Kumrat Valley: An Escape From the City for the Summer

Kumrat Valley is a hidden gem that has remained untouched with the passage of time. This paradise, located in the Upper Dir District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, enchants everyone who steps into it. Entering Kumrat Valley takes you on a journey into a world where beauty, peace, and breathtaking views are masterfully orchestrated by nature.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Kumrat Valley is between the summer months of April- September. During these months the weather in the valley is pleasantly cool with temperatures between 5.6°C to 16.2°C.

How to Get There:

Islamabad to Kumrat Valley:

The distance between Islamabad and Kumrat Valley is 370 km, a 9-hour drive. To reach Kumrat from Islamabad, one must get on the M1 motorway and then Colonel Sher Khan Interchange via the M16 motorway to Chakdara. Then from Chakdara to N45 onto Dir Road and finally Kumrat.

Places to Visit:

Jahaz Banda:

Venturing deep into the valley you can find some of its treasures – Jahaz Banda, a huge meadow that resembles a ship. The trip to Jahaz Banda is itself taxing but rewarding. The place can only be reached by foot, so a six-hour long and dangerous hike is in store for anyone who wishes to visit Jahaz Banda. The hike itself is an adventure. 

Throughout the six-hour hike, there are views of small mirrors–silver lakes, distant mountainous terrain, and various types of forests. The place is a symphony of rustling leaves, flowing water, and melodic bird calls, welcoming hikers. The hike can be described as a healing journey.

Katora Lake:

Katora Lake is yet another gem of Kumrat Valley. This high-altitude glacial lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, is only for brave travelers who want to witness the magnificent view of the lake. Hiking up from Jahaz Band, one must pass through lush meadows, and streams, and climb to the mountain top where you can find Katora Lake. Once one arrives at Katora Lake, they are met with an equally profound sense of accomplishment and tranquility.

Thal Village:

Thal Village is a hidden treasure in KPK. It is the entry point to the Kumrat Valley. This village is home to an interesting water system with intricate wooden canals, a lively bazaar, and a medieval mosque. Nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and tourists looking for a taste of Pakistani culture can find it in Thal.

Panjkora Lake:

The Panjkora River, the lifeblood of Kumrat Valley, flows through the meadows, creating a picturesque trail along the whole valley. 

The Panjkora divides into various channels at certain places, making for perfect locations for camping and taking in the valley’s natural beauty.

Book a Stay:

Since Kumrat is a recently developed area for tourism, you can expect areas of stay to be different than those found in typical cities:

Hotels & Guesthouses: 

A limited number of hotels and guesthouses are present in the valley, offering basic amenities like comfortable beds and potentially attached bathrooms. These properties tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season (June-August), and are incredibly expensive starting from Rs. 25,000 per night. 

Glamping Resorts: 

A unique twist on accommodation, glamping resorts provide a touch of luxury amidst the wilderness. Think spacious tents, with beds and comforters. 

Campsites: 

For the truly adventurous, campsites offer a rustic experience under the stars. You’ll need to bring your camping gear, but camping is an adventure in itself.

To book any of the available stay options, there are many booking platforms such as Guestkor, Pak Tours, and Kumrat Tourism.

Book a Package Tour:

Tour Packages offer an easy and hassle-free way to navigate Kumrat Valley. Many tour companies offer a variety of prices and amenities. 

3-Day Trips: 

These packages concentrate on Kumrat’s heart and are perfect for a brief getaway. Starting at Rs. 10,000, these packages offer a visit to Thal, Panjkora River, and Kala Chasma Lake, including a 2-day hotel stay.

4-5 Day Trips:

A 4-5 day trip enables you to travel farther, from Jahaz Banda to Katora Lake. Starting from Rs. 12,500, these packages include 3 meals every day, along with a guest house stay.

5 Days and More: 

Longer packages provide an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Kumrat.  Starting at ranging from Rs. 15,000- 19,000, these packages include professional photography, 3 meals every day, and a hotel stay.

Do your homework before choosing from the many tour companies offering tours in the Kumrat Valley. Read reviews,  and make sure the schedule fits your interests and price range. Some companies where you can book tour packages are- Apricot Tours, Blizin, Trips, and Pakistan Tours.