The National Conference on Heritage and Hospitality: Exploring Archaeological and Tourism Prospects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was held from 16–18 August 2024 at the Baragali Summer Camp, University of Peshawar. The conference was jointly organized by the Department of Archaeology and the Department of Tourism & Hotel Management, University of Peshawar, bringing together scholars, researchers, tourism professionals, heritage experts, policymakers, and students from across Pakistan.
The three-day conference served as an academic platform to explore the rich archaeological heritage and tourism potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while promoting dialogue on sustainable tourism development, cultural heritage conservation, and hospitality management. Participants engaged in keynote addresses, research paper presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions that highlighted emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the tourism and heritage sectors. The conference featured multidisciplinary discussions on archaeological discoveries, heritage preservation, destination development, community-based tourism, cultural resource management, eco-tourism, and the role of hospitality in enhancing visitor experiences.
Researchers and practitioners shared innovative ideas and best practices aimed at strengthening the province's position as a leading cultural and tourism destination. In addition to the academic sessions, participants benefited from networking opportunities, collaborative discussions, and field-based learning experiences within the scenic surroundings of Baragali. The event encouraged knowledge exchange between academia, government organizations, and industry stakeholders, fostering partnerships for future research and sustainable tourism initiatives. The conference reaffirmed the University of Peshawar's commitment to advancing research, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting responsible tourism through academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement. It provided a valuable platform for developing practical recommendations to support the sustainable growth of the tourism and hospitality industry in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.