Kumrat Valley, situated in the Upper Dir District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan, stands as one of the most scenic destinations in the region, attracting countless tourists each summer. Its lush green pastures, snow-capped peaks, and the twisting Panjkora River make it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nestled at the foothills of the Hindu Kush mountain range, Kumrat Valley is bordered by Chitral to the north, Kalam and Utror Swat to the east, Ayun Valley Chitral to the west, and Lower Dir to the south. Its landscape, characterized by rolling hills, verdant meadows, and crystal-clear streams, offers a picturesque backdrop for exploration.
Overview
Stunning natural beauty, deodar forests, incredibly lush green mountains, the river Panjkora, and mouthwatering cuisine are just a few things you can expect when visiting Kumrat Valley. Most significantly, it’s home to the friendliest people I’ve ever encountered while traveling. It makes sense why more and more people are interested in visiting the Kumrat Valley!
Attractions and Activities:
- Jahaz Banda Meadows: Explore the captivating Jahaz Banda Meadows, known for their lush greenery and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The meadows are ideal for camping, picnics, and photography.
- Katora Lake: Venture to the nearby Katora Lake, a hidden alpine gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The trek to Katora Lake offers an adventure through dense forests and pristine landscapes.
- Do Kala Chasma: Discover Do Kala Chasma, a site known for its twin waterfalls surrounded by thick forests. It’s a serene spot to unwind and connect with nature.
- Thall: Visit Thall, a picturesque village in Kumrat Valley with traditional wooden houses and terraced fields. Experience the local way of life and hospitality of the residents.
- Panjkora River: Relax by the banks of the Panjkora River, which meanders through Kumrat Valley. The river offers opportunities for fishing and scenic boat rides.
Kumrat Valley – A Heaven On Earth
One of Pakistan’s most stunning and undervalued regions is the Kumrat Valley. It is located in the Upper Dir District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the province of Pakistan. Thall is the town that is nearest to the valley. It is the starting location for journeys to Kumrat Valley, which is around 45 kilometers away. While other Pakistani tourists are mainly unaware of the remote valley.
Kumrat is covered with green pastures and snow-clad mountains. The river Panjkora, foggy mounds and forests are attractions of the region. These forests serve as habitats for variety of flora and fauna. It is located in the Upper Dir Kohistan region at the back side of which Swat Kohistan area of Gabral is located. Another feature of Kumrat Valley is its towering Deodar forest trees located on level ground adjacent the Panjkora river. At several places, the Panjkora River divides into channels, on the banks of which a few makeshift camping spots offer accommodation to tourists. There are several waterfalls there as well. Kala Chashma (Black Spring) is also located there.
Deforestation
Deodar forest is fast depleting in Dir Kohistan Valley and it continues unhindered as the locals claim that they have no other source of fuel for heating and cooking purposes in the harsh winter season. The people of Kohistan Valley had offered the government in the 2010s that they were ready stop cutting Deodar trees if they were provided with a natural gas facility. However, the government did not pay any heed to their demand.