Published on
September 8, 2025
The Hazara Waterfalls in Jab Valley, Haripur, are undergoing a transformative eco-tourism project, thanks to a UK-backed initiative. Located just a two-hour drive from Islamabad, these stunning waterfalls are set to become a major tourist destination for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region. The project aims to provide safer access to the falls while preserving the surrounding natural environment. In addition to promoting tourism, the project will highlight the region’s cultural heritage, particularly the nearby Bhamala Stupa, a significant Buddhist monument. With substantial financial backing from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and WWF-Pakistan, this effort is expected to boost local economies, protect the environment, and offer a new travel circuit for visitors looking to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of the region.
The Eco-Tourism Development Plan
The project, primarily funded through the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), aims to enhance Jab Valley’s eco-tourism potential. An initial investment of Rs5 million will focus on constructing a safe walking path leading to the Hazara Waterfalls and establishing a small tourist hut. This initiative addresses the current accessibility challenges, where visitors must navigate a dangerous path traditionally used by locals to transport firewood. The new path is set to be completed by mid-October 2025, providing a safer and more sustainable route for eco-tourists.
The waterfalls, which consist of eight cascading falls with the tallest being nearly 400 feet high, are among the most impressive natural attractions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The site, which is located just 45 minutes from the famous Khanpur Dam, offers a unique opportunity to blend nature-based tourism with cultural exploration. The region’s proximity to Bhamala, which is home to a 1,700-year-old Buddhist stupa, further enhances its appeal as a dual-purpose tourist destination.
Enhancing the Tourism Experience
The development of Jab Valley as a tourism hub is not just about infrastructure; it’s about creating a sustainable model for the future. The project, spearheaded by WWF-Pakistan’s Water Resource Accountability Project (WRAP), will also focus on environmental protection. Ensuring that the valley’s natural resources are managed sustainably is a key element of the initiative. It also offers local communities an alternative to harmful practices like firewood collection, creating new income-generating opportunities through tourism.
Visitors to the area will be able to enjoy not only the natural beauty of the Hazara Waterfalls but also the rich cultural heritage of the surrounding area. The Bhamala Stupa, which was discovered in 2017, is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Pakistan and is expected to draw further interest once connected to the newly developed tourism route.
Economic and Social Impacts
The tourism project in Jab Valley is expected to significantly benefit local communities. By providing alternative livelihoods through eco-tourism, the project aims to reduce the local reliance on unsustainable activities, such as the cutting of firewood. Furthermore, the increased flow of tourists is anticipated to create job opportunities for local youth, guides, drivers, and shopkeepers, fostering economic growth in the region.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department has expressed support for the project, emphasizing its potential to add new and sustainable destinations to the region’s tourism portfolio. If successful, the model could be replicated at other under-explored natural sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, creating a sustainable tourism framework for the entire region.
Jab Valley: A New Alternative for Tourism
Jab Valley has the potential to emerge as a key alternative to popular tourist spots like Naran, Kaghan, and Swat, which are often overcrowded. With proper planning and infrastructure development, Jab Valley can become one of Pakistan’s premier eco-tourism destinations, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of more crowded areas. Experts in the tourism sector believe that the combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage will make Jab Valley a highly sought-after destination for both domestic and international visitors.
In addition to its natural allure, the project’s focus on sustainability and community involvement will ensure that Jab Valley remains an environmentally friendly and culturally rich destination for years to come. This balance between tourism development and environmental preservation will set a new standard for sustainable tourism in Pakistan.
A Vision for the Future
With construction already underway, Jab Valley is set to become a recognized eco-tourism hotspot. The integration of both natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a unique destination for travelers seeking an immersive and sustainable experience. The long-term vision for Jab Valley is to become a model for responsible tourism, benefiting both visitors and local communities while preserving the region’s fragile environment.
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