Chitral is remote, beautiful and much easier to reach since the Lowari Tunnel replaced the old pass. It is still a long day from Islamabad.
The route
Take the M-1 and the Swat Motorway towards Chakdara, then the road north through Timergara and Dir, through the Lowari Tunnel and down into the Chitral valley. Many travellers stop overnight in Dir or the upper Swat valley to split the journey.
The Kalash valleys
Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir, home of the Kalash people, are about an hour and a half from Chitral town on narrower roads. Spring and summer festivals draw visitors; respect for local customs and photography rules matters.
Which car
An SUV is the right choice for Chitral and the Kalash valleys. Groups can use a Hiace to Chitral town and local vehicles in the valleys if needed.
Foreign nationals visiting Chitral and the Kalash valleys should register as currently required and carry passports. Check the latest rules before travelling.
