7 – 22 Dec · Kalash valleys, Chitral
Chaumos
Winter solstice · around 7–22 December
Plan a trip around it →01 /The festival
Chaumos is the most important festival of the Kalash year: roughly two weeks around the winter solstice, usually from about 7 to 22 December, that close the farming year and welcome the new one.
The valleys fill with bonfires, songs, dancing and rituals of purification and renewal. Some ceremonies are private to the community, but guests who come with respect are welcomed into much of the celebration, with warm food, cold nights and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
What you'll see
- 01Bonfires and torch-lit processions
- 02Songs and circle dances in the snow
- 03Rituals of renewal for the new year
- 04Quiet, snowy valleys with almost no visitors
02 /How we do it
We travel with Kalash hosts who tell us where guests are welcome and where they're not, so you experience Chaumos respectfully. You'll stay warm in a family guesthouse and share meals with the people celebrating.
03 /Good to know
When
Around 7–22 December, with the biggest days close to the solstice. Dates are set locally.
Weather
Cold and often snowy, around −5°C at night. Roads stay open with care.
Etiquette
Some rituals are closed to outsiders. Follow your host, dress warmly and modestly, and ask before taking photos.
Pair it with
6 days · 5 nightsBumburet, Rumbur & Birir
The Kalash Valleys
Three valleys, one ancient culture, and festivals worth planning a year around.
From
$950
PKR 268,000 · per person
7 – 22 Dec
Plan a trip around it
Tell us how you want to feel and we'll design the journey from scratch. No templates, no planning fees, no pressure.
