Nomadic Mountain Life in Northern Pakistan

Chitral & Gilgit-Baltistan
Nomadic life offers interesting elements to life for those who live it. These individuals revel in the unadulterated beauty of nature, granting them access to places that remain beyond the reach of the average person. 

Their journey takes them through a breathtaking scenic location encompassing glaciers, meandering streams, green pastures strewn with vibrant blossoms, serene azure lakes, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls.

At the heart of their existence lies the attentive care of their precious livestock—goats and the fat-tailed sheep. The ritual of releasing these animals to graze at the break of dawn, only to gather them back as the day wanes, is nothing short of ceremony. The return of these herds, with the sprightly lambs and agile goats dashing downhill, swirls dust into the radiant embrace of the setting sun.

A distinct aroma envelops the nomadic abode as the family joyously welcomes their returning herds. They prepare to milk the goats, a task that demands more than two hours to complete, owing to the sizable number of lactating goats and sheep.

As the sun dips below the horizon, a chill permeates the air. The nomadic family, resourceful as ever, kindles a fire using juniper wood. The resulting fragrance spreads in the surroundings, evoking an insatiable desire to savor it indefinitely.

With nightfall, the faithful Kangal shepherd dogs spring into action. Their resounding barks reverberate in the stillness, as they assume their vigilant stance, safeguarding the herds from lurking wolves. Yet, these loyal guardians also pose a potential threat to outsiders who dare to venture near the nomadic encampment during the nocturnal hours.

These individuals revel in the unadulterated beauty of nature, granting them access to places that remain beyond the reach of the average person.
Fields with Mountain View Chitral Valley Shams Uddin
Fields in the Chitral valley - Image by Shams Uddin

Shams Uddin
Shams Uddin
Shams Uddin in a wildlife guide and protector from Chitral valley, northern Pakistan.


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