SWAT: A large number of tourists flocked to Miandam Cultural Festival in the scenic valley here on Saturday, which is being held to promote local culture and tourism in Swat.

The three-day event being organised by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sports and Culture Department in collaboration with the Swat district administration started on Friday and it will continue till Sunday (today).

Talking to this correspondent, the tourists said they were amazed to see that Swat was not only a scenic tourist destination, but also had a rich cultural heritage.

“We already knew about the scenic beauty of Swat, but now we have seen that the valley also has a rich cultural heritage. The wood carved furniture and decoration pieces, embroidery, woolen shawls and various sports of the region are wonderful,” said Shazia Anam, a tourist from Rawalpindi who was present at the festival along with her other family members.

The tourists said Miandam was a serene valley where weather was also pleasant.

“It is my first visit to Miandam valley, which seems to be a beautiful site for spending vacation. The mountains covered with thick forests and crystal clear water streams are really attractive,” said Abdul Rauf, a tourist from Karachi.

The organisers said Swat was one of the best tourist resorts in the world, which also had over 5,000 years old history.

“Swat remained the cradle of various civilisations where different nations lived and left their marks. The valley offers more than scenic beauty and is full of archaeological sites. It is one of the best places for cultural tourism in the world,” said Khwazakhela assistant commissioner Mehran Khan.

Apart from stalls showcasing local dishes, cultural costumes, herbs and woodwork, the literary works of local poets and writers were also showcased in the event.

About 22 new books were launched on the first day of the festival.

Sports competitions are also part of the festival while boxing matches were held on the first day.

Published in Dawn, March 20th, 2022