SWAT/MANSEHRA: Thousands of tourists thronged the picturesque valleys in Swat during the Eidul Azha holidays, turning the region into one of the country’s busiest travel destinations as visitors sought relief from the scorching summer heat and to stay close to nature.

While the tourist flow on the third day of Eidul Azha increased, popular tourist attractions, including Malam Jabba, Madyan, Bahrain, Kalam, Mahodand Lake and Gabin Jabba, witnessed an exceptional influx of visitors, with families, groups of friends and adventure enthusiasts filling hotels, restaurants and recreational spots throughout the valley.

The valley’s pleasant weather, lush green mountains, crystal-clear streams and the turquoise waters of the Swat River provided a refreshing escape for visitors arriving from various cities, including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar and Faisalabad.

Along the banks of the Swat River, families were seen enjoying picnics under the shade of towering trees, while children played near the water.

Enhanced security provided to visitors to Kaghan, other parts of Hazara

Visitors gathered beside waterfalls and mountain streams, capturing photographs and savouring the cool breeze flowing through the forests and valleys.

At Malam Jabba, tourists enjoyed panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Meanwhile, the upper reaches of Kalam and Mahodand Lake attracted nature lovers and adventure seekers eager to experience the valley’s pristine landscapes.

“I have visited several tourist destinations in Pakistan, but the weather in Swat is simply unmatched,” said Ahmed Raza, a tourist from Lahore visiting Kalam with his family.

“The cool breeze, green mountains and flowing river create an atmosphere that is both refreshing and relaxing. It feels like a completely different world,” another tourist said.

At Mahodand Lake, Sana Tariq, a visitor from Islamabad, expressed admiration for the area’s natural beauty. “The lake, the surrounding peaks and the fresh mountain air are breathtaking,” she said.

She stated that Mahodand’s serenity allowed visitors to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with nature, adding that it was one of the most beautiful locations she had ever been to.

Meanwhile, at Gabin Jabba, Bilal Khan, a tourist from Karachi, praised the peaceful environment of the valley. “Coming from a busy metropolitan city, the peace and tranquillity here are remarkable,” he said, adding that the forest, meadows and silence of the mountains provided a sense of calm that was difficult to find elsewhere.

He stated that Swat truly deserved its reputation as the Switzerland of Pakistan.

Local businesses reported increased activity as hotels, restaurants and transport services experienced a surge in visitors during the holiday period.

Tourism stakeholders welcomed the influx, describing it as a positive sign for the region’s tourism industry and local economy. Officials and tourism operators urged visitors to help preserve the valley’s natural beauty by avoiding littering, respecting local communities and protecting the area’s forests, rivers and lakes.

With its cool climate, emerald-green landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, Swat once again proved to be a top holiday destination, offering thousands of Eid vacationers an unforgettable experience amid some of Pakistan’s most spectacular natural scenery.

Meanwhile, security for tourists and passengers travelling within Kaghan Valley of Mansehra district and between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan was beefed up following an influx of visitors.

“We have deployed additional personnel along the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad Road in Kaghan Valley to provide security, assistance and guidance to visitors travelling within the valley and between KP and GB,” Balakot SP Sabir Khan told reporters on Friday.

KP police established tourist facilitation centres in Kaghan Valley, where personnel were extending assistance to motorists facing issues such as tyre punctures and mechanical faults. Police teams also provided drinking water to women, children and elderly people, welcoming them on their arrival in the region.

According to DIG Hazara Nasir Mehmood Satti, over 10,000 personnel have been deployed across eight districts of the division, including Kaghan Valley, to provide foolproof security to tourists and passengers travelling between KP and GB via the MNJ Road.

A press release issued by the DIG Hazara advised visitors and passengers thronging the picturesque valleys and recreational spots across Hazara Division to remain vigilant while driving on hilly roads and tracks.

Published in Dawn, May 30th, 2026