SWAT: Amidst the hustle and bustle of election season in the country, a serene haven of pure white delight beckons from the upper Swat region, captivating the hearts of travellers from every corner of Pakistan.

With the recent snowfall blanketing the peaks of upper Swat in pristine white, a spectacle of unparalleled beauty unfolds, drawing in crowds of eager tourists from cities far and wide, including Karachi, Quetta, Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Peshawar and beyond.

In the midst of this picturesque winter wonderland lies Malam Jabba, a renowned ski resort that has become synonymous with snow-filled adventures and unforgettable experiences. As the sun casts its radiant glow upon the snow-capped mountains, tourists immerse themselves in a world of enchantment and wonder, utterly oblivious to the political fervour gripping the nation.

Saba, a young visitor from Rawalpindi, is among the many who have been enchanted by the breathtaking beauty of Malam Jabba. “I am mesmerised by the vast expanse of snow. “It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland straight out of a fairy tale.” she exclaims, her eyes sparkling excitedly.

For Saba and countless others, Malam Jabba offers many snow-related activities that promise endless fun and excitement. From skiing down the slopes to engaging in spirited snowball fights, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the winter wonderland. “I can’t wait to hit the slopes and experience the thrill of skiing firsthand,” Saba declares, her enthusiasm infectious.

As Saba and her fellow tourists make their way to the ski slopes, they are joined by a group of tourists from Multan, who are equally eager to embrace the joys of winter. “Malam Jabba truly is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts,” says Afaq Ahmad, a tourist from Multan. He added that there was something truly magical about gliding down the slopes surrounded by nothing but pristine white snow.

As they strap on their skis and prepare to take on the slopes, the tourists from Multan are filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. “This is going to be epic. I can’t wait to feel the excited rush as I carve through the snow,” exclaims one of the tourists, his face beaming with excitement.

Some visitors from Quetta are busy enjoying a friendly snowball fight, their laughter echoing through the snow-covered landscape. “There’s nothing quite like the feeling of crisp, white snow beneath your feet. It is like being transported to a winter wonderland where anything is possible,” says Sabir Ahmad, one of the friends from Quetta.

As the day wears on and the sun begins to set, casting a warm golden glow over the snow-covered landscape, the tourists of Malam Jabba reflect on the unforgettable experiences they’ve shared.

They said that from the thrill of skiing down the slopes to the simple joy of playing in the snow, each moment spent in this winter paradise was nothing short of magical.

As they prepare to bid farewell to Malam Jabba, the tourists carry memories that will last a lifetime.

As they journey back to their respective cities, they do so with a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of nature and the joy of shared experiences amid a winter wonderland.

Published in Dawn, February 6th, 2024