Pakistan’s iconic Babusar Pass, the breathtaking 13,700-foot-high mountain route connecting Naran in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, has reopened nearly two months early, igniting a tourism boom across northern Pakistan. The National Highway Authority (NHA) completed road clearance operations ahead of the typical July reopening, cutting travel time to Gilgit-Baltistan by five hours and drawing hundreds of daily visitors to the region.
Heavy machinery removed six glaciers and landslide debris to restore access to the pass, which had been closed since winter due to heavy snowfall. Though a formal notification from the Mansehra Deputy Commissioner is pending, traffic is already flowing freely. The early reopening has triggered a sharp rise in hotel bookings and tourist activity in Naran, with local businesses reporting a strong start to the summer season.
Authorities have reactivated checkpoints along the route and established new security posts up to Besal to manage the influx of travelers. The Kaghan Development Authority and NHA are coordinating to ensure road safety, while the Pakistan Meteorological Department is advising visitors to monitor weather alerts due to the region’s unpredictable climate.
The pass’s reopening is a lifeline for local tourism, with the Hotel Association of Naran confirming a surge in domestic travelers. Babusar Top’s panoramic views and cool summer breeze make it a prime destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, further solidifying Gilgit-Baltistan’s record-breaking tourism growth—domestic visitors doubled in 2024, reaching 486,571, while international tourists increased to 21,862.
Historical Significance & Travel Tips
Once a Mughal-era trade route used by Emperor Babur, Babusar Pass remains a key historical and scenic landmark. The best time to visit is May to September, with nearby attractions including Lulusar Lake, Nanga Parbat, and Dudipatsar Lake.
Broader Infrastructure Reforms
The early reopening aligns with Federal Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan’s push for highway reforms, including:
Stricter motorway speed enforcement
Tech upgrades for Motorway Police
Plans for air ambulance services and trauma centers
Merit-based appointments in transport authorities
With the pass now open, Babusar Top is set to reclaim its status as Pakistan’s premier high-altitude destination, offering travelers an unforgettable gateway into the Himalayas.
Also read: Life Beyond Swat’s Tourist Trails
