Ayubia’s Snowy Trails Become Hotspot for Tourists, Photographers

News Desk

Nathiagali: The recent snowfall in Nathiagali and Ayubia has redefined the winter tourism experience in the region, turning these scenic hill stations into a bustling haven for both adventure seekers and photographers.

As the snow blankets the hills, local businesses, particularly horse riding tours and photography services, are witnessing a surge in demand, with visitors flocking from across the country to capture the snowy magic before winter ends.

The region, renowned for its colonial-era charm and panoramic views, is experiencing an unexpected tourism boom. This influx of tourists has proven to be a boon for the local economy, with horse riders and photographers capitalizing on the winter season’s unique opportunities.

Horse rides through the snow-dusted trails of Ayubia and Nathiagali have become one of the most sought-after experiences.

The journey takes visitors along misty paths through the dense pine forests, offering a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Khayam Khan, a local guide, highlighted the increasing demand for these rides, saying, “The snowfall has transformed these routes into something magical. It’s not just a ride; it’s an unforgettable experience for both riders and photographers.”

As snow-covered landscapes offer picture-perfect backdrops, local photographers are seizing the moment to provide tourists with professional photography services. Arif Abbassi, a photographer based in Ayubia, shared how the snowfall has created an ideal setting for capturing winter memories.

“The combination of snow and horses has become a hit with visitors. People love having professional photos taken to share on social media, and we’re happy to oblige.”

The surge in tourism has brought with it a variety of visitors, ranging from domestic travelers seeking adventure to nature enthusiasts eager to experience the local wildlife and bird species.

Ayubia’s famous chairlift, which offers sweeping views of the thick pine forests and surrounding valleys, is also a major attraction, offering a fun and adventurous experience for tourists.

The region’s biodiversity, including 203 bird species and a variety of mammals, adds to the allure of the area.

For those staying in Ayubia, there’s a chance to see rare wildlife like leopards, tigers, and foxes within the renowned Ayubia National Park, while the surrounding hills are perfect for hiking and trekking.

Local accommodations, ranging from traditional guesthouses to upscale hotels, are seeing a surge in demand, with tourists flocking to these hill stations from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Punjab.

Despite the influx, finding available rooms has become a challenge, highlighting the increasing popularity of the region as a winter tourism destination.

The KP government is also taking steps to further boost the local tourism industry. A new initiative under the host tourism project will provide loans of up to Rs3 million to local communities in tourist areas to help develop and improve their accommodations.

Additionally, an ambitious new cable car project, which will link Kumrat Valley in Dir Upper to Madaklasht Valley in Lower Chitral, is expected to attract millions of tourists once completed.

For now, the charm of Ayubia and Nathiagali continues to shine as both locals and tourists embrace the snowy season, with horse rides and photography services offering unique opportunities to make the most of the winter landscape.

The snow-covered hills have not only provided a stunning natural backdrop but also a thriving avenue for local businesses, making this winter season one to remember.