Potential of Religious Tourism in Hazara Division: A Case of District Abbottabad and Mansehra

Abstract

Tourism in Hazara Division has an important place; it represents rich tourist’s sites including historical places and civilizations. Traces of five religions not only add the potential of religious tourism in Hazara but also boost the economy of the region. The main objective of this research is to bring the historical locations, religious places and site points of Abbottabad and Mansehra Districts into the limelight so that this religious heritage could be preserved and promoted for future generations. This research is qualitative in nature based on both primary and secondary sources which include; District Profiles, Gazetteers, Official Report, e-books and Historical Documents found in archives, government offices and libraries. This research aims to highlight the religious sites of Abbottabad and Mansehra Districts that would contribute to enhance religious tourism not only in Hazara but in Pakistan, as the place which represents religious places from almost five religions to attract tourists from all religions.