Record-smashing eid rush turns KP into tourism hotbed with 1.2 million tourists: DG says

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st Jun, 2026) Director General of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority Shahid Khan on Monday said tourist arrivals to the province's scenic destinations surged to a record 1.2 million during the Eid holidays, doubling from 600,000 previously, with South Waziristan emerging as the newest and most sought-after travel destination.

While speaking to a local news channel, Shahid Khan said popular tourist destinations including Kumrat, Naran, Kaghan, Kalam, Swat and Hazara Galyat witnessed an unprecedented influx of visitors during the Eid holidays.

He said tourist arrivals at these scenic locations doubled compared to the corresponding period last year, reflecting the growing popularity of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a preferred travel destination.

He attributed the surge in tourist activity to improved infrastructure, enhanced security measures and the provincial government's efforts to promote tourism across the region. The record influx, he said, also brought economic benefits to local communities, businesses and hospitality services.

Shahid Khan further said South Waziristan, Bajaur and Orakzai emerged as new tourist hotspots, witnessing a significant rush of visitors for the first time.

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He described the growing interest in these districts as a major achievement for the tourism sector and a sign that travelers are increasingly exploring the province's previously untapped destinations.

He attributed the unprecedented surge in tourist arrivals to the extended Eid holidays, favorable weather conditions and growing public interest in domestic tourism.

He said the combination of pleasant temperatures and improved accessibility encouraged families and adventure seekers to visit scenic destinations across the province in record numbers.

Shahid Khan noted that the tourism boom had a positive impact on local economies, benefiting hotels, restaurants, transport operators and small businesses in tourist areas.

He added that the influx of visitors created temporary employment opportunities and helped showcase the cultural and natural diversity of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The DG further said the authority is actively working to identify and develop at least five more unexplored tourist destinations over the next few years.

He said efforts are underway to improve road infrastructure, visitor facilities and promotional activities to open up new areas for tourism and sustain the sector's rapid growth.