Pakistan is home to some of the most breath-taking tourist destinations in the world. A recent report released by international magazine Forbes put Pakistan in its list of ‘Top 10 Coolest Places to Visit in 2019’. And why not! The country has everything – from the towers of heaven that are K2 and the Himalayas, to the crystal clear waters of the Attabad Lake – Pakistan is truly a sight to behold.
Ever since coming to power, the present government has taken drastic measures to revive the tourism industry from its state of shambles, and the efforts are paying off. Last year, in November, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government identified over a dozen tourist spots for development.
The northwestern region of the country is home to a number of fantastic places. Here are the top 5 that Pakhtunkhwa has to offer (and which you should plan for):
Chitral
This 322km long exotic valley surely knows how to cast a spell of enchantment on its visitors. Standing over Chitral with all its might is Trichmir, the highest peak of the Hindu Kush mountain range, which is no less than 7,000 meters.
Chitral also has its own fort (Shahi Qila) and a museum which is a treat for history lovers – as it houses all the antiques and weapons of ancient Chitral. Built inside Shahi Qila is the grand Shahi Masjid of Chitral, which is famous for if culturally-astute architecture.
Don’t forget to visit the Shandur Pass while you’re in Chitral, as it is another spectacular sight. On top of that, the legendary Shandur Polo Tournament takes place here every year in the month of July – another plus!
Kalash
Under the watchful eye of the Hindu Kush mountain range, Kalash or the Kalasha Valley boasts a culture that is simple and colourful. Its appearance is difficult not to hail by anyone even remotely interested in Pakistan’s ethnic & territorial diversity. The valleys in Kalash are as calm as the people, whose piercing eyes reflect the very waters they drink from.
Bamboret, Kunar and Biri make up the three major valleys. If you’re a people’s person, Kalash is your place to visit in 2019; as it is one-of-a-kind region to interact with a culture as old as the Greeks, and make some friends in the process.
Naran
Naran is home to several mesmerizing lakes including the famed Saiful Muluk. Widely hailed as the tourism center of Kaghan Valley, Naran is an ideal place for trout fishing and has all the necessary accommodations, shops and restaurants that one could want.
Shogran valley adds to the beauty of the already scenic Naran locality. It is situated 34 kilometers from Balakot. The valley’s Forest Rest House is famous for presenting a panoramic view of the snow-capped moutanin rages – dominated by Malika Parbat (Queen of the Mountains).
Dir
A small former princely state, Dir is known for its hospitable population. It has been given the status of Upper and Lower Dir, and almost the entirety of the district lies inside the valley of the Panjkora River. It has some great tourist spots such as Kumrat and Usherai.
Southern region
Districts such as Kohat, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank and Dera Ismail Khan make up the southern region. Every place has its own cultural and historical significance that adds to the interest of tourists.
