The Hindu Kush, Kuh-e Hind, and the Hindu Kuh are all names referring to a 500 mile long sub-range of the Himalayan Mountains. This mountain range runs through all, or part of eight countries along its path; China, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Buhtan, Nepal, India and Myanmar.
The highest peak of the Hindu Kush is Tirich Mir, in Pakistan, reaches 25,289 feet earning the name “The Roof of the World.” Who could resist seeing a region that is impressive even on paper, imagine actually visiting and experiencing it for yourself. Many regions of the Hindu Kush are not as well explored as the rest of the world. However, it does attract visitors from around the world for skiing, mountain climbing, and adventure holidays on its various mountains and slopes.
Many of the regions offer their own sight-seeing packages and touring options whether you wish to travel on foot, by jeep or on horseback. In Chitrals, Swat Valley you can visit archaeological sites like Taxila Bhirmound, Sirkap, Sirsukh, and Taket-e-Bhai. The name Hindu Kush when literally translated means Hindu killer, and despite the ominus name Hinduism, along with other religions, is alive and well there. A variety of monasteries, mosques and temples with beautiful architecture, statues are located throughout the Hindu Kush.
These sites can often be visited and have fine examples of grand architecture, beautiful statues and more. The Hindu Kush is home to a variety of indigenous people like the Kafir Kalash tribes of the Bomboret, Rambur and Birir valleys, and the Nuristani tribe of Chitral. The people have strong cultural identities and many fascinating traditions. Visit the Bazzar of Rawalpindi or explore the frontier town of Peshawar to learn more of the culture. There is a vareity of lodging options along the Hindu Kush. But perhaps the most highly recommended is the Hindukush Heights Hotel. Located in the Chitral Valley of Pakistan, the hotel offers 24 elegant rooms away from noise and pollution where you can relax and take in the panoramic views of the area. Most vegetables served there are organically grown within the hotels garden, and from the pool your views will include the mountain and valley.
