By Fakhar-e-Alam
AYUBIA, Apr 5: After three days of intermittent torrential rains, the sun has finally peeped through the heavy clouds over the scenic hills of Galiyat, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking haven and drawing a surge of weekend tourists.
The rain-washed mountains of Galiyat appeared rejuvenated and their lush green slopes glistening under the soft sunlight have attracted eco-tourists in droves from KP and Punjab on Sunday amid cold breeze of Kashmir.
Free from haze and pollution, the valleys of Thandyani, Nathiagali, Ayubia, Khanaspur and Bagnotar offered crystal-clear views that captivated visitors arriving from nearby cities in search of peace and natural beauty.
As sunlight filtered through drifting clouds, the region came alive with the gentle sounds of chirping birds and the fresh bloom of spring flowers.
The cool, crisp air and serene surroundings created a tranquil escape, inviting families and nature lovers to unwind amid the quiet charm of the lush green hills.
Tourists strolling along forest trails and viewpoints described the experience as refreshing and uplifting. “It feels like the mountains of Galiyat have come back to life,” said Ehtisham Qaiser, a lecturer of Peshawar, admiring the freshly washed landscape at Ayubia.
Alaike, the washed forested hills of Nathiagali and Ayubia turned into a living postcard on Sunday after the last three days intermittent rains followed by rainbow and sunshine transformed the region into a spring wonderland.
Against backdrop of Nathiagali’s snow clad hills, horses clip-clopped along powdery trails, carrying excited tourists through the historic Ayubia–Nathiagali route and offering a journey that felt both timeless and magical.
For horse riders like Faraz Khan, the spring season has brought both joy and income for professionals at Galiyat.
“Ayubia turns into a spring wonderland. We have never seen so many visitors at this time of year,” he said. “The rainfall–sunshine interplay followed by rainbow gives these rides a magical feel.
Tourists want to experience the colonial era snow tracks between forests of Nathiagali-Ayubia, the silence, rain, rainbow and snowfall—all in one trip.”
Visitors engaged in a variety of activities—from snow games and trout tasting to scenic chairlift rides and hiking. Adventure seekers glided over dense pine forests on the three-kilometer Ayubia chairlift, landing near the picturesque Mukeshpuri Top.
“Riding on horses, chairlift and sharing photographs on social media make my visit to Aybia memorable” said Nasir Khan, a tourist from Nowshera.
Nasir said that it is his fifth visit to Ayubia and whenever he came here take a ride on the chairlift and horse ride on colonial era Ayubia-Nathiagali trail.
Others preferred the slower, scenic horse rides along the four-kilometer historic trail, soaking in the seasonal beauty at every step.
He said Pakistan can earn substantial revenue by highlighting such beautiful places through social media and magazines write ups.
The tourists surge also proved a boon for local photographers. White valleys contrasting with dark pine forests created perfect backdrops for families, honeymoon couples, and groups eager to capture lifelong memories.
“This spring has brought us joy, especially in April due to pleasant weather,” said Zeeshan, a local photographer. “People want professional photos with horses, lakes and snowy backgrounds. We have been busy all week at Ayubia and Gilyat.”
Ayubia National Park continues to charm nature lovers. Home to 203 bird species including golden eagles, falcons, koklas, and kaleej pheasants of 104 plant species like the national tree deodar, and 35 wildlife species including foxes and leopards, the park’s melodic birdcalls echo through valleys like Khanspoor, Dongagali, Changagali, and Thandyani.
Popular hiking trails, such as Dunga Gali, Ayubia, Miranjani, and Mukeshpuri Top, reward trekkers with sweeping views of Azad Kashmir, Galiyat belt and Harnoi in the backdrops of Azad Kashmir mountains and Jhelum River.
The provincial government is also working to strengthen tourism infrastructure in Upper KP, anticipating a rush of summer visitors.
Interest-free loans of up to Rs3 million are being offered to residents for building or repairing tourist accommodations.
In addition, the world’s longest and highest 14-kilometer cable car is planned to link Kumrat Valley in Upper Dir with Madaklasht Valley in Lower Chitral, expected to draw millions of tourists once completed.
Following rains and bustling trails, local horse riders, foods sellers, transporters and photographers are not just witnessing the season’s beauty but they are also earning a livelihood while creating unforgettable experiences for the visitors.
In Ayubia–Nathiagali, spring arrives not only with flowers, rains and sunshine but with the rhythmic clip-clop of horses and the laughter of tourists.
With nature at its most vibrant, Galiyat has once again proven to be a perfect retreat for tourists where a simple break in sunshine can turn an ordinary weekend into a memorable experience.
