THOI YASIN

Thoi Yasin is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is situated in the Yasin Valley, which is part of the Ghizer District in the northern part of Pakistan. Thoi Yasin is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and a diverse landscape typical of the Himalayan region. The area is known for its dramatic scenery with steep slopes, rocky terrain, and alpine meadows. Rivers and streams originating from glaciers in the surrounding mountains flow through the valley, contributing to the area’s natural beauty and providing water for agriculture for local communities.

Thoi Yasin is segmented into the following subsequent valleys.

• Dalkoi
• Dapas
• Karim Abad
• Drach
• Harp
• Rahim Abad
• Kunu
• Dreskin
• Ishqamdas
• Nalti
• Thalti

Weather of Thoi Yasin

The weather in Thoi Yasin is moderate in the summer and extremely cold in winter. In summer, people head towards the pastures where they gather fodder for their livestock which can be used to feed them in winter and graze their animals, people of Thoi are mostly teachers, shopkeepers, soldiers, peasants, and shepherds.

Languages spoken in Thoi

Although the majority of people in Thoi Yasin speak the Burushaski language, Khowar is also spoken by minorities. Burushaski is said to be the most difficult language spoken in Ghizer. Burushaski spoken in Thoi Valley is quite different from that of Hunza and Nagar. The accent of Yasin Burushaski speakers is different from that of Hunza and Nagar. The accent and rhythm of words make burushaski interesting but difficult to learn.

Festivals celebrated in Yasin Thoi

Although many festivals are celebrated in Thoi Yasin. We all know about the Islamic festivals celebrated all over Pakistan such as Eid Ul Fitr, Eid Ul Adha, and Eid Milad un nab. Let’s explore some unique festivals celebrated in Thoi Yasin for example Tokhomraizi, Ochogoyang ochum, and bat e mul (The naming festival). Let’s chin up and explore the festivals of Thoi.

1. Tokhomraizi
   23rd March is believed to be a new start of New Year`s agriculture. This day is celebrated by locals in honor of the start of a new year. In this day different dishes are made and sent to their relatives. The special dish made on this day has unique names Makuti and Sharbat. In celebration of this day people spend the whole day in preparation of these dishes and children carry this to every relative to enjoy. Despite this, there is another activity to be done at the end of the day, especially at night that is called ( Hamazz).In this activity, fire is made and people move around it singing a song that resonates with the day they are celebrating, you should visit Thoi, especially on these occasions as these are celebrated with great gusto..
2. Ochogoyang ochum (Aqiqa)
   This is the occasion when a child’s hair is cut off for the first time since he\she is born. It is usually celebrated when the child is at the stage of crawling, but there is no boundary to celebrate it, it can be celebrated when parents are pleased to. At this festival, all relatives are invited and treated to a warm reception. Then a ritual begins where a hole is made in the middle of a chapatti and it is adorned around the child’s neck. Afterward, one by one, the child is taken to each relative, who cuts a few hairs and gives a gift. This cutting of hair starts by trimming a few hairs first and then all of them. Locals believe that cutting the child’s hair in this manner wards off their difficulties, fears, and misfortune.
3. Bat e mul (The naming ceremony)
   This is a special event in every child’s life. On this day, parents choose a name for their child. Guests are not served expensive items, but a special dish is prepared known locally as ‘Mul’. This dish is made by mixing flour and water, cooking it well, and then eaten with milk or butter.
   These are the festivals celebrated in Yasin, particularly in Thoi Valley.

Pasture lands in Thoi Yasin

Thoi is a beautiful place where hospitable people, greenery, mountains, rivers, and fresh air distinguish it from all other places. One notable characteristic of this area is that its residents are very diligent. The valleys here not only enhance the beauty of the region but also provide habitat for various animals. Some pasture lands here are so renowned that during the summer months, people live alongside their animals for 4 to 5 months, gathering fodder for feeding animals in winter and also collecting firewood for the winters.

I will mention some of these pasture lands below.

1. Mushi bar
2. Khaimat
3. Das bar
4. Gamandae
5. Dushtar
6. Shindo

Last but not least Thoi Yasin emerges as a captivating enclave nestled within the rugged landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Characterized by its dramatic mountains, fertile valleys, and diverse flora and fauna, Thoi Yasin offers a glimpse into a lifestyle deeply intertwined with nature. The region’s unique festivals like Tokhomraizi, Ochogoyang Ochum, and Bat e mul add color and vibrancy to its cultural pattern, showcasing traditions rooted in community and celebration. As residents traverse its challenging terrain seasonally, from the lush pastures of summer to the harsh winters, they exemplify resilience and harmony with their environment. Thoi Yasin not only captivates with its natural beauty but also with its rich cultural heritage, making it a truly remarkable destination worth exploring.