Donson Pass and Kundyak An
The trip from Bumboret to the Upper Rumbur Gol in Pakistan's fascinating Kalasha Valleys is a visual marvel, winding through pristine woods and charming villages. This lovely trail includes various peaks, including as the Donson Pass (2970m), the calm Acholgah Gol, and Kundyak An (2855m), and provides trekkers with an intimate experience in the heart of Kalasha culture.
Itinerary
The Itinerary for Donson Pass and Kundyak An is noticeable below
Day 02: Gomenah to Rumbur Gol
After crossing the Acholgah Gol, go 30 minutes north to the road's terminus, passing through an outstanding cedar forest (2460m). Ascend the west slope or the desolate hillside, both of which cross the Kundyak An just a short distance apart. Climb the desolate mountainside, also known as Kundyak, on goat tracks for 15 to 30 minutes to a modest wooden shelter (2670m). Tree notches are carved to encourage bees to form hives so Kalasha can collect honey.
Continue for 1 to 2 hours up a 10m-wide logging scar. This strip eventually narrows and becomes a gully with deadwood strewn about. The trail soon vanishes, and the thickly forested path to the pass ascends and to the right of the gully. The woodland floor provides Qutsi or morel mushrooms, and later, wild strawberries in May and June. Kundyak An (2855m) is densely wooded and cannot be seen from below. Trees obscure views to the north from the pass. The sweeping views south towards the Donson Pass, on the other hand, are spectacular. This 1.25-kilometer trek takes you through an old-growth forest with trees ranging in age from 300 to 1000 years.
There is no clear trail north of the Kundyak An until you get to the first town below in 1 to 2 hours. As the overgrown trail appears and fades, a local friend who knows the way down is important. The path stays to the right, traveling north-northeast for an hour before descending steeply to a Kalasha home and barley field at Narajau (2225m), 2 kilometers below the mountain. Traghdhur, a Muslim and Gujar village, sits across the valley. The Kalasha settlement of Ravelik is located high above the confluence of this side stream and Rumbur Gol. Shekhanandeh's fields are far to the north.
The footbridge over the brook below Narajau is a short descent. Cross the first of eight footbridges to the real left bank (the number of footbridges varies depending on the water level). The real right bank is flanked by steep rocks, and the stream enters a gorge. After 30 minutes and multiple river crossings, you will arrive at Rumbur Gol (2070m). Views west up the Gangalwat Gol towards the Afghan border can be had from the confluence. Cross the Rumbur Gol on a robust Plank footbridge to the road that follows the actual side of the river.
Holiday Overview
This hike begins in the village of Bumboret and proceeds through a woodland road that not only shows the natural splendor of the region but also brings visitors to the unique and vivid world of the Kalasha people—an indigenous community known for their distinct traditions and customs.
The Donson Pass, at a height of 2970 meters, serves as a turning point on this journey, giving hikers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding regions. From this vantage point, one may appreciate the pristine natural beauty that characterizes this region of the world.
As the journey proceeds, visitors will come across the Acholgah Gol, a peaceful valley wedged between the Donson Pass and Kundyak An. Throughout the year, Kalasha men from Anish and Batrik Villages tend to their animals in this valley. A few Kalasha women join them to cultivate their crops during the months of July and August.
It is recommended that individuals embarking on this trip travel the path from south to north, accompanied by informed villagers from Bumboret who are familiar with the region. Their knowledge ensures a pleasant and culturally stimulating experience.
Kundyak and Donson Pass An trek provides more than simply a means to engage with the Kalasha community, experience their way of life, and be amazed by the tranquil beauty that envelops this part of the earth. This voyage promises not just natural splendor but also the warmth of human interaction, leaving indelible memories of a memorable expedition.
