CHITRAL, May 17: A six-day Kalash festival, Chilim Jushi, concluded on Thursday in the three valleys inhabited by the tribe. The festival was included in the calendar of events of the “Visit Pakistan Year” but no efforts were made by the tourism ministry to invite tourists.

A hotel owner in the valley said the festival was celebrated on a low key and the number of tourists visiting the area on the occasion was less than in previous years. He said that hotel owners in the area had been disappointed by the drop in the number of tourists.

He said security concerns were the main reason for the situation.

PPI adds: The festival is celebrated in May every year in Rumboor, Berir and Bumborate villages.

Local people say the tourists face difficulties because of poor communications, electricity and health facilities. They complain that there is no proper place for the traditional dance or other programmes.

A group of 11 people, including a disabled youth, arrived from Lahore after travelling for 27 hours to attend the festival, but they could not reach the place because there was no way for a wheelchair.

The Kalash community celebrates three festivals every year.