Mountain Wilderness Pakistan and KP Tourism Authority Successfully Conclude Rock Climbing Training in Swat
PRESS RELEASE
Swat, [December 10, 2025] – In a significant step towards promoting adventure tourism and mountain stewardship, Mountain Wilderness Pakistan, in collaboration with the KP Tourism Authority, successfully organized a three-day basic rock climbing training course at the Bishbanda rock area, Swat. This initiative was a direct follow-up to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two organizations.
The course saw enthusiastic participation from 24 students from the Department of Tourism and Hospitality of the University of Swat and the University of Malakand. Under the expert guidance of certified instructors Mr. Afzel Scherazi, Mr. Muhammad Tauqeer, Capt. (Retd.) Farid Ahmad, and Mr. Zubaib Riaz from Lahore, the students received training in essential rock‑climbing techniques, safety protocols, and equipment handling, along with guidance on environmental stewardship
Beyond technical skills, the curriculum emphasized the core philosophy of Mountain Wilderness, educating participants on the critical importance of mountain protection, preserving wilderness integrity, and promoting eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices in the region’s fragile ecosystems.
The course was hailed as a great success, marking a positive reciprocation from Mountain Wilderness Pakistan to the KP Tourism Authority’s vision for developing adventure tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In related developments, key meetings were held in Swat to build on the momentum of such initiatives. Following requests from female participants of a previous training course in Hunza, who had stressed the need for a dedicated platform, discussions were held with the Principal of Government College for Women, Swat. The Principal reiterated her full support for the establishment of such a club, although the pioneering group of girls was unavailable for this specific meeting. The dialogue for forming a women’s adventure club remains a priority.
Furthermore, productive meetings were held with the administration of the Swat Palace Hotel. In a generous gesture supporting the cause, the hotel offered complimentary accommodation for the visiting instructors and expressed its commitment to future cooperation in promoting sustainable and eco-friendly tourism initiatives in Upper Swat.
This series of activities underscores a growing partnership between public authorities, educational institutions, the private hospitality sector, and conservation organizations, all united in fostering a responsible and vibrant tourism culture in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
About Mountain Wilderness Pakistan: Mountain Wilderness Pakistan is dedicated to the protection of mountain areas worldwide and the promotion of sustainable mountain practices.
About KP Tourism Authority: The KP Tourism Authority is tasked with developing and regulating the tourism sector in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to promote sustainable economic growth.