MINGORA: Tourists and lovers of nature from different areas of the country have thronged Swat to enjoy spring season in the picturesque valley.

The start of spring season has bathed the valley in multiple colours with blossom of apricot, plum, peach and pear in the orchards as well as the lush green fields covered with blooming mustard.

“Swat valley is unique because it offers different views in different seasons to tourists of different natures. All the four seasons of the valley are gifts as its winter, autumn, summer and spring give a look to sooth mental and spiritual feelings,” said Mutasarif Khan, a tourist, who was busy in taking photos of the newly blossomed plum trees in Ghalegey area.

Some tourists were busy in making selfies in the apricot orchards with excitement. “We came here to see the snow-covered mountains and enjoy snow-related fun in Malam Jabba but when we saw the charming views of orchards we decided to spend a day to capture the magical scenes,” said Anees Ahmad and Tauqeer Khan, two tourists from Rawalpindi.

They said that Swat valley was unique and enchanting where tourists, at a time, could get pleasure of so many things.

“Photography is my passion and to quench my thirst I frequently visit Swat, Manshera, Hunza and Giligit-Baltistan but I spend much of my time in Swat because I capture the snow-covered mountains and soon after it capture the colours of spring,” said a Lahore-based tourist Inam Khalid, who was taking photos of mustards in Takhtaband area near Mingora.

The tourists and locals said that all weathers and scenes of the valley were a visual treat for those, who loved nature and adventure.

“When people talk about Swat, scenes of natural beauty automatically come in mind. When people step into the valley, they not only feel pleasant weather but also enjoy the stunning views all around. These days, the white, pink, blue and yellow flowers at the backdrop of snow-covered mountains fill human mind and souls with spirituality and satisfaction,” said Ibrar Khan, a resident of Shingerdar Ghalegey area.

Published in Dawn, March 22nd, 2019