Under the leadership of Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the province is taking bold steps to actualize Imran Khan’s vision of showcasing Pakistan’s ancient civilizations to the world.
By promoting (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Heritage Tourism) archaeological heritage, religious tourism, and cultural preservation, KP is not only changing global perceptions of Pakistan but also unlocking its immense potential as a hub for heritage tourism.
These efforts are creating a positive soft image for the entire country, attracting international attention and investment.
Financial Investments in Heritage Preservation
The KP government has made significant financial commitments to preserve and promote its rich archaeological and cultural heritage. Key investments include:
- 60 Million PKR for the development of 3 museum campuses in Hund Swabi, Mardan, and Chakdara.
- 707 Million PKR for the Gor Khatri Archaeological Complex in Peshawar.
- 160 Million PKR for the conservation of the historic Mahabat Khan Masjid.
- 33 Million PKR for the preservation of 7 key archaeological sites and monuments.
- 53 Million PKR for the conservation of 8 heritage sites in Merged Districts (MDs).
- 243 Million PKR for the protection and management of archaeological and cultural heritage sites.
These investments are ensuring that Pakistan’s ancient treasures are preserved for future generations while attracting tourists from around the world.
Heritage Tourism: A Game-Changer for KP
The KP government has taken innovative steps to boost heritage tourism, resulting in a 100% increase in tourist visits to archaeological sites. Key achievements include:
- 11,344 foreign tourists and 276,876 domestic tourists visited heritage sites in the province.
- 3 heritage sites have been illuminated to enhance their appeal.
- 25 new tourist facilities have been established to improve the visitor experience.
These efforts have not only increased tourism but also contributed to the local economy, with tourists now spending 20,000 PKR per day on average, a significant boost to regional businesses.
Conservation of Heritage Sites
KP has made remarkable progress in conserving its diverse cultural and religious heritage. Key accomplishments include:
- 3 museums were restored and preserved.
- 3 mosques, including the iconic Mahabat Khan Masjid, were conserved.
- 20 Hindu temples and 8 Buddhist stupas were restored.
- 2 historic forts are protected and maintained.
These efforts highlight Pakistan’s commitment to preserving its multicultural heritage and promoting religious harmony.
Community Engagement and Training
The KP government is empowering local communities through training and engagement initiatives:
- 402 men and 66 women have been trained in tourism and project management, creating new job opportunities.
- Indigenous building by-laws have been introduced for the Kalash Valley, ensuring sustainable development while preserving its unique cultural identity.
These programs are fostering a sense of ownership among locals and ensuring that tourism benefits everyone.
Religious Tourism: Unlocking Gandhara’s Potential
KP is emerging as a global destination for religious tourism, particularly for Buddhist pilgrims. Key initiatives include:
- Establishment of 3 Gandhara Trails, showcasing the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.
- Hosting 300+ state guests and Buddhist monks, strengthening international ties.
These efforts are positioning KP as a must-visit destination for spiritual and cultural exploration.
International Collaborations
KP has partnered with leading global institutions to enhance its heritage preservation and tourism efforts. Collaborations include:
- US State Department
- Universities such as Harvard, Wisconsin, Indiana (USA), Cambridge, Venice, and Bochum (Germany).
- Tsinghua University Beijing and the Italian Archaeological Mission.
- Palace Museum China, which hosted an international exhibition showcasing KP’s heritage.
These partnerships are bringing global expertise and recognition to Pakistan’s archaeological treasures.
Other Key Achievements
- Installation of 348 directional signboards to guide tourists.
- Publication of 4 research papers on heritage conservation.
- Hosting of an international exhibition at the Palace Museum China, showcasing KP’s cultural heritage to the world.
Conclusion
Under the leadership of Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, KP is transforming Imran Khan’s vision (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Heritage Tourism) into reality.
By preserving ancient civilizations, promoting religious tourism, and engaging local communities, the province is changing the global perception of Pakistan.
These efforts are not only boosting tourism but also fostering economic growth and cultural pride. With continued investment and international collaboration. KP is poised to become a global leader in heritage tourism, showcasing Pakistan’s rich history and vibrant culture to the world.