Potential of Religious Tourism in Hazara Division: A Case Study of District Haripur

Abstract

Tourism is considered as the backbone of any country’s economy, whether it is a
beautiful tourist destination or a religious site, it adds to the prosperity of the area.
Hazara division is rich with tourist sites of diverse nature including religious places,
historical locations, site-seeing points and remains of ancient civilizations. The rich
religious and cultural heritages in Hazara represent five religions. Traces of Gandhara
Civilization, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Christianity and Islam throughout Hazara
reminds humans of the glory of time. This religious heritage needs more care, attention
and projection so that the religious tourism of the area can be preserved and promoted.
This study aims to highlight the potential of religious tourism in Haripur district of
Hazara division. The research is qualitative which used both primary and secondary
sources including Gazetteers, District Profiles, e. books, official reports and historical
documents found in government offices, archives and libraries. This research would
contribute to the growth of tourism in general and religious tourism in particular, not
only in Hazara but also in Pakistan which is full of religious sites, holy places, and
shrines attractive for tourists from various faiths from all over the world.