Chitral forms Pakistan's norht-western border with Afghanistan, and is home to the precipitous (very steep) mountains of the Hindukush. This range is different from the Himalaya and Karakorums and since there are no 8000m peaks here, it is not as well known. However, Tirich Mir at 7708m and its accompanying peaks command respect. Alexander the great troops had to battle through the snows on their passage from Afghanistan to Pakistan. Additionally, a route of the silk road wound through the Boroghil Pass in Upper Chitral. Presently Chitralis are mostly muslims, but in the south of Chitral there are three valleys inhabited by the Kafir Kalash. Chitral is considered to be the pinnacle of the Hindu Kush region. The highest peaks, as well as countless passes and massive glaciers are located in this region.
|