Hoon Valley is a peaceful and beautiful place in Pakistan, known for its dedication to living in harmony with nature. Located about 56 kilometres from Islamabad, its a perfect spot to relax and get away from the busy city. The valley is surrounded by calm and scenic landscapes, offering visitors a quiet retreat where they can enjoy the natural beauty.
Hoon Valley: A Brief Overview
Comprising the villages of Hoon Sharif and Hoon Dhamial, Hoon Valley is a testament to the beauty of eco-friendly agriculture. The residents have embraced a self-sustainable lifestyle, cultivating organic produce that nourishes their community. Additionally, these practices also contributes to the region’s ecological balance.
A Sustainable Lifestyle in Hoon Valley
The residents of Hoon Valley have adopted a sustainable approach to living, emphasising harmony with nature and minimising their environmental impact. They prioritise organic farming practices, reduce waste, and conserve energy, creating a healthier and more resilient community.
Organic Farming and Sustainable Agriculture
One of the cornerstones of Hoon Valley’s sustainable lifestyle is organic farming. The local farmers cultivate a variety of crops using natural methods, avoiding the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. This not only produces healthier food but also protects the environment and biodiversity.
A Haven of Peace and Tranquility
Hoon Valley offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The lush green landscapes, clean air, and tranquil surroundings provide a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Tourist Attractions and Historical Sites
In addition to its natural beauty, Hoon Valley boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore nearby forts, historical sites, and other attractions, immersing themselves in the region’s past.
Here are some of the notable forts and historical sites in the vicinity of Hoon Valley:
Rawat Fort
Rawat Fort is a historic site located 17 km east of Rawalpindi on the Grand Trunk Road in Pakistan. Starting off as a resting place for 15th centaury travelers, the fort later become a stronghold for the Mughal Emperor Humayun to protect the area from Sher Shah Suri.
The fort has a square shape, two gates, a mosque with three domes, and a central building surrounded by old graves and small rooms. Today, Rawat Fort is a protected heritage site, with ongoing efforts to preserve its history and structure.
Sangni Fort
Sangni Fort, also known as Sangani Killa, is a historical landmark from the Sikh period, located near Hoon Valley in the Kallar Syedan Tehsil of Rawalpindi District, Punjab, Pakistan. Constructed between 1799 and 1849 under the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the fort was built to control the region and facilitate tax collection.
Over time, it lost its strategic importance and became obscure. Today, the fort remains in good condition, with intact walls, and houses the shrine of Sahibzada Abdul Hakeem.
Pharwala Fort
Pharwala Fort, a historic 15th-century fort near Hoon Valley, is located 40 km from Rawalpindi in Punjab, Pakistan. Nestled between the Himalayan range and the Soan River, this once-formidable fortress served as the capital of the Pothohar Chieftaincy.
Built by Sultan Kaigohar Gakhar, the fort has witnessed significant battles, including invasions by Muhammad of Ghor and the Mughal Emperor Babur. Although it fell into disrepair over time, recent conservation efforts were initiated in 2023 to restore the fort, which reopened to the public in January 2024, preserving its rich history for future generations.
Giri Fort
Giri Fort, located near Taxila, Pakistan, is a historical site linked to the 11th century, where Sultan Masud of Ghazni was imprisoned and later died. Nestled in a valley, the fort is a hidden gem often overlooked by travellers. It features ancient stupas and a fresh-water stream that once flowed through the fort.
Although partially restored, the site has suffered from neglect and encroachments. The journey to Giri Fort offers a scenic adventure through villages and orchards, making it an ideal day trip for history enthusiasts and those interested in Buddhist monastic sites.
Fort Sarai Kharbuza
Sarai Kharbuza is an old resting place for travellers, located in Islamabad, Pakistan. Built by the Gakhars, who ruled the Potohar region long ago, it sits along the historic Grand Trunk Road. The sarai is a square structure, 400 feet on each side, made of bricks and sandstone.
It had separate living areas for men and women, a mosque, a market, and a bathhouse with a spring well for water. Over time, the mosque grew larger as more people moved into the area. This site was a key stop for merchants, pilgrims, and other travellers in the past.
Pakistan Army Museum
Located in Rawalpindi, the Pakistan Army Museum, came into being on October 24, 1961. Honouring the relics of our armed forces this museum came about to preserve the history of the Pakistan Army through pictures, and rare artefacts. Housed in the British-era colonial barracks of the Army’s General Headquarters (GHQ), the museum showcases a vast collection of arms and uniforms.
These artifacts range from the Mughal Era to modern times. It also features surviving Sherman tanks and a special gallery dedicated to the global war on terrorism, highlighting Pakistan’s military operations on the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. This museum is a must-visit for enthusiasts of military history and weaponry.
Surrounding Areas and Accessibility
Hoon Valley is conveniently located within a reasonable distance from major cities in Pakistan. It is approximately 56 kilometres from Islamabad and can easily reach by road. The surrounding areas offer a variety of attractions, including national parks, historical sites, and natural wonders.
The Lifestyle of Hoon Residents
The residents of Hoon Valley enjoy a simple and fulfilling lifestyle rooted in tradition and community. They cherish the beauty of nature, value family and relationships, and take pride in their sustainable way of life.
Current Development and Initiatives
Hoon Valley has recently benefited from development initiatives that aim to improve the quality of life for its residents. Meanwhile, these developments also maintain their sustainable character. These efforts include the construction of infrastructure, the provision of essential services like a sturdy water supply supported by UNICEF, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
IMARAT Promotes Sustainable Tourism at Hoon Valley
Hoon Valley is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of sustainable living, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a chance to experience eco-friendly agriculture, Hoon Valley has something to offer everyone.
To showcase the beauty and potential of Hoon Valley as a sustainable tourism destination, IMARAT aims to raise awareness about this new tourist spot near Islamabad and highlight the region’s unique offerings. By hosting various events and sustainability campaigns, IMARAT hopes to attract more visitors to under-appreciated sites in Pakistan and promote sustainable tourism in the region.
