Overview
Kumrat lies at the head of the Panjkora River in Upper Dir, a wide valley of tall deodar forest, wide meadows and fast, clear water. The village has a few hotels and camps, and the river and trees give the area a calm, cool feel, even in midsummer.
From Kumrat, tracks lead to higher pastures such as Jahaz Banda, a meadow at about 3,100 m below the peaks, and on to Katora Lake, at about 3,500 m, a few hours further. Both can be reached by trek or on horseback with local guides, and most people allow two or three days. The area has become popular for camping, river walks and short hikes, though facilities remain simple.
Highlights
- Deodar forest, meadows and the Panjkora River
- Camping and river walks in the valley
- Treks to Jahaz Banda and the high lakes with a local guide
- Fresh mountain air and quiet nights
Best time to visit
May to October is the main season. Spring and early summer are fresh and green, July and August are busy but pleasant, and autumn is clear. The upper valley can be blocked by snow in winter.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Good
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Islamabad (ISB) or Peshawar (PEW), then drive via Dir to Kumrat, about eight to nine hours from Islamabad. The last stretch from Thall is a rough road best done by jeep. Hotels and camps in Kumrat can arrange guides and horses.
What to expect
Easy at the village, moderate for treks to high pastures and lakes. Facilities are basic, with simple hotels, tents and cabins, and signal and electricity are limited. Roads can be damaged by floods and landslides, so check conditions.
Practical tips
- Check road conditions and local advice before you travel, as flood damage is common.
- Book a hotel or camp in advance for summer weekends.
- Take a local guide for treks to Jahaz Banda and the lakes.
- Bring warm clothes: nights are cold even in summer.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Kumrat from Dir?
About 60 km, and the last part is slow because of rough roads, so allow three hours or more.
Can I camp in Kumrat?
Yes, at the camps and designated areas arranged by local hosts. Follow local advice and leave no rubbish.
Is it suitable for children?
The valley is gentle, but the road is long and rough and the trails are steep in places.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Ziagul531 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Ziagul531 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Ziagul531 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
