Serena Hotels has announced a landmark partnership with the Northern Light Infantry Regiment Centre to restore and revitalize the historic 18th-century Gupis Fort in the Ghizer District of Gilgit-Baltistan. This initiative aims to preserve Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism and socio-economic development in the region.
The agreement, signed by Serena Hotels’ Global CEO Mr. Aziz Boolani and Brigadier Arfan Ahmed, Commandant of the Northern Light Infantry Regiment Centre, marks a significant milestone in Serena Hotels’ broader Heritage Circuit and Sustainability programmes. These initiatives are designed to safeguard heritage sites, promote responsible tourism, and engage local communities in economic activities that honor their unique traditions and culture.
The restoration project will be carried out in collaboration with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (AKCSP), a group renowned for their successful preservation efforts at other historical sites such as Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, Shigar Fort, and Khaplu Palace. Their involvement ensures that the highest conservation standards are upheld, with a focus on maintaining the original structure and historical authenticity of Gupis Fort.
Constructed in 1894, Gupis Fort is a site of both historical and architectural significance in Gilgit-Baltistan. The restoration will not only safeguard its legacy but will also repurpose the fort as a cultural and tourist destination. By involving local artisans, suppliers, and talent, the project will empower the community and create economic opportunities, all while preserving the region’s unique heritage.
Once restored, the Gupis Fort will serve as a vibrant heritage attraction, inviting visitors to explore the cultural and historical richness of Gilgit-Baltistan, and providing lasting benefits to the local economy.
