Swat Valley is well-known for its tourist activities both in the summer and winter. Firstly, Swat is great for hiking, trekking, camping, ziplining, riding chairlifts and cable cars, relaxing in your free time, and going on honeymoons during summer. Secondly, Swat Kalam has Pakistan’s largest selection of winter sports activities, making it a favorite tourist destination. Mahudand Lake, Ushu Forest, Gabin Jabba, Malam Jabba, White Palace, Blue Water, and Shahi Bagh are the famous places to visit in Swat Kalam Valley.
Finally, In the winter [2,804 meters (9,199 ft)], international and national tourists come to Swat Kalam Valley to enjoy skiing, ice skating, sledding, ice hockey, bandy, snowboarding, speed skating, curling, etc.
If you plan to visit Swat Tour Packages, here we list the top 10 must-visit spots. Make sure to have a good time so that you can explore the beautiful must visit places in Swat & Kalam Valley are following:
Swat Kalam is a fantastic experience—heaven on earth, particularly from Kalam to Mahudand Lake. The Ushu Forest is beautiful Swat Kalam tourist attraction in summer season. The area has many waterfalls and glaciers. In addition, Natural wonders in Swat Valley include a breathtaking landscape and abundant wildlife. Swat has many scenic countryside, lush forests, and high-peak mountains. We have best Pakistan Holiday Packages at affordable prices.
As a result, nature and tourists enjoy a natural habitat suitable for both Swat Valley and beautiful places. Aside from its freshwater lakes and rivers, the area is popular for its warm weather and springs. Together, these factors contribute to making Pakistan a safe tourist destination.
Mingora is the famous main point of Swat Valley for shopping and sightseeing with your family. In addition to the mouthwatering food available in Fizaghat Park, the park also has a pleasant climate. It is the first place tourists visit when touring the Swat Valley.
Further, it is located in Mingora, almost 3.6 km from the town. From this point, one can truly witness the Swat River’s rushing water and a panorama of the entire valley. You can select from our Northern Areas Tour Packages to visit all the beautiful and famous places of Swat Valley.
Malam Jabba Top is approximately 44 km from Mingora, the largest city in Swat. In Pakistan, there is only one resort for skiing called Malam Jabba. One of the best-known hill stations in the Swat Valley is in the Hindu Kush mountain range. Malam Jabba is a famous tourist spot for adventurous activities, chair lift riding, and winter sports among nature lovers.
The road to Malam Jabba is also entirely curved, yet adventurous travelers enjoyed skiing there. Furthermore, the slope is nestled in a dense forest. Aside from that, Malam Jabba Resort stands out in Pakistan with its extensive facilities for winter sports and adventures.
Several tourists come here to enjoy the majestic views of the mountain range. International Alpine Ski Cup participants who visited Pakistan have noted that Malam Jabba is the perfect setting for skiing in the Swat Valley.
It is situated 13 km away from Saidu Shareef. The first king of Swat Valley, Miangul Abdul Wadud (Badshah Sahib), built the white palace of Maraghzar in 1940 in the town small of Marghuzar, situated about 13 kilometers away from Saidu Sharif. White Palace is the must-see place in Swat Kalam for history and peace lovers.
The name was given to the palace because it was built of white marble. The palace is now serving as a hotel and a renowned tourist resort. Approximately 24 active vast furbished rooms and the Royal Suite (former-King’s bedroom) where Queen Elizabeth once stayed for three days. Must places and visiting point to visit in Swat Valley Tours.
Moreover, Two big conferences or meetings were held in halls where King Abdul Wadood’s cabinet meetings were. There is a King’s lobby from where one can have a beautiful view of the garden lawn. In addition, A glimpse of a swirling stream of water through the king’s veranda on the right side.
Tourists enjoy visiting this ancient palace. Lush green meadows and springs are set to beautify the court. This historical building gives it magnificence. The architect used white Indian marble in the building, which has expanded its grace.
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Gabin Jabba is a beautiful Swat meadow (approximately 70km from Mingora). One can travel up to Lalkoo in a car/jeep (recommended to hire a car from Mingora with the local driver as the last 10 km track is under construction and very difficult), and then there is hiking of around 3 hours. More about Gabin Jabba with exploration of Swat Tour Packages from all over the Pakistan.
Gabin Jabba is a beautiful meadow located approximately 70 km from Mingora. Travelers can reach Lalkoo by car or jeep. You should hire a local driver because the last 10 km of the track is under construction. There is a hike of around 3 hours ahead after arriving at Lalkoo.
The first hour of the trail is medium in difficulty, but it becomes more challenging as the steep hiking path leads to the Gabeen Jabba meadows. Upon reaching the top, visitors can enjoy a stunning meadow and camping site, with pods available for overnight stays. Gabin Jabba is one of the top tourist destinations and a must-visit location in Swat.
To the north of Gabin Jabba lies the village of Lalko, which serves as a gateway to the region and is well-connected to the area. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is necessary to access Lalkoo, which is the first settlement encountered on the way to Gabeen Jabba. Lalkoo also hosts the base camp for a path leading to the alpine glacial lakes of Daral and Saidgai.
Traveling on the Swat Motorway will take you to Mingora, from where you can follow these routes to reach Gabin Jabba:
Follow N-95 (Bahrain Road) through Mingora and Khwazakhela, then take the Bagh Deri Road to Lalkoo Road (approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes / 39.1 km) to reach Gabin Jabba (approximately 50 minutes / 21.2 km).
Alternatively, you can cross the Swat River via Kanju. From Airport Road, take the Bagh Deri Road for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Continue on Bagh Deri Road for an additional 43 minutes (17.7 km) to reach Gabeen Jabba.
Both routes offer some differences in travel time, although the primary route to Gabin Jabba tends to be more congested. During peak tourist season, you may experience delays on either route, so it’s advisable to check the season before planning your visit to Gabin Jabba.
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Mataltan is a small but picturesque valley on the way to Mahudand Lake, about 11 km from Kalam. Moreover, this region is famous for mighty glaciers, dense forests, and lofty mountain peaks. From here, one can see the tallest peak of the Falaksair mountain range, which rises to an impressive height of 5,957 meters.
Kalam Valley is situated 99 km (approximately 62 miles) from Mingora, in the northern upper reaches of the Swat Valley along the bank of the Swat River in KPK. This area has become a popular tourist destination, celebrated for its breathtaking mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes.
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Swat is known as the “Switzerland of Pakistan.” It is just 35 km from Bahrain City, and there is a distance of 99 km between Kalam Valley and Swat Valley, which is why the latter appears first on maps. The picturesque Swat River flows throughout the valley, surrounded by the lush green hills.
Kalam Valley is particularly popular among tourists due to its wide range of hotels, facilities, and restaurants. This abundance of amenities is a big reason why Kalam has attracted a significant number of travelers. Notable places to visit in Kalam include Matiltan, Usho, Utror, and Gabral, all of which offer unique experiences. The chill and pleasant climate, along with the panoramic views, make Kalam a must-visit destination in Swat.
There are variety of adventurous activities in Swat Kalam Malam Jabba for enjoy and recreation.
Enjoy a jeep ride to explore Mahudand Lake, Saifullah Lake, and Kundol Lake. To cross the Badgoi Top in Utror Valley, you need to hire a 4×4 Prado for sightseeing and exploration.
Kalam Valley offers numerous fishing spots, including Mataltan Village, Blue Waters, Swat River, and Shahi Bagh, where you can indulge in fishing.
Adventure lovers will find some of the best camping spots in Kalam Valley. You can rent a camper for an overnight stay on the mountain, complete with a bonfire and all necessary facilities.
Mahudand Lake and Shahi Bagh in Kalam offer various boating activities for tourists. You can hire a complete boat for 2000, which accommodates 4 to 5 people, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful lake surroundings.
The Palogha Glacier, Falak Sar Peak, waterfalls, and dense pine forests on the mountain top are some of the most photogenic destinations. Photographers will have the opportunity to capture stunning nature images for their social media platforms.
Trekking opportunities abound in Utror Valley, Andrab Lake, Saifullah Lake, Spin Khwar Lake, and Ushu Forest. You can hire a local tour guide from Kalam Valley at an affordable price.
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The fare for a jeep ride from Kalam to Mahodand Lake ranges between Rs. 4,000 and Rs. 6,000, depending on your ability to negotiate. Located in the Ushu Valley of Kalam, the alpine glacial Mahodand Lake is an essential destination in the Swat Valley.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the vast Hindu Kush peaks at an elevation of 9,603 feet, the lake is surrounded by lush green meadows, making it an ideal spot for camping.
Since the lake freezes in winter and becomes inaccessible due to road blockages, the best time to visit is during midsummer. Among the many attractions, visitors will find an array of flora and fauna, as well as large fish.
Undoubtedly, Mahodand Lake is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations for a day trip in Swat, especially when combined with tour packages in the Kumrat Valley.
Mahodand Lake is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan, situated approximately 3,000 meters (9,400 feet) above sea level. This stunning lake attracts numerous tourists each year due to its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. It lies at the foothills of the Hindukush Mountains.
The road to Mahodand Lake can be quite bumpy and in poor condition due to snowfall, making it accessible only by 4×4 vehicles, which are readily available in Kalam Valley. Please note that the lake is not accessible during the winter months. It is a popular picnic spot and one of the most scenic destinations in the Swat region for tourists.
The distance from Kalam to Mahodand Lake is about 35 kilometers. The fare for a jeep ride from Kalam to the lake typically ranges between Rs. 4,000 and Rs. 6,000, depending on your bargaining skills. The best time to travel to Mahodand Lake is in the morning.
Visitors can spend the entire day at the lake, taking short breaks along the way. At Matalan Point, you can also enjoy views of Falak Sar Peak, the highest peak in Kalam Valley.
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Taip Banda is a beautiful and lesser-known meadow located in the Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It is an emerging trekking destination, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility, breathtaking alpine views, and authentic local culture. Here’s a complete guide:
Location: Near Mankyal Valley, close to Bahrain in the upper Swat region.
Elevation: Approximately 10,000 ft (3,048 m) above sea level.
Type: Alpine meadow (locally referred to as “Banda”).
Best Season to Visit: June to September (after the snow melts).
Distance: ~300 km
Time: 7-8 hours by car via the Swat Expressway, passing through Mingora and Bahrain.
Distance: 20-25 km drive; the road conditions are patchy. A four-wheel drive (4×4) vehicle is recommended.
Duration: 3-5 hours (depending on fitness level).
Difficulty: Moderate.
Trail: The trek features a forested path, scenic views, streams, and panoramic valley vistas.
Views: Enjoy spectacular vistas of the Mankyal peaks, lush green meadows, and vibrant wildflowers.
Camping: Ideal for overnight camping; there are no hotels or guesthouses at the top.
Water Sources: Freshwater streams are available—consider bringing purification tablets if necessary.
Mobile Signals: Expect weak or no coverage—offline maps are recommended.
Guides: Hiring a local guide from Mankyal is highly recommended.
Weather: It can change rapidly—pack rain gear and warm layers.
Waste Management: Bring trash bags—please leave no trace.
Permits: No special permits are required; however, it’s advisable to inform the locals before starting your trek.
Chukail Banda (meadows) is in the northern part of Mankial Valley. Surrounded by beautiful summer pastures, this highland area has become a popular travel destination for many tourists. The majestic peaks of Mankial overshadow the lush green pastures, giving the impression that they protect the valleys from any negative influences.
Chokail Meadows is home to several endangered species, including the Markhor, snow leopards, wolves, golden monals, black bears, and many other wildlife species. Recently, it was designated as an area of special scientific interest by the government. While it is also a protected area, it does not follow all the regulations typically associated with a national park.
Have you ever heard of Jarogo Waterfall? If not, let me tell you that it is one of the highest waterfalls in Asia, located in Tehsil Matta, Swat. It is about 50-55 kilometers from Mingora City, and the hike to the waterfall is approximately 3-5 kilometers, which takes about 45 minutes at most.
The total distance from Mingora City to the waterfall is around 55 to 60 kilometers. The road leading to the waterfall is well-paved, making for a smooth journey. In addition to the beauty of the waterfall itself, the views along the way are even more mesmerizing than the waterfall.
Nestled deep within a dense forest and surrounded by towering mountains, the Jarogho Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Pakistan. It is in the Chatekal Valley of Matta Tehsil in Swat. The journey from Mingora takes about two hours by car, followed by a 40-minute hike to reach the waterfall. This destination is a must-visit in Swat!