BAZARAK (Pajhwok): A large number of tourists visit Paryan district in central Panjshir province during the summer season due to its natural beauty, but residents and experts say a lack of basic facilities has hindered the development of its tourism potential.
Local officials say efforts are underway in coordination with relevant institutions to promote tourism in Paryan and other scenic areas of Panjshir.
Paryan; Panjshir’s largest district
Paryan district lies in the foothills of the Hindu Kush mountains and is known for its green valleys, flowing rivers, cold springs and snow-capped peaks. It is the largest district in Panjshir in terms of area.
The district borders Takhar, Badakhshan, Nuristan, Baghlan, and Kheng district of Panjshir. Most residents are engaged in agriculture, livestock and traditional crafts, while domestic tourism has recently become a source of income.
Lack of facilities a shared concern
During the summer season, hundreds of tourists from different provinces visit Paryan Valley daily, but residents say the absence of essential tourism infrastructure has limited both tourist numbers and economic opportunities.
Local resident Ahmad Khalid told Pajhwok: “Every year thousands of tourists come to our area, but there are no proper accommodation facilities, hotels or other services. If the government and private investors pay attention, the local economy will strengthen and job opportunities will increase.”
Another resident, Haji Masoud, said: “Paryan is one of the most beautiful areas of Afghanistan, but it still lacks a proper market and essential tourist services. We hope its potential is given serious attention so that tourists can visit comfortably and people’s lives improve.”
Tourists also describe Paryan’s natural beauty as unique but call for better facilities.
A tourist from Helmand, Mohammad Ishaq, said: “I have visited many parts of Afghanistan, but the natural beauty of Paryan Valley in Panjshir is unique. The high mountains, green valleys, cold water and clean air give a special sense of peace. I believe if proper tourism facilities are provided, Paryan could become one of the key destinations for domestic and foreign tourists.”
Efforts to promote tourism
Head of Information and Culture in Panjshir, Mawlawi Nasrullah Malakzada, also considers Paryan one of the province’s important tourist areas, visited annually by tourists from across Afghanistan.
He said tourism in Panjshir is not limited to Paryan, as other natural and historical sites across the province also have tourism potential.
He said efforts are underway in coordination with relevant institutions to improve facilities, create a suitable environment for domestic and foreign tourists and support local economic growth through tourism.
A lecturer at Kabul Polytechnic University, Lotfullah Haq Nisar, said Paryan Valley is not only a scenic location but also has significant economic potential.
He said its landscapes, water resources and climate could support tourism, agriculture and livestock development.
He added that investment in roads, accommodation and basic services could turn Paryan into one of Afghanistan’s key mountain tourism hubs and create new income and job opportunities for residents.
Afghanistan has significant tourism potential, but despite ongoing reconstruction efforts, lack of infrastructure, accommodation, roads and services remains a major challenge to sector development.
hz/sa
