KOHAT: Picnickers thronged the salubrious Tirah valley of Orakzai tribal district, situated at a short distance from Kohat, during Eid holidays.

Kaleemullah, a visitor, told this scribe that tall trees in mountains, lush green pastures, springs in Tirah and breathing in the pure environment cast a soothing mental effect on people.

Hashim Khan, another picnicker, termed the valley a blessing for people. He said that a visit to Galiyat, Murree and Naran-Kaghan cost Rs100,000 to Rs200,000 to a family but it was economical for people to visit Tirah, which had the same natural beauty.

He recalled that last year they visited Hunza and spent Rs35,000 on fuel. He added that they had to spend a night and half a day on the road due to landslide.

Mr Khan said that a visit to Tirah valley took away all mental burdens and refreshed mind of people. “The birds here are also different having unique colours and appearances I have never seen in cities or nearby,” he added.

However, tourists complained about the absence of restaurants and hotels for a stay. They added that the area remained unexplored and did not get proper attention from tourism department.

Malik Inayat Orakzai said that the charming view and taste of abundant wild fruits of apples, apricots, walnuts, long red colored jujube and wild pomegranate in Tirah were matchless.

He said that hundreds-year-old cave in a mountain with an opening on the other side was worth viewing. He added that the cave was still a mystery as to why and who had dug it.

Published in Dawn, April 14th, 2024