Swat is known as the Switzerland of Pakistan. The river Swat is a clear water river starting from the Ushu range of mountains to the spread of the valley of Swat. It is one of the greenest valleys of the Northern Pakistan and is well connected to the rest of Pakistan. There are regular flights from Islamabad to Swat and back. One can also get here either from Peshawar (160 Km) or Islamabad.(250 km) The valley of Swat is located in the middle of foothills of Hindukush mountain range. The main town of the valley is Mingora and Saidu Sharif. A swat is a place for leisure Lovers, Hikers, and archaeologist. There are many comfortable hotels where one can stay a while to relax. In Kalam upper Swat there are some very pleasant walks since the weather is pretty pleasant one can easily walk over the hills for hours and enjoy the unspoiled nature.
Kalam is a hill station in swat valley at an altitude of 2000 meters. But it seems far higher than the other popular hill station because you’re surrounded by tall peaks as far as the eye can see. The most prominent peak is Falak Sar (5,918m), capped by pristine white snow at the top. Kalam is surrounded by lush green hills, thick forests and bestowed with mesmeric lakes, meadows, and waterfalls which are worth seen features of the landscape. It is the birthplace of Swat River. With all modern amenities (except banks); Kalam is a popular hill station with luxury hotels and Mall Road for shopping and walking around at night.
The Swat valley has a historical background which tells us that the names of Swat, Udyana and Suvastu have been found in the ancient record for the scenic beauty of the valley. The evidence of these are the historical and cultural remnants, giving a description of the activities of the people at that time. When Alexander the Great came here in 327 BC through India and conquered Bazira and Ora, at his departure the people of that area threw off Greek Yoke and enjoyed independent status. During this time, Buddhism began to pick pace of penetration in this territory and thus this civilization changed into Buddhist or Gandhara civilization. In early 10th century, Muslims got hold of Swat and then Afghans from different tribes came and settled here. This land is free from any of the neighboring powers or governmental pressures as it is the part of Provincially Administrated Tribal Area (PATA). However, it is the part of KPK Province.
