How Saiful Malook Lake is Shaping Pakistan’s Tourism Revival

Fakhar-e-Alam

Peshawar: The arduous journey from Pakistan’s plains to the northern highlands of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is instantly rewarded with the breathtaking beauty of the famous Saiful Muluk Lake.

Nestled amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Malika Parbat range in Mansehra’s Kaghan Valley, this renowned lake captivates visitors with its fairytale charm.

Spanning 1.06 square miles with a depth of 113 feet and sitting at an elevation of 3,224 meters above sea level, Saiful Malook’s oval shape and crystal-clear, greenish-blue waters leave an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of tourists each year.

Revered as a lake of legends and princes, it is enveloped by the serene mountains of Malika Parbat, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Named after the Persian prince Saiful Muluk, the lake attracts both international and local tourists, particularly during the summer months. Its pleasant climate and cascading waterfalls from nearby glaciers add to its allure.

Saiful Malook is immortalized in Sufi poet Mian Muhammad Bakhsh’s epic, Fairytale of Saiful Malook, which recounts the prince’s quest for the fairy princess Badriul Jamala—a journey marked by enchanting stories and unfulfilled longing.

Though Pakistan boasts numerous stunning lakes such as Ansoo, Lalusar, Dudipastar, and Sheosar, Saiful Malook stands out for its unique blend of fairytales, striking beauty, and pristine waters. Former Pakistani ambassador Manzoorul Haq attested to the lake’s exceptional charm, noting its lasting impression compared to other global destinations.

In today’s digital age, there is a growing recognition of the potential to leverage social media to enhance mountains, eco-tourism, and archaeology for economic development. Abu Zafar Sadiq, President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, highlighted how digital and social media can transform Pakistan’s tourism landscape.

He remarked, “Saiful Muluk and similar breathtaking sites offer stunning vistas and significant economic promise for Pakistan, subject to government patronage.”

Despite its immense potential, Pakistan’s tourism sector has struggled to reach its full economic potential due to natural calamities, terrorism, and COVID-19. In 2017, tourism contributed only $8.8 billion, or 2.9 percent of GDP, in stark contrast to $15 billion, or 5.7 percent of GDP, in 2019.

The COVID-19 pandemic and security issues exacerbated these challenges, leading to a notable decline in tourism revenue and employment.

Abu Zafar emphasized the importance of embracing digital innovations such as virtual tours and social media campaigns to attract more visitors. He advocated for hiring digital professionals and utilizing platforms like GPS and artificial intelligence to promote Pakistan’s diverse tourism offerings.

The potential for tourism growth is evident, with the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) playing pivotal roles in improving infrastructure and boosting tourism, transport, and hospitality industries.

Ambassador Manzoor also suggested developing attractions like a chairlift between Naran and Saiful Malook to generate significant revenue and enhance the socio-economic conditions of the region.

However, challenges remain, including environmental concerns. Improving waste management and enhancing facilities are crucial for preserving the natural beauty of Saiful Muluk and other lakes in Pakistan. Increased litter bins, sanitary workers, and improved parking facilities are necessary measures to maintain the lake’s allure.

Professor Naveed Farooq, a lecturer at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, underscored the importance of digitally showcasing all lakes to attract foreign tourists. “Saiful Muluk, Ansoo, and Mahudhand lakes are gems of Pakistan. Utilizing digital technology to highlight these treasures can draw international visitors and further boost tourism.”

The KP Wildlife Department, which oversees Saiful Muluk and Lulusar lakes as national parks, is working to ensure sustainable protection and improved tourist facilities. Future developments, such as a chairlift project and enhanced service areas, aim to elevate the tourist experience while supporting local economies.

Overall, as Pakistan continues to enhance its digital presence and infrastructure, Saiful Muluk Lake remains a symbol of the nation’s rich natural and cultural heritage, poised to attract and inspire millions of visitors from around the world.

The feature report was released by APP.