Hilly areas witness record holiday rush

Express Tribune

a day ago

A large number of tourists every year visit the stunning locations in Galyat which is famous for its snowfall. PHOTO: EXPRESS/FILE
Director General of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA), Habibullah Arif, has reported a remarkable surge in tourism during the three-day Eidul Azha holidays, with approximately 700,000 tourists visiting popular destinations across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Speaking exclusively to a private news channel, DG Arif expressed enthusiasm over the strong turnout. "We are thrilled to witness such an overwhelming response from tourists. K-P's breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality have made it a preferred destination this year," he said.
Breaking down the numbers, Arif noted that Swat welcomed around 288,000 visitors, Galyat saw 177,000, and Chitral and Upper Dir jointly received 100,000 tourists. Other top spots like Naran-Kaghan and Malam Jabba also drew large crowds, attracting visitors seeking natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences.
"Tourists were drawn by the region's stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant traditions," he added.
The DG emphasised the authority's commitment to sustainable tourism, stating, "We are focused on enhancing our infrastructure, improving services, and providing facilities to accommodate the growing number of tourists. Our goal is to ensure every visitor enjoys a safe and memorable experience."
He also highlighted efforts to maintain affordability and comfort, saying, "Within our available resources, we are ensuring the provision of quality food and working to regulate the prices of food and hotel services."
In a bid to diversify tourist offerings, Arif said the KPCTA is actively identifying hidden gems across the province and organising camping and adventure tourism activities to showcase K-P's lesser-known natural wonders.