The first snowfall of the winter season transformed the picturesque Galiyat hills and adjoining mountain valleys into a winter wonderland over the weekend, attracting thousands of tourists from the plains eager to enjoy snow-covered landscapes and capture memorable moments with their families.
White flakes blanketed the slopes, rooftops and pine trees of Nathiagali, Ayubia, Dongagali and Khanspur in Abbottabad district, bringing the normally tranquil hill resorts to life. Children played in the snow, families posed for photographs and visitors shared images of the spectacular scenery on social media.
Nathiagali witnessed a substantial influx of domestic tourists following forecasts of snowfall by the Meteorological Department. Hotels, guesthouses, motels and private accommodation facilities remained heavily occupied as visitors arrived from across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
At nearby Ayubia, families queued for the famous chairlift, enjoying panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains.
“The chairlift ride at Ayubia takes tourists to a new height of thrill and excitement,” said Professor Dr Naveed Farooq, a lecturer at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, while enjoying the scenery with his family.
He said the natural beauty of Khanspur, Dongagali and Bagnotar had left a lasting impression on visitors, adding that the snowfall and cool breezes from the Kashmir hills had enhanced the winter experience.
The snowfall also provided an economic boost to local communities, with hotel owners, restaurant operators, horse riders, photographers, transporters and shopkeepers reporting increased business. Some residents opened additional rooms in their homes to accommodate tourists seeking affordable lodging.
However, the influx of visitors renewed concerns about excessive accommodation charges and rising prices of essential commodities during the peak tourist season.
Dr Naveed Farooq urged the district administration to monitor hotel tariffs and commodity prices and ensure adequate parking facilities at major tourist destinations.
Former ambassador Manzoorul Haq said private hotels were reportedly charging between Rs10,000 and Rs15,000 per room per night in Nathiagali, Naran-Kaghan and Kalam, warning that unchecked overcharging could discourage families travelling on limited budgets.
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