Exploring Besham City KPK: History, Culture, and Tourism
Introduction
Besham is a small city located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is situated on the banks of the River Indus, at an altitude of 906 meters (2,972 ft) above sea level. The city is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. In this article, we will explore Besham City in detail, including its history, geography, demographics, economy, culture, and tourism.
History
Besham City has a rich history that dates back to the Gandhara period. The region was ruled by various empires, including the Mauryan, Kushan, and Mughal empires. The ancient Buddhist ruins of Takht-i-Bahi and nearby Jamrud Fort, which is situated 15 kilometers (9.3 mi) north of Peshawar, are a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.
During the British era, Besham was an important station on the Grand Trunk Road, which connected Peshawar with Lahore. It was a rest stop for travelers and traders who were traveling between the two cities. The British built a rest house and a post office in Besham, which are still standing today.
Geography
Besham is situated in the heart of the Karakoram Range, which is one of the world's most spectacular mountain ranges. The city is located on the Karakoram Highway, which connects Pakistan with China. The highway passes through the city's main bazaar, making it a hub of commercial activity.
The River Indus flows through the city, providing water for irrigation and serving as a source of hydroelectric power. The surrounding mountains are home to several glaciers, including the Shishper Glacier, which is the largest glacier in the region.
Demographics
Besham is a diverse city with a population of approximately 30,000 people. The majority of the population is made up of Pashtuns, who speak Pashto, the official language of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, there is also a significant population of Hindko speakers, who are concentrated in the city's bazaar area.
Economy
Besham's economy is primarily based on agriculture and trade. The fertile land around the city produces a variety of crops, including wheat, corn, and fruits such as apricots and apples. The city is also a center for trade, with merchants coming from all over the region to buy and sell goods.
In recent years, the construction of the Karakoram Highway has brought an influx of tourists to the city, boosting the local economy. The city has several hotels, restaurants, and shops that cater to tourists, and there are several tour operators that offer guided tours of the surrounding mountains.
Culture
Besham's culture is a blend of Pashtun and Hindko traditions. The city's bazaar is a hub of activity, with merchants selling everything from spices and textiles to electronics and souvenirs. The bazaar is also a center for social and cultural activities, with people gathering to chat, drink tea, and watch street performers.
One of the city's most famous cultural events is the annual Shandur Polo Festival, which takes place in July. The festival features a polo match between teams from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, and it attracts thousands of spectators from all over the region.
Tourism
Besham is a popular destination for tourists who are traveling along the Karakoram Highway. The city is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and there are several scenic spots nearby that are worth visiting.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Besham is the Shatial Rock Carvings, which are a series of ancient and beautiful places.
Frequently Asked Questions about Besham City (FAQs):
What is the population of Besham City?
The population of Besham City is approximately 30,000 people.
What is the economy of Besham City based on?
Besham City's economy is primarily based on agriculture and trade.
What is the Shandur Polo Festival?
The Shandur Polo Festival is an annual event that takes place in July and features a polo match between teams from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.
What is the main language spoken in Besham City?
The main language spoken in Besham City is Pashto, which is the official language of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
What are the tourist attractions in Besham City?
Besham City is a popular destination for tourists who are traveling along the Karakoram Highway. Some of the popular tourist attractions include the Shatial Rock Carvings and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
