BALAKOT: Perched at an impressive 13,700 feet above sea level, the renowned Babusar Top has officially reopened after a six-month winter closure, leading to a significant spike in tourist traffic throughout the Kaghan Valley and the surrounding northern regions.
The Babusar Pass, which connects the picturesque village of Naran in the Kaghan Valley to Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, is usually closed during the winter months due to severe snowfall and dangerous road conditions. With the arrival of summer, the National Highway Authority (NHA) has cleared the route, allowing visitors and adventure seekers to safely travel to Pakistan’s stunning northern territories.
While the Deputy Commissioner of Mansehra has not yet officially announced the reopening, the road is open and traffic has returned. Authorities are taking steps to keep tourists safe and comfortable, with police setting up several checkpoints along the route, all the way to Besal.
This reopening is expected to greatly benefit the local tourism economy, with the Hotel Association confirming a marked increase in tourist arrivals, especially in Naran. Local hotels, restaurants, Jeep drivers and tour operators are witnessing a sharp rise in bookings, indicating a strong start to the summer tourism season.
Local businesses, including hoteliers, transporters and tour guides, have expressed optimism, welcoming the reopening and emphasising the need for continued safety measures and timely weather and travel updates to sustain momentum.
Because of the increase in tourism, the local population is finding more jobs in hospitality, transportation and guiding. Many residents depend on the summer season to earn a living, so this boost is very important for them.
As Babusar Top once again offers stunning landscapes and thrilling adventures, it is set to regain its place as one of Pakistan’s top tourist destinations, attracting nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers from across the country and beyond.
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