Faiza Tehseen

The promotion of Gilgit-Baltistan’s Shigar district as a hotspot for eco and adventure tourism internationally is crucial to leverage both the local and national economy.

“The region’s vast tourism potential remains to be tapped. Covering an area of 8,500 square kilometres, Shigar is located at an ancient trade route connecting the area with Central Asia. It is also called the land of mountains,” said Rahat Karim Baig, deputy director of GB tourism department’s Baltistan chapter. Talking to WealthPK about the mountains and glaciers of the area, he said that the northern ridge of the district was 28,265 feet high.

“The pinnacle of the ridge, K2, with elevations of 8,611 meters, is the second highest peak in the world. Broad Peak and Geysherbrum, and Baltoro glacier are the supreme attractions in Shigar district for adventure-seeking tourists. For trekking enthusiasts, Gondogoro La and Concordia treks are considered among the best.” Baig said, “Situated at an elevation of 2,226 meters, Sarfaranga desert or the cold desert is another hotspot for the people keen to enjoy adventure and nature.

Located at the confluence of Shigar and Indus River, Jarba Zhou Lake is another spectacular point for bird watching, fishing, water cycling, swimming and picnic.” He said that the 400-year-old Shigar Fort is an archaeological wonder constructed in the 17th century by a Raja belonging to the Amacha dynasty of Shigar. “It is locally called ‘Fong Khar’ that means ‘the fort on rock’. As an example of extensive heritage restoration, the fort is rewarded with Unesco Asia Pacific Award.

Now, it is turned into an exclusive hotel and heritage museum.” Baig said, “Amburig Mosque is another archaeological vista located in Shigar. Built in the 14th century, this mosque is considered the first-ever mosque in Baltistan. In 2005, it was rewarded with Unesco Asia Pacific Heritage Award of merit for cultural heritage conservation.” The GB tourism department official said that traditional fares and events in Shigar were also worth seeing.

“They include Srfaranga jeep rally, bike rally, traditional Balti cultural show, polo matches, raft competitions and lighting functions.” He said involvement of local communities can help turn the district into a tourist heaven. “Strategic promotion of Shigar district as a tourist hotspot at the global level is crucial to attract visitors.”

Sahib Noor, Chief Executive Officer of Concordia Expedition, a tour operating company in the region, said, “Shigar is the promising place for adventure and ecotourism, including trekking, mountaineering, camping, wildlife photography, nature watching, water sport, and other recreational activities.” He said that mesmerising K2 base camp via Gondogoro La trek is a real sensation full of adventure. “Trek to Sheosar Lake and Hushe Valley are also famous among adventure and ecotourism lovers.”

“To tap the region’s tourism potential, it is important that it has quality infrastructure, accommodation, communication facilities, modern transport and emergency services.” Noor said improved marketing, partnerships with international agencies and tour operators and proper showcasing of local events could be helpful in attracting a good number of tourists to the area.

Credit: INP-WealthPk