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Introduction

Chilas Valley

Chilas  is a small town located in the Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan on the river Indus. It is part of the Silk Road connected by the Karakoram Highway and N-90 National Highway, which link it to Islamabad and Peshawar in the southwest, via Hazara and Malakand Divisions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In the north, Chilas is connected to the Chinese cities of Tashkurgan and Kashgar in Xinjiang, via Gilgit, Aliabad, Sust, and the Khunjerab Pass.

Even after Kashmiri-British rule was imposed a century ago, the Indus Valley west of Chilas was a hornet’s nest of tiny republics; there was one in almost every side valley, each loosely guided by a jirga (council of tribal elders) but effectively leaderless, all at war with one another and feuding internally. Though administratively lumped with Gilgit, Chilas and its neighbors are temperamentally more like Indus Kohistan. The large Chilas Fort was first garrisoned to protect British supply lines over the Babusar Pass, and beefed up after local tribes nearly overran it in 1893. Now a police post, it has put a lid on Chilas, though not on the Darel and Tangir Valleys to the west.

Chilasis are Shina speakers, with some Pashtun settlers speaking Pashto. Urdu and some English are also spoken.

Chilas Ancient petroglyphs

There are more than 50,000 pieces of Buddhist rock art (petroglyphs) and inscriptions all along the Karakoram Highway in Gilgit-Baltistan of Pakistan that are concentrated at ten major sites between Hunza and Shatial, The carvings were left by various invaders, traders and pilgrims who passed along the trade route, as well as by locals. The earliest date back to between 5000 and 1000 BC, showing single animals, triangular men and hunting scenes in which the animals sometimes are larger than the hunters. These carvings were pecked into the rocks with stone tools and are covered with a thick patina that proves their age. Later — mostly Buddhist — carvings were sometimes executed with a sharp chisel.

The ethnologist Karl Jettmar has tried to piece together the history of the area from various inscriptions and recorded his findings in “Rockcarvings and Inscriptions in the Northern Areas of Pakistan” and the later released “Between Gandhara and the Silk Roads: Rock carvings along the Karakoram Highway”.

The Kharoshthi term “Kaboa” (or Kamboa) appears in a short commemorative Kharosthi inscription found from Chilas as reported by the Archaeological Department of Pakistan. The inscription has been transcribed, translated and interpreted by Ahmad Hasan Dani,  a leading archaeologist, historian, and linguist, who was among the foremost authorities on South Asian archaeology and history. According to Dani, Kaboa or Kamboa of the inscription is a Kharoshthised form of Sanskrit Kamboja. Thus, it seems likely that Chilas also formed part of ancient Kamboja kingdom.

Chilas comes under Gilgit-Baltistan.It is the Headquarter of District Diamer. The weather is hot and dry in the summer and dry and cold in the winter. It can be reached through Karakoram highway and also from the Kaghan valley passing over the Babusar Pass. Chilas is situated on the left bank of the mighty river Indus.

Discover Natural Wonders: Chilas is blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty, boasting towering mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and verdant valleys. From the majestic peaks of Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world, to the tranquil shores of the Indus River, nature enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in a playground of outdoor adventure. Hiking, trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting are just a few of the exhilarating activities awaiting travelers in this untamed wilderness.

Immerse in Cultural Splendor: Rich in cultural heritage, Chilas is home to diverse ethnic communities, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. Explore ancient rock art dating back thousands of years, depicting scenes of daily life, religious rituals, and mythical creatures. Engage with local communities and experience firsthand the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the region, as you sample traditional cuisine, participate in colorful festivals, and learn about age-old traditions passed down through generations.

Unravel History’s Mysteries: Chilas holds a significant place in history, serving as a crossroads of ancient trade routes and civilizations. Discover the remnants of ancient kingdoms, forts, and archaeological sites that bear witness to the region’s storied past. Delve into the mysteries of Buddhist heritage as you visit ancient monasteries, stupas, and rock carvings that dot the landscape, offering glimpses into a bygone era of spiritual enlightenment and artistic expression.

Plan Your Adventure: Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures, cultural immersion experiences, or a journey through history’s annals, Chilas promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Himalayas. Plan your adventure today and embark on a voyage of discovery that will leave you awe-inspired and rejuvenated.

Key Highlights:

  • Majestic Peaks: Explore the towering peaks of Nanga Parbat and the surrounding Himalayan and Karakoram ranges.
  • Cultural Encounters: Engage with local communities, visit ancient monasteries, and witness traditional festivals.
  • Historical Sites: Discover ancient rock art, fortresses, and archaeological sites that showcase Chilas’ rich history.
  • Adventure Activities: Embark on hiking, trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting expeditions amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Plan Your Journey: Start your journey to Chilas today and unlock the wonders of this hidden gem in the heart of the Himalayas. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities, Chilas promises an unforgettable experience for vertical explorers seeking to venture off the beaten path.

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