A complete travel guide to Kumrat Valley, one of the best places to visit in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). Remembers information about how to go to Kumrat Valley in KPK using public or private transportation and where to stay.
Companions described Kumrat Valley as a “heaven on the globe.” The remote valley is well-known among local sightseers in KPK, but it is largely unknown to other Pakistani tourists. Kumrat receives very few visitors at any given time.
Here’s a guide on visiting Kumrat Valley for future travelers’ convenience. The aide recalls details about how to go to Kumrat Valley and where to stay.
About Kumrat Valley
Kumrat Valley is a well-known tourist attraction in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, located in the Upper Dir District. Kumrat Valley is located 370 kilometers (230 miles) from Islamabad, and it takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes to drive there. The northern route can reach the remarkable natural beauties of Kumrat Valley through Kalam or the alternate southern route through Timergara (Swat Valley).
Kumrat Valley is one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s most beautiful and underappreciated areas. Unfortunately, it is gradually becoming a survivor of rampant commercialization, and this is the point at which the government should defend strict development principles and sound rubbish collection systems in the valley and Jahaz Banda.
Kumrat valley location and geography
On Google Maps, the actual location of Kumrat Valley is 35°32’13.5′′N 72°13’09.5′′E. The Main Road, Kumrat, Upper Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 47281, Pakistan, is the starting point for tourist attractions and other sites to see in the Valley’s surrounding areas.
Kumrat is bordered on the west by the upper Dir district, east by the Swat Valley (Kalam Valley, Gabral, and Utrar), east by Drosh, and northeast by other portions of Chitral.
Best time to visit Kumrat valley
The best time to visit Kumrat valley for summer vacations is in May, June, July, August, and September, when the temperature ranges from 5.6 degrees Celsius (42.1 degrees Fahrenheit) to 16.2 degrees Celsius (61.2 degrees Fahrenheit).
In the winter (December, January, and February), the temperature in Kumrat Valley dips to -16.1 °C (3.1 °F) or even lower, making it ideal for snowfall and winter sports activities. Other months in Kumrat, such as March, April, October, and November, are generally pleasant but chilly.
How to get to kumrat valley
Islamabad to Kumrat
The distance between Islamabad and Kumrat Valley is around 370 kilometers (230 miles), or over 9 hours of driving. The best method to go to Kumrat Valley from Islamabad is to take the M1 (Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway) and then take the M16 (Swat Motorway) to Chakdara at Colonel Sher Khan Interchange. The N45 route, Dir Road, and Kumrat Road connect Islamabad and the Kumrat Valley.
Lahore to Kumrat
The distance between Lahore and Kumrat valley is around 730 kilometers, which implies the journey will take 13 hours and 10 minutes. To begin, you will go to Islamabad through the Lahore-Islamabad motorway/M2. It will take approximately 5 hours. The time, distance, and path will then be the same as they were in the preceding section. After reaching Islamabad, the nicest part of your Lahore to Kumrat mountains travel begins, and after reaching Swat, you will be able to experience the magnificent splendor.
Kalam to Kumrat Valley
Thall is the name of the town near the entrance of Kumrat Valley. It’s a little town with only the most basic necessities.
To go to Thall from Kalam in Swat Valley, you must first travel to Utrar, a town about an hour away. To go to Utrar, take a popular cab from Kalam’s main bazaar. When they’re done, they’ll leave. I planned to leave early, and our taxi left at 7:30 a.m. on the first day. The cost of a cab varies between 150 and 200 rupees per person, depending on how many people they can cram into the car.
Thall is the name of the town near the entrance of Kumrat Valley. It’s a little town with only the most necessities.
To go to Thall from Kalam in Swat Valley, you must first travel to Utrar, a town about an hour away. To go to Utrar, take a popular cab from Kalam’s main bazaar. When they’re done, they’ll leave. I planned to leave early, and our taxi left at 7:30 a.m. on the first day. The cost of a cab varies between 150 and 200 rupees per person, depending on how many people they can cram into the car.
Thall to Kumrat
You’ll need to hire a Jeep with a driver to get from Thall to Kumrat. Be prepared for a bumpy journey. A Jeep should cost between 2000 and 4000 Rs, depending on how far into the valley you have to be transported.
It’ll be more presuming you’ll need the driver to pick you up a few days later. It will take some time to get across the narrow valley and back to where the mountains open up again. En route, you’ll pass through a military-designated area. Make it a point to negotiate and specify where you want to be dropped off and picked up.
Kumrat valley hotels
The majority of hotels in Kumrat Valley are reasonably priced. In Kumrat Forest and its environs, camping pods and camping sites are accessible for your convenience. There are numerous hotels with restaurants, free Wi-Fi, laundry, and ironing services. Here are some affordable and luxurious hotels for your ease.
A hotel room can be had for as little as PKR 2000 per night. These rates may also fluctuate throughout the tourist season, which occurs twice a year in the summer and winter.
Kumrat Glamping Resorts
Kumrat Glamping Resorts has a garden and is located in Tāl. Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s 24-hour reception and room service.
The hotel’s rooms have a river view and a private bathroom with a shower and slippers. The Kumrat Glamping Resorts’ guest rooms include a seating area.
A continental breakfast is available to guests at the hotel.
PKR 23,530 + tax per night for a Twin Room with a Bathroom (as of April 2022)
Kumrat Maskan Hotel
Maskan Hotel, near the mountains, is an excellent location for sightseeing and hiking. Wifi is available in the rooms.
PKR 15,500 + tax per night for a standard triple room
Panjkora Hotel & Resort Kumrat
Want to stay in a hotel with all the latest facilities while still feeling connected to nature? If that’s the case, come to Panjkura Hotel and Resort!
There is a beautiful valley view with other amenities like TV, Heating, Ironing, and room service.
PKR 11,730 + tax per night in a Deluxe Room
Sky Hill Hotel & Restaurant
Sky Hill’s Hotel & Restaurant is one of the places you should visit at least once because of its scenic views, wilderness, and relaxing feelings.
Standard Double Room: From PKR 12,600 per night + tax
Hotel Grand Palace
The Hotel Grand Palace is one of a kind because of its neat and clean interior, excellent services, and comfy accommodations.
Per night, expect to pay between PKR 8000 and PKR 10,000.
Amenities include:
- Room Services
- TV
- Laundry
- Gyser
- Heater
- Parking
Kumrat valley places to visit
In the Kumrat Valley, there are several attractions and places to visit, covering a large region that is just ready for you to discover! Perhaps the most recognized gem of a site to visit in the Dir District is Kumrat Valley.
Kumrat is home to beautiful lakes, rising mountains, picturesque valleys, lush green forests, and other natural wonders. On everyone’s bucket list, these natural treasures make Kumrat the most beautiful spot to visit in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Kumrat waterfall
The Kumrat waterfall is a hidden treasure, as many people are unaware of its existence. This waterfall, which is only a short distance away, adds to the splendor of the Kumrat valley. Even though it is not far away, you should still hire a local guide. Once you arrive, you will be treated to the sound of rushing water and a piercing sun.
Jahaz banda Kumrat
Jahaz Banda is a meadow in the Kumrat valley surrounded by large trees, snow-capped mountains, and lush pastures. The Jahaz Banda Waterfall is a sight to behold.
The height of Jahaz Banda is 3100 meters above sea level. The distance between Jahaz banda and the Kumrat valley is approximately 17.6 kilometers. It’s a lush green station with snow-capped mountains, pine trees, and verdant pastures. This location is ideal for experienced hikers who want to test their mettle on a challenging hike.
Do Kala chashma kumrat
The flowing river that flows between the dark mountains is known as Do Kala Chashma. This is also where the name “Do Kala Chashma” comes from. Tourists are drawn to this location because of its breathtaking beauty. Because the road to Kumrat is rugged and takes around 1.5 hours, it is best to rent a jeep and hire a local driver.
Do janga
Do Jagga is a three-hour hike (Do Jagga means two places, two treks). The first journey takes you to Shahzore Lake, which takes 9 hours. On the second journey, it is easy to reach Kundol Lake from Kalam valley.
Katora Lake
The word “Katora” means “bowl” in Pashto. It was given this name because the lake’s shape is similar to that of a bowl. This lake can be reached after a 2-4 hour journey from the Jahaz banda meadows. However, due to the obstacles of large stones on the path, trekking to Katora Lake is a bit challenging. The lake is surrounded by the waters of melting glaciers.
Panjkora River
The Panjkora River is located north of KPK, 59 kilometers from Kumrat Valley. It is well-known for its archaeological value, as it contains the Gandhara grave culture. Many sea creatures call this lake home, and most visitors come for the fishing. For foreign visitors, the cold and freshwater are also awe-inspiring.
Wooden canals
The sole purpose to visit Thal of Kumrat valley is to see the little canals and springs formed from the river Panjgur and other streams. These canals and streams, which are built up of wooden sheets and pillars, provide a one-of-a-kind and attractive view. These wooden-based canals were built by the locals to water their farms and meet their household needs.
In Thal, these canals are spread out across a broad region, and villagers built pillars to help boost them in some spots. Furthermore, the canals’ width ranges from three to five feet, with some stretches reaching 15 feet. On the other hand, Locals made 1-foot-high wooden sheets on both sides to control the overflow.
Language and Culture of Kumrat valley
In addition to the place’s natural beauty, the people are pretty kind. Til Kohistan is the capital of Kumrat Valley. The Kohistani tribe makes up the majority of the population.
The Kohistani tribe accounts for 80% of the population in Kamrat Valley, Til Kohistan, Lamoti, and Patrak, with the Pashtun family accounting for 10% and the Gujjar family accounting for 10%. Kohistani is their mother tongue.
Along with their native tongue, these individuals speak Pashto and Urdu. Land tenure provides the majority of their income. However, as tourism has been restored in the area, it has created jobs.
Kumrat valley weather and temperature
Clouds cover the skies in Kumrat Valley for the majority of the year. During the monsoon season, the area receives a lot of rain. Similarly, throughout the winter, it can be exceedingly cold and snowy. In a nutshell, the weather in Kumrat Valley is pleasant virtually all year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The weather in Kumrat is comfortable in the summer, with temperatures averaging 20°C, but it is bitterly cold in the winter, with snowfall ranging from 3 to 11 feet. The temperature remains below freezing in the winter, ranging from -4 to -10°C. The best time to visit Kumrat Valley is during the spring or summer months.
Travel Expenses for a trip to Kumrat valley
The travel expenses for the Kumrat valley tours vary from place to place. For example, if you want to travel from Lahore, it will be pretty expensive than Islamabad.
Karachi to Kumrat valley tour prices starts from 20,000 Rs.
Lahore to Kumrat Valley tour packages ranges from 12000 to 15000 Rs.
If you want to travel from Islamabad to Kumrat valley, you can find a suitable tour package for 10,000-11,000 Rs.
Can we go to Kumrat Valley on car?
If you own a car or a motorcycle, you won’t have any trouble switching vehicles regularly. Even a 70cc bike or a car can get you to Kumrat (2wd vehicle till Thal).
Is Kumrat valley in Gilgit Baltistan?
No, Upper Dir District, KPK, Pakistan, is the location of Kumrat Valley. Kumrat Valley is bordered by Swat Valley, Chitral Valley, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Local tour guides in kumrat
If you want to visit the Kumrat valley for the first time on your own, you must take local guides’ services. They will guide you about each place and the culture of the valley.
We recommend Aslam as a guide if you’re seeking one. He lives near Kalam, speaks excellent English, and adores the Kumrat Valley. He can also take you around Kalam and can be reached at 03139473399. He charges between 1500 and 2000 rupees a day, with additional expenses for overnight stays.
