Peshawar:
The dramatic interaction of sunshine and clouds, accompanied by light for erratic rainfall, creates a breathtaking sight at Babusar Top -the historic mountain pass is high in the top Kaghan -Dal in the Mansehra district.
Every summer, and especially in Eid holidays, this majestic destination draws thousands of tourists from all over Pakistan. The journey from Naran to Babusar Top Leaves lasting impressions with its pristine lakes, lush meadows, rolling green hills and winding mountain roads.
Babusar Top is at an awe-inspiring height of 13,691 feet and acts as a natural bridge between the upper caghan and Naran in Mansehra and Chila in Gilgit-Baltistan. “I have traveled a lot within Pakistan and abroad, but nothing is compared to the natural greatness of Babusar. It is a refuge for excitement and adventure,” said Muhammad Imran, a 40-year-old architect from the C&W department in Peshawar.
Imran told his experience of sipping glacier-cooled drinks while listening to the patriotic anthem “Dil Dil Pakistan” during his driving to the top. The Pakistani flag, which flutters on top of the passport, acts as a proud welcome to thousands of tourists and adventure seekers.
From the enchanting waterfalls and crystal clear lakes to the Dodara Forest and the empowering birds that repeat themselves through the valleys, the whole stretch from Kaghan-Naran to Babusar Top is a Nature Lover’s Paradise. IMRAN shared highlights from his journey, which included enjoying Chapli Kababs and Brown Trout in the cool climate of Lower Naran and visiting the legendary lake Saipron Malook, tied to folklore about the Persian prince Saiphal Malook and Fairy Princess Badri Jamala.
“During our jeep trip from Naran to Babusar, we wandered towards Ansu Lake and witnessed the icy cascades of Sooch Waterfall – an unforgettable experience,” he added. Along the route includes captivating stops the glacial Lulusar lake, located on 11,190 feet in the middle of snow-covered peaks and calm blue waters. Small road stores in Bhattal Town offer local specialties such as Palosa and Ber Honey, Woolen shawls, caps and naturally cooled beverages.
Sher Zaman, a local honey supplier, highlighted the popularity of Palosa and Ber Honey -from Karak and Lachi (Kohat) – -among tourists. He noted that these varieties are even exported to the Gulf countries because of their purity.
However, the region’s organic charm is facing serious threats from deforestation, melting glaciers, uncontrolled construction and worsening roads – all aggravated by climate change and illegal logging.
Haji Ehsanullah Khan, a Dubai-based Pakistani transport that visits the passport, praised Babusar for his unmatched serenity and panoramic views. “Pakistan has many scenic mountain passes, but Babusar stands out for his commanding views of the Himalayas and Karakoram intervals.”
The last stretch of Babusar involves a steep, twisted ascent and offers panoramic views of lush valleys, icy waterfalls and removing peaks. Tourists, especially families, soften the natural beauty, but also warn new visitors to drive carefully, especially during snowfall, and to use tire chains on slippery roads.
The well -known Irish adventure cyclist and author Dervla Murphy in her book two wheels over nine glaciers lovingly remembered her cycling expedition from the 1960s through Babusar, who praised the local hospitality and the region’s quiet lakes and mountains. Historians note that Babusar -Top originally may have been called Babur Top, which is believed to be named after the Mughal emperor Babur passing through this area of the early 16th century.
Professor Muhammad Naeem Khattak emphasized the enormous financial potential for tourism in Pakistan’s northern areas. “We need to invest in infrastructure and use digital tools to promote domestic tourism. Social media can be a powerful tool to highlight Pakistan’s natural treasures for the world.”
