CHITRAL, Dec 19: The traditional winter festival opened on Monday in the three Kalash valleys of Bumburate, Birir and Rumboor in the south of Chitral district. The festival, which is celebrated for five days, is marked by round-the-clock entertainment.

The Kalash will spend the next three months in virtual hibernation due to the harsh winter in the valleys. The festival is used as an opportunity to welcome the tough season.

The cold weather keeps outsiders from visiting and joining the Kalash people in the festival. The Kalash are an ancient people and represent a unique civilization.

Their population has been dwindling over a passage of time. At present, are believed to be living 3,000 people in the three Kalash valleys.