Achi news desk-
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has a rich cultural and historical heritage, deeply intertwined with various religions that have flourished in the region over centuries. From ancient Buddhist sites to Islamic landmarks, KP has immense potential for religious tourism. Harnessing this potential can not only preserve these heritage sites but also give a significant boost to the region’s economy. With strategic planning and government support, KP can emerge as a major destination for religious tourists, generating significant revenue and fostering socio-economic development.
KP is home to a number of ancient Buddhist sites, including the iconic Takht-i-Bahi and the nearby ruins of Sahr-i-Bahlol, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites attract Buddhist pilgrims and history buffs from around the world. By investing in infrastructure, conservation efforts, and promotion, KP can improve the visitor experience and capitalize on the growing interest in Buddhist heritage tourism.
The former KP government sought to establish an internationally recognized contemporary tourist destination at the foot of the Takht-i-Bahi Archaeological Ruins, with the intention of enhancing the site’s appeal and visitor experience. The envisioned resort is designed to include a hotel, restaurant, styled as cabins to seamlessly integrate with the heritage ambience, a visual tour theatre, art gallery, artisanal craft shops, and a bespoke meditation centre. specifically for Buddhist practitioners. Unfortunately, the initiative failed to attract any bidders mainly due to concerns regarding the general law and order situation in the region.
Former KP Local Government Minister Faisal Amin Gandapur, who showed great interest in promoting tourism in KP, emphasized that Pakistan, especially KP, has immense potential to attract religious tourism. He pointed out that KP, once the capital of the Gandhara civilization, has the largest collection of Buddhist sites across the region. In addition, KP is home to the oldest Hindu temples, such as those at Kafir Kot in Dikhan, which are currently being renovated under the auspices of the KP Department of Archaeology.
Gandapur said that the KP Government is planning to provide and develop facilities around these sites to welcome foreign tourists. This strategic initiative aims not only to showcase the region’s rich heritage but also to create economic opportunities for the local communities living in these areas.
Furthermore, he praised the efforts of the Department of Archeology KP, led by Dr. Abdul Samad, to restore and preserve Buddhist sites throughout KP.
Beyond just heritage tourism, the Gandhara Trail is poised to spur religious tourism, offering a pilgrimage route replete with sacred sites revered by Buddhist followers worldwide.
The Director of the Directorate of Archeology and Museums in KP expressed his conviction that KP stands as a vital hub of religious tourism, with a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual heritage. He emphasized that KP encapsulates a wide variety of religious landmarks, making it a true haven for pilgrims and travelers alike, spanning Buddhist, Sikh, Hindu, Christian, Kalash and Sufi traditions. He underlined the importance of exploring and expanding these treasures on national and international platforms.
In order to realize this vision, the directorate has carefully curated a selection of 22 sites for the promotion of religious tourism, collectively known as the Gandhara Trail. The aim of this initiative is to give travelers a comprehensive journey through the heritage and archaeological wonders of the region. These sites are spread across various cities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, covering famous destinations like Taxila Museum, Dharmarajika Stupa and Monastery, Julian, Bhamala Stupa, Gurudwara Sri Panja Sahib, Hund Museum, Aziz Dheri, Peshawar Museum , Gor Khatri, Heritage Trail, Sethi House, Khyber Pass, Jamrud Fort, Shapola Stupa, Takht i Bahi, Ashoka Rock Edicts, Jamal Ghari, Barikot Swat, Swat Underground Mosque, Saidu Stupa, Swat Museum, and Amluk Dara Stupa Swat.
Beyond just heritage tourism, the Gandhara Trail is poised to spur religious tourism, offering a pilgrimage route replete with sacred sites revered by Buddhist followers worldwide. The director confirmed that his department is committed not only to preserve and protect these cultural treasures but also to actively participate in development and promotion efforts to promote religious tourism throughout Pakistan.
The Buddhist remains at Takht-i-Bhai stand as a single witness to the rich cultural heritage of the region, preserving their integrity in an extremely complete form, which is ready to fascinate many tourists. Former Nazi and provincial assembly member Sher Afghan Khan spoke of his diligent efforts during his tenure, advocating for improved facilities for international visitors and introducing innovative strategies to revive the splendor of Takht-i-Bhai. Unfortunately, despite his continued advocacy, his visionary proposals and ideas were ignored by the government at the time, resulting in a missed opportunity to expand on the attraction and historical significance of the site.
Alongside its rich Buddhist heritage, KP also encompasses Islamic, Sikh and Hindu sacred sites of deep significance. Notable among these are the revered Islamic landmarks, including the Ghazi Baba Shrine in Hangu and the historic Bab-e-Khyber (Khyber Pass) in Peshawar. These sites have deep religious and historical resonances for Muslims, offering routes for spiritual pilgrimage and tourism.
Investing in the development of facilities and amenities around these sites can attract more pilgrims and tourists to KP, thereby stimulating economic activity in the region. Moreover, KP is adorned with several sacred sites that are cherished by both Sikh and Hindu communities. The Panja Sahib Gurudwara in Hasan Abdal and the Gorakhnath Temple in Peshawar are prominent destinations for Sikh and Hindu pilgrims alike.
The religious sites in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have immense potential to drive economic prosperity not only within the region but also across the country. Strategic investments in the infrastructure and marketing of religious tourism can yield significant economic benefits for KP. Revenue streams can be diversified, covering entrance fees, accommodation, transportation services, guided tours, souvenir sales, and hospitality offerings. Furthermore, the multiplier effect of tourism spending can fuel growth across ancillary sectors, including retail, culinary and handicrafts.
Conservative estimates suggest that religious tourism in KP has the potential to generate millions of dollars annually. By capitalizing on its diverse religious heritage, the state can tap into a global market that includes pilgrims, history buffs, and spiritual seekers. Through targeted promotional campaigns and improved accessibility, KP can attract a steady flow of tourists throughout the year, mitigating seasonal variations and fostering sustainable revenue streams.
Conservative estimates suggest that religious tourism in KP has the potential to generate millions of dollars annually. By capitalizing on its diverse religious heritage, the state can tap into a global market that includes pilgrims, history buffs, and spiritual seekers.
Experts stress that unlocking the economic potential of religious tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) requires prioritizing strategic initiatives aimed at developing and promoting religious sites. This means investing in critical areas such as roads, transport networks, accommodation, and visitor facilities to improve accessibility and ensure tourist comfort. In addition, the implementation of conservation projects is essential in order to protect historic monuments and religious sites, preserving them for the enjoyment of future generations.
Furthermore, launching targeted marketing campaigns, both domestically and internationally, is essential to showcase KP’s rich religious heritage and unique cultural offerings. These campaigns can help attract a wide variety of tourists, thereby stimulating economic growth in the region. Furthermore, providing comprehensive training programs for local communities is essential, empowering them with the hospitality, tour guiding and cultural awareness skills necessary to effectively engage with visitors.
Collaboration with private sector stakeholders is another key aspect, enabling the development of tourism infrastructure and services while maintaining sustainable practices. By building partnerships between the government and private entities, KP can leverage resources more efficiently and ensure the long-term viability of its tourism industry. Through these concerted efforts, KP can unlock the full economic potential of its religious tourism sector while at the same time preserving its cultural heritage for generations to come.
Religious tourism has the potential to emerge as a key driver of economic growth and cultural preservation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. By capitalizing on its diverse religious heritage and investing in infrastructure and promotion, the province can attract a steady flow of tourists, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic development in the region. With the joint efforts of the government, local communities, and private sector partners, KP can unlock the full potential of religious tourism, transforming its rich cultural heritage into a thriving tourism industry.
