Balochistan's Hidden Gems: A Proposal for Tourism Development

Sindh Exploration & Adventure Society (SEAS) recently surveyed four Balochistan sites to promote tourism in the hilly regions. The team used drones to survey the sites and create photogrammetry 3D models. They also used mosaic, DSM, and contours to analyze the landscape, having unspoiled beauty.

The four sites surveyed
by the SEAS team were:

Silyaza:

Silyaza Town is a town located near the Ziarat District of Balochistan. It is known for its beautiful scenery and its rich cultural heritage. The SEAS team surveyed the town and its surroundings, where great tourist attraction exists. SEAS visualized the great tourism potential of the natural landscape, tourist attractions, such as historical sites, natural wonders, and recreational features.

Shingar / Sheen Ghar:

Sheen Ghar is a mountain peak in the Sherani District of Balochistan, Pakistan. It is about 50 kilometers from Zhob City and almost due west of the Takht-i-Sulaiman. Sheen Ghar rises to an elevation of 9273 feet and offers stunning panoramic views of
the surrounding mountains and valleys. The SEAS team surveyed the Site to assess its condition and to identify the conservation needs, and its rehabilitation, besides the upgradation for promotion of tourism to the area.

Harboi

The Harboi Waterfall is a popular tourist destination, and it is especially popular during the summer months when the weather is hot. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the pool below the waterfall, or they can simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

The waterfall is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as there are a variety of birds that can be seen in the area. The Harboi Waterfall is a beautiful and natural attraction that is worth a visit if one happens to be in the area.The team described the landscape as most interesting, an area fit for day trippers. SEAS is of the view that will little input it can be transformed into destination for overnight visitors.

Khojak Pass

Khojak Pass is a strategic mountain pass, located between Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning scenery and its historical significance. The SEAS team recognized the great potential of tourist attraction, the stunning landscape, development of trail and camping sites.

In order to promote tourism to the attractive natural landscape, and to involve the locals of these remote areas, the SEAS team has developed a propos for the promotion and betterment of tourism at the sites it surveyed. The plan includes the following recommendations:

Silyaza

• Develop a camping area near the site.

• Develop parking lot.

• Improve vehicle access to the site.

• Promote the existing lodging facilities/guest house.

• Construct restrooms at site.

Shingar/Sheen Ghar

• Develop a glamping area near the Site.

• Develop parking lot.

• Improve vehicle access to the site.

• Rehabilitate the existing helipad.

• Develop hiking trails from the town of Shingar to the attractive landscape areas around the site.

Harboi

• Develop a glamping area near the site.

• Develop parking lot.

• Improve vehicle access to the safe areas around the site.

• Construct restrooms near the site.

Khojak Pass

• Develop picnic area at point with beautiful scenic view on the pass.

• Develop parking lot.

• Improve vehicle access to the pass.

• Develop a hiking trail from the town of Khojak to the top of the pass.

Additional Recommendations

• Develop a website and social media presence to promote the four sites of potential tourists.

• Cultural events and festivals may be organized at the sites to promote tourism.

• Train local people in the tourism industry to ensure quality services to tourists.

Present work is a valuable contribution to the development of tourism in Balochistan. The team’s survey and proposed plan will help to promote the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to the world.
In addition to the recommendations above, We believe that the following measures could also be taken to promote tourism in Balochistan:

• Develop and implement a tourism policy that provides incentives for investment in the tourism sector.

• Improve the security situation in the province to make it more attractive to tourists.

• Train local people in the tourism industry to provide quality services to tourists.
By taking these measures, the government of Balochistan can create a thriving tourism industry that will benefit the local economy and promote the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.

About Team:

President Dr. Kaleemullah Lashari sent a team of four experts, including Zulnorain Haider (Surveyor/Drone pilot), Faraz Odho (Engineer), Ali (Researcher), and Moiz (RTK operator), to survey the area.

Balochistan’s Hidden Gems: A Proposal for Tourism Development