Laughter echoes through hilly stations as Eid crowds flock to northern KP

By Fakhar-e-Alam

NATHIAGALI, Mar 22 (APP):The crisp mountain air of northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa carried more than just the scent of spring blossoms this Eid but it also echoed with laughter, music, and joyful hum of families escaping to nature.

On the second day of Eidul Fitr, thousands of tourists from across the province and beyond poured into scenic hill stations of Nathiagali and Aybia, turning serene landscapes into vibrant hubs of celebration.

From the lush green slopes of Nathiagali to the cool pine forests of Ayubia, the hilly stations of KP came alive with colour, excitement, and patriotism.

Among the many visitors was Fayaz Khan, an academician from Nowshera, who arrived early with his family to avoid the Eid rush.

For him, the pleasant journey was more than a getaway rather it was a chance to reconnect with nature and loved ones besides exploring the mountains beauty of Hazara division.

As patriotic songs like “Dil Dil Pakistan, A jawan, and Sohni Dharti” played from his mobile phone, Fayaz prepared a simple barbecue near the Miranjani trail. Nearby, his young son Faraz danced joyfully, headphones on, singing along with great national enthusiasm.

Before setting out on the historic Miranjani-Nathia Gali hiking trail, the family paused to soak in the moment sunlight peeking through drifting clouds, cool winds brushing against their faces, and the laughter of fellow tourists filling the air.

“This place feels magical during Eid,” Fayaz said, smiling as he watched his son. “It’s not just about travel rather it’s about memories.”

Faraz, dressed in a tracksuit and brimming with energy, said the trip held special meaning this year as it coincided with Pakistan Day.

“We wanted to celebrate both Eid and Pakistan Day here,” he said. “This land is beautiful, and it reminds us how lucky we are.”

Across the Hazara division, similar scenes unfolded. Families picnicked under blooming trees, children played hide-and-seek among the hills, and groups of friends trekked scenic trails, stopping to enjoy local delicacies like chapli kebabs and freshly grilled barbecue.

Tourist hotspots including Thandiani, Kaghan, Naran, Kalam, and Malam Jabba also witnessed a surge in visitors. Roads bustled with vehicles, while hotels, campsites, and roadside eateries welcomed a steady stream of holidaymakers.

Officials see this growing enthusiasm as a positive sign for tourism sector of Pakistan. Muhammad Ali Syed, General Manager of the Tourism and Culture Authority, said that tourism fosters unity and patriotism.

“People from different backgrounds come together here,” he said. “It strengthens bonds and builds a shared love for

the country.”

To mark Pakistan Day on March 23, authorities have organized a range of cultural activities, including exhibitions, traditional games, and performances celebrating national heritage. Tributes are also being paid to the heroes of the Pakistan Movement who passed a historic resolution at Lahore on March 23, 1940 that paved the way for creation of Pakistan.

The government is investing in ambitious tourism projects from restoring historic hiking trails to developing waterfalls and launching a major cable car project linking Kumrat Valley with Madaklasht Chitral.

These efforts aim not only to boost tourism but also to transform the region into a global destination for adventure and

eco-tourism.

Back on the hills of Nathia Gali, however, such plans felt distant due to financial constraints. For families like Fayaz’s, the joy of the present moment was enough shared laughter, simple meals, and the timeless beauty of nature.

As the sun dipped behind the mountains of Nathiagali, the hills remained alive with the sounds of celebration, a reminder that sometimes happiness is found in the simplest of journeys.