later than the trip dates?
We are happy to help you arrange accommodations before and after your trip. We can recommend side excursions and restaurants for the extra time.
Who will be picking me up and where?
Our guide or representative will pick you up at the airport on the scheduled arrival date. We can help you arrange accommodations if you arrive earlier, and we are happy to make suggestions for transportation, restaurants and sightseeing.
Who will my guide be?
All of our guides are highly skilled experienced professionals who have been selected based on their careful judgment, local knowledge, understanding of our client’s needs, patience and supportive guiding styles, and great personalities. In addition to their impressive personal achievements in the field, our guides bring a wealth of natural history, cultural anthropology and linguistic knowledge for their group’s enlightenment. Our international guides and staff surpass the needs of our clientele and make the trip enjoyable beyond expectations.
Who will i meet on my arrival in Pakistan?
You will be greeted by our representative at airport on your arrival. He shall be holding a placard of your name for identification. We shall also provide you list of emergency 24 hours contact numbers for any emergency.
Reserving a trip: how quickly do the trips fill up?
There is no way to know how quickly our trips are going to fill up. Many of our trips fill up months in advance. So send in your application and a deposit as soon as you have decided which trip date you want.
Do I need a visa to travel to Pakistan?
This must be obtained before arrival and we recommend that you contact your local Pakistani embassy or consulate when planning your trip.
How is Gilgit Baltistan as a destination? Which places can we see in winter?
Gilgit Baltistan is a beautiful destination. So much so, that one should definitely plan a visit. With beautiful lakes and treks to offer, Gilgit Baltistan is a must-visit place to go to. In winter, the temperature in Gilgit Baltistan drops down severely and becomes even more picturesque. One can visit the frozen lakes , if not the Baltoro trek, one can do the trek in Hunza Valley, visit Gilgit Baltistan festivals that help you interact with the locals as well.
What do i need to bring?
A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your trip will be sent to you in a dossier. Every year, after assessing feedback from our clients and guides, we review and update our lists so they are as complete and up-to-date as possible. Every list has a description of each item, however feel free to call us if you have questions or need help locating any of the items on the list. It is extremely important that you adhere strictly to the equipment list.
Can i request single accommodations?
All accommodations are based on double or triple occupancy. If you are traveling solo and wish to share accommodations, we will pair you with another traveler of same gender. If you request single accommodations or a roommate cannot be assigned, you will be responsible for paying the single supplement fee.
Are there any restrictions for the Photography in Pakistan?
Pakistani people love to take pictures and photograph themselves !
Do not forget your camera !
Photography is a great fun in Pakistan as you will have enough sunlight most of the time. In some of the monuments one has to pay fee for the photography. Our guide will suggest you where it is worth to photograph and where not. At some of the locations photography is not allowed. It is prohibited to photograph military installations, which can include some the train stations, bridges and airports also.Do not photograph these objects otherwise your film can be confiscated.
Should I tip my guide?
Tipping is always a personal choice, but is greatly appreciated by your guides. Check your departure packet for details.
How do i sign up for a trip?
You can sign up for the trip directly on our website. To secure your place on this trip, please click on the BOOK NOW button at the side of the page, or the dates tab to the right. You will also need to have the below information to hand:
• Name as per Passport
• Home Address
• Email Address
• Telephone Number
• Date of Birth
Before you embark on your trip, it is essential that we receive your passport, travel insurance, next of kin, medical details and dietary requirements (if applicable). If you have any medical conditions to declare or are over the age of 65, you will be required to complete a medical declaration form, signed and stamped by your GP. If you don’t have all this information to hand, you can still register your place today, and then re-log into the form before you depart by using your email address and the password you create upon registration.
What is the deposit amount to hold my space?
For the trip confirmation you need to pay us the 40% payment in advance and the remaining 60% payment on arrival in Pakistan and for an
application alone won’t reserve a space
What happens if Hunza Adventure Tours has to cancel my trip?
If we cancels a trip due to any reason, you will receive a full refund.
Is it safe to travel in the Karakorum region?
The incidence of personal violent crime is certainly almost none despite sensational headlines and occasional saber rattling. The Karakorum region is known for centuries of peaceful coexistence.
The incidence of personal violent crime is certainly almost none than in anywhere in the world despite sensational headlines and occasional saber rattling. The Karakorum region is known for centuries of peaceful coexistence.
we have continued to operate trips in the region each year and we are confident that these regions remains one of the most beautiful, compelling and welcoming places on earth.
The major concentrations of troubles are in the western parts of Pakistan and 100s of miles to the Islamabad. Their major concentrations are in areas which have had little or no tourism (investment, hard currency, etc) which is one of the reasons that their message has played well in these very poor districts. By comparison, the K2 Region is a very well and worldly part of Pakistan.
That said, whenever you travel in Pakistan (or anywhere in the world for that matter), you should definitely use personal caution. We avoid any known dangerous situations. We monitor political situations posted by the government Office and ground reports from our staff and network of contacts. As when traveling in any region, make sure to keep an eye on your possessions and take certain common-sense measures to prevent theft or dangerous situations.
The first rule of trekking K2 Base Camp is to step to the wall side when you meet a mule, since otherwise you can be knocked off the edge.
The main danger for most people doing the straight-in, straight-out route is altitude sickness(AKA Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS). For most people, this can be avoided by sleeping no more than 300 metres higher than you did the night before and taking an acclimatisation day every 1000 metres. Serious AMS is more common in folk doing group tours than in independent trekkers.
Other common injuries are twisted ankles and sprains. Rock falls, moraine and glacier crossings add significant risk to longer treks involving crossing high passes such as the Gondogoro-La. As always, it’s unwise to trek solo in case you fall and can’t extricate yourself: Do note, that it is illegal to trek solo.
What is the recommended age and denomination of USD bills?
There is no specific age of USD bills, however, we recommend the guests to carry new crisp bills when traveling. All denominations are acceptable, however, it is easier if you have smaller denominations of 5’s, 10’s and 20’s.
Can i drink the tap water ?
Pakistani tap water is not safe to drink. Bring water purifying tablets or a water purifying stickto save money and the environment. Note that at higher elevations during the coldest times of year the water will freeze, so you’ll need to use boiled water.Buy a decent thermos flask or plastic water container, so that you can top up with hot, boiled water at the beginning of the day – starting with hot water will stop it freezing.
Can I extend my trip ?
Yes – why not stay on and explore more of what Pakistan has to offer! We can request with to change your return date with the airline. Places are limited and all arrangements are subject to availability.
How is Hunza Adventure Tours able to offer such competitive prices?
Our unique style of off the beaten track, face-to-face travel is the only way to really experience a destination, but it also serves to keep the costs down. We spend your money providing an authentic experience, instead of on lavish hotels and expensive western-style meals. We pass these savings on to you with our low prices. Another thing you’ll notice are the inclusions. While we don’t include everything, we do throw in the major highlights of a destination, the things that everyone goes to see. On every trip page we show you the ‘Included Highlights’ of your trip, things that many other companies charge locally for. We leave many other activities as options, to provide you the freedom and flexibility to choose what you want to do on a daily basis.
What is a customized itinerary?
In brief a customized itinerary is an itinerary prepared according to your personal needs. After all, you would have requested this to us as part of the process of customization. Your specific interest, preferences and needs are weighted with our knowledge of logistics and highlights of the area.
What currency is used in Pakistan and where can I exchange money?
The Pakistani currency is the rupee, which is made of 100 paisa. Major currencies such as US dollars, British pounds and Euros are easily exchanged throughout Pakistan. Most international airports of the country have the money exchange counters, and also some selected larger hotels and resorts have this facility to their customer.
Can I use my credit card in Pakistan?
Of course the most regularly used cards are Visa and MasterCard, but neither American Express nor Dinner’s Club are broadly accepted in Pakistan. While you are going out of the main cities to the small places, it is recommended that you carry enough Pakistani currency for purchasing and tipping purpose.
Is Pakistan a good destination for family traveler?
With its many diverse landscapes and attractions, Pakistan is an admirable destination for the family traveler. Some of the good options are beach holidays and wildlife adventures in the national parks, while many monuments have sight and light shows that will capture children’s imagination. For teenagers, the many outdoor activities, such as camel safari and trekking, are an illustrative card. Without the second thinking, the big challenge for families travelling in this country might be the distances that need to be covered between cities. Air travel and railway journeys are usually the most comfortable forms of traveling, and are strongly recommended to those with the young children.
What kind of food will I be able to eat in Pakistan?
Pakistani cuisine has several variations, with each region famous for its own techniques, ingredients and spices. In northern regions, meat dishes are very popular, which are usually made with chicken, mutton or lamb whereas in southern part vegetarian cuisine is most favored. In addition, seafood is also readily available, particularly at the coast. While Pakistani cuisine tends to be spicy, most restaurants will gladly prepare a milder variation of the meals on the request of their customer.
Do you have experienced guides in different cities of Pakistan ?
We have English speaking guides all over Pakistan. At many places , we also have french , German , Spanish ,Italian and Japanese and other language speaking guides. We can also provide accompanying foreign language speaking tourist guides for individuals and groups. The availability of foreign language speaking guides can be confirmed at the time of reservation.
Can women travel alone?
Every year hundreds of women travel alone into the remote valleys of Pakistan. Many of them can be seen in the streets of Hunza, Gilgit and Baltistan. To take a safer holidays in Pakistan we advice you to wear modest dress which cover whole of their body. Secondly before starting a trek or tour with local guide in the wilderness, please report about your program to the nearest police station or to your embassy with the identity/contact of your local guide/company.
How do I communicate?
English is Pakistan’s official language and widely spoken throughout Pakistan. Most of the signboards are in English. All our drivers, guides and even peoples in the remote valley can understand and speak English.
How to get information about the Weather?
The weather report can be obtained online from internet you can seach the destinations where you will be going.
What is the distance of hotel from the Airport?
Normally it takes 15-30 minutes from the Islamabad International Airport to the city hotels. However it depends upon the condition of the traffic at the time of the day. The distance varies from 15 to 30 kilometers.
What to bring?
Hunza Adventure Tours will provide all necessary accommodation, meal and transportation requirements outlined in the specific tour itineraries (exceptions will be notified). For our trekking and climbing programs, trekkers will be requested to provide personal equipment, appropriate mountain attire and medical supplies.
Who will brief the guests about their further program at the destination?
Our local agent or their representative or the guides will inform the guest’s of their further program at the destinations on daily basis mostly in the evening about the next day’s program.
How much tips to be given to the porters, drivers and the guests?
Tips are dependent of the services provided. A small amount of money can be given at each service to insure prompt and reliable service. For guides it depends on how informative, knowledgeable, helpful they are.
Whether it is good and cheap to eat outside the hotel (restaurants)?
Some of the restaurants are cheaper and frequently visited by the local people. So sometimes yes, it is a good experience to eat outside the hotels and get to meet the local population.
If the domestic air tickets for all sectors are confirmed and in case any sector is waitlisted, what alternate option we will give them?
We offer alternative arrangements in case the flight tickets are not confirmed nor have no chances of getting confirmed. Railway Journey or by surface. We always look at various factors such as the condition of the roads, time of travel and the time taken to cover the distance, comfort and offer the best possible option with consultation, acceptance and agreement with the guest.
About the bank processing charges?
Bank Processing charges are levied on the payment collected on or through the credit cards. It is usually 3.5% of the total amount to be collected or of the invoice raised by us.
How to go about the procedures to get the lost baggage?
In case a bag is lost in transit by the airlines. We file a lost baggage report with the airlines. If the guest continues with the journey, we collect the baggage from the airlines for the guest. For the collection of a lost baggage we need the following: We need an authorization from the guest authorizing Hunza Adventure Tours, and their representative to collect the baggage on their behalf.
A photocopy of the passport of the guest, a letter addressed to the Superintendent customs. The keys of the lost bag for custom clearance.
The original copy of the lost baggage report lodged with the airlines. We will deliver the bag at the doorstep and bill the guest for the services provided. The amount of the invoice can be collected from the airlines at home.
Will the airline pay for the damage and temporary compensation?
Yes, the airlines pay an inconvenience allowance to buy personal effects. They even offer the baggage delivery charges or sometimes offer to deliver the baggage by themselves at the doorstep.
How to take the claim for the damages?
Before walking through the airport exit gates, you must locate your airline's Baggage Service Counter or Lost and Found Desk in the arrivals area.