General
Shimshal Kuch Festival (2025-26)
The Shimshal Kuch Festival is an annual cultural celebration conducted in the isolated Shimshal Valley of Upper Hunza, Pakistan. This celebration celebrates the joyful return of shepherds and their animals from the high Pamir and Gujerav pastures, where they spent the summer grazing. The ceremony, which runs from October 15th to October 18th, includes ancient customs such as a goat sacrifice at Shimshal Bridge to express appreciation for the community’s and livestock’s safe return. It is a colorful celebration of Shimshal’s rich cultural legacy and the resilient spirit of its people.
The table below provides details of our fixed departures (group tours) and private tours for Festival Tours in Pakistan.
Itinerary – Shimshal Kuch Festival
The itinerary for the Shimshal Kuch Festival is given below.
Day 02: Islamabad - Chilas
On this Day
Take a magnificent trip to Chilas via the Karakoram Highway, passing through the lovely Kohistan valley and alongside the mighty Indus River. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for a pleasant stay.
Day 03: Chilas - Passu/Gulmit/Ghulkin
On this Day
Take a breathtaking trek to Passu, Gulmit, or Ghulkin, stopping along the way to marvel at the Nanga Parbat viewpoint, the meeting place of three spectacular mountain ranges, and the Rakaposhi viewpoint for a delicious lunch. After that, continue your trip to Passu, Gulmit, or Ghulkin, where you will be met and brought to your hotel for a restful stay.
Day 04: Ghulkin/Gulmit/Passu - Shimshal Valley
On this Day
Embark on an exciting adventure to Shimshal, navigating the tight jeep route for around 3 hours. When you arrive in Shimshal, spend some time exploring and immersing yourself in the intriguing surroundings.
Day 05: Shimshal – Wuch Furzeen
On this Day
Set out on a walk to Shimshal Pamir, where you will join the natives in returning to the Kuch. Today's hike will last 6-7 hours, taking us to our first campsite at Wuch Furzeen, where we will spend the night in tents surrounded by the region's stunning surroundings.
Day 06: Wuz Furzeen - Shuvzherav
On this Day
Begin another day of walking, covering around 6-7 hours to reach our second campsite, Shuvizherav. As the day comes to an end, we'll spend the night in tents, surrounded by the tranquil and mesmerizing beauty of the Shimshal Valley.
Day 07: Shuvzherav - Shimshal Pass
On this Day
Prepare for another day of trekking, this time to the pass, which will take us 3 to 4 hours. The night will be spent in tents amid Shimshal's magnificent sceneries.
Day 08: Kuch Festival Celebration Day
On this Day
Today is a special day as we are attending the Kuch festival, celebrating with the people, and witnessing the distinctive cultural events. We will spend our overnight stay in tents, immersed in Shimshal's rich traditions.
Day 09: Shimshal Pass - Arbob Puryen
On this Day
Join us on a spectacular journey down to Arbob Puryen with the Kuch, where we will share their rich customs and experiences. Our overnight stay will be in tents, providing memorable memories amid Shimshal.
Day 10: Arbob Puryen - Shimshal Village
On this Day
Begin your journey back to Shimshal hamlet, accompanying the Kutch and indulging in the happy celebration of their arrival. This marks the end of a one-of-a-kind and culturally enlightening experience that will leave a lasting impression on the Shimshal Kuch Festival attendees.
Day 11: Shimshal - Ghulkin/Gulmit/Passu
On this Day
Take a picturesque drive back to Ghulkin/Gulmit/Passu, where you will arrive and be comfortably transferred to your accommodation, capping off this incredible experience.
Day 12: Explore Gulkin/Gulmit/Passu
On this Day
Discover spectacular views as we explore the legendary Passu glacier, the lovely Borith Lake, and the interesting Passu suspension bridge. Take a relaxing stroll to Ondra Fort (Poygah) and learn about the rich cultural legacy at Gulmit House. Immerse yourself in the local charm as we tour the lovely Ghulkin and Gulmit villages, making the most of this day.
Day 13: Ghulkin/Gulmit/Passu - Karimabad
On this Day
Take a picturesque drive to Karimabad, where the route is as interesting as the destination. Along the journey, take in the breathtaking grandeur of Attabad Lake, discover Hunza's sacred rocks, and enjoy the charm of Ganish hamlet, one of the valley's oldest communities. When you arrive in Karimabad, check into your hotel and get ready to experience the attractions that await you.
Day 14: Explore Karimabad
On this Day
Embark on a spectacular excursion through central Hunza, an area rich in history and natural beauty. Begin your day by seeing the renowned Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, both of which reflect the area's rich cultural tapestry. Wander through the Royal Garden, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Dive into the rich tapestry of Karimabad's local market, which is brimming with local cuisines and handcrafted items. As the day progresses, head to Duiker for a stunning sunset, capturing amazing views of Hunza, Nagar Valley, and the majestic snow-capped peaks on the horizon. Duiker's lofty vantage position gives an unforgettable view.
Day 15: Karimabad – Besham/Naran
On this Day
Drive back to Besham over the legendary Karakoram Highway. Alternatively, if the pass is accessible, you can follow the picturesque path to Naran Valley. As you travel through these stunning settings, take brief breaks to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. When you arrive, check into your hotel and relax after a long day of travel.
Day 16: Besham/Naran – Islamabad
On this Day
Begin the final stage of your journey by driving back to Islamabad. Pause the journey to visit the Taxila Museum and learn about the region's rich history. Explore Islamabad, the capital city, and its cultural and architectural highlights, such as the magnificent Faisal Mosque and the Pakistan Monument. Explore the lively local bazaar and absorb the vivid atmosphere.
Day 17: Fly to home country
On this Day
Dates & Cost – Shimshal Kuch Festival
All seasons are considered good for the Shimshal Kuch 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 | 2200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2025 | Daily | 2200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2025 | Daily | 2200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2025 | Daily | 2200 | 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 – Shimshal Kuch Festival
The Shimshal Kuch Festival is a much-anticipated cultural event held each year in the remote Shimshal Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. This celebration commemorates the homecoming of shepherds and their livestock from the high-altitude Pamir and Gujerav pastures, where they had spent the summer grazing. Between October 15th and 18th, the community comes alive with lively celebrations, signaling the end of a long and difficult journey for the shepherds, their families, and their herds. The return represents not only the reuniting of families but also the conclusion of a season of hard work in the tough mountain environment.
During the months spent in the meadows, the villagers tend to their livestock, which are mostly yaks, goats, and sheep, generating valuable food products such as butter, cheese, and yeast to help them survive the upcoming winter. The festival honors the shepherds’ hard work and expresses thankfulness for their safe return. A prominent festival tradition is the goat sacrifice at Shimshal Bridge, an old ritual in which locals praise Allah for the well-being of their community and animals. This act of sacrifice reflects a spiritual connection to their faith, as well as a celebration of overcoming adversity.
The festival is more than simply a celebration of the homecoming of animals; it’s also a lively demonstration of the region’s distinct culture. Traditional music, dancing, and feasts bring the community together, and visitors can enjoy the warmth and friendliness of the Wakhi people. The festival provides an actual view into the lives of one of Pakistan’s most remote and resilient communities, highlighting their strong relationships to the land, wildlife, and time-honored customs. For those looking for a significant cultural experience, the festival provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a centuries-old custom.
