By Babusar Pass, one of the highest and most popular tourist destinations in Kaghan Valley, is likely to remain closed to traffic until the start of the next summer tourist season after heavy snowfall blanketed the area with more than four feet of snow, forcing the closure of Babusar Road.
As the snowfall makes the high-altitude route inaccessible, the process of clearing snow and restoring traffic has become dependent on prevailing weather conditions.
In view of the current situation, the pass is unlikely to reopen until next summer, dealing a setback to tourists, travellers and businesses dependent on seasonal tourism in the region. Situated at an altitude of approximately 13,700 feet (4,173 metres) above sea level, Babusar Top is an important mountain pass connecting Kaghan Valley with G-B's Diamer district.
The destination attracts domestic and foreign tourists for its natural beauty, snow-covered mountains, expansive plains and picturesque landscapes.
Babusar Pass also holds considerable geographical and transportation significance. It provides an important alternative route for travellers journeying from Islamabad to Gilgit-Baltistan through Kaghan and Naran.
For certain destinations, travelling via Babusar Pass takes less time than using the longer Karakoram Highway route, making it a preferred route for a large number of tourists and travellers during the summer months.
Babusar Road generally remains closed to traffic for around six months every year because of severe cold, snowfall and difficult weather conditions.
It is reopened during the summer after the snow melts and the road is made accessible for traffic.
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2640369/heavy-snow-cuts-off-key-tourist-route-to-g-b