Tourism in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province has improved significantly as recent security operations have yielded positive results.
The successful counter-terrorism efforts by the Pakistan Army and security forces have contributed to restoring peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, leading to a surge in tourism. During the Eid-ul-Adha holidays, more than 800,000 tourists flocked to the province’s scenic destinations, marking a promising revival of travel and leisure in previously troubled areas.
Visitors explored stunning locations such as Swat, Upper Dir, Naran Kaghan, Malam Jabba, Chitral, Kalam, and Kumrat, as well as Razmak, Waziristan, and Bajaur—regions that were once affected by security concerns. The large influx of tourists highlights increased confidence in safety, as people now travel to these areas without fear or danger.
The revival of tourism is expected to boost the local economy, providing opportunities for businesses and residents. Authorities are optimistic that this trend will continue, strengthening the region’s reputation as a safe and attractive travel destination.
Read also: More than 600,000 tourists flock to KP during Eid holidays
According to the KPCTA Tourist data, Galiyat topped the list with 177,500 domestic tourists, followed by Malam Jabba (160,000) and Kaghan/Naran (168,884). These areas continue to be favourite getaways for families and adventure seekers alike.
Meanwhile, Dir Upper also saw a strong turnout, with 85,000 visitors, showing growing interest in the province’s northern valleys. Smaller destinations like Samana Top, Sampogh, and Kalaya also welcomed thousands, indicating that lesser-known areas are gaining attention, too.
According to the KPCTA Tourist report, the number of foreign visitors remains extremely limited. The highest number was 28 tourists in Malam Jabba, followed by 9 in Chitral Lower and 8 in Galiyat. Popular spots like Kaghan, Naran, and Dir Upper reported zero foreign tourists during the three days.
Chitral Upper, despite its natural beauty, recorded only 546 domestic tourists – the lowest among all reported destinations. Nanawar Cave and Kalaya also saw fewer than 5,000 visitors each.
The KPCTA Tourist report was collected through police check posts, KP Tourist Police, assistant commissioner offices, and field directors of various tourism development authorities. However, one major tourist hub, Swat, was not included due to the unavailability of Tourist Police in the area, making it a key gap in the report.
