Amidst laughter, excitement, and the gentle descent of snowflakes, 10-year-old Anaya Bibi could barely contain her joy as she witnessed snowfall for the first time in the breathtaking Kaghan Valley—a lifelong dream she had cherished since childhood. A Grade-V student from a private school in Peshawar, Anaya arrived with her grandfather just as the snowfall, which began early Thursday morning, transformed the valley into a shimmering white wonderland.
A Dream Realized in Winter's Embrace
Dressed in a black overcoat and woollen cap, with an umbrella in her right hand, Anaya stood mesmerized by the scene unfolding before her, set against the snow-capped Malika Parbat hills. The magic of the moment was perfectly complemented by a warm winter treat: freshly grilled trout fish enjoyed in the cold breeze at Kaghan Bazaar, with aromas emanating from the snow-covered Malika Parbat mountains.
"Watching snowfall in Kaghan Valley was my childhood dream, and today my Baba Jan made it come true," Anaya said with a broad smile, adjusting her black spectacles as snowflakes landed softly around her. She noted that the snowfall in Kaghan was heavier than in other tourist destinations of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, adding that grilled trout fish and chappli kabab "warm hearts as well as bodies" in such mesmerizing weather.
Winter Cuisine and Tourism Boom
Kaghan's allure extends far beyond its stunning scenery. During winter, the valley becomes a haven for food enthusiasts, where sizzling chappli kababs and golden-fried trout become an integral part of the snowfall experience. On Thursday, eateries across Mansehra district, especially in Naran and Kaghan, bustled with tourists following rainy weather forecasts issued by the Met Office.
As rain and snow sprinkled over Kaghan, Naran, and the famed Saiful Malook Lake, the aroma of spices and frying fish filled the crisp mountain air in these breathtaking regions of Pakistan. "After Kaghan, we plan to visit Saiful Malook Lake once the weather improves," Anaya said, emphasizing that Pakistan's beautiful northern areas should be showcased on digital media to promote adventure tourism and attract foreign investment.
Trout: A Culinary and Cultural Cornerstone
Like Anaya, tourists and locals wandered through busy marketplaces, drawn toward food stalls proudly serving the freshest catch from the River Kunhar. Trout, particularly the prized rainbow and brown varieties, has become the cornerstone of winter cuisine in these valleys. Alongside local species such as Mushka, Raho, Simon, Pomfret, Mahseer, and even lobsters, trout plays a vital role in both local culture and the economy.
"During winter, we receive a steady supply of trout from private fish farms across Kaghan and Naran valleys to meet the rising demand of people," said Sajid Ali, a veteran fish vendor with over 15 years of experience in Mansehra. "Our simple recipe involves marinating the fish with spices, pomegranate seed powder, and chilli sauces, then frying it to golden perfection. Served with chips, fresh salad, and naan, it's the perfect winter comfort meal."
Memories and Health Benefits
For many visitors, the taste of trout is deeply tied to their memories, prompting them to return repeatedly to refresh it amid the serenity. Riaz Khan, a retired PST teacher, recalled childhood winters spent in Naran-Kaghan enjoying freshly caught brown trout during snowfall. "I visit every year with my family to relive those moments and to introduce my son to this beloved tradition," he said.
Beyond its flavor, trout is also valued for its health benefits. Dr. Malik Riaz, a child specialist at Pabbi Government Hospital, explained that fish strengthens immunity during harsh winters. "Fish is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins that help prevent respiratory infections and joint problems common in cold weather," he noted.
Economic Impact and Environmental Challenges
The snowfall breathed new life into the fish business across Hazara division, where trout is selling rapidly in snowy weather. This growing demand has led to a boom in trout farming in Hazara and Malakand divisions. According to Usman Ali, General Secretary of the Swat Trout Fish Farming Association, around 175 trout farms employ nearly 2,500 workers.
"Trout farming is highly profitable if supported properly. Government assistance is crucial, especially after losses caused by floods and temperature fluctuations," he emphasized. In response, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched initiatives such as the Trout Village Project in Hazara and Malakand, establishing dozens of new farms through cost-sharing schemes.
Zubair Ali, Director of the Fisheries Department, stated that projects aimed at developing cold-water fisheries and reservoirs are also expected to significantly increase fish production in the coming years. However, environmental challenges to fish farming remain in KP. Pollution from plastic waste and untreated hotel effluents in rivers Kunhar and Swat threatens the fragile aquatic ecosystem. Environmentalists and authorities stress the urgent need for sustainable waste management to protect these natural assets.
Celebrating Heritage and Hospitality
Still, at the heart of Kaghan's winter charm lies the simple pleasure of sharing warm food amid falling snow. Whether at a bustling bazaar stall or a cozy roadside restaurant, the taste of trout fish and chappli kabab continues to bring people together, celebrating not just local cuisine but also the heritage, hospitality, and enduring beauty of Pakistan's northern valleys.
