Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has become a leading tourist destination in Pakistan, attracting a remarkable 169,889,946 visitors in 2023, as reported by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Department of Tourism.
This surge not only highlights the region’s natural beauty but also signifies its increasing popularity among both local and international travelers. The World Bank’s Kite Project’s 1422 call center played a pivotal role in meticulously gathering data to reveal this influx of tourists to the province. The period from January 1 to December 26, 2023, saw a significant increase, with 4,554 foreign tourists contributing to the overall impressive visitor count.
Galiyat has emerged as a prominent choice, drawing in 6,348,000 visitors over the year. The region’s innate beauty and allure proved irresistible to individuals in search of a peaceful and picturesque getaway. The renowned Naran and Kaghan valleys, celebrated for their enchanting scenery, welcomed an impressive 5,080,000 visitors, while the adventure hub of Malam Jabba saw 3,549,000 tourists seeking excitement and enjoyment. Exploring the less-traveled treasures, Deir Bala and Deir Zerin collectively attracted 1,380,740 tourists, contributing to the varied range of experiences that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa offers to its visitors. Lower Chitral hosted 591,330 tourists, including 1,624 foreign visitors, while Upper Chitral received 791 travelers.
The picturesque landscapes of Dir Upper and Lower collectively garnered 417 visitors, adding to the growing tourism sector of the region. Notably, destinations like Galiyat, Malam Jabba, and Naran Kaghan recorded 237, 588, and 897 tourists, respectively. The surge in tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attests to the region’s potential as a global travel hotspot. The provincial government’s initiatives to promote tourism, combined with the natural charm of the landscapes, have resonated with travelers from all corners of the world.
