Orakzai Spring Festival 2024: A Celebration of Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage
The Orakzai Spring Festival, also known as the Jashan-e-Baharan Festival, is a three-day event that showcases the abundant natural beauty and cultural heritage of the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The festival, which took place from June 7-9 at the scenic tourist resort Kharasha-Khwa Storikhel in Orakzai tribal district, was organized by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA) in collaboration with the Tourism Wing for Merged Districts, District Administration Orakzai, and the paramilitary wing of Pak Army.
A Haven for Tourists
According to Zahid Chanzeb, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Tourism, Culture, Archaeology, and Museums, the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are home to numerous scenic spots that are sure to attract both foreign and domestic tourists. “New tourist spots in Orakzai will soon become the center of attraction for the tourists,” he said. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors, camping pods and a rest house have been opened at the Samana Top.
A Showcase of Traditional and Non-Traditional Sports
The festival featured a variety of traditional and non-traditional sports competitions, including jeep, cycle, and motorcycle races, tug-of-war, arrow shooting, boat races, truck pulling, tractor pulling, stone lifting, mud wrestling, kabaddi, paragliding, archery, local traditional games, cricket, football, volleyball, inter-seminaries volleyball, inter-school cricket league, horse and camel dances, and various other traditional sports competitions.
A Cultural Extravaganza
In addition to sports, the festival also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the region. Cultural stalls from all four provinces, including Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, were set up at the festival. Visitors were treated to cultural and music shows and traditional dance performances.
The Orakzai Spring Festival is more than just a celebration; it’s a testament to the region’s commitment to promoting tourism, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening the economy of its residents. With its beautiful tourist spots, including Kalaya, Samana Top, Gulistan Fort, Ferozkhel, Ziarah, Landoka, Nanwar Cave, Toi Khala Waterfall, Sikh Monument, Spinkai, and other scenic sites, Orakzai is indeed a destination worth exploring.