ff issue 07 jul dec 2010

FRONTIER FACETS

ISSUE: 07

JULY - DECEMBER 2010

www.nwfptourism.com.pk

ORPC OM RS AI TR IOU

NOT

KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWAPAKISTAN

STC NEWSLETTER - GOVT. OF KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA

Shandur Polo Festival 2010

Cultural Revival in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Colours of Abaseen

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

STC NEWS

SHANDUR POLO FESTIVAL 2010

BROGHUL FESTIVAL

WORLD TOURISM DAY

CULTURAL ROUNDTABLE

MASHALOONA

COLOURS OF ABASEEN

STC PAVILION AT EXPO

AN INTERFAITH EVENING

PHOTO GALLERY

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FRONTIER FACETS - QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF STC ISSUE: 07 (SPECIAL EDITION) JULY - DECEMBER 2010

Editor: Ali Jan (Consultant, Publicity and Promotions)

E-Mail: [email protected]

Design & I.T Support: Zeeshan Majeed (Graphics Designer / I.T Officer) E-Mail: [email protected]

Content Coordinator: Zahra Alam (Media, Marketing & Public Relations)

Publisher: Sarhad Tourism Corporation 13-A, Khyber Road, Peshawar Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Contact: Tel: +92-91-9211091 Fax: +92-91-9210871 E-Mail: [email protected]

Website: http://www.nwfptourism.com.pk

Cover: Models in traditional dress at STC’s Colours of Abaseen event held in Peshawar (Photo: Aamir Raza)

CONTENTS

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July

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2010

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IThe devastation caused by unprecedented floods in Pakistan during the months of July

and August 2010 made international headlines. It was described as “a bigger natural

disaster than the 2004 Tsunami and the 2010 Haiti earthquake”. Immediate help for those

affected by floods was generous. Foreign countries, donors and relief organisations

swung into action to aid those in need. On the domestic front, millions of Pakistanis

especially youth joined in the massive fundraising effort, which was reminiscent of the

spirit of volunteerism witnessed in the wake of the 2005 earthquake. Fortunately, the

process of rebuilding and development after the floods is now underway. In the Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa province, priority is being given to those areas where tourism and other

infrastructure was damaged. As a result of the ongoing efforts, life has returned to

normalcy in almost all the flood-hit regions. Viewed in historic retrospect, this ordeal has

yet again proved that the extraordinary spirit of resilience displayed by the custodians of

one of the world's oldest living cultures remains the key to their survival.II

After renaming the province to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (formerly NWFP), the

government is mulling over a possible name change of STC. One of the proposed

names is Tourist Corporation of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (TCKP). STC is preparing

a longterm campaign strategy to systematically and effectively publicise the

changed brand identity once the decision is officially ratified.

Turning to other matters, I am pleased to share that after long lull the revival of cultural

activities in the province has begun at a steady pace. The current issue of FF combines the

months of July – December 2010 and spotlights varied cultural events in which STC took

on a lead role. I hope you will enjoy reading the newsletter, consider contributing to it and

please don't forget to share your thoughts and suggestions for its further improvement.

Till next issue!

Best Regards,

Ali Jan

(Consultant, Publicity and Promotions)

From the Editor's Desk

July - December 2010 FF - 1

About STC

Founded in 1991, STC is dedicated to developing the potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (formerly NWFP) in Pakistan as a tourist-friendly destination and to deepening visitors' understanding of the region while bringing new economic development to the province. STC seeks to make the province's culture and history accessible and understandable to a diverse public to foster a sense of identity, place and pride for the people.The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa established STC as a public limited company in order to develop a setup for utilising the tremendous potential of the province for tourism expansion.STC has been assigned to:

ØPromote and develop the tourism industry of the province by involving both the private and public sectors.ØFully protect and preserve the culture, arts, history, heritage - both tangible & intangible,

traditions, environment and biodiversity of the target areas.ØDevelop the socio-economic conditions of the people and areas having tourism potential.ØGradually and systematically identify and develop all the existing and potential areas for

attracting domestic and international tourists.ØMake STC a self-financing organisation.

STC News

2 - FF July - December 2010

he 'Aman (or Peace) Mela' was a 20-day long national peace festival held in Swat from 29th June to 19th TJuly to celebrate the return of normalcy in the valley. Provincial Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and

Settlement Authority (PaRRSA) in Collaboration with Pakistan Army organised it successfully. STC also

chipped in and carried out festival's publicity via national mainstream newspapers.

The purpose of the event was to bring back the tourists to Swat following an end to conflict in the region. The air

of festivity created a positive buzz in the region and helped to erase the bitter memories of the local people.

The venue was beautifully illuminated and decorated with welcoming banners. Tourist & locals waited in long

queues for the photo exhibition, car rally and paragliding competitions besides enjoying other attractions.

Aman Mela celebrated in Swat

Monsoons cause floods in Pakistan

Pakistan Flood Crisis 2010

he Pakistan flood deluge began in the last half of July T2010 following heavy monsoon rains in the Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Punjab and Balochistan regions of

Pakistan and affected the Indus River basin. At one point,

approximately one-fifth of Pakistan's total land area was

underwater. According to Pakistani government data, the

floods directly affected about 20 million people, mostly by

destruction of property, livelihood and infrastructure, with

a death toll of close to 2,000. The number of individuals

affected by the flooding exceeded the combined total of

individuals affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the

2005 Kashmir earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon had initially asked for $460 million for emergency relief, noting that the

flood was the worst disaster he had ever seen. The U.N. had been concerned that aid was not arriving fast

enough, while the World Health Organisation reported that ten million people were forced to drink unsafe

water. The Pakistani economy was harmed by extensive damage to infrastructure and crops. Structural

damages were estimated to exceed 4 billion USD, and

wheat crop damages were estimated to be over 500 million

USD. Officials estimated the total economic impact to be

as much as 43 billion USD.

Outbreaks of diseases, such as gastroenteritis, diarrhoea,

and skin diseases due to lack of clean drinking water and

sanitation posed a serious new risk to flood victims. On 14

August, the first documented case of cholera emerged in

the town of Mingora, striking fear into millions of

stranded flood victims, who were already suffering from

gastroenteritis and diarrhoea. Taki

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STC NewsThe United Nations estimated that 800,000 people were

cut off by floods in Pakistan and were only reachable by

air. It also stated that at least 40 more helicopters were

needed to ferry lifesaving aid to increasingly desperate

people. By order of President of Pakistan, there were no

official celebrations of Pakistan's 63rd Independence Day

on 14 August, due to the calamity the country faced.

Response to floods

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region, towns of Swat, Nowshera

and Charsadda, faced the main brunt of this natural calamity. MD STC Azam Khan was appointed in charge of

relief efforts in tourism-rich Malakand Division. Worst hit areas were Kalam and Swat along the riverside

where almost all bridges, roads, grid stations and many

wayside hotels were swept away.

A number of foreign and national aid agencies came to the

rescue of the flood affectees and response was

overwhelming. As a result of all the combined efforts, the

flood affected regions particularly the tourism rich areas

have recovered to a large extent.

The UNHCR goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie won the

hearts of every Pakistani when she visited flood-hit areas in

northwest Pakistan.

The Oscar-winning actress flew to Islamabad to start

emergency fundraising for the devastated region and

highlighting the suffering of millions of flood victims and the

need for continuing aid for the displaced.

Angelina visited flood-hit areas in Nowshera, Khyber

Pukhtunkhwa province as the personal envoy of UN High

Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres. She had

already donated £65,000 of her own money to the cause, and

made a global appeal to help the 200 million people affected

by the disaster.

Angelina Jolie consoles an old man affected by the natural disaster

Receiving a souvenir from provincial CM Ameer Haider Hoti

as token of acknowledgement for helping distressed people

in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

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he 9th National Children Mountain Conservation Meet was organised by Adventure Foundation, in Tcollaboration with Sarhad Tourism Corporation, Babar Ali Foundation and WWF- Pakistan Wetland

Program. It began on 1st July in Nathiagali and Khanspur (Ayubia) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A total of 109 kids

aged 11 to 14 years were selected from all over Pakistan to attend the 10-day unique activity themed '

Biodiversity is our Life” based on environment conservation program.

National Children Mountain Conservation Conference

STC News

“Gandhara is mentioned in the Rig-Veda the oldest book of the Aryans, which dates back to the second millennium BC engraved on the Rock Edicts of the Achaemenian emperors of Iran when it was part of their empire.”

This was stated by the Former director of Peshawar Museum and retired chairman of the Archaeology and Fine Arts Department of the University of Peshawar, Prof Fidaullah Sehrai in his lecture delivered in the headquarters of the World Fellowship of Buddhist (WFB) in Bangkok, which was organised by the Government of Pakistan with the help of embassy of the Pakistan.

The purpose of this conference was to introduce and promote the Buddhist civilisation of Gandhara in Thailand and other countries of the Buddhist World. More than 200 Buddhist monks from Asia and Europe attended the lecture besides

300 other invited persons among whom included the ambassadors of the Buddhist and other countries posted in Bangkok.

Prof Sehrai said that the Buddhist art of Gandhara influenced the art of not only India but also every part of the Buddhist world including Tibet, Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Indonesia as well as Central Asia, China, Korea, and Japan and produced Asia's greatest artistic success of Buddha image.

The second lecture of Prof Sehrai was in the Siam Society under Royal patronage where the topic was Gandhara of Pakistan to which important personalities of Thailand and foreign countries living in Bangkok were invited in which he explained the history and art of Gandhara. He informed the participants that Peshawar Museum has the richest collection of Gandhara art and has 78 stories of the Buddha carved in stone.

Federal Minister of Pakistan and founder president of the Buddhist Society of Pakistan Raja Tridiv Roy also spoke on the occasion and presented a discourse on the city of Taxila as a centre of learning. He also said that Pakistan is a most revered place for Buddhist tourists and the country desires to enhance its friendly relations with all the Buddhist countries of the world.

Pakistani professor delivers lecture on Ghandhara in Thailand


Pro

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The program is aimed to create awareness among young people about the mountain ecosystems and involve

them in meaningful activities using mountainous environment as an open classroom. It involves young children

in an action-oriented form of learning about the natural environment and its related problems. The purpose of

such activities is to make them conscious enough to do something practical for the conservation and

preservation of the natural environment.

The children who attended this conference were given the title of

"Eco-Guards”. The four themes of this year's meet were biodiversity

and forest, energy conservation, water conservation and waste

management and recycling. Environmental experts briefed the

participants about the importance of mountain ecosystems and

issues of global warming, deple t ion of f resh water,

deforestation and threats to environment in wilderness and

urban areas.

The students were divided into four working groups; each group was also given an environmental symbol.

Interactive sessions like study of flora and fauna, study of lifestyle of local people, mountain cleanup, tree

plantation on mountain slopes and awareness about proper waste management procedures were conducted.

STC News

in spring or summer 2011. Passengers would be

taken on a 45-minute fun filled journey to Attock

Kund railway heritage point through a river area

steeped in the romance of history. Live

commentary, onboard refreshments and excellent

photography opportunities will surely make the

journey a memorable one for tourists.

STC recently asked its Facebook fans to suggest a

slogan for the service. Some of the interesting ones

received are: Abaseen - where romance, history and he two luxury ferries acquired by Sarhad waters meet, Abaseen - where romance never ends, Tourism Corporation (STC) have arrived in T Abaseen - a journey through history, Ride on the

Kund from Karachi. Named after the two main romance of Abaseen, Sail da Abaseen (Pashto).characters of an old Pashto folklore romance, “Esap

Khan” and “Sherbano” respectively, the ferries

have a seating capacity of 30-40 passengers each on

top and lower decks. They are part of the "Abaseen

Ferry Service” fleet which will ply between Kund

Rest House (renovated and now property of STC)

and Attock Kurd. Hence, STC has become the first

public tourism organisation in the country to own its

own fleet for tourists.

The daily service is expected to formally commence

taged annually in London UK, World Travel Market S(WTM) - the premier global event for the travel

industry - is a vibrant four-day business-to-business event

presenting a diverse range of destinations and industry

sectors to UK and International travel professionals. It is a

unique opportunity for the whole global travel trade to

meet, network, negotiate and conduct business under one

roof.

STC participated in WTM from 7th - 10th November and

its booth drew a good number of visitors.

Romancing History- STC's Abaseen Ferry Service

STC participates in World Travel Mart 2010


Inspection visit of Kund (2/12/10)

STC News

nder the direction of MD STC Mr Azam Khan who also Uholds the charge as the incumbent Secretary of Culture since

July 2010 regular activities in the Nishtar Hall were resumed after

a lapse of several years. In addition, the capacity of the culture

directorate was bolstered by the arrival of STC's Technical

Consultants on Culture Mr Nisar Muhammad Khan and Mr Arshad

Hussain. The former organised two cultural programs under the

Mashaloona series on 7th & 14th November during his brief stint

with STC, whereas the latter proved himself in furthering and broadening the stage activities.

The Nishtar Hall, established in 1985 at a cost of Rs15 million, is the sole theatre hall cum art gallery in

Peshawar. It was originally run by a citizen's organisation, the Abasin Arts Council

(AAC), prior to its take over by the government patronised Sarhad Arts Council

(SAC) in 1992. Culture Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is

responsible for running its day to day affairs. In Dec 2010 Senior Provincial Minister

Mian Iftikhar Hussain assumed the additional portfolio of the Culture Ministry.

A yearlong calendar of events has been charted out that aims to cater to all segments

of society including families, women and youth. STC is providing valuable resources

in terms of technical expertise, finances and publicity of cultural activities in Nishtar

Hall and also elsewhere in the province.

the festival.he Kalash people, living in Bumburate, Birir Tand Rumbur valleys of the Chitral district Tash Khan, a Kalash youth from Rumbur valley celebrated their week long winter festival working at a government office in Chitral city told Chitramas beginning on 8th December with this scribe: “Pagan Kalash slaughter their goats, spiritual zeal. mostly one goat per adult man or woman, on the

concluding day of the festival The final day of the festival as Muslims do on the occasion coincides with the first day of the of Eidul Azha,” he added. He new year of Kalash calendar. In said that the valley received every village some Kalash men heavy snowfall by the end of and women volunteer to confine December, restricting the themselves in a cattle-house. The movement of people, who tradition is called Autik, which virtually hibernated during the means `to get secluded` in the three months of winter season.local dialect.

Mr Khan said that Chitramas festival was The secluded persons completely isolate considered more important from spiritual point of themselves from other people during the week and view as compared to other festivals of Kalash eat the meat of slaughtered goats, drink and pass people. “ He said that this year's relatively pleasant time in merrymaking. The elder Kalash congregate weather attracted more tourists on the concluding on the hilltops or plateaus to observe the day of the ceremony. (Source: Zahiruddin/Chitral for DAWN)movement of sun on the basis of which they

declare the advent of New Year on the final day of

Cultural activities under Mashaloona banner resume in Nishtar Hall

Kalash celebrate winter festival with spiritual zeal


A K

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STC News

articipants of a seminar held on 20th PDecember urged the media to play an

effective role to promote culture, art and tourism in

the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and remove the

misconceptions about the province and its

inhabitants. The Sarhad Tourism Corporation,

Culture Department and Cultural Journalists body

had jointly arranged the seminar on 'Role of Media

in Promoting Culture, Art and Tourism in Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa.'

region. He said media had the capability to remove The speakers said the province had a rich cultural misconceptions about this province. Media can do heritage but there was a need to show it to the world so by not just reporting about culture, arts and by highlighting its true and soft image. They said tourism events but also by promoting all the facets the media could change the world perception about of culture persistently, he said. the province and its people by promoting culture

and arts of this culturally rich region. Sharing some of the efforts to revive culture,

tourism and arts in the province, Azam Khan said Information Minister Mian Iftikhar Hussain, who the media could play the role of sensitising the has recently taken charge of the Culture Ministry, government and the people consistently on such said the ministry had prepared some plans to revive issues. “Nishtar Hall has been reopened for culture, arts and tourism in the province for which cultural and literary activities. Such activities will media support was needed. “As spokesperson for be extended to every district to encourage and the government, I have to say things, sometimes, in explore talent. Work on a database of all the quite a stern tone but as culture minister I can do creative people (human capital) of the province is more for this province and its people,” he said. being done and draft of a cultural heritage preservation law has also been prepared,” he About the issue of CD dramas that are distorting

explained.the Pakhtun culture, the minister said it would be regulated but could not be banned, as it would The Culture Department has prepared a summary harm the interest of filmmakers and artistes who for awarding marks to the students doing creative had already been affected by the current situation work on the pattern of National Cadet Corps to in the province. “I not only enjoy Pashto music but encourage students to take part in creative arts. also respect the artistes. They need to be provided

opportunities, not banned,” he argued. Inamur Rahman Pushkala-vati, a lecturer at the

Depar tmen t o f Journa l i sm and Mass Secretary for Sports, Culture, Tourism and Youth Communication, University of Peshawar, said Affairs Azam Khan said the province was fighting promotion of culture was for identity, self-belief, on two fronts: One was the fight against terror and economic gains and national unity. “Symbols, then the fight to change perceptions about the heroes, rituals and values are the manifestations of

culture and its basic considerations are to create

sense of ownership, draw a true picture and pick

the right samples,” he opined. On the occasion, journalists shared their ideas and

informed the government representatives of their

problems in having access to information and

places of cultural and archaeological importance.

(Source: Nisar Mahmood/ The News)

Media urged to promote culture, art


STC News

breath of fresh air was Awitnessed in Peshawar

with the opening of the 31st

edition of the largest ever

National Games held in the

country. The games were

formally inaugurated on 25th

D e c e m b e r b y K h y b e r

Pakhtunkhwa Governor

Owais Ahmed Ghani and were officially closed on

Similarly, Kiran Khan from Pakistan Army won a 31st December by Chief Minister Ameer Haidar

total of 13 medals in the swimming event, breaking Khan Hoti in a colourful ceremony.

the old record of 12 medals.Provincial Minister for Sports & Tourism Syed

A total of 7000 players from 15 contingents took Aqil Shah, who is also President of the Khyber

part in the games which included: Islamabad, Pakhtunkhwa Olympic Association played a

Punjab , S indh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, pivotal part in organising the mega event

Baluchistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu successfully.

Kashmir, FATA, Pakistan Army, Pakistan Air Two records were broken in the games. Maryam

Force, Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Railways, Police, Babar from Wapda made a record 11.66 metre

H.E.C, WAPDA.triple jump, breaking the old 11.53 metre record.

31st National Games 2010 held in Peshawar

Photo

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STC News

rchaeologist/ Museologist Nidaullah Sehrai Awill assume charge of the famous Peshawar Museum as curator from 1st Jan 2011.

The museum was established in 1907 as Victoria Memorial Hall, this architectural marvel houses the finest collection of Gandhara Art unparalleled in the world. Peshawar Museum has an unmatched history boasting legendary archaeologists of world fame such as Sir Aurel Stein, D.B Spooner and Sir H Hargreaves etc as its pioneer curators. However, since last few years, the tourist numbers Prof Fidaullah Sehrai, he has it in his genes also. visiting the museum had decreased somewhat and He shares passion for the field of archaeology and it appeared that it was beginning to lose its past is familiar with 21st century cutting edge attraction due to various factors. marketing tools and who can turn Peshawar Museum into a vibrant place once again. In order to once again revive the glory of this great institution, Culture Department set out on a search Some suggestions proposed by Culture for a fresh and dynamic curator. After a Department are to: 1. open the museum on consultative process with experts the Culture weekends/ public holidays and extend the museum Department moved an official request to get Mr timings till evenings 2. Encourage public access by Sehrai, previously serving as curator-cum-lecturer means of massive publicity and organising special of Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum Museum, on guided tours for students and waiver of fee for board as the curator Peshawar Museum. commercial photography 3. Improve quality of exhibits by upgradation of showcases, lighting and Archaeologist Nidaullah Sehrai brings with him so forth 4. Self operated audio/ visual and academic expertise along with foreign exposure. interactive computer aids for museum tour by He has also served as the curator of Maritime tourists.Museum, Karachi for 5 years. Son of the legendary

Peshawar Museum to get new curator


In the final medals' standings Pakistan Army stood were sponsored by STC and a major portion of its

first with 110 Gold 74 Silver 35 Bronze (4275 publicity and outdoor and venue branding were its

points) whereas Wapda with 87 Gold 56 Silver 58 responsibility. Bronze (3599 points) came second. Pakistan Navy

with 11 Gold 18 Silver & 18 Bronze (1239 points)

came third.

S T C d e v e l o p e d a s p e c i a l w e b s i t e

www.nationalgames.com.pk for games related

updates of various events. The National Games

Upcoming Events

January 24th-29th2011: Clean & Green Peshawar Campaign (First phase)February 20th: Hindko Sur Sangeet (Nishtar Hall, Peshawar)February 22nd-1st March: Artisans at Work Festival, PeshawarMarch 1st-7th: Provincial Traditional Sports TournamentMarch 20th-23rd: Khanpur Watersports Extravagnaza 2011April 15th-18th: Qaqlasht Festival (Chitral)


Shandur Polo Festival 2010

JULY, 2010

his year's tournament was dedicated to the memory of the Tcourageous martyrs in uniform who laid down their lives for the

country. Teams from Gilgit-Baltistan did not participate in the festival.

In order to decide the final teams to play at the Shandur Polo Festival

preliminary matches were played in Chitral in which the best horses and

players were chosen for the final games by the local juries.


Shandur Team lifts tournament trophy

The festival began on July 7th, 2010 with a polo match

between Laspur Team, with another team from

Chitral. During the festival A, B, C and D teams of

Chitral battled it out on the polo field. According to

the prevelant game norms, each team has six members

with 2-4 reserve players incase of injury. The match is

divided into two halves, with a 10 minutes interval.

During intervals the locals enthrall the audiences with

traditional and cultural performances. The game is

won by the team scoring nine goals.

Did you know?

Tarbela Dam in District Haripur, Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa province is the largest earth-

filled dam in the world.


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The final day of the festival began with a guard of

honour by the Chitral Scouts. After which the final was

played between the Chitral Shandur team and Chitral

Lowari team, in which the former emerged as winner.

Provincial Information Minister Mian Iftikhar Hussain,

Tourism Minister Syed Aqil Shah and MD STC Azam

Khan participated in the final match along with a large

number of provincial ministers, members of assembly,

government officials and thousands of polo lovers

belonging to Chitral as well as different parts of

Gilgit–Baltistan. Apart from the polo matches, other

attractions during the festival were: traditional and

cultural performances, paragliding, horse racing and

Tampuk Bazi (a traditional game) and fireworks.

After the festival many tourists visited Chitral areas of

Mastuj, Booni and Kalash valleys and Gilgit-Baltistan

side Phunder, Gupis, Yasin & Ishkoman valley, Gakuch

Gilgit, Hunza and Skardu to enjoy the centuries old

culture of the region.


JULY, 2010

About Shadur:Shandur is the highest polo field on earth. Shandur Pass is situated near the border of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pukhtunkhwa in Pakistan at a distance of 147km from Chitral and 212km from Gilgit. The pass not only connects Gilgit and Chitral but also offers one of the world's most interesting and attractive sports annually – i.e. freestyle mountain polo. The game is played on the 'Roof of the World', about 12500 feet above sea level approx, where the Hindukush, Pamir and Karakoram ranges meet.

The rugged Mountain polo is arguably polo in its purest form. This version of the game played at Shandur has attained legendary status and is of great interest to international and domestic adventure tourists alike. There are no umpires and there are no holds barred. The rules are: There are no rules!

Historically, polo being the king of games was played between small kingdoms, villages and rival groups of Gilgit and Chitral. From 1936 onwards, polo tournaments were held annually on this ground. The three day Shandur Polo Festival has developed steadily in recent years into the massive celebration of mountain polo that it is today. It is attended every year by prominent celebrities, public figures and opinion makers.

Travel Information:Tourists can reach Chitral and Gilgit via air or via land route. PIA operates daily flights from Islamabad to Gilgit and Chitral and from Peshawar to Chitral. These are subject to weather and flight time is 40 – 55 minutes. Tourists can also travel by road via Lowari Pass in Chitral and it takes about 8-9 hours by jeep or coaster. . Those who make the effort are rewarded by a once in a lifetime experience, spectacular scenery and the certain knowledge that they are among a very few outsiders ever to experience one of the world's most dramatic regions.

A special camping village is set up by Sarhad Tourism Corporation during the polo festival near the Polo ground. Mess facilities and toilets are also available. Some backpackers prefer to bring their own tents and sleeping bags. The tourists are advised to bring along comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes, as evenings can become chilly. For sun protection – a cap, shades and a sun block (preferably with a high SPF) are recommended. Keep canned food, dry fruits and bottled water for convenience and a flashlight and radio for company.

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Eco-Alert!Save Shandur CampaignThe Shandur-Handarap-Langer lakes are one of the largest wetlands complex in northern Pakistan. They lie at 36º 04' N and 72º31' E at an elevation of 3,353 - 3,810m above sea level. The Shandur polo festival takes place annually at the top of Shandur pass which connects the Ghizer and Chitral districts.

The area receives a steady number of visitors most of the year in the form of travellers between Gilgit and Chitral and tourists during summer. But the

Shandur Polo Festival in July each year brings almost 10,000-15,000 people within three days and this can potentially put an untoward strain on the fragile wetlands of the area which include Shandur lake and associated streams and peatlands.

The Pakistan Wetlands Programme (PWP), along with partners, launched a clean-up and awareness raising campaign during the Shandur Polo Festival in 2008 and again in 2010 under the slogan “Save Shandur” or “Shandur Bachao.” The purpose of the campaign was to reduce pollution in the wetlands generated from the festival and to raise awareness in the public about solid waste management. Over 50 volunteers collected more than 2,300 kg of solid waste in four days. Additionally, the waste was segregated into biodegradable and non-biodegradable and disposed off accordingly.

Many activities for awareness raising were also undertaken. These included banners, eco-check posts, brochures, public announcements, personal interaction with visitors and shopkeepers, and a grand awareness walk during the final polo match.

people, it shares borders with Wakhan corridor of

Afghanistan via Darwaza pass, with Hunza via

Chilingi pass and is linked with Ishkoman valley

through Sukhtarabad pass and Yasin valley through

the Darkhot pass. The Kurumbar Lake, the source of

theY arkhoon river, connects the area with the Pamir

Plateau. The area can truly be called the 'Roof of the

World' due to its location in the middle of Pamir,

perched high above the borders of Afghanistan, o attract international tourists on global level

Pakistan, Tajikistan and China.and to promote eco-tourism and uplifting T

The annual festival features local folk games and economic conditions of Broghul valley and its

inhabitants - the most remote area in North Chitral -

a three days Broghul festival was held from 28th to

30th July. This year's event was organised by

Chianter Welfare Organisation in collaboration with

Pakistan Wetlands Program. The festival was held

near the famous Lurumbar Lake and the 33 Km long

Chiantar Glacier.

The fascinating valley is blessed with a unique and

rich culture. With its population of about 1,500 sports especially Yak Polo, making it the most far

flung polo destination in the world! The exciting

journey to Broghul from Chitral offers a once in a

lifetime experience and is meant for true adventure

enthusiasts. It takes approximately three days and

involves travel by jeep, trek and occasionally on

horseback. (For travel advice call: +92 91 9213762 -

STC Tourist Information Centre)

A most unique festival of Broghul Valley, Chitral

Broghul Fes t iva l 2010


Po

lo o

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in the w

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“I g

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he Queen for his work honoured a Tformer British Army officer, who has run an elite private school in Pakistan's North West for more than 60 years.

Major Geoffrey Langlands, 93, arrived in South Asia during the Second World War and today is still running a remote school in a region bordered by Afghanistan.

During his career he has educated world class

Even then, it had its dangers. Major Langlands cricketers, including Imran Khan, taken tea

was kidnapped by tribesmen as part of a plot with military dictators and been kidnapped by

to overturn a local election result. The ordeal armed tribesmen for six days and now intends

ended after six days when tribal elders to retire.

negotiated Major Langlands' release, an His achievements were celebrated with a reception at the British High Commission in Islamabad, including a presentation to mark his elevation to Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in the overseas honours list this year. Major Langlands stayed on in Pakistan after it won its independence in 1947. He helped train its new army before taking a job at Lahore's prestigious Aitchison College, as a maths

episode he now says was rather educational. teacher. The following year, in 1989, he moved to his

present school in Chitral, where he pays In the 1980s he took over Razmak Cadet

himself the modest sum of £40 a week. College in North Waziristan – today a region off-limits to Westerners. A retirement home is waiting at Aitchison

College, but the mountain school of 900 pupils is losing money and Major Langlands wants to make sure he has found a successor before he leaves. "I shall carry on as long as I am physically and mentally alert," he said.

(Source: The Telegraph 20/10/10)

Former major, 93, honoured for 60 years teaching in tribal Pakistan

ACHIEVEMENT

Majo

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eoffre

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. Langla

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In the Chitral valley


WORLD TOURISM DAYWTD Celebrations - 27th September 2010

orld Tourism Day is celebrated on 27th WSeptember under the charter of World

Tourism Organisation which dedicated 2010 as the

‘InternationalY ear of Biodiversity’.

STC also adheres to this charter and hence celebrated

the international year of biodiversity and the value of

life on Earth. The event included speech competitions

by students which were conducted at Nishtar Hall

Peshawar. It was attended by a large gathering of

eminent guests; including the Honourable chief guest

Syed Aqil Shah (Minister for Tourism), MPA Madam

Tabassum and Secretary Information Azmat Hanif

Orakzai.


Tooba Rasheed from Beacon House School System,

Wajahat Hussain from Govt. HSS No.3, Abdullah

Qayum, Sameer Ahmed and Mohammad Anas from

Govt Centennial Model High School and Roman

Ahmed from Govt HSS No 1.

GM STC Mushtaq Ahmed was invited on stage to read

out the message of Taleb Rifai, WTO secretary

General. Then the honourable Minister was called

The elite judges of the speech competition were upon to address the audience as well as distribute

Professor Nasir Ali Syed, Col (R) Iqbal Shaheen, prizes among the winners, which included cash prizes

Advocates Muhammad Mujeeb and Jehangir Khan of Rs 15,000 for 1st prize winner Mujtaba Ghaus , Rs

Momand. Dr Maryam Alam Khan was the host at the 10,000 for 2nd prize winner Wajahat Hussain and Rs

event. The house was opened with recitation from the 5,000 for 3rd position holder Tooba Rasheed.

Holy Quran after which the official video of the

International Year of Biodiversity was played for the

audience.

The speech competition, in English & Urdu languages

was open to all private and government school

children as well as to all ages. The participants

included Muhammad Omair from Govt.Higher

Secondary School No.2, Mujtaba Ghaus and Momina

Arif from Lahore Grammar School, Ibrahim Khan and


1st Provincial Cultural Roundtable Workshop "Revival of Cultural Activities in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa"

he “Cultural Round Table Workshop” was organised Tto involve all the stakeholders and receive

suggestions for the revival of cultural activities. It was

chaired by Minister for Culture Syed Aqil Shah and presided

over by the Secretary for Culture/ MD STC Azam Khan.

They said that Nishtar Hall would be made the hub of all

cultural activities. The culture department would not sit

idle. Cultural activities will be held on a weekly basis to

enliven the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.


Organised by: Sarhad Tourism Corporation & Culture Department Venue: Nishtar Hall, PeshawarDate: 14th October 2010(Photos by Aamir Raza)

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The Minister for Culture said that the Nishtar Hall was

opened after 10 years for all forms of cultural activities.

The government would pursue an all inclusive policy to

promote richness and diversity of cultures in the

province, he added. The meeting was attended by renowned literary

figures, poets, artists, writers, tour operators,

educat ion i s t s , a rc haeo log i s t s , a rc h i tec t s ,

conservationists, film makers, journalists and students

who presented their recommendations to the

government at the end of the daylong session.

amous regional singers and performers Fenthralled audiences by presenting national

songs, folk music and humorous skits at cultural shows

in Nishtar Hall organised under the weekly

'Mashaloona' (torches or lamps) series theme by

Culture department along with Sarhad Tourism

Corporation.

The melodious songs and traditional music forced the and gatherings. young viewers to dance to the beats while humourous

skits rolled them into laughter during the shows. Some of the viewers said that such cultural activities

had become rare owing to lurking shadows of The 1st show entitled “Culture for Peace” held on 7th insecurity and apathy of the previous government. November threw light on richness and values of However, they were happy to see that Peshawar once Pakhtun culture. The provincial culture department again resounded with national songs and folk music, organised the first show of Mashaloona series in the which took them away from the worries of the day for city's sole theater, Nishtar Hall, as its doors remained few hours.closed during the last few years for cultural activities

CULTURAL TOURISM

Mashaloona SeriesNishtar Hall resounds with music, laughter once again


The setting, the sounds, musical instruments and

talented artists depicted Pukhtun culture and history.

Poignant tunes, tappay and folk songs of Kamro Jan and

Ahmad Gul were reminiscent of the beauty and valour of

the Pukhtuns.

Wisal Khyal, son of legendry Pashto singer Khayal

Mohammad, and popular young singer Khalid Malik

appealed to the nationalistic and aesthetics senses of the

audience.

Famous comedian Said Rehman Shino along with

Zardaad and popular actor Gulbali presented humourous

skits and many at the gathering had a good laugh after a

long time. (Source: DAWN)


Showcasing Food and Culture of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

COLOURS OF ABASEEN


he three-day festival orgaised to promote a

soft image of the province proved to be a non-Tstop fun for youth, children and couples alike,

as such occasions are rare in the provincial metropolis,

which along with the adjacent tribal areas has been

affected and saddened with natural or man-made

disasters in recent years.

The STC was set up years ago, but its new team under

the managing director Azam Khan rejuvenated it by

holding several such festivals in the last two years.

Azam Khan, who is also secretary culture and tourism,

had raised the slogan of `defeating terrorism with

tourism` and is actually making things happen when

many had given up on this front. Abuzz with people, the

famous Nishtar Hall was recently opened for cultural

activities as a part of the STC`s efforts to revive culture

and art in the province.

COLOURS OF ABASEEN


“Our children see very little of what is best about our

culture. Here my son saw folk dances and enjoyed folk

tunes,” said Ijaz Ali who had brought his family to the

festival where Chitrali, Mehsud and Khattak folk dances

were presented. People also savoured traditional cuisine

such as Chapli Kabab, Charsadda`s rice, Sardaryab`s fish,

Kabuli pulao and other food items of their liking.

COLOURS OF ABASEEN


A visitor adding her comments in the gallery area

A tribal Mehsud dance performance

“Girls can not go out alone to fairs held on Eid days or

Independence Day in Peshawar due to insecurity and

hooliganism, but tonight I have come alone to enjoy

traditional cuisine, folk music and dances at the festival,” said

a young girl Ambareen.

Neelam, another young woman, who had come with her

friends, appreciated the efforts of STC and requested it that

such festivals should be continued. “The fun must not stop,”

she insisted .

`All you hear these days is bad news. We have had enough of

it. We want entertainment,” she said.

Ali Jan working with the STC said that people needed such an

occasion to enjoy with their families.

The spacious ground just adjacent to the Nishtar Hall was

bustling with families who besides enjoying traditional foods

could stroll and shop whatever they liked from the cultural

artifacts, jewellery and traditional footwear to handicrafts

from places like Charsadda, Dera Ismail Khan, Mansehra and

Swat.

The children enjoyed magic show and funny acts of cartoon

characters.

COLOURS OF ABASEEN


Traditional couture hits Peshawar catwalk!


But the `Termination Show` held at Nishtar Hall

highlighted another facet of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

that cultural dresses of this province were not only

unique, colourful and fascinating but also could

match fashionable designer`s clothes for their

versatility. Young male and female models proudly

displayed on ramp traditional dresses remixed with

cultural veils such as Burqa (Afghani and Peshawari

style), Chail (spotted veil of Swabi), Parhoonay of

Swat and Waziristan and so on. The dress show

exhibited Chitrali, Kalashi, Swati, Peshawari and

Hazara`s male attire too.

COLOURS OF ABASEENC

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14 - FF April - June 201032 - FF July - December 2010

July - December 2010 FF - 33Models in burqa strut on the catwalk!


STC’s Colours of Abaseen event was nicely managed by Ample (The Consultants)

Pho

to b

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Ahm

ad

COLOURS OF ABASEEN

Local singers, including Rahim Shah and Zeek Afridi, also

enthralled the audience with their melodious Pashto songs.

Mohsin, a young performer, also surprised many with his

pashto rap song.

“Kudos to the Sarhad Tourism Corporation once again

which has taken this bold step of providing fun to people

almost shut in their houses as no one dares to hold such

events here,” said Aziz Ahmed, a youth at the festival. (Source: DAWN)



Syed Aqil Shah (Tourism Minister) & Mian Iftikhar Hussain (Information Minister) in the audience

TC participated in DAWN's All About Lifestyles Expo 2010 held on 27th & 28th November at Convention Centre Sin Islamabad. The STC pavilion featuring arts and craft stalls of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was undoubtedly the

most charming pavilion in the entire exhibition. It was created by Abdul Sami, a fine artist from Peshawar who

designed the front facade representing a life size Kabuli Gate and the old Peshawar city walls. Architectural features

and motifs were inspired by the design styles of Sethi Houses.

The pavilion featured several handicraft stalls and Artisans at Work from the province. A teahouse in a nook and live

musicians lent a more traditional touch to the arrangement.

STC's 'Arts & Crafts' pavilion shines in

All About Lifestyles Expo 2010


I admit that there are many beautiful cities in the world but this surely surpasses them all.Every place has its own beauty and fun, but Peshawar is Peshawar!

The name is as beautiful as the city itself. When you enter the city, it seems as soothing as if you are with your own beloved.

Here the old men are as beautiful as the children are. Here the women are as honourable as the young men are.

Like Malakand, the women's necks are long. Like Khyber, the men's hearts are wide open.Every place has its own beauty and fun, but Peshawar is Peshawar!

When Pakhtun women want to be beautiful, they want a black shirt from Peshawar! When they want a gift from their beloved, they want a few flowers from the city.

Fairies are the most beautiful creatures, but Peshawar, like a magician, increases even their beauty!Every place has its own beauty and fun, but Peshawar is Peshawar!

Like seeing, many flowers cannot replace the sight of your beloved. Seeing many cities cannot replace the sight of Peshawar.

Every morning bears flowers. In addition, the evenings are incomparable.Every place has its own beauty and fun, but Peshawar is Peshawar!

This is not only my city, it is my beloved's city too! Living in a foreign city cannot mitigate the house of our desires! It may be full of smoke and noise but even then, it is our heart.

Every place has its own beauty and fun, but Peshawar is Peshawar!

It is the sign of Pakhtun culture. May it never see bad days! It is the sign of Pakhtun culture. May it never see bad days! The great Pakhtun poet Sahil has expressed his love for Peshawar.

The poet Abid's heart breathes in the city as well!Every place has its own beauty and fun But Peshawar is Peshawar!


Here is the English translation of the song:

On All-Language Day, in July 2010, Brian Tilley and Ted Watter in University of Wisconsin's South Asia Summer Language

Institute USA performed a Pashto song. At first, the audience thought that the song was sung by two Pakhtuns, as they were

dressed in traditional local attire. However, what was extraordinary about this performance was that it was sung so

beautifully and accurately and it was hard to believe that non-Pashtuns were singing it. (The video is uploaded on YouTube

on the “Pashtones” channel) A famous Pashto singer Irfan Khan had originally sung the song and it is called “Peshawar is

Peshawar” or to put it in Pashto: “Paikhawar kho Paikhawar de”

By Zahra AlamPashtones!

'Peshawar is Peshawar' goes international!

he Pathans are ranked amongst the world's largest and Toldest tribal societies living between Pakistan and

Afghanistan in the area surrounding the Khyber Pass. Beginning

with his reading of Kipling as a child, James Spain's The Way of

the Pathans is a personal account of his experiences with them

and an attempt to illuminate Pukhtunwali, their moral code.

Mostly Spain describes people and places encountered on his

own visits to different areas along the Pakistan frontier, and to

Kabul, but he also includes traditional stories and elements of

history — there is, for example, a whole chapter on the

seventeenth century "warrior bard" Khushal Khan Khattak.

"Melmastia (Hospitality) also demands that the Pathan accord protection to his guest and

to all who claim it from him. In this regard melmastia takes precedence over badal

(Revenge), and even the enemy who comes seeking refuge must be granted it and defended

against his pursuers. This custom was a constant irritant in the Pathans' relations with the

British in the old days. The man proclaimed a criminal in Peshawar could flee to the hills

and could not only expect but demand protection and sanctuary from every house he came

to." (Book Excerpt).

BOOK REVIEW AUTHOR: JAMES W. SPAIN

THE WAY OF THE PATHANS

The Way of the Pathans: by James W. Spain, 1963Indus Publications, 1972, 2nd Edit. Oxford University Press

(Available at leading bookstores in Pakistan)


Did you know?

There are about 30 diverse languages spoken in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. They are: Pashto, Hindko, Seraiki,

Khowar, Indus Kohistani, Gojri, Badeshi, Bateri, Chilisso, Dameli, Gawri, Gawarbati, Gawro, Kalasha, Kalkoti,

Kamveri, Kataweri, Maddagalashti, Pahari, Palula, Pashai, Farsi, Sarakoli, Shina, Sheikhani, Torwali, Ormuri, Ushojo,

Wakhi and Yidgha

he interfaith cultural evening held at Nishtar Hall on 25th Dec Christmas Day would have made the Father of the TNation happy as a perfect birthday gift for him seeing Muslims and non-Muslims sitting and smiling together.

The provincial Culture Department in collaboration with Sarhad Tourism Corporation hosted a unique interfaith

cultural show for the non-Muslim Pakistanis on Christmas, perhaps for the first time in the history of the province.

Christmas Day and birthday of the founder of Pakistan Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah fall on the same day, so

why not celebrate it together. “Today we are united with the minorities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Christmas and

Quaid's birthday celebrations,” said provincial culture minister Mian Iftikhar Hussain after cutting the Christmas cake

along with the religious heads representing Christians, Sikh and Hindus living in Peshawar.

The show was a manifestation of the religious harmony and cultural unity. The minister made it clear that those living in

the province might have different faiths, but they share one culture.

A large number of colourfully attired Christians and other non-Muslim Pakistanis, invited as guests to the function,

were entertained with a medley of songs, comedy and poetry. Santa Claus distributed gifts among the children.

AN INTERFAITH EVENING

Nishtar Hall By Sadia Qasim Shah

resounds with cheers

44 - FF July - December 2010Unity in diversity!

Arun Sabdiyal thanked the provincial government

for giving them so much honour and sharing the

celebrations. He said that minorities felt as much

patriotic and proud as any other Pakistani.

Speaking to a jam-packed hall of people from

different religions, the culture minister said that

such cultural shows were a way to express that

people of Peshawar were alive and kicking despite

facing spate of terrorist attacks in the past. He said

that culture would keep them alive and give them strength to fight enemies of people and this land. He made it clear

that culture did not only mean music, but it was evident in all the manifestations of our life.

“We should not forget that our land is bleeding and we can not just sit quiet. Our culture will be our source of

strength in this fight. We will teach a lesson to those who lay their dirty hands on our homeland and let me know that

you are with me.” When Mr Iftikhar appealed for support of the youth after an emotional speech, the entire

audience stood up in support of the minister who had lost his son in the fight against terror and the Nishtar Hall

resounded with applause.

The audience burst into laughter again and again when comedy skits of Zahirullah – popularly known for his Pashto-

dubbed CDs of English movies Mr. Bean, Shrek etc – were presented. Whereas the songs of famous Pashto singers

Irfan Khan, Karan Khan, Hamayun Khan, Musarrat Momand and others charged the youth in the audience to dance

to the beats. The singers enthralled the audience with their famous songs and Bashir Pukhtunyaar also satisfied the

literary taste of the audience by presenting Ghani Khan's famous poem 'Kismat'.

The show that started under the title 'Drun Pakhtun' (honourable Pashtun) ended with a nationalistic song

symbolising the entire nation was one against terrorism.

Secretary tourism and culture / MD STC Azam Khan said on this occasion that there was no better way to celebrate

the birthday of the founder of Pakistan than

acknowledging and appreciating the non-

Muslim Pakistanis on this day. They were

reminded by this gesture that that our joys and

sorrows are the same and one. We would

continue to build up interfaith harmony in the

province, he said.

(Source: DAWN)


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Photo GalleryFrom our

photo exhibition representing the culture Aand life of Peshawar city was held at Nishtar

Hall on 4th December 2010. The event was

organised by Peshawar Youth Organisation

(PYO) with the support of STC. 75 images were

shortlisted for exhibit following an open

competition held by local youth on internet social

networks. Chairperson of the Provincial

Assembly's Standing Committee on Sports,

Culture, Tourism, Archaeology & Youth Affairs Ms

Shagufta Malik (MPA) was the Guest of Honour

on the occasion. GM STC Mushtaq Ahmed, Dr

Muhammad Azam Azam and Arshad Hussain

conducted the guests. In addition to the event

publicity and framing of images, STC also

sponsored cash amounts for the first, second and

third winning photos worth Rs 10,000, Rs 7,000

and Rs 5000 respectively.


October - December 2008 FF - 15July - December 2010 FF - 47

ON

EXHIBIT

ashim Khan founded squash's legendary H'Khan dynasty of Peshawar' that ruled the

game for nearly half a century and put Pakistan

on the world map. Historically, squash was an

elitist game and Khan was the first player from a

humble background to break this barrier. The

story of this bare-footed ball boy turned world

champion is very moving and one of great

inspiration.

It is fact that the Peshawar Club is the cradle of

squash in the region. The famous 'Khan dynasty'

started its modest beginnings of the game from

here. In the colonial days when discriminatory

attitudes prevented natives from entering clubs,

young Hashim Khan belonging to a nearby

village (Nawe Kelli) became a ball boy here. The

courts at the club in those early days had no roofs

and were left open to lessen the effect of the

summer heat. The boy's job was to fetch balls that

landed outside. Sometimes a British officer,

unable to

find another player to play against, would order him to pick up a racket

and join in. As time wore on, he became so adept that he began to beat his

rivals at their own game.

Hashim Khan made the nation proud when he became a first-class player

and later represented Pakistan after 1947, winning the British Open

crown for a record seven times. Other famous names of the Khan squash

clan from Peshawar who have dominated the international scene are

Azam Khan, Roshan Khan, Jehangir Khan, Jansher Khan and so on. (Ed.)

Down memory lane

"My city Peshawar gives me big welcome, 1951 when I come home from British Open. Never I think

squash player can have so much honour." - Hashim Khan (in his own words in 'Squash

Racquets. The Khan Game' 1963)

Hashim Khan, now 96, with grandson


A local girl from Swat Valley, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Photo by Gulraiz Ghauri)

e aim to present snapshots and Winteresting vignettes of the happening tourism industry through this newsletter. And we could do with your feedback and suggestions on what we should cover and how we can make this newsletter even better. You can help us by sending your photos, articles & suggestions.

Write to us:

[email protected]

Send us your suggestions

Email: Website: [email protected]

VisitKhyber Pakhtunkhwa

Pakistan

For ad. enquiriesContact: 0344-9054686

LINKS OF INTEREST

An eclectic collection of weblinks related to tourism.

Sarhad Tourism Corporation

Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation

Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab

Tourism Dept. Gilgit Baltistan

Adventure Foundation Pakistan

Travel Web Pakistan

Alpine Club of Pakistan

HinduKush Heights Hotel & Travels

Hindukush Trails(Experience a Different Pakistan)

Wild Frontiers UK(Specialising in Kalash/ Chitral tours)

Pakistan International Airlines

Air Blue Airlines in Pakistan

Pakistan Railways

Daewoo Bus Service in Pakistan

National Highway Authority

Pearl Continental Hotels

Pearl Tours

Visit Kaghan

Visit Mardan

Visit Shandur (World's highest polo field)

Visit Swat

Visit Kalash Valleys

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department

Ecotourism Society of Pakistan

http://www.nwfptourism.com.pk

http://nwfp.gov.pk

http://www.tourism.gov.pk

http://www.tdcp.punjab.gov.pk

http://www.visitgilgitbaltistan.gov.pk

http://www.adventurefoundation.org.pk

http://www.travel.web.pk

http://www.alpineclub.org.pk

http://www.hindukush.com.pk

http://www.hindukushtrails.com

http://www.wildfrontiers.co.uk

http://www.piac.com

http://www.airblue.com

http://www.pakrail.com

http://www.sammi.com.pk

http://www.nha.gov.pk

http://www.pchotels.com

http://www.pearltours.com.pk

http://www.visitkaghan.com

http://mardan.com

http://www.shandur.com

http://www.valleyswat.net

http://kalashtravels.com

http://www.nwfpwildlifedept.gov.pk

http://www.ecotourism.org.pk

STC Tourist Information CenterPh: +92 91 9213762

ff issue 07 jul dec 2010

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