Swat Valley

The Switzerland of Pakistan

Swat Valley, also known as the Swat District, lies in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Stretching approximately 150 kilometers along both sides of the Swat River, it encompasses stunning natural beauty. With its majestic mountains, lush valleys, and vibrant colors, Swat is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Pakistan.” The district was a significant center of early Buddhism during the ancient Gandhara civilization, and remnants of Buddhist heritage can still be found. Swat Valley remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its captivating landscapes and rich cultural history.

Click Here for Tour Itinerary

Places of Attraction

Family-Friendly Places

Malam Jabba

Malam Jabba, located in the Swat Valley of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is a picturesque hill station and ski resort nestled in the Hindu Kush mountain ranges. Situated approximately 40 km from Saidu Sharif, it boasts an impressive ski slope extending over 800 meters, with an elevation of 2,804 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level. The Malam Jabba Ski Resort, owned by the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation, offers modern facilities such as roller/ice-skating rinks, chair lifts, and snow clearing equipment. Despite facing destruction by Taliban militants in 2008, the resort was reconstructed and reopened in 2016, now featuring a five-star hotel with 76 rooms. It’s a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and a gateway to breathtaking natural beauty in the region.

Kalam Valley

Kalam Valley, located in the Swat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan, is a breathtakingly beautiful valley. Nestled along the banks of the Swat River, it lies 99 kilometers (62 miles) from Mingora. The valley is surrounded by lofty snow-clad mountains and lush green meadows. At an elevation of about 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) above sea level, Kalam provides a picturesque plateau used for farming. Notable peaks, including Mount Falak Sar at 5,918 meters (19,416 feet) and an unnamed peak at 6,096 meters (20,000 feet), are visible from the valley. Kalam’s climate is mild and generally warm, with an average temperature of 13.4°C (56.1°F) and an annual precipitation of 639 mm (25.16 inches). The valley is also home to alpine glacial lakes, such as Mahodand Lake and Kundol Lake, which attract visitors due to their accessibility and natural beauty.

Mahodand Lake

Mahodand Lake is a stunning alpine glacial lake situated in the upper Usho Valley, approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Kalam in the Swat District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan. Nestled at an elevation of 2,865 meters (9,400 feet) above sea level, Mahodand Lake is surrounded by lush meadows, majestic mountains, and dense forests. During summer, the lake’s banks are adorned with pine trees and serve as a picturesque camping site. The lake is fed by melting glaciers and springs from the Hindu Kush mountain range, giving rise to the Ushu Khwar River, a major left tributary of the Swat River. In winter, the lake freezes, and its basin is covered in snow. Alpine flowers like geum, blue poppy, potentilla, and gentian bloom around its shores. Mahodand Lake is also home to abundant trout fish, providing an ideal opportunity for licensed anglers to enjoy fishing.

White Palace Marghazar

The White Palace of Marghazar, also known as Sufed Mahal, was built in 1940 by the first king of Swat, Miangul Abdul Wadud (Badshah Sahib). Situated in the small town of Marghazar, approximately 13 kilometers away from Saidu Sharif, this elegant palace stands out for its white marble construction. The King brought marble from Agra, bronze from Belgium, and artisans from Turkey to design and construct the palace, completing it in 1941. Originally named the Swatti Taj Mahal, it was later called Motti Mahal before being renamed the White Palace. The palace, located at an altitude of 7,136 feet on Marghazar Hill, served as the summer residence of the Wali of Swat, Miangul Jehanzeb. Now converted into a hotel, it offers 24 spacious decorated rooms, a Royal Suite where Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip stayed in 1961, and two conference halls where cabinet meetings were held. The lush greenery surrounding the palace adds to its allure, making it a delightful tourist attraction during the summer.

Swat Museum

The Swat Museum, located between Mingora and Saidu Sharif in the Swat District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is renowned for preserving the heritage of the Gandhara civilization. This must-visit museum showcases over 3,000 artifacts, sculptures, and historical objects dating back to the Gandhara period (2nd century BC to 10th century AD). Its six galleries house a vast array of treasures, including Gandharan statuettes, friezes depicting the life of the Buddha, seals, small reliquaries, and pre-Buddhist artifacts. Additionally, an ethnographic gallery features traditional carved Swati furniture, jewelry, and embroideries. Notably, a recent discovery includes a stone ‘board’ game found at the Buddhist Complex of Amluk-Dara, similar to a game still played in the valley today.

Miandam

Miandam is a charming hill station nestled in the foothills of the Hindu Kush mountains in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Located approximately 55 kilometers from Mingora, the capital of Swat Valley, and 56 kilometers from Saidu Sharif, Miandam sits at an elevation of 7,500 feet above sea level. Its mild climate, abundant natural beauty, and breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and valleys make it a popular tourist destination. The primary economy of the region is based on tourism and agriculture, with corn and potatoes being the main crops. The town is also enriched in medicinal plants, supporting a World Wide Fund for Nature project promoting sustainable harvesting of these valuable resources.

Ushu Forest

Ushu Forest, situated in the Ushu Valley of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is a captivating natural wonder. Located approximately 8 kilometers from Kalam and 123 kilometers from Mingora, this forest stands at an altitude of 2,300 meters (7,546 feet). Accessible only by jeep due to its unpaved road, Ushu Forest is renowned for its spectacular clouds and rainy weather. It extends over approximately two kilometers and boasts the distinction of being the largest deodar forest in Pakistan. Visitors can enjoy camping amidst its lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. The nearby Mahodand Lake, just 27 kilometers away, adds to the allure of this picturesque region.

Bahrain

Bahrain, also known as Bahrain Valley, is a captivating town situated along the serene banks of the Swat River in the Swat District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Named after its location at the confluence of the Daral and Swat rivers, Bahrain offers unspoiled natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by towering mountains, lush green valleys, and glistening rivers, it is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Mingora Bazaar

Mingora Bazaar, commonly known as Mingora City, is the largest central business hub in the scenic Swat Valley. Located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, Mingora serves as a twin city to Saidu Sharif, situated just 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles) away. These adjacent urban areas share a close geographic proximity and have grown together over time. Mingora Bazaar bustles with commercial activity, making it a vibrant and essential part of the valley’s economy. Visitors often land in Mingora when entering Swat from the south via the Swat Motorway, using it as a gateway to explore the region’s natural beauty and historical sites.

Fizaghat Park

Fizagat Park, nestled near Mingora in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, is a popular recreational destination. Situated on the banks of the Swat River, it offers a serene setting where freshwater from the river flows. Established in 1984, the park features separate sections for families, women, and children. Visitors can explore a zoo with diverse animals, including leopards and bears. Cable cars, river lifts, and river boats add to the attractions. The pleasant weather and nearby hotels make it an ideal spot for leisure and relaxation.

Click Here for Tour Itinerary

Adventurous Places

Bafar Kandol Lake

Bafar Kandol Lake, also known simply as Kandol Lake, is a mesmerizing alpine glacial lake nestled in the Swat Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Located in the north of the Utror Valley, it lies approximately 19 kilometers away from the Kalam Valley. The lake’s enchanting emerald-green waters are surrounded by snow-capped mountains, their grassy slopes merging seamlessly into the glacier-fed lake. The reflection of these adjacent peaks creates a spectacular view. Visitors can expect a cool breeze and pleasant temperatures, making Kandol Lake an ideal destination for camping and relaxation. The trail to the lake from Ladu is relatively straightforward, following a stream that flows downward from the lake and eventually merges with the Swat River in the Kalam Valley. Along the way, lush forests and waterfalls welcome travelers to this pristine region. During summer, the margins of Kundol Lake serve as a camping site for trekkers, offering a serene escape amidst nature’s beauty.

Boyun Village (Green Top)

Boyun Village, locally known as Green Top, is a small village nestled in the Kalam Valley of Swat, Pakistan. Located approximately 5 kilometers away from Kalam, it can be reached via a jeep track or a scenic hiking trail. The village captivates visitors with its stunning natural scenery, lush green forests, and picturesque waterfalls.

Jarogo Waterfall

Jarogo Waterfall, also known as Jarogo Banda Waterfall, is a magnificent natural spectacle located in Matta Tehsil, Swat District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It descends from a height of around 45 feet, enveloped by luxuriant green landscapes and craggy mountains. The melodious rush of the cascading water, coupled with the refreshing breeze, crafts a picturesque ambiance that will leave you utterly captivated.

Shahi Bagh

Shahi Bagh, also known as The Royal Park, is an enchanting landscape in Swat, Pakistan. Nestled at an elevation of 10,000 feet, it stands majestically amidst the grandeur of mountains and lush pastures. Located approximately 30 kilometers from Kalam Valley and 14 kilometers from Utror Valley in Gabral, Shahi Bagh offers unparalleled natural beauty. Streams meander through the area, creating a serene ambiance reminiscent of a small island. Due to its lofty location, cellular coverage is not available here, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The best time to visit is from June to September, when the snow-capped peaks and verdant meadows come alive under the bright sun. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking tranquility, Shahi Bagh is a must-visit destination in Swat.

Malakand Pass

The Malakand Pass, situated in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, connects the Swat Valley with the Malakand District. At an altitude of 3,500 feet above sea level, this mountain pass is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan foothills. The pass road begins at Dargai and offers scenic views of the Swat Canal winding through the valley below.

Gabin Jabba

Gabin Jabba, which means “Honey Marshes” in Pashto, is a stunning mountain area located approximately 65 km from Mingora in the Swat valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This picturesque region boasts green meadows, thick forests, snow-clad peaks, and mineral springs. At an elevation of 2582 meters (8471 feet) above sea level, Gabin Jabba offers breathtaking landscapes and serves as a gateway to the Daral Lake. The entire area is alive with the songs of various bird species, including the melodious Western Crowned Warblers. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Kooh/Andrab Lake

Andrab Lake, also known as Kooh Lake, is a breathtaking glacial lake nestled in Pakistan’s Swat Valley. Its unique feature lies in its mesmerizing color transformation—from blue to green—earning it the moniker “colour-changing lake.” Perched at an elevation of 10,800 feet above sea level, Andrab Lake offers pristine waters and stunning vistas. To reach this natural wonder, adventurous hikers embark on a seven- to eight-hour trek from the scenic Blue Water Point in Anakar Village. Along the winding trail, lush green pastures surround the lake, providing fantastic photo opportunities. Fishing, canoeing, swimming, and sightseeing are among the activities enjoyed by visitors. Keep in mind that Andrab Lake is accessible only during the summer months until snow blankets the area once again.

Badogai Pass

Badogai Pass, also known as Badawi, is a high mountain pass in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It connects the Upper Dir District with Utror and Kalam. The pass sits at an impressive elevation of 3523 meters (11,558 feet) above sea level. Badogai Pass serves as the border between Kumrat Valley and Kalam Valley. The rugged road leading to the summit—alternatively called Do Teer Pass, Badgoi Pass, and Badawi Pass—is entirely unpaved and locally referred to as the Utrar-Dir Road. This challenging route stretches approximately 26.53 miles, running from Kalkot to Utror. However, due to harsh weather conditions, it becomes impassable from November through June.

Spin Khwar (White Stream)

Spin Khwar, also known as the White Stream, is a captivating alpine lake nestled in the Swat Valley of Pakistan. Its name, “Spin Khwar,” translates to “White Stream” in the local Pashto language. The lake’s pristine waters shimmer with a milky-white hue, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere. Surrounded by lush greenery, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks, Spin Khwar offers a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. To reach this hidden gem, adventurers embark on a challenging trek through rugged terrain, crossing rocky slopes and ascending steep paths. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility that makes Spin Khwar a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty off the beaten path.

Daral Lake

Daral Lake, also known as Daral Dand, is a picturesque alpine lake situated in the Bahrain region of the Swat Valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. This lake, with a distinctive giant amoeba shape, offers a tranquil and breathtaking environment for travelers and shepherds. It lies at an elevation of 3,505.2 meters (11,500 feet) in the western upper reaches of Bahrain, surrounded by the foothills of Spinsar Mountain. Fed by melting glaciers from the surrounding peaks, Daral Lake gives rise to Daral Khwar, the main left tributary of the Swat River. Accessible only during the summer months due to heavy snowfall blocking the trails in winter, reaching Daral Lake involves a challenging trek through lush forests and rugged terrain. Adventurers can approach it from Bahrain or Gabina Jabba hilltop, both offering rewarding trails for those seeking natural beauty off the beaten path.

Click Here for Tour Itinerary

Accommodation Options

Rock City Resort, Swat

Rock City Resort in Swat offers a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty, featuring well-appointed accommodations and serene views of the lush valley and surrounding mountains.

From Rs. 15000 / night

xr:d:DAFl-G0CQ5A:5,j:2327628698258536959,t:23061608

Swat Palace Hotel by Northin, Swat

Swat Palace Hotel by Northin offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of Swat, boasting elegant accommodations, exceptional amenities.

From Rs. 14500 / night

Shelton’s Rezidor, Swat

Shelton’s Rezidor in Swat combines modern luxury with traditional charm, offering stylish accommodations, top-notch amenities, and captivating views of the scenic valley.

From Rs. 10000 / night