Guides & JournalChitrali Cap (Pakol): Types, Price and Care
The Chitrali cap, also called the pakol, is a soft woollen cap with a flat round top and a rolled-up brim, worn across northern Pakistan. It comes from Gilgit and neighbouring areas and spread to Chitral in the 19th century, and the white Chitrali version with a peacock feather is a mark of honour, often presented to respected guests. Here are the types, caps for men, women and kids, prices, and how to fold and wash one.
Where the pakol comes from
The pakol traces back to Gilgit, Astore and nearby areas in the far north of Pakistan, and spread to Chitral by the 19th century. It is made for the mountains: thick wool keeps the head warm, and the rolled brim can be unrolled to cover the ears in the cold.
Types of Chitrali cap
All of them share the same soft wool and rolled brim.
- Classic pakol — wool in brown, grey, black or ivory, worn every day.
- White Chitrali cap with feather — a white cap with a peacock feather and an emblem, a sign of dignity and honour in Chitral, often gifted to distinguished visitors.
- Caps for girls and women — lighter versions, sometimes decorated or embroidered.
- Kids' caps — smaller sizes, popular for trips north and culture days.
- Crochet versions — soft knitted or crocheted caps inspired by the pakol shape.
How to spot an original Chitrali cap
Cheap synthetic copies look similar in photos but lose their shape quickly.
- Real wool feels dense and slightly rough, not shiny or thin.
- The brim holds its roll well and the top is flat and firm.
- Stitching is even all the way around.
- Ask the seller where and how it was made.
Chitrali cap price in Pakistan
Prices depend on wool quality, size and decoration. Plain everyday pakols are affordable, while fine wool and white feathered Chitrali caps cost more. Compare listings and ask about the wool before you buy.
How to fold and wash a Chitrali cap
Treated gently, a good wool pakol keeps its shape for years.
- Folding: roll the brim up evenly from the bottom edge until it sits snugly around the head.
- Washing: hand wash gently in cold water with a mild wool wash — never machine wash or wring.
- Drying: press out water with a towel, reshape it over a bowl or ball, and dry flat in the shade.
- Storing: keep it rolled, away from damp, with a clove or cedar block to deter moths.
Buying and selling pakols
Cap makers in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral can reach buyers across Pakistan by opening a free store on dapxop at dapxop.com/sell — dapxop books the courier pickup from their home. For the cap's place among Pakistan's regional dress, read Traditional Dress of Pakistan by Province; for warm wraps, see Shawls in Pakistan: Types and How to Choose.
Make Chitrali caps or woollen crafts? Open a free store on dapxop.
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Frequently asked
What is a Chitrali cap called?
It is called a pakol — a soft woollen cap with a flat top and a rolled brim.
Why does the Chitrali cap have a feather?
The white Chitrali cap with a peacock feather is a sign of dignity and honour, often presented to respected guests.
Where does the pakol come from?
From Gilgit, Astore and neighbouring areas in northern Pakistan; it spread to Chitral by the 19th century.
Are there Chitrali caps for girls?
Yes — lighter and decorated versions are made for girls and women, and small sizes for kids.
How do I wash a Chitrali cap?
Hand wash gently in cold water with wool wash, don't wring it, reshape it and dry flat in the shade.
How do I fold a Chitrali cap?
Roll the brim up evenly from the bottom edge until it sits snugly around your head.