General
Sut Das Darel Festival (2024-25)
Sut Das Darel Festival is an amazing annual event conducted in Gilgit-Baltistan’s gorgeous Darel Valley. This dynamic nine-day festival celebrates the region’s rich history, traditions, and sports, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to participate in local activities such as polo, horse racing, football, and traditional music. The festival with its breathtaking natural scenery and deep dig into local heritage, is a must-see event for those looking for a memorable cultural experience.
Itinerary – Sut Das Darel Festival
The itinerary for the Sut Das Darel Festival is given below.
Day 02: Travel to Darel, Diamer
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After breakfast, drive to Darel in the Diamer District, which takes around 4-5 hours through picturesque valleys and rivers. Check into your hotel and enjoy the village's natural beauty and peaceful environment before the festival begins.
Day 03–06: Sut Das Darel Festival
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The festival formally opens with a big opening ceremony, which kicks off the week-long events. The first few days are full of traditional activities such as polo, where local riders compete fiercely in this classic activity, as well as football and volleyball matches, which allow you to interact with the community while also enjoying the local athletic ability. The nights are complemented by Bazm Adab, a cultural and poetic display including local poets and artists who provide a deep dive into the region's literary tradition. Every day provides a new surge of excitement, with exhilarating activities such as cricket, horse races, and tug-of-war tournaments. You can also visit the traditional craft stalls, where experienced artists sell their handcrafted items including embroidered fabrics, carpets, and jewelry. Throughout the festival, local dance and musical performances create a festive atmosphere and provide a glimpse into Darel's cultural life. You'll also have the opportunity to explore local historical sites, go on nature hikes, and experience the region's hospitality and traditional foods.
Day 07: Explore Sut Das Darel
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Take a break from the celebration to explore Sut Das' pristine beauty. Take a nature walk or light trek, explore historical places, and mingle with the locals to learn about their customs.
Day 08: Return to Gilgit
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After an unforgettable adventure, return to Gilgit in the morning. Spend time touring or shopping before in gilgit.
Day 09: Fly to Islamabad
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Dates & Cost – Sut Das Darel Festival
All seasons are considered good for the Sut Das Darel Festival. Considering the inflow of tourists all year round, our dates are open throughout the year and your bookings will be 100% guaranteed even if you are a single traveler. Our prices and dates for this tour (all seasons) are given below.
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Mid-November to February, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
Holiday Information
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide's working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
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Overview – Sut Das Darel Festival
The festival is an annual cultural celebration conducted in the picturesque Darel Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. This nine-day festival, normally held in early March, aims to encourage tourism and highlight the region’s rich cultural legacy. Sut Das, a picturesque and largely pristine location in Darel Tehsil, serves as the backdrop for this festival, which attracts guests from all over the country and beyond. The event celebrates the Darel community’s distinct traditions, sports, and arts, providing an immersive glimpse into the lives and customs of this secluded mountain region.
During the festival, attendees can participate in a range of thrilling activities, including classic sports such as polo, football, volleyball, and cricket. One of the festival’s highlights is the thrilling horse races, in which local riders showcase their exceptional horsemanship skills across the difficult terrain. There are other enjoyable events, such as tug-of-war, that bring the local community together for friendly rivalry. The cultural aspect of the festival is similarly rich, with Bazm Adab poetry recitals, local dance performances, and musical shows honoring the region’s literary and creative traditions. Visitors can browse traditional handicraft stalls, where local artisans sell handmade carpets, embroidered textiles, and other unique items.
The festival is more than just entertainment; it also allows visitors to connect with the region’s natural beauty. Visitors can escape the festivities and explore the stunning scenery, which includes natural valleys, rivers, and historical landmarks. Nature walks, mild treks, and interactions with locals help you learn more about the area’s history, culture, and way of life. The event is the ideal combination of fun, culture, and nature, providing an amazing experience in one of Pakistan’s most scenic and culturally rich places.
