The Kalash Valleys: Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir
The Kalash valleys of Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir lie south-west of Chitral town and are home to the Kalash people, with their own language, dress and festivals.
About Kalash Valleys
Our Kalash programme describes three festivals a year and details the spring festival, Chilimjushi, held in the middle of May, which moves from Rumbur to Bumburet and on to Birir.
Bumburet is the most visited of the three valleys and the base for our festival tour and the Kalash day on the Hindu Kush bike tour.
Trips that include Kalash Valleys
Every published programme whose day-by-day itinerary mentions this destination, with its length and season:
| Programme | Days | Best time | Starts from |
|---|---|---|---|
| HinduKush Mountain Bike | 19 | Mid-May to End-August | Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad |
| Kalash Festival | 11 | 14th – 15th May/19th – 20th August/7th – 22nd December | International Airport, Islamabad |
What the itineraries do in Kalash Valleys
Itinerary days that mention this destination, quoted from the programmes:
Day 4: Chitral – Kalash Valley (Bumburet)
We bike from Chitral town into the secluded Kalash Valley. The route turns into a rough, unpaved track requiring concentration. We arrive in Bumburet and set up camp. Overnight in camp/guest house.
Day 5: Kalash Valley (Exploration Day)
Rest and cultural exploration day. We bike through traditional Kalash villages, observing their centuries-old customs, wood-carved temples, and vibrant way of life. Overnight in camp/guest house.
Day 6: Kalash – Buni
Back on our main route, we pedal along the Mastuj River through dramatic gorges and rugged cliffs toward Buni. A long day with mixed tarmac and gravel roads. Overnight in hotel/camp.
03: Chitral to Bumburat (Kalash)
Departure for Kalash valley, the 3 hours drive to Kalash village be through the most interesting narrow jeep trek, arrive and transfer to the hotel
Day 04 to 07: Bumburat (Kalash)
Explore the beautiful Kalash valley Bumburat, Rembur and enjoy the festival in Bumburat village in Kalash valley
08: Kalash to Chitral
After breakfast, drive back to Chitral. After lunch, we will visit the local bazaar and Shahi mosque, Built by the ul-Mulks near the end of the 19th century. Its pinkish walls and white onion dome make it one of north Pakistan’s most distinctive mosques, particularly as its minarets frame Tirich Mir in the far distance. It’s usually fine to visit, but ask permission before entering and avoid Friday prayers. Arrive and transfer to the hotel
Planning notes
- Festival dates in the programme: 14–15 May, 19–20 August and 7–22 December; confirm the year's dates before booking.
- Visiting during a festival means sharing the valley with a celebration; ask the team about local customs and photography.
- Check current official travel advice for Chitral district.