Quratul Ain
Mountain regions and hilly areas of Pakistan are great attractions for the nature lovers. In the summer vacations, tourists across the country flow into these areas. Some of such destinations allure tourists more then the capacity they bear to host such tourists properly. The young frequent travellers satiate their thirst of new landscapes by exploring new destination in the remote regions of Pakistan. Later on, investment in infrastructures is attracted. There is a dire need to explore, develop an promote new mountain destinations for sustainable tourism. The proper planning of new tourist destinations would not only regulate tourists but also generate economic activities for the marginalized communities who are unable to benefit from the urban employment opportunities. Ganga Choti, Toli Peer, Lasdana, Kumrat are some of the examples increasing flow of tourists day by day but a little planned infrastructure development is witnessed. However, reasonable tourist facilities are developed to accommodate tourists visiting across the country.
Siran Valley is one of the emerging such tourists’ destinations. It is situated in the district Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Siran valley’s name comes from the Siran river, which flows through the valley. The older name of this beautiful valley was Dara Bhogarmang, after the name of Bhogarmang village, located in the center of the valley.
In this valley, one may enjoy the most serene experience of the life; surrounded by lush green hills and mountains. The climate of this valley remains mild and pleasant throughout the year, but due to its higher altitude, winter become pretty cold here, with temperatures falling below the freezing level.
Siran Valley can be approached through Hazara Expressway and Dadar can be considered as the base camp for the trip. You can exist from Shinkiari and move to Siran Valley via Dadar. Dadar is about 180 kms. from Islamabad via Hazara Motorway. It is the best place to stay as reasonable and affordable hotels are available, here. You can walk or hike around the areas in lush green forest, fields, bank of the River Siran. You can explore the ancient villages and take in the culture of this majestic place.
There is a Siran Lake Resort where zipline, boats, swings and other recreational activities can be enjoyed. A lot of local tourists are witnessed to visiting this Park. We also saw reasonable domestic tourists flow pouring into the valley by their own vehicles and even through public transport. The public transport runs from Shinkiari to Mudaghucha and charge Rs.200/-.
It is a perfect tourist spot for those who enjoy nature; one can explore a lot and have the best time in this valley. The valley is considered one of the most charming places, with famous spots like Chukro Peaks, Baleja Meadows, Aram Gali, and much more. Siran Valley offers many activities that can keep you busy during your visit. You can go trekking to explore the rich forests, hike through the meadows, and camp in nature’s lap.
Accommodation : If you are looking for comfortable accommodation, there are several hotels in nearby towns. About 9 kms from KKH Dadar has reasonable accommodation facilities. It can be considered gateway to this valley. I stayed in Al-Shola Tourist Hotel (0341-0253336) which has recently been built. A good place specially for the families. It has large family rooms from 3 to 5 beds with lobby, kitchen, lawn and wide parking facilities. They do not charge for additional mattresses. The staff is co-operative. Serviceman is available. During off season it charges Rs.5000/- and during season upto R.8000/- per night. It is an excellent place to stay. We enjoyed our stay here. Nearby hotels are: Lahore Guest House (0349-6016929), Summer Land Hotel (0315-4145473). These hotels have standard rooms of twin and double beds and they also charge Rs.5000/- to Rs.6000/-. These two hotels are better furnished but room, lobby and lawn areas are smaller when we compare it with Al-Shola Tourist Hotel. There is a Rest House of Forest Department, available for tourists, as well (0341-9221420). They charge Rs.3000/- to 4500/-. As you move forward, you will find Pine Valley View Hotel in Bhogarbang village (0300-5870333). They price also range from Rs.3000/- to Rs.4500/- per night.
On the way to Munda Guchah, the metaled road, you can witness awesome views. About an 45 minutes drive from Dadar, you will reach Munda Guchah. There are three small guest houses namely Ali, Gill and Basaira and with small size rooms and common washrooms. Usually, trekkers stay while going to trek Musa Ka Musla and explore more beautiful valleys. These hotel charge around Rs.1500/- for a room and discount if group is of bigger size.
In short, Siran Valley is a good place for tourists to be visited in Summer. Investors are also being attracted and they have bought thousands of kanals land in this valley to build a tourist resort. This investment would bring bounties for the local community as tourism boost local economic activity. However, planned development of tourism infrastructure will ensure sustainability and will attract more tourists. I strongly recommend families to visit this valley. Youth found of hiking, trekking and adventure will also find a lot of valleys and treks to be explored and enjoyed. So plan your trip to Siran Valley.