According to an official of PTDC, more than one million tourists visited northern areas this year. The tourists, included both domestic and foreign nationals, visited the northern parts of Pakistan during the current season. The primary reason of the upsurge in the adventure tourism is improved security state in that area.

Manager Policy and Promotion of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Mukhtar Ali stated:

“The ratio of tourists increased by 25 percent as compared to last year due to the measures taken by the government for improved law and order situation in those area”

The manager also added that Pakistan has great potential especially in adventure tourism. He also stated that the country is blessed with some of the world’s highest mountains in a knot of four great mountain ranges; the Hindu Kush, Pamir, Karakoram and the Himalayas.

Pakistan also has the distinction of having five peaks above 8,000 meters each including the second proudest mountain of K2. In addition, the country also has the largest glaciers on the globe outside the polar region. These mountains and glaciers offer a marvelous attraction for adventurers.

Moving forward

The number of domestic visitors also increased during the current season. Subsequently, PTDC is planning to further modernize the services for tourists on various destinations in order to secure more consideration.

Mukhtar Ali also ensured that efforts are being made to improve the tourism sector in the country. For the same, PTDC is in constant consultations with other provinces for formulating joint strategy. He stated that it is an encouraging sign that there has been an upsurge in the number of tourists.

The visiting points that observed plenty of tourists without any security are Naran, Ayubia, Swat, Gilgit and Skardu.

While replying to a question, the manager answered:

“We are providing international level boarding and lodging facilities to the visitors”

In addition, PTDC has a chain of 39 motels and 3 restaurants to assist tourists. All of them provide top-notch facilities to both domestic and foreign nationals.

Have you paid a visit lately to the northern areas of Pakistan? If yes, do share your experience with us.

Source: dnd.com.pk / image: saifulmalook.org