KALAM, Dec 30 (APP):The familiar chirping of birds perched atop towering deodar trees faded into silence on Tuesday as fresh snowfall blanketed the scenic valleys of Kalam, Mataltan and Oshu, transforming the region into a serene winter wonderland.Seasonal and migratory birds that usually animate these valleys retreated as moderate rainfall turned into snowfall, pushing temperatures sharply down and ushering in an intense cold spell.
As nature grew quieter, human activity surged as tourists poured into the region to experience the season’s first major snowfall that likely to continue till January 2 with intervals.
Adding to the excitement, a five-day Snow Festival underway in Kalam and Mataltan has become a major attraction for adventure lovers.
Organized by the Upper Swat Development Authority in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department, the festival features a vibrant mix of winter sports and cultural activities.
Families and adventure enthusiasts alike are enjoying snow bicycling, tug of war, ice skiing, snow kabaddi and other traditional games, turning the frozen landscape into a lively playground.
Often dubbed the “Switzerland of Pakistan,” Swat Valley has steadily emerged as a premier winter tourism destination, particularly for skiing enthusiasts. At the heart of this reputation lies Malam Jabba, a snow-covered paradise that receives an average annual snowfall of nearly 10 feet.
“Skiing in Malam Jabba dates back to 1962 when the first competition was held here,” said spokesman of the KP Culture and Tourism Authority. “The area gained international recognition after the establishment of a skiing resort in 1988. Today, it offers world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities, making it one of South Asia’s leading snow sports destinations.”
Beyond skiing, Swat’s allure extends to its breathtaking landscapes and deep historical roots. Remnants of the ancient Gandhara civilization, pristine snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear rivers add cultural depth to its natural beauty. The valley also offers adventure sports such as river rafting and fishing, with Swat’s famous brown trout being a special draw for visitors.
Malam Jabba, along with nearby areas such as Kalam, Mankial and Falaksair, provides dramatic backdrops for winter sports. The skiing season, lasting from December to March, attracts thousands of visitors each year. One of Pakistan’s longest chairlifts offers sweeping views of snow-covered peaks, leaving visitors spellbound.
For many tourists, the wait lasts all year. With the first snowfall, visitors from across the country rush to Swat to witness its magical scenery, explore snowy trails, savor trout dishes and participate in winter sports.
“I love snowfall and travelled to Swat to experience its winter charm,” said Umar Khan, a tourist from Nowshera. “Travelling on snowy tracks to nearby peaks is an unforgettable thrill. Skiing and brown trout are simply priceless experiences.”
However, he urged authorities to address infrastructure challenges. “Winter’s rains and snowfall often block roads from November to March. Poor road conditions sometimes spoil the enjoyment and can even be dangerous,” he said, adding that improved cleared roads, reasonable hotel rates and better facilities could transform Swat into Pakistan’s winter tourism capital.
Jan Nisar, a Pakistan transporter based in Dubai echoed similar sentiments, praising Swat’s unmatched charm. “I have visited many countries, but Swat’s unique blend of natural beauty and Gandhara heritage is rarely found elsewhere,” he said.
“The snow-covered peaks of Falaksair and Elum thrill mountaineers, while Swat’s archaeological treasures and Saidu Sharif Museum are a paradise for history lovers,” he added.
Recognizing winter tourism as a vital source of revenue, the KP Tourism Department is working on multiple initiatives to unlock its full potential.
“Winter galas and the first-ever rafting sports event on River Swat are being planned,” tourism department spokesman said. “We are also developing new tourist destinations such as Sola Tanar, Puchar and Jargo Valley to reduce pressure on popular spots.”
He said the provincial government is prioritizing environmental preservation through eco-friendly camping pods, road improvements including the Mankial–Bada Sarai road, and the development of jeep tracks and tourist facilitation centers.
“An Integrated Tourism Zone with modern facilities will be established at Mankial under the KITE project, along with feasibility studies to identify new tourist sites,” he added. A dedicated tourism police force has also been deployed across Swat, Naran and Kaghan to ensure visitor safety and convenience.
As winter tightens its grip, northern Pakistan once again reveals its spellbinding beauty being a harmonious blend of snow-covered landscapes, adventure sports and cultural heritage, making Swat an irresistible destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
