Heaven High Up in the Mountains!!

Rocky Mountains of Shoghor- On the way to Karimabad

It was November 2014, I could feel the cold air on my face, and the valley had already started pulling the yellow blanket as autumn had taken its grip over the valley. Yes!!! I was in Karimabad valley of Chitral, in the northern territory of Pakistan, one of the beautiful and breath-taking places. The central Asian, northern territory of Pakistan is considered one of the most beautiful places. At a distance of 35km from the main town, Karimabad valley is situated in North East of Chitral. Chitral is composed of seventy percent of mountains. The highest mountain of the Hindu Kush range “Tirich Mir” is also very close and clearly visible which adds more beauty to the valley. The altitude of this valley is about 10000 ft from the sea level.

Shoghor Bridge towards Karimabad

As the route toward Karimabad is mountainous, bumpy and rough, I remembered the well known quote which goes like “there is no short cut to success” and on my case which became there is no easy route to a beautiful place. The Rocky Mountains are quite fascinating and adventurous. These are also one of the best Rocky Mountains tracking zone.

On the way 

Narrow roads of Karimabad

Karimabad has a rural housing system. Here they live in small houses, mostly made of stones due to harsh weather. Karimabad is also home to many natural springs. These natural springs are never dry and provide water even in the winters when other sources of water, such as pipelines, are frozen. Inhabitants of Karimabad are very co-operative, sincere, simple, straight forward and hospitable. When we reached there we were warmly welcomed and everyone made us feel at home, even the kids! 

Happiness is Childhood- Kids at host home

People here made their homes high up in the mountains. I loved the way the curvy roads made their way to the high up valley. And peering down was amazing. One feels so lively and spirited being there. We stopped our jeep and started walking as it was the best way to enjoy the nature. We felt that the birds were singing for us and wanted to tell that there were new people in the valley. On every step there was fresh cold stream that made the scenery more miraculous.

Karimabad, Chitral

Different musical, dance and folk festival are yearly arranged such as at the time of Novroz. Different Children camps are also arranged here twice a year.

Anyone can easily get travelling guide there. There are government and civil, as well as community travelling guides who are very supportive and welcoming. 

Beautiful Valley of Karimabad

The valley is rich with wealth of natural resources such as fresh air, fresh water, fresh fruits and herbs. Places worth visiting in Karimabad include Mashat, Nagrough, Bumbostu, Mouchian Ghari, Girdanga, Kachuftu, Shahaghooch and many more.

Natural Spring- Karimabad

Few Safety Tips:

• The valley of Karimabad being in high up mountainous region, few safety tips while travelling should be considered: 
• Always travel with a reliable and strong heavy vehicle. 
• The driver must be of the valley as the route well as there is chance of accidents.
• Always keep your sun blocks and lotions with you as the valley is at height, one may get skin problem. 

Other than that Karimabad is one of the peaceful spot for family adventure, group adventure as well as lonely adventure!