Explore Swat valley - "The Mini - Switzerland"
Swat Valley is known as the “mini-Switzerland”. Its landscapes are a proof of natural beauty and it was one of the most visited areas and had a major tourism industry. Swat is in the Malakand Division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Centred upon the upper portions of the Swat River, the modern-day district was a major centre of early Buddhism under the ancient kingdom of Gandhara, due to which a strong presence of Buddhist cultural influence exists in the region. Swat was home to Hinduism and later Gandharan Buddhism until the 10th century, after which the area predominantly came under Muslim control and Islamic influence.
Until 1969, Swat was part of the Yusufzai State of Swat, a self-governing princely state that was inherited by Pakistan following its independence from British rule. The average elevation of Swat is 980 m (3,220 ft), resulting in a considerably cooler and wetter climate compared to the rest of Pakistan. With lush forests, verdant alpine meadows, and snow-capped mountains, Swat is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations.
The top tourist places and destination include, Saidu Sharif, Mingora, Marghazar White Palace, Bahrain, Madyan, Shingrai Waterfall, Shingardar Stupa, Shangla Top, Malam Jabba Ski Resort, Kalam Valley, Gabin Jabba, Kumrat Valley, Fizagat Park, Peuchar Valley and over 12 Lakes including Spin Khwar (White Stream) Lake, Khaipro Lakes, Kandol Lake, Izmis lake etc