Islamabad (Khyber Mail): The 14th annual Pakistan Mountain Festival, the world’s largest event dedicated to mountain conservation, culture, and community, is set to commence on November 27. Organized by Development Communications Network (Devcom-Pakistan), this two-week celebration highlights Pakistan’s majestic mountain regions, including the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush ranges, along with the communities that reside there.
The festival will kick off with a live painting session at the Punjab Arts Council, where young artists will express their visions of mountain heritage and environmental themes. This opening event will lead into a series of activities across Islamabad and Rawalpindi, blending culture, ecology, and traditional mountain crafts.
As part of the festival, International Mountain Day will be celebrated on December 11, featuring events designed to engage mountain enthusiasts, environmentalists, and the general public. Highlights of the festival include a mountain biodiversity talk, a hiking and cleanup activity on Margalla Hills, a youth forum, and a vibrant fair showcasing mountain crafts, cuisine, and music.
Munir Ahmed, Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director and festival founder, emphasized the festival’s aim to connect mountain communities with a broader audience, spotlighting both the challenges and cultural wealth of Pakistan’s high-altitude areas. “The Pakistan Mountain Festival serves as a global model for mainstreaming mountain issues and encouraging sustainable development,” Ahmed stated. “We hope it inspires action and builds public appreciation for the mountains that sustain us.”
The festival offers an immersive experience for those passionate about nature, culture, and sustainable practices, combining artistic expression, eco-tourism education, and cultural celebration. Open to all, the festival invites attendees to participate in diverse events while gaining insight into mountain conservation and community empowerment.