Overview
The Choimus Winter Festival, honoured as “Intangible Cultural Heritage” by UNESCO in November 2018, is a cherished celebration of the Kailash people. This enchanting festival features mesmerizing circle dances around bonfires, melodious Choimus songs, and elaborate costumes adorned with cowry shells, coins, and beads. Leading up to the festival, heartfelt offerings are made to ancestral spirits,
accompanied by the glow of lights in their memory.
Choimus upholds the values of purity, with celibacy observed and ritual bathing required. A purification ceremony for men involves abstaining from sitting throughout the day. Culinary delights, including special bread filled with walnuts and goat’s cheese, grace the festivities. The festival marks the conclusion of the harvest season and the arrival of winter, fostering community bonds through cultural performances, traditional games, feasts, and gift exchanges. It provides a captivating glimpse into
Central Asia’s rich cultural heritage.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Lahore, and embark on a half-day city tour.
Day 02: Dive into Lahore’s cultural riches, including the iconic Wagah Border flag ceremony.
Day 03: Journey from Lahore to Islamabad with a stop at the Khewra Salt Mines and Ketas Temple.
Day 04: Explore Islamabad’s highlights during a full-day city tour.
Day 05: Head to the picturesque Swat Valley via the important archaeological site of Takht-i-Bhai.
Day 06: Embark on a scenic drive to the Kailash Valley for Choimus Festival preparations.
Day 07: Immerse in the full-day festivities of the Choimus Festival in Kailash Valley.
Day 08: Enjoy half a day of celebrations in Bamburet before departing for Chitral.
Day 09: Discover the cultural charm of Chitral and its surroundings.
Day 10: Drive to Peshawar and explore the vibrant city with a half-day tour.
Day 11: Enrich your journey with a visit to the Taxila archaeological site and museum before returning to Islamabad.
Day 12: Bid farewell as you’re transferred to the airport for your homeward-bound flight
Trip Highlights
Lahore-Islamabad-Swat-Bumburet-Chitral-Peshawar-Islamabad
Festival Dates
December 14 to 16
Time Duration
12 Days
11 Nights