With its pine forests, lofty black mountains, waterfalls, and flowing rivers, Kumrat Valley has emerged as one of the famous tourist destinations in the northern areas of Pakistan. The valley, which lies in the upper Dir region, was previously closed off to outsiders. In addition to the region’s conservative traditions, Upper Dir was restricted for security reasons as well. However, due to several measures taken by the government, the place is now safe and open to visitors, boosting local economic growth.
Graana.com gives an overview of the valley below if you are planning to pay a visit soon.
Overview of Kumrat Valley
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper Dir District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan |
| Accessibility | About 45 minutes drive from the town of Thal on the banks of the Panjkora River |
| Tourism | Popular tourist spot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, attracting thousands of visitors from Pakistan and abroad during the summer season |
| Accessibility | Accessible only via four-wheel vehicles due to unmetalled road leading to the valley |
| Main Attractions | 1. Kumrat Forest: Known for waterfalls, springs, streams, and lush green jungle. Rich in Cedars. <br> 2. Kala Chashma: A spring area known for its wellness. |
| Features | Covered with green pastures, snow-clad mountains, foggy mounds, and forests. Panjkora River, towering Deodar forest trees, and waterfalls are prominent. |
| Deforestation Issues | Deodar forest depletion due to locals using it as a source of fuel. |
About Kumrat Valley
The valley of Kumrat, located in KPK’s Upper Dir District, is unquestionably one of Pakistan’s most beautiful valleys. It is filled with waterfalls, meadows, freshwater springs, enormous mountains, gushing rivers, and serene lakes.
Its terrain is also dominated by deodar trees, which are also a huge attraction point. Visitors can take part in many different activities in the area, including camping, boating, hiking, climbing etc.
The closest town is Thall, which is around 45 km away from Kumrat Valley, and it is the base point for trips to the valley. Take note that Thall is perhaps one of the most conservative places in Pakistan, so make sure to adhere to local customs and traditions when you visit.
Weather
The weather is usually cloudy in Kumrat Valley for most of the year. During the monsoon season, the place experiences a lot of rain. Winters can also be bitterly cold and snowy. So take care to wear appropriate clothing, depending on when you visit.
Route to Kumrat Valley
In order to go to Kumrat from any city in Pakistan, you must first travel through Thall. Due to the area’s rugged terrain, you can expect the Utrar Road (that you must take from Thall) to have several twists and turns.
You can take a shared taxi for Rs. 400 to Rs. 500 per person to get from Kalam in the Swat Valley to a bazaar in the town of Uttar in KPK. However, it will cost you 1,000 Pakistani rupees per person to ride in a 4X4 Jeep from Uttar Bazaar to Thall, which will also be shared by other travellers.
Finally, to get to your destination, you would have to hire a private jeep with a driver, which will cost you around Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 6,000. Depending on the time of year and the weather, these rides’ prices may change.
Camping and Staying in Kumrat Valley
There are many camping spots at Kumrat, but if you would rather stay in a hotel, some options are Waterfall Resort Kumrat, Panjkora Hotel, Resort Kumrat, and Granite Hotel and Restaurant.
It is a pleasant place to stay because of the quiet environment and scenic surroundings.
There are two options available for an overnight stay: either rent a tent for the affordable price of about Rs. 2,500 per night or choose one of the hotels in Kumrat Valley. A hotel room can be purchased for as little as Rs. 5,000 per night. These prices may change during the peak seasons in summer and winter.
Must-Visit Places in Kumrat Valley
In Kumrat Valley, there are many stunning places to visit, some of which include the following:
- Jahaz Banda
- Katora Lake
- Badahoi Pass
- Thal Village
- DoKala Chasma
- Panjkora River
- Shahi Masjid Dir
- Chitral Gol National Park
Jahaz Banda
Jahaz Banda is a high-altitude meadow located at an elevation of 3,100 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by snow-covered mountains, including the Katora Peak and the Black Mountain Range. The meadow is named Jahaz Banda (Ship’s Deck) because of its shape, which resembles the deck of a ship. Visitors can trek to Jahaz Banda from Kumrat Valley, which is a 14-kilometer trek that takes around 7-8 hours. The trek is challenging but rewarding, as visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the valley from the top.
Katora Lake
Katora Lake is a glacial lake located at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level. The lake is surrounded by high peaks, including the Spindhor Peak, which rises to a height of 4,800 meters. The lake is accessible via a 6-kilometer trek from Jahaz Banda. The trek is strenuous, and visitors are advised to hire a local guide. The lake is frozen for most of the year, except for the summer months when it is a popular destination for camping and trekking.
Badagoi Pass
Badagoi Pass is a mountain pass located at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level. The pass connects Upper Dir district with Chitral district and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can trek to Badagoi Pass from Kumrat Valley, which is a 14-kilometer trek that takes around 7-8 hours. The trek is challenging, and visitors are advised to hire a local guide.
Thal Village
Thal Village is a beautiful and peaceful village located near Kumrat Valley. It is known for its traditional architecture, lush green orchards, and friendly locals. Visitors can explore the village on foot and interact with the locals to learn more about their culture and way of life. Thal Village is also a great place to taste the local cuisine, including chapli kebab, qorma, and mantu.
Do Kala Chasma
Do Kala Chasma is a narrow gorge located near Kumrat Valley. The gorge is formed by the Panjkora River, which flows through the valley. Visitors can hike to Do Kala Chasma from Kumrat Valley, which is a 6-kilometer trek that takes around 3-4 hours. The trek is moderately challenging and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the river.
Panjkora River
The Panjkora River is a major river that flows through Kumrat Valley. It originates from the Hindu Kush mountain range and flows for 400 kilometers before joining the Kabul River. The river is a popular destination for fishing, picnicking, and rafting. Visitors can hire a local guide to explore the river and its surroundings.
Shahi Masjid Dir
Shahi Masjid Dir is a historic mosque located in the city of Dir. It was built during the Mughal era and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate artwork. The mosque is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and visitors can learn about the mosque’s history and significance from the local guides.
Chitral Gol National Park
Chitral Gol National Park is a protected area located near Kumrat Valley. It covers an area of 775 square kilometers and is home to a variety of wildlife species, including snow leopards, Himalayan ibex, and musk deer. The park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and offers a unique and memorable experience to visitors.
Visitors can explore the park on foot or by jeep and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains, glaciers, and meadows. The park also has several hiking trails, including the Chitral Gol trek, which is a 5-day trek that takes visitors through the park’s most scenic areas.
Overall, Kumrat Valley and its surroundings offer a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore. From scenic meadows and alpine lakes to historic mosques and national parks, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region of Pakistan. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, hospitality, and culture, which adds to the charm and allure of Kumrat Valley.
Major Activities To Enjoy at Kumrat Valley
Here are some major activities to enjoy in Kumrat Valley:
Trekking/Hiking
Kumrat Valley offers numerous trekking and hiking trails for adventure enthusiasts. The most famous trekking route is the Katora Lake Trek, which is a 14-kilometer long trek through the beautiful meadows and forests.
Camping
Camping is an ideal activity in Kumrat Valley, where one can enjoy the serene beauty of nature while staying close to it. The valley has several camping spots like Jahaz Banda, Kalkot, and Thal.
Waterfall Exploration
Kumrat Valley is home to several waterfalls, including the Panjkora River, Do Kala Chashma, and Kala Chashma. Visitors can enjoy exploring these waterfalls and taking a refreshing dip in the water.
Photography
Kumrat Valley is a paradise for photographers, where they can capture the beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and culture of the valley. Photographers can capture the sunrise and sunset from different viewpoints, capture the beauty of the meadows, and wildlife.
Picnicking
Kumrat Valley has several picnic spots where visitors can enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends. These spots include Badagoi Pass, Jahaz Banda, Kalkot, and Thal.
Local Cuisine
Kumrat Valley offers a unique cuisine that is a fusion of local and Pakistani dishes. Visitors can enjoy traditional food like Chappali Kebab, Peshawari Karahi, and Peshawari Naan.
Cultural Festivals
Kumrat Valley celebrates several cultural festivals throughout the year. These festivals include the Spring Festival, Chilimjusht Festival, and Shandur Polo Festival, which offer visitors a chance to witness the cultural heritage of the valley.
Wildlife Safari
Kumrat Valley is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Himalayan brown bears, snow leopards, and musk deer. Visitors can enjoy wildlife safari tours and witness the natural beauty of the valley.
These are some of the major activities that visitors can enjoy in Kumrat Valley. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, Kumrat Valley has something to offer to everyone.
For more information on popular tourist spots in Pakistan, visit Graana Blog.
FAQs
Here are some FAQs about Kumrat Valley:
What is Kumrat Valley?
Kumrat Valley is a scenic valley located in the Upper Dir district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. The valley is known for its natural beauty, lush green forests, and crystal clear rivers.
How do I get to Kumrat?
To get to Kumrat Valley, you can take a flight to Chitral Airport or drive from Peshawar or Islamabad. From there, you can hire a jeep or take a local bus to reach Kumrat Valley.
What are the popular tourist attractions in Kumrat Valley?
Kumrat is home to several popular tourist attractions, including Jahaz Banda, Katora Lake, Panjkora River, and Dojanga. These locations offer breathtaking views of the valley and are perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing.
When is the best time to visit Kumrat Valley?
The best time to visit Kumrat is from June to September when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, you can enjoy the beauty of the valley and its attractions without worrying about extreme temperatures or heavy rainfall.
Are there any accommodations available in Kumrat Valley?
Yes, there are several accommodations available in Kumrat, including guesthouses, hotels, and camping sites. These accommodations offer a comfortable stay for tourists who wish to spend a few days in the valley.
Is it safe to visit Kumrat?
Yes, Kumrat is generally considered a safe tourist destination. However, like any other tourist spot, it is important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What should I pack for a trip to Kumrat?
It is recommended to pack warm clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit for a trip to Kumrat Valley. Additionally, it is important to carry enough cash as there are limited ATM facilities in the area.
