Chitral: The Hidden Gem of Northern Pakistan

• Helloسلام
  [Salaam]
• Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [Khuda Hafiz]
• Yesہاں
  [Haan]
• Noنہیں
  [Nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeمہربانی/خوش آمدید
  [Meharbani/Khush Amdid]
• Thank youشکریہ
  [Shukriya]
• Excuse me/Sorryمعاف کیجیے/معافی چاہتا ہوں
  [Maaf kijiye/Maafi chahta hoon]
• How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
  [Aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ آپ؟
  [Theek hoon. Aap?]
• Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
  [Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
• I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آیا
  [Mujhe samajh nahi aya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دیکھنا چاہتا ہوں
  [Barah e karam menu dekhna chahta hoon]
• I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [Mein gosht nahi khata]
• Cheers!خوش رہیں!
  [Khush rahain!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم ادا کرنا چاہتا ہوں
  [Barah e karam ada karna chahta hoon]

• Help!مدد!
  [Madad!]
• Go away!چلے جاؤ!
  [Chale jao!]
• Call the Police!پولیس کو بلاؤ!
  [Police ko bulao!]
• Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلاؤ!
  [Doctor ko bulao!]
• I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
  [Mein gum ho gaya hoon]
• I'm illمجھے بیماری ہو گئی ہے
  [Mujhe bimari ho gayi hai]

• I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں...
  [Mein kharidna chahta hoon...]
• I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
  [Mein sirf dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?یہ کتنے کا ہے؟
  [Yeh kitne ka hai?]
• That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [Yeh bohat mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
  [Kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
  [Waqt kya hua hai?]
• It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
  [Ek baje hain]
• Half past (10)(10) کے بعد نصف
  [(Das) ke baad nisf]
• Morningصبح
  [Subah]
• Afternoonدوپہر
  [Dopahar]
• Eveningشام
  [Shaam]
• Yesterdayکل
  [Kal]
• Todayآج
  [Aaj]
• Tomorrowکل
  [Kal]
• 1ایک
  [Ek]
• 2دو
  [Do]
• 3تین
  [Teen]
• 4چار
  [Chaar]
• 5پانچ
  [Paanch]
• 6چھے
  [Chhe]
• 7سات
  [Saath]
• 8آٹھ
  [Aath]
• 9نو
  [No]
• 10دس
  [Das]

• Where's a/the...?...کہاں ہے؟
  [...kahan hai?]
• What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
  [Pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے دکھا سکتے ہیں (نقشے پر)؟
  [Kya aap mujhe dikhha sakte hain (naqshay par)?]
• When's the next (bus)?اگلا (بس) کب ہے؟
  [Agla (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (....کے لیے)
  [Ek ticket (....ke liye)]

The history of Chitral dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was inhabited as far back as 2000 BCE. The area was a significant part of the Gandhara civilization, which thrived in the region and left behind numerous artifacts and inscriptions.

Chitral is home to the Kalash people, believed to be descendants of Alexander the Great's soldiers. The Kalash have a distinct culture, language, and religion, setting them apart from the rest of Pakistan. Their rich traditions, including unique festivals like Chilam Joshi and Uchal, are celebrated with much fervor and attract tourists from all over the world.

The Chitral Dynasty, also known as the Kator Dynasty, ruled the region for over 400 years, starting in the late 16th century. The dynasty played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and political landscape of Chitral. The Mehtar of Chitral, the title given to the rulers, were known for their administrative skills and alliances with neighboring states.

In the 19th century, Chitral became a focal point in the 'Great Game'—the strategic rivalry between the British Empire and Tsarist Russia. The British established a political agent in Chitral in 1895, leading to significant changes in the region's administration and infrastructure. The Chitral Fort, which played a pivotal role during the Siege of Chitral in 1895, stands as a testament to this era.

Following the partition of British India in 1947, Chitral acceded to Pakistan. In 1969, it was fully integrated into Pakistan as a district of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. This integration brought about significant socio-economic changes, including the development of infrastructure, education, and healthcare facilities.

Chitral’s vibrant culture is celebrated through numerous festivals and traditions. The Shandur Polo Festival, held annually at the Shandur Pass, is one of the highest polo grounds in the world and attracts players and spectators from around the globe. The region is also known for its music, dance, and traditional crafts, which reflect the diverse heritage of its inhabitants.

Chitral is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the towering peaks of the Hindu Kush mountains, lush valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard and the markhor, Pakistan’s national animal. The Chitral Gol National Park is a protected area that showcases the region’s rich biodiversity.

Chitral is located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The nearest international airport is Islamabad International Airport, approximately 365 kilometers away. From Islamabad, you can take a domestic flight to Chitral Airport, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can travel by road via the Lowari Tunnel, which connects Chitral with the rest of Pakistan. The road journey takes approximately 8-10 hours from Islamabad. Public buses and private taxis are available for this route.

Chitral has limited but functional transportation options. Within the town, you can use local taxis and rickshaws, which are readily available and affordable. For exploring remote areas, it’s advisable to hire a 4x4 vehicle. Public buses and vans (known as 'Hiace') operate between Chitral and nearby villages. Renting a car is also an option but requires careful driving due to the rugged terrain and narrow roads.

The official currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants in Chitral, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting rural areas. ATMs are available in Chitral, but it’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger cities like Islamabad before traveling. Smaller establishments typically only accept cash payments.

Chitral is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should still be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Chitral has a low crime rate, it’s best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Some remote areas may have limited security presence, so it's advisable to travel with a local guide.

In case of an emergency, dial 1122 for immediate assistance. Chitral has a local hospital, but for severe medical emergencies, you may need to be transported to a larger city. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town for minor health issues. Always carry a basic first-aid kit when traveling to remote areas.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in rural areas and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Always remove your shoes when entering mosques and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. 'Assalam-o-Alaikum' is a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Chitral like a local, visit the local bazaars where you can buy traditional handicrafts and sample local food. Engage with locals, who are known for their hospitality and willingness to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss visiting the Chitral Fort and the Shahi Mosque. For a unique experience, attend the Kalash festivals in the Kalash Valleys, which offer a glimpse into the region’s unique cultural heritage.