BUNER:(Nader Buneri)Several spectacular new tourist destinations have recently been discovered in Buner district, sparking excitement among nature lovers and local communities, but despite their scenic potential, the lack of road infrastructure is hindering access to these emerging spots, prompting residents and tourism advocates to call on the authorities for immediate action.
According to local sources and hikers, newly explored locations in mountainous and forested areas of Buner offer lush green landscapes, freshwater streams, panoramic views, and rich biodiversity, making them ideal for eco-tourism and outdoor recreation. These include areas near Gokand Valley, Elum Ghar, Shangla Pass(Gahay), Shodara, Kot, Mahbanr and surrounding hills, which, if developed, could attract a steady stream of domestic and international visitors.
“These places are an unscathed paradise, but without proper roads, even locals find it difficult to reach them, let alone tourists from outside”, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a local tourist expert.
Residents believe that with the right infrastructure, Buner could become one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s top tourist destinations. They have urged the provincial government, district administration, and the Tourism Department to focus on road construction and related facilities such as rest areas, safety signs, and eco-friendly accommodations. Several community representatives have also suggested launching public-private partnerships to ensure sustainable development without damaging the natural environment.
Tourism experts argue that developing these sites could not only boost the local economy but also create jobs, promote cultural exchange, and shift the district’s image from a previously conflict-hit area to a hub of natural beauty and peace. So far, there has been no official announcement from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government regarding road projects in these newly identified tourist zones. However, growing public interest and pressure may soon place the region on the province’s tourism development agenda.
The scenic district of Buner in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is emerging as a promising new destination for tourism, thanks to the discovery of several untouched and breathtaking natural sites in its hilly terrain.
From lush green valleys and forested trails to tranquil water streams and panoramic hilltops, the region holds immense potential for eco-tourism and adventure travel. However, the excitement surrounding these discoveries is being dampened by a serious lack of road infrastructure and accessibility.
Over the past few months, local explorers, trekking groups, and adventure enthusiasts have identified several locations—particularly in areas surrounding Gokand Valley, Elum mountains, and Tor Ghar—that offer not only stunning views but also a serene escape from urban life. These sites, previously known only to locals, are now gaining attention on social media for their raw beauty and peaceful environment.
“We have valleys here that rival Swat and Kaghan in beauty,” says Johar Ali, a Buner-based youth activist, but the difference is that tourists can easily reach those places, while here they struggle with narrow, damaged, or completely absent roads.”
According to community members and local tour operators, the absence of basic access roads is the biggest hurdle in attracting visitors. Tourists, especially families, are discouraged from visiting due to the difficult terrain and lack of transportation facilities. This inaccessibility not only affects tourism but also prevents locals from taking full economic advantage of the natural assets surrounding them.
The locals are now urging the provincial government and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department to take urgent steps to build and upgrade roads that connect these emerging tourist sites to the main town areas. Community elders, elected representatives, and civil society activists have voiced concerns that without timely action, Buner will once again miss out on the tourism boom that has benefited other parts of the province.
“It’s not just about tourism—it’s about development,” says Irafan, a shopkeeper in Bagra, the district headquarters. “If roads are built, tourists will come. When tourists come, hotels, restaurants, and markets will grow. Our youth will get jobs, and the economy will improve.”
Locals have suggested that even basic gravel roads or jeep tracks could open the door for eco-tourism and hiking groups, who are less dependent on luxury infrastructure but still need a safe route to travel. They also recommend public-private partnerships to ensure sustainable development and environmental preservation.
Tourism experts believe that Buner’s natural beauty, combined with its cultural richness and historical significance, makes it an ideal location for tourism development. The district has historical sites dating back to the Gandhara civilisation, including Buddhist stupas and archaeological remains, adding cultural depth to its scenic appeal.
“Buner has everything a tourist looks for—mountains, culture, history, and peace. What it lacks is state-level recognition and investment in infrastructure.” Said Muhammad Iqbal, a local teacher.
Developing tourism in Buner could also help reshape its public image. The district, once overshadowed by conflict during earlier security operations in the region, has now returned to normalcy and peace. Tourism development would not only create jobs and support small businesses but also send a powerful message about the region’s transformation.
While the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched several tourism initiatives in recent years, including the Integrated Tourism Zones (ITZs), no concrete plan has yet been announced for Buner. However, with growing public interest, the spotlight may soon turn toward this underexplored district.
Local voices are growing louder, urging authorities not to let this opportunity slip away. With timely road construction and basic tourist facilities, Buner could be transformed from an overlooked district into one of Pakistan’s leading eco-tourism hubs.
Read also: KP govt announces plan to promote adventure tourism in province
