Swat’s Oshu Valleys Shine in Monsoon

Swat: The Oshu valleys of Swat enchanted tourists with their moonlit charm, accompanied by the melodious chirping of birds and blooming flowers.

This picturesque setting, combined with the serene landscapes of Upper Kalam’s Oshu valleys and Mahodhand Lake, became a tranquil retreat. Moderate to erratic rain showers, interspersed with bursts of sunshine, further enhanced the region’s natural beauty.

The pleasant weather coincided with Pakistan Day celebrations, attracting an influx of visitors eager to experience the unique blend of nature, moonlight, and calm. The dramatic interplay of clouds and sunlight over the pristine landscapes offered a mesmerizing backdrop for those seeking respite from city life.

Faraz Khan, a tourist from Nowshera, shared his delight: “The weather in Kalam is amazing. I came from Wapda Town, Nowshera with my family and celebrated the 78th Pakistan Independence Day here in Mahodhand and Oshu Valleys. We’ve had a wonderful time amidst this beautiful setting, filled with fun and excitement.”

The ongoing allure of Kalam’s natural beauty, highlighted by the day’s pleasant weather, continues to attract visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation in this idyllic corner of Pakistan. Mahodhand Lake, nestled among towering deodar trees and abundant trout fish, is a jewel of nature. With its two-kilometer length and 9,400 feet elevation, the lake’s bluish-white waters swell with the monsoon rains, inviting visitors for leisurely boating adventures.

The lake’s surroundings burst into vibrant colors with seasonal flowers and roses, creating a feast for the eyes and soul. The monsoon season is celebrated as an exceptional time to visit one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. The atmosphere is imbued with a palpable sense of joy, enhanced by frequent moderate to erratic rains.

Waheed Khan, a resident of Peshawar, expressed his satisfaction: “I came to Kalam Valley with my family after five years to enjoy its mesmerizing natural beauty and cold weather. Every raindrop adds to the monsoon magic, enhancing the lush greenery and the lake’s emerald allure. Mahodhand Lake is renowned not just for its stunning vistas but also for its freezing waters and abundant trout fish. We enjoyed a boat ride for Rs 200, and my children had a great time playing football while we savored trout fish.”

Adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are particularly drawn to this stunning destination. The open access road and improved transportation facilities have made it easier for tourists to indulge in various adventure sports in Upper Swat.

Enhanced infrastructure and the Swat motorway have facilitated easier access to the region. The Tourism and Culture Authority has made elaborate arrangements for accommodation and adventure sports during the monsoon season.

Under the Development of Ecotourism Project (ETP), camping pods with facilities for two to four beds, washrooms, and kitchens have been established at scenic spots, including Malakand, Hazara, and several other locations.

The authorities have also increased the presence of security personnel in tourist spots to ensure safety and security. A mobile application called the “Tourist Safety App” has been launched to allow tourists to quickly contact the tourist police in case of emergencies.

Muhammad Ali Syed, General Manager of the Tourism and Culture Authority, highlighted ongoing efforts to promote ecotourism, including the development of waterfalls and jeep tracks. To alleviate congestion at popular destinations like Galiyat, Kaghan, and Kalam, new jeepable tracks are being constructed with an estimated cost of Rs 500 million. The establishment of additional camping pods and improved infrastructure aims to provide affordable accommodations and bolster the local economy.

Omair Khattak, GM Investment at KP Tourism Authority, noted that Integrated Tourism Zones (ITZs) will be developed in collaboration with the World Bank. These ITZs, located in Ghanool Mansehra, Mankiyal Swat, Madaklasht Chitral, and Thandiyani Abbottabad, are expected to create job opportunities and attract significant investment.

The feasibility of a cable car project from Dir Upper to Madaklasht Chitral has been completed and will receive financial support from the World Bank. Additionally, colonial-era tracks are being developed to enhance connectivity and promote tourism.

These positive measures by the government aim to increase tourism revenue and promote Pakistan’s soft image as a tourism-friendly country. Experts emphasize the importance of showcasing these treasures through social media to attract foreign tourists and bolster the rural economy.