Monsoon magic draws tourists to Galiyat

Pre-monsoon showers transform Ayubia and Nathiagali into a cool summer retreat

NATHIAGALI:

The picturesque hill resorts of Nathiagali and Ayubia were transformed into a spectacular summer retreat on Sunday as pre-monsoon showers, drifting clouds and bright sunshine combined to create breathtaking scenery, drawing thousands of tourists seeking respite from the intense heat sweeping Pakistan's plains.

The lush Galiyat region of Abbottabad presented a captivating panorama as rain-washed pine forests, mist-covered valleys and vibrant rainbows stretched across the Himalayan foothills towards Murree and Azad Kashmir.

The dramatic interplay of sunshine and clouds offered visitors postcard-perfect landscapes, making the mountain resorts one of the country's most sought-after destinations during the summer season.

Families, students and adventure enthusiasts from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab thronged the winding roads leading to the hill stations. Hotels, restaurants, roadside cafés and tea stalls remained crowded throughout the day as visitors embraced the cool mountain breeze and refreshing weather after weeks of soaring temperatures

The historic four-kilometre horse trail linking Ayubia and Nathiagali remained one of the area's biggest attractions. Visitors enjoyed leisurely rides through dense pine forests, passing towering deodar trees, colourful wildflowers and mist-covered mountain slopes while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

"For us, every rainfall brings renewed hope," said local horse rider Faraz Khan. "The forests become even more beautiful after the rain, and more tourists arrive to experience the scenery. Tourism is not only preserving our traditions but also providing livelihoods for dozens of local families."

The popular three-kilometre Ayubia chairlift also attracted large crowds, carrying visitors silently above the forest canopy to viewpoints overlooking Mukeshpuri Top and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Many tourists described the pleasant weather as a welcome escape from the sweltering conditions prevailing across much of the country.

Professional photographer Khayam Ali reported brisk business as families queued to capture memories against the backdrop of rain-soaked forests, colourful rainbows and mountain trails. He noted that social media had significantly increased interest in the region, creating new opportunities for photographers, shopkeepers, transport operators and other tourism-related businesses.

Nature lovers and trekkers also explored the scenic trails leading to Miranjani, Mukeshpuri and Dunga Gali, while Ayubia National Park continued to attract wildlife enthusiasts with its rich biodiversity.

The protected forest is home to more than 200 bird species, as well as foxes, monkeys and the elusive common leopard, making it one of Pakistan's most treasured ecological reserves.

Tourism experts believe Pakistan's natural beauty offers enormous economic potential if supported by improved infrastructure, better destination management and visitor-friendly policies.