CHARIKAR, Afghanistan, April 6 (Xinhua) -- Each spring, Gulghondi Hill in Afghanistan's Parwan province transforms into a breathtaking sea of purple blossoms, drawing thousands of visitors seeking joy, peace, and a temporary escape from the country's hardships.

Located about 55 km north of Kabul, the hill, nicknamed "Purple Hill" for its vivid seasonal display, hosts a month-long bloom that has become a cherished annual retreat for local and domestic tourists alike.

Sayed Maroof, a resident of Parwan Province, visits Gulghondi every year with friends to enjoy its fresh air and natural beauty.

"Every year, tourists from across Afghanistan, and even from abroad, come here to celebrate the purple flower festival. The nature here is beautiful," Maroof told Xinhua, standing atop one of the purple-draped slopes.

"I come here every year. Once you visit, nature pulls you back," he added with a smile, his gaze sweeping across the rolling hills.

In addition to the stunning scenery, visitors to Gulghondi enjoy a range of local entertainment -- from playing football and volleyball to reading poetry and flying colorful kites.

Zabihullah, a young man from Kabul, made his first visit this year, joining friends in the spring festivities.

"There are beautiful flowers everywhere, and we came to enjoy them and share happiness with our friends," he said while preparing lunch with his group under the open sky. "The crowd, the energy, the aroma -- all wonderful. I'm definitely coming back next year."

Despite Afghanistan's ongoing economic challenges, natural destinations like Gulghondi continue to offer moments of joy.

To further promote cultural appreciation, the local government hosts a one-day poetry festival each year during the first month of the Persian calendar, which begins on March 21.

According to Mawlawi Shamsul Haq Siddiqui, head of the Department of Information and Culture of Parwan province, this year, the number of tourists in Parwan province has increased by around 80 percent compared to previous years.

"Since the beginning of the month and during the days of Eid al-Fitr, about 50,000 tourists have visited Gulghondi and other recreational sites in Parwan province," Siddiqui told Xinhua.

Though Afghanistan is often associated with conflict and poverty, places like Gulghondi Hill serve as a reminder of the country's enduring natural beauty, and the hope it continues to inspire in the hearts of its people. Enditem

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