Bashir Hussain Azad
Chitral, April 17, 2026: The absence of proper currency exchange facilities in Chitral is creating serious difficulties for local residents, foreign tourists, and overseas Pakistanis.
Known for its scenic valleys and rich cultural heritage, Chitral attracts a large number of international visitors every year, particularly to the Kalash valleys.
However, the lack of authorized money exchange services forces tourists to make payments in foreign currencies, which local shopkeepers and hotel owners accept out of necessity.
In most cases, these businesses have to travel to Chitral town—and sometimes even to Peshawar—to convert the foreign currency, as no formal and reliable exchange system exists locally. This process results in loss of time and resources and exposes both traders and tourists to uncertainty.
Some shopkeepers, despite having basic knowledge of foreign currencies, carry out transactions cautiously due to legal restrictions. They often purchase limited amounts and later convert them through formal channels in larger cities.
Experts say strict regulations and complex registration procedures for money exchange businesses have made it difficult to establish such services in remote areas like Chitral.
While these regulations aim to curb illegal practices, there is a growing demand for flexibility in regions with no alternative facilities.
Residents and visitors currently have to travel long distances to cities like Peshawar or Islamabad to meet basic financial needs, making the situation both costly and inconvenient.
Observers have urged the government and district administration to take immediate steps, such as establishing foreign exchange desks in banks or allowing private operators under relaxed conditions, to ensure availability of these services locally.
They warn that failure to address the issue could negatively impact the local economy and tourism sector, emphasizing the need for timely action to support both residents and visitors in Chitral.