If you’re planning a trip to Pakistan, you definitely don’t want to miss the Swat Valley. Known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Swat is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. One of the most popular routes to explore the valley is the journey from Malam Jabba to Kalam, which offers stunning vistas of mountains, valleys, rivers, and lakes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through this mesmerizing route and provide you with some useful tips and insights to make your trip a memorable one.
Malam Jabba: A Ski Resort Paradise
Our journey begins at Malam Jabba, which is located in the Hindu Kush mountain range in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Malam Jabba is famous for its ski resort, which is the only one in Pakistan. The resort is situated at an altitude of 2,804 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The ski resort has been operational since the 1990s and has been a popular destination for local and foreign tourists alike. The resort features several ski slopes of varying difficulty levels, a chairlift, and a gondola. Skiing and snowboarding are the main activities here, and visitors can rent equipment and take lessons from experienced instructors.
Apart from skiing, there are several other activities you can enjoy at Malam Jabba. You can take a hike on the nearby trails, visit the Malam Jabba Buddhist Stupa, or simply soak in the scenic beauty of the place.
Malam Jabba to Bahrain: A Scenic Drive
From Malam Jabba, our journey takes us to the town of Bahrain, which is located about 50 kilometers away. The drive from Malam Jabba to Bahrain is an experience in itself. The road winds through narrow mountain passes, offering breathtaking views of the valleys below.
As you drive through the Swat Valley, you’ll see lush green forests, glistening streams, and quaint villages dotted along the way. Keep your camera handy as there will be plenty of opportunities to capture some stunning photos.
Once you reach Bahrain, you can take a break and explore the town. Bahrain is known for its trout fishing, and there are several streams and rivers where you can try your luck at catching some fish. There are also several restaurants where you can enjoy freshly caught trout cooked in the local style.
Bahrain to Kalam: A Journey Through Paradise
After a brief stop in Bahrain, our journey continues towards Kalam. The drive from Bahrain to Kalam is arguably the most scenic part of the journey. The road follows the Swat River, which is flanked by towering mountains on both sides.
As you drive through the valley, you’ll see several waterfalls cascading down the mountains, creating a magical atmosphere. The most famous waterfall on this route is the Fiza Ghat waterfall, which is located near Madyan. This waterfall is known for its crystal clear water and the beautiful rainbow it creates when the sun shines on it.
As you approach Kalam, the landscape changes, and you’ll see lush green meadows and forests. Kalam is located at an altitude of 2,000 meters and is a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the heat of the plains.
Things to Do in Kalam
Kalam is a small town, but there are several activities you can enjoy here. The most popular activity is hiking, and there are several trails that take you through the surrounding mountains and forests. The most famous hike is the trek to the Ushu Forest, which is a beautiful pine forest with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
