Pakistan is a richly diverse country with varying cultures, dialects and traditions across the length and breadth of its terrain. The same terrain is peppered with historically significant socio-cultural assets. Unfortunately, many of these assets and heritage properties have fallen into disrepair, due to the lack of financial resources and understanding of the significance of preserving the past.

Against this backdrop of immensely beautiful heritage sites and apparent disinterest, the agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), particularly the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), have played a vital role in the restoration of a number of heritage projects in northern Pakistan. Committed to sustainable development, AKTC has restored Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, Shigar Fort, Khaplu Palace and the Wali’s Residence, and handed over these assets to Serena Hotels Pakistan to ensure that the properties are well taken care of and appreciated, as Serena Hotels – part of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development – offer opportunities for sustainable heritage tourism.

Preserving heritage sites, working with local communities and promoting economic activity through sustainable tourism have become hallmarks of the Serena Hotels approach, leading to the betterment of the communities in which each property is located.