Best Places to Visit in Upper Dir, Pakistan: A Complete Guide

The Upper Dir District of Pakistan is located in the Malakand Division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, offers stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a range of outdoor adventures. It is known for its mountains, valleys, and ancient history. 

Upper Dir is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience Pakistan’s natural beauty and explore lesser-known destinations. The weather in Dir Upper is generally mild in summer, with chilly winters, making it ideal for summer tourism.

Whether you’re looking for scenic valleys, historical sites, or peaceful mountain getaways, Upper Dir has something to offer. 

Location

Located in northern Pakistan, Upper Dir borders Chitral to the north, Afghanistan to the northwest, Swat to the east, and Lower Dir to the south, sharing a 40 to 50-kilometer border with Afghanistan.

History of Upper Dir

Upper Dir is a land of ancient civilizations. The Aryans, Buddhists, Mughals, and Gandhara civilization all left their mark here. Alexander the Great once passed through this region. In the sixteenth century, the Yousafzai tribe took control of Dir. Later, in 1898, Muhammad Sharif Khan was made the Nawab of Dir, and the region became a princely state. Dir joined Pakistan in 1969, and the area was divided into Upper Dir and Lower Dir in 1996

Weather in Dir Upper

Weather in Dir Upper is generally mild in summer, making it ideal for tourism. Winters can be extremely cold, with snowfall in higher areas like Kumrat Valley and Lowari Top. For outdoor activities, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather conditions.

Best Places to Visit in Upper Dir District

Here’s a guide to the best places to visit in Upper Dir, including popular spots, cultural highlights, and essential travel tips.

1. Kumrat Valley

Kumrat Valley is one of the most beautiful and serene spots in Upper Dir. This place is known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, rivers, and thick pine forests. The valley is a top choice for hiking, camping, and trekking enthusiasts. Surrounded by towering mountains, Kumrat Valley is also home to the Panjkora River, which flows through the valley, adding to its beauty.

• Location: About 45 kilometers from Upper Dir city.
• Best Time to Visit: May to October.
• Activities: Trekking, camping, and sightseeing.
• Weather: The valley has pleasant summer weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

2. Thall Village

Thall is a small village that serves as a gateway to Kumrat Valley. Visitors to Thall can experience traditional Kohistani culture and explore local markets and architecture. Thall’s location at the edge of Kumrat makes it an excellent stop for those heading to the valley.

• Location: About 15 kilometers from the entrance of Kumrat Valley.
• Activities: Cultural immersion and local shopping.
• Weather: Summers are mild, while winters can be quite cold.

3. Badogai Pass

The Badogai Pass is a stunning mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Connecting Dir and Swat, the pass offers one of the most scenic drives in the region, although the route is rugged and challenging. This high-altitude pass is not for the faint-hearted but promises an unforgettable adventure.

• Location: Between Upper Dir and Swat districts.
• Elevation: Over 3,300 meters.
• Activities: Scenic drives, photography, and adventure travel.
• Best Season: Accessible mainly from late spring to early autumn.

4. Chakdara Fort

Chakdara Fort is an ancient fort located in Upper Dir, with historical significance that traces back to the time of the British Raj. The fort has been used by various rulers and remains a fascinating site for history lovers. Chakdara Fort provides insights into the region’s rich past and is surrounded by scenic views of the Dir area.

• Location: Near Dir town.
• Activities: Historical exploration and photography.
• Weather: Suitable to visit throughout the year, though spring and autumn offer the best climate.

5. Dir Museum

The Dir Museum is a specialty museum located in Dir town that houses a collection of artifacts from the region, showcasing the area’s Gandhara civilization roots. The museum provides a glimpse into the history and cultural heritage of Dir, making it a must-visit for those interested in the history of the region.

• Location: Dir town.
• Activities: Cultural exploration and learning about local history.
• Weather: The museum can be visited year-round.

6. Pakistan Park

Pakistan Park is a recreational area located in Dir town, offering a peaceful space for families and tourists to relax. The park is an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

• Location: Dir town.
• Activities: Picnics and family outings.
• Weather: Open year-round, though spring and summer are especially pleasant.

7. Baab Kumrat

Baab Kumrat is a mountain in Upper Dir that offers panoramic views of the Kumrat Valley and surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for hiking, and once you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with stunning vistas of the valley below.

• Location: Near the entrance to Kumrat Valley.
• Activities: Hiking and photography.
• Best Season: Spring to autumn.

8. Churchill Picket

Churchill Picket is a historical site in Upper Dir that dates back to the British colonial era. This location was once used by British forces as a lookout point. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its old stone structures and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

• Location: Near Dir town.
• Activities: Historical exploration and photography.
• Weather: Accessible year-round.

9. Lowari Top

Lowari Top is a high mountain pass connecting Upper Dir with Chitral. The Upper Dir to Chitral route is known for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain. During winter, heavy snowfall makes it difficult to cross, but the scenic beauty and adventure make it a popular spot in summer.

• Location: Between Upper Dir and Chitral.
• Elevation: About 3,118 meters.
• Activities: Scenic drive and adventure travel.
• Best Season: Summer is the safest time to visit.

10. Usheri Dara

Usheri Dara is a picturesque valley within Upper Dir, known for its traditional villages and beautiful landscapes. The valley offers unique cultural experiences, where visitors can see traditional Pashtun hospitality and explore the scenic surroundings.

• Location: About 15 kilometers from Dir city.
• Activities: Cultural experiences, nature walks, and photography.
• Weather: Spring and summer are the best times to visit.

11. Katora Lake

Katora Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake located near Jahaz Banda Upper Dir. Known for its bowl-like shape, Katora Lake is a popular spot for trekking and camping. The turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks create a stunning landscape that attracts adventurers from across Pakistan.

• Location: 9 kilometers from Jahaz Banda in Upper Dir.
• Activities: Trekking, camping, and photography.
• Best Season: June to September.

12. Panjkora River

The Panjkora River flows through Kumrat Valley and is known for its natural beauty. It’s a popular destination for fishing, as it’s home to trout and other freshwater fish. The river is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, making it ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape.

• Location: Flowing through Kumrat Valley.
• Activities: Fishing, riverside picnics, and nature walks.
• Weather: Best enjoyed during the warmer months from May to September.

Upper Dir Hotels and Accommodation

Finding accommodation in Upper Dir is relatively easy, with options ranging from basic hotels to guesthouses in Dir city and nearby areas. Upper Dir hotels in Dir town are affordable and offer essential amenities for travelers. If you’re looking to explore Kumrat Valley, consider staying in Thall or Dir town for easy access to nearby attractions.

Here’s the list of hotels in Upper Dir and Thall Valley where you can book your staycation!

Final Thoughts

Upper Dir offers a unique combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. From the enchanting Kumrat Valley to the adventurous Badogai Pass and peaceful Panjkora River, this region is a treasure trove for travelers looking to explore Pakistan’s lesser-known destinations. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, the places to visit in Upper Dir promise a memorable journey into one of Pakistan’s most scenic and culturally rich districts.

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