Chitral is the capital of District Chitral. It is located on west of River Kunar, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, about 348 kilometers (216 miles) from Peshawar. Chitral is a place blessed with nature’s beauty. It is not just a valley with mountains and a river flowing through it but also a historical city of east. From icy mountain peaks and glaciers to waterfalls and forests, one can find all colors of nature’s beauty in this region. Bazaar of town of Chitral offers all facilities from banks, post office to rental vehicles and tourist accessories.
Chitral with its artistic handcrafts and precious stones attracts tourists from all over the country. At the end of summer the whole region is decorated with oodles of flowers and fruits. Famous fruits of Chitral are peach, apricot, damson, apple, pomegranate, grapes and pear. It is also famous for its dry fruits Almonds, apricot, pistachios and walnut.
There many motels and restaurants in town of Chitral. One can find a suitable motel according to his budget and need. People of Chitral are very welcoming and cooperative. You can easily find a guide if need. Following are some famous tourist attractions in Chitral.
Contents
- Popular Tourist Places of Chitral
- What to do
- Photo Gallery
- Map
Popular Tourist Places of Chitral:
1. Tirich Mir:
This lofty mountain peak is the highest of Hidukush range. Tirich Mir can be viewed from a higher place of Chitral Town (Like roof top of the hotel where you stay) in a clear weather. It can also be viewed from the palace of Chitral’s King. This mountain is also highest in the world apart from Himalaya and Karakoram ranges.
2. Chitral Museum:
Chitral Museum with antiques, weapons and other stuff from the old times of monarchies provides great knowledge about history and culture of Chitral and Kalash people.
3. Shahi Masjid (Shahi Mosque):
Shahi Masjid of Chitral was built in 1924 A.D. It was built by Shujaul Mulk, the Mehtar of Chitral (1895 - 1936). The mosque is famous for its strong and cultural architectural style.
4. Shahi Qila (Shahi Fort):
Shahi Qila of Chitral is situated beside the Shahi Masjid of Chitral. This fort is definitely a place suitable for a kingly residence. Unfortunately, it is a private property and you’ll need to get special permission to visit it from inside.
5. Polo Ground:
Polo is a famous and perhaps most favorite game of Chitral. There are many polo grounds in Chitral; the famous one is in Chitral Town. A visit to polo ground will provide you with information about interesting game of polo, and if you are lucky then there might be match going on that you can enjoy.
6. Governer Cottage:
This is another beautiful building of Chitral. One can easily view Tirich Mir from here in a clear weather.
7. Barmoghlasht:
Barmoghlasht is a beautiful and charming resort. It is situated 14.5 kilometers (9 miles) from Chitral. It is definitely a place worth visiting.
8. Garam Chashma:
Garam Chashma (transformation in English: Warm Spring) is famous around the country and outside for its springs of warm waters. The place is also famous for precious stones, trout fish and clean environment.
9. Ayun Valley:
The lush green marvelously beautiful and the most favorite among tourists for its natural beauty; the Ayun Valley is situated between Chitral Town and Kalash. It is sited at the bank of River Chitral. People of Ayun Valley are welcoming and cooperating like the people in rest of Chitral.
10. Koghazi and Goleen:
Fourteen kilometers from the town of Chitral; Koghazi and adjacent Goleen are literally a piece of paradise on the earth. This is a valley of flowers, fruits, lush green meadows, canals, waterfalls, springs, and beautiful landscapes.
What to do:
Chitral is a lovely place. It is full of breathtaking views all around. One can enjoy; mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, hiking on plenty of places all around the Chitral. It is a place for adventurers and those in search of peace at the same time.