Swat is an amazingly beautiful valley and a renowned tourist destination in the northeastern part of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The Swat District is located 153 miles (247 kilometres) away from Islamabad, the capital city, taking roughly 3 hours to reach via the M16 motorway.
Swat, which covers about 2,061 square miles or 5,337 square kilometres, is famously called the Switzerland of the east, as well as the “Paradise on Earth”, owing to its breathtaking natural beauty.
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What Is Swat Valley Famous for?
The scenic beauty of Swat Valley has a close resemblance to that of Switzerland, for it is renowned for its snow-capped alpine mountains, verdant green landscapes, freshwater lakes and rivers, lovely meadows, pleasing weather, and crystal-clear streams and springs. Tourists love to experience them, for they are a natural habitat for animals.
Swat is also recognized for its winter and summer activities for visitors. Summertime activities in Swat include trekking, hiking, cable car riding, zip lining, and camping. The valley also attracts visitors on honeymoon trips, holidays and vacations.
Swat is the most sought-after and well-known travel destination in Pakistan because of its winter sports activities. Swat, located at 9,199 feet or 2,804 metres altitude, attracts domestic and foreign tourists in the winter for activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledging, ice skating, ice hockey, curling, and speed skating.
Know the Weather Conditions in Swat
The Swat region typically experiences mild, variable weather that is not exceedingly hot. Nonetheless, one of the most surprising things about the Swat Valley is it is a pretty small region, and the climate differs depending on where you are. Travelling in any direction for 20-30 minutes will make you experience different weather. You have a good chance to observe and experience four seasons in a day.
The coldest period ranges from December to February, while the warmest period is from June to August in Swat. You can experience temperatures ranging from around 8°C to 14°C during autumn in September, October, and November.
Ideal Time to Travel to Swat Valley
You can plan your visit to Swat Valley from mid-March until May as the weather will be pleasant. However, June to August is the most appropriate time to visit the place when several regions in Pakistan are experiencing extreme heat waves, and people look for cooler places like the Swat Valley to refresh themselves.
For those looking for adventurous activities, December to February is the favourable time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding since the upper areas of Swat, in particular, are snow-covered, making it perfect for sports activities.
In short, an ideal time to visit Swat for vacations or holidays with families and weekend getaways is from March to November and from December to February for winter sports. Nevertheless, you should plan your travel and book flight tickets earlier for discounts. Pakistan International Airlines offer nonstop flights from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Riyadh, Oman, and other major cities in the Middle East, India, Europe and the USA to Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and Lahore.
From these airports, you can find connecting flights to Saidu Sharif Airport. There is also a public transport facility to Swat from Islamabad or Peshawar, taking about three hours by road.
Accommodation Facility in Swat
There are countless possibilities for shelter or lodging in Swat, including hotels, apartments, hostels, lodges, and cottages. You can find high-end and budget hotels that are ideal for relaxing in Swat. Moreover, you can also consider staying in chic penthouse apartments, relaxing hill resorts, decent family-run inns, and opulent country estates.
Self-catering is the best option if you want a suitable place to unwind. A bed and breakfast (B&B) is a good way to connect with hosts who are enthusiastic about Swat and eager to go above and beyond for guests to help make your trip memorable.
Top Places to Visit in the Valley
- Madyan
Image Resource: en.wikipedia.org
Madyan Valley, a lovely hill station, is a popular tourist destination in Swat. At 4,330 feet, the Madyan stands tall on the swat river’s bank. A lot of tourists travel to Madyan to witness its scenic natural beauty and have fun in the mild climate every year. The lush-green mountains surrounding the place offer splendid views, even in winter when snow covers them.
- Bahrain
Image Resource: en.wikipedia.org
Bahrain, a wonderful town and tourist destination is situated by the Swat River. The picturesque Bahrain Valley, often known as Bahrain, is located 59 kilometres north of N95 from Mingora, the major city centre. Travellers stop and spend time in Bahrain on their trip to other destinations in Swat, such as Gabral, Kalam, Kumrat, and beyond.
There are several restaurants, shops, motels, and cafes in the town. The natural confluence of two rivers Daral and Swat in Bahrain Town makes it a desirable place to spend time enjoying the beauty of the place.
Swat Valley is an ideal tourist destination to visit with family or friends. All you need to do is search for the best deals offered on a leading travel site. Some airlines, like Pakistan International Airlines, offer the lowest fares and other services for some routes connecting Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore.
