
The Valley
Up until a year ago, not many people were aware of this remote beauty centered amidst snow clad peaks, towering trees, dense forests and Panjkora river – Kumrat Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, situated in the upper Kohistan region at the foothills of Hindukush mountains with Swat, Ayun and Chitral valleys surrounding it.
How To Get There
Tentatively 11-13 hours away from Islamabad, the valley is accessible by small and large vehicles via Dir Road, that heads straight north till the point of a road split, where the left leads to Chitral and the right leads deep into Lamoti Village, furthering into Thal, Do Janga, Jandrai etc as part of Kumrat Valley. Once you reach Thal, you’ll require a 4×4 jeep to reach these places as the roads are unmetalled. Trekking is also involved to reach the high altitude Jahaz Banda meadow and respective Katora Lake (11,500 ft)
Convenience Tip: Hire professional tour services for a 100% stress and carefree experience – In my case I chose Caravaan سیرائے to be my host for this trip. And they did a great job!
What Does It Look Like?
Words can’t describe the magic this place exudes; only first hand witnessing can – but for now, let’s just get you a little excited with these mind blowing snapshots from my recent trip. Enjoy!

Jandrai – the starting point of Jahaz Banda trek

Kumrat Valley Landscape

Raja Taj lodges at Jahaz Banda Meadows

Jahaz Banda Meadows

Katora Lake Trek

Magnificent Lake Katora (11,500ft)

Waterfall near Do Janga


Kumrat Forest


Food Stop at Do Janga

Kumrat Forest



Jeep ride to Kumrat Forest

Camping at Kumrat Forest – Panjkora River in view



Jahaz Banda Meadows

Summer / Spring at its best at Katora Lake



Jahaz Banda Landscape

Kumrat Forest

Katora Lake – On top of the world

Overlooking the Kumrat Forest

Katora Lake Perspective
Travelled virtually through these photos? Now pack your bags and head straight for a vacation.
On a scale of 1-10, how much are you craving to visit this place?

You must be logged in to post a comment.