PESHAWAR: In order to promote eco-tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, home to the country’s most tourist sites, the provincial government is setting up sites for glamping – a form of camping involving accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping – at protected natural sites.

“Glamping sites offer a structured and environmentally conscious alternative to mass tourism,” climate change and forestry secretary Shahid Zaman told Dawn.

Mr Zaman, who is leading the initiative, said initially, the glamping sites would be developed in Ayubia National Park and gradually, it would be extended to other areas of the province.

He said the establishment of glamping (glamorous camping) sites within the National Parks, particularly those in ecologically rich and sensitive areas such as Ayubia National Park, held immense potential to promote sustainable eco-tourism while reinforcing conservation objectives.

Secretary says protected natural sites to have the facility

“These nature-integrated recreational facilities within regulatory frameworks can contribute significantly to both biodiversity preservation and community development,” he said.

According to official documents, in a biodiversity hotspot like Ayubia National Park, which is home to species such as the common leopard, flying squirrel, civets and rare alpine flora, unregulated human interference can lead to habitat degradation, wildlife stress, and pollution.

Glamping, if implemented under strict guidelines, provided a model where visitor access was controlled, infrastructure is minimal, and the surrounding habitat remains largely undisturbed, read a document.

The project concept paper said glamping could function as a platform for environmental education and awareness.

“By immersing visitors in a natural setting while exposing them to interpretative signage, guided experiences, and awareness programs, these facilities foster a deeper appreciation of nature and the need for conservation.”

About the socioeconomic importance of the new initiative, the document said that the glamping sites would create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities through a variety of means.

An official said the people would get employment in the different sectors including construction, maintenance, guiding services, food provision, and transportation roles directly benefit the local population.

He added that it would also promote the local products as visitors would be introduced to the eco-friendly handicrafts, organic food items and cultural heritage, enhancing market access for community-based enterprises.

The official said the department planned to engage eco-tourism operators through imparting and facilitating skill development in hospitality, environmental interpretation and sustainable resource management.

He also said through involving local residents in planning, operations and benefit-sharing, glamping models would ensure that conservation efforts are seen as inclusive and rewarding.

The official said the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife and Biodiversity Act, 2015, along with the Management Plan for Ayubia National Park permitted low-impact, eco-tourism activities that were consistent with ecological and cultural values.

He said the department had articulated clear principles and best practice criteria for such interventions, including compatibility with natural and cultural values, minimal and reversible infrastructure footprint, environmentally sound design and waste management, education and awareness-oriented visitor experience.

The official said as per the terms of reference for eco-tourism development at Ayubia National Park, the development of glamping sites must adhere to these conditions, be based on competitive bidding, and remain within the limits of a sustainable and reversible intervention not exceeding ten years in duration.

According to him, the glamping development plans would be subject to Site-Specific Assessment by a joint evaluation committee to ensure no adverse impacts on wildlife corridors, breeding areas, or fragile ecosystems. Also, they will be monitored regularly for environmental compliance, visitor impact, and community benefits.

The official said it was essential that all interventions upheld the guiding principles of eco-tourism in protected areas—prioritising ecological integrity, enhancing the visitor experience, promoting education, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

“The glamping sites, when designed and operated responsibly, serve as a bridge between conservation and development,” he said.

“They offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience nature while fostering a conservation ethic, and at the same time, uplift local communities through green economic growth.”

The official said those plans must be implemented with utmost sensitivity, guided by sound scientific planning, legal compliance, and continuous monitoring to ensure that the core values of National Parks remain preserved for future generations.

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2025