The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department has devised a comprehensive master plan to boost tourism in Dir, a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage. A substantial Rs2 billion project is set to develop tourist destinations across the province, with a special emphasis on the merged districts and Dir’s untapped tourism potential.

Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan, Secretary of Tourism and Culture, disclosed this during a meeting with a delegation from the Dir Welfare Organization (DWO) Peshawar, led by Haji Sultan Yousaf Dir Lala, on Sunday.

The delegation lauded the provincial government’s efforts and pledged their full support. They pointed out, however, that the lack of communication infrastructure in Upper and Lower Dir has restricted tourist activity primarily to Kumrat Valley. Other scenic and culturally significant sites such as Laram Top, Khadango, Chinaroona, Bakht Bilanda, Nawa Pass, Lam Char, Shahi Top, Lawari Top, Dog Dara, Sheel Dab, Shabanal, Jehaz Banda, and Badgoi Top remain largely overlooked.

Secretary Bakhtiar Khan affirmed that tangible steps are underway under the master plan to enhance facilities across these areas. The tender for road development to Jehaz Banda has already been floated, and the Kumrat Development Authority has been fully restructured.

A “HomeGuest” scheme has also been introduced to support local residents financially in hosting tourists, from Sheringal to Kumrat—replicating a successful model in Chitral.

The mega tourism development plan extends to the newly merged districts, Malakand, and Hazara divisions. Secretary Khan highlighted the special interest of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Advisor on Tourism Zahid Khan Zeb, and Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah in boosting tourism across the region.

The DWO delegation proposed celebrating Dir’s Cultural Day at the provincial level—a suggestion Secretary Khan agreed to consider, provided it is routed through elected representatives. He emphasized the power of cultural festivals to foster joy and creativity, reaffirming the government’s commitment to tourism and cultural promotion.

The meeting concluded with a ceremonial exchange of cultural gifts. The delegation presented the Secretary with Dir’s symbolic “White Diroji Cap,” while the Secretary gifted them a symbolic Markhor and an honorary shield from the Department of Culture.