KEY POINTS
- The flowers begin to grow as the weather cools down in the spring season in Pakistan
- Tourists can witness unique festivities during the season
- Chilam Jusht, Nowruz, and Mela Chiraghan are key events in spring
ISLAMABAD: Clear skies, a gentle breeze, vibrant blossoms, and pleasant weather define the essence of spring in Pakistan. In this season, tourists can also witness festivities that spring brings. According to Pakistan’s Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), the South Asian country annually organises various festivities and events including Chilam Jusht, Nowruz, Mela Chiraghan, National Horse and Cattle Show during the spring season.
Chilam Joshi
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chitral District, dance to the beat of the drums and sound of joyous music as this annual festival of the Kalash people celebrates spring calls for festive clothing.
Known locally as “Joshi,” this age-old celebration is one of the most significant and vibrant festivals of the Kalash people, marking the arrival of spring and the abundance of dairy products and new crops.
As the event commenced at the famed dancing ground, Charsoo in Rumbur Valley, the atmosphere was electric. Local Kalash priests led the ceremonies, ensuring that age-old rituals were followed to the letter. Women, dressed in intricately embroidered traditional attire, performed lively dances to the rhythmic beats of drums, creating a mesmerising spectacle that highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of the Kalash community.
Nowruz
According to the website of PTDC, Nowruz celebration to mark the beginning of the new year in the Persian calendar. It’s a time for family, food, and festivities that everyone can enjoy.
Nowruz was celebrated in much of the ancient Near East three thousand years ago. People all over the world, from West Asia and the Caucasus to Central and South Asia, including Pakistan, celebrate Nowruz Festival for 13 days, each with its unique local variation.
Mela Chiraghan
Mela Chiraghan, or the Festival of Lamps, pays homage to Sufi saint Shah Hussain in his native Lahore, and is one of the biggest festivals in the country, PTDC said.
The event features elaborate decor, oil lamps, and mystical dances and music — an authentic Sufi experience.
National Horse and Cattle Show
Another annual event in Lahore, the Horse and Cattle Show multi-day event with many festivities that invites cattle and horse breeders to compete in animal shows. The most majestic of animals from the country are the chief guests at this festival. People from across the country take part in the event.
