Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (neighbouring Gilgit-Baltistan)
ChitralTravel Guide: Hotels, Car Rental & Tours
Chitral is a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that borders Gilgit-Baltistan’s Ghizer district across the Shandur Pass. Many northern Pakistan itineraries combine the two.
It is home to the Kalash valleys and their distinct culture, and to Tirich Mir (7,708 m), the highest peak of the Hindu Kush.
Chitral at a glance
- Province
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
- Highest peak
- Tirich Mir, 7,708 m
- Link to GB
- Shandur Pass to Ghizer (summer)
- Best time
- May–October
Things to do in Chitral
Kalash Valleys
Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir, home to the Kalash people and festivals such as Chilam Joshi in May.
Chitral Fort and Shahi Mosque
The old royal fort and mosque on the Chitral River in the town centre.
Garam Chashma
Hot springs in a side valley north-west of Chitral town.
Shandur Pass
The high pass and polo ground shared with Ghizer, Gilgit-Baltistan.
Best time to visit Chitral
May to October. Chilam Joshi (May) and the Shandur Polo Festival (usually early July) are peak times.
How to get to Chitral
From the south via the Lowari Tunnel, or from Gilgit-Baltistan over the Shandur Pass from Ghizer in summer. There are also limited flights from Islamabad.
Travel tips
- Combine Chitral with Ghizer and Gilgit for a loop over Shandur in summer.
Chitral FAQs
Is Chitral in Gilgit-Baltistan?
No. Chitral is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, but it borders Gilgit-Baltistan’s Ghizer district across the Shandur Pass.
How do you get from Gilgit to Chitral?
In summer, drive west through Ghizer and over the Shandur Pass. It is a long journey, usually done over two days with a 4x4 and driver.